TOPS Knives US Combat Knife outdoor knife, US-01, Szabo-design

The TOPS US Combat Knife is a tough, reliable knife. It was designed by Laci Szabo to honour the U.S. Marine Corps. Such an elite unit deserves an exclusive knife, and that's exactly what this US Combat Knife is. In terms of design, it might remind you of a bayonet. The large 'wings' that protect your fingers and the clip point blade with its serrations are both typical characteristics of a military knife.

The 1095 carbon steel blade has a black traction coating to prevent rust and reflections. The false edge on the spine of the tip, also called a swedge, improves the penetrating qualities of this knife.

The micarta scales have a subtle red liner. Micarta is a great handle material because it offers plenty of grip, whether your hands are dry, wet, or wearing gloves. The grooves also contribute to this: this knife remains rock-solid in your hand. In the middle of the handle you'll find a small recess on each side. These have two purposes: you can use them to guide the rotating part of a bow drill, or as a sort of control point where you change your grip during use. When you switch from an underhand to an overhand grip, the recess provides a kind of pivot point for your thumb. This is a feature that comes from the world of martial arts.

You can carry the TOPS US Combat Knife in the included MOLLE-compatible belt sheath. This sheath has an additional compartment that you can use to store your survival kit, sharpening stone or firesteel. The additional lanyard eyes and the roll of paracord allow you to easily attach the bottom of the sheath to your leg. This prevents it from swinging around.

The TOPS US Combat Knife is a beast of a knife. It's a perfect addition to any collection, but equally it won't shy away from heavy use.