TOPS Knives: Calcutta Model Review
Blade Design: Drop point with sharpened top and bottom edges
Blade Material: 1095 High Carbon Alloy Steel
Handle Material: Linen Micarta
Blade Length: ~2.25 Inch
Overall Length: ~6.75 Inch
Sheath: IWB design; Kydex with spring steel clip
Cost: Expect ~$100 if you can find one
Let me start by saying that this model is discountinued by TOPS and I think it's a real shame. I just stumbled across it while researching other TOPS models online at
J.T. Knives. I called TOPS and they stated it was older model made before they started serializing their knifes. I feel lucky to have found one. They still make a knife with the same overall shape but a different blade style. It's the
Cockpit Commander. I just don't care for its clip-point blade; personal preference.
I have handled several models of TOPS knives and always been impressed by the feel and quality of their products. They have a solid, hefty, well-balanced feel like the Microtech fixed blades. While I like and own Benchmades and Spydercos they just don't have the same solid feel. With TOPS knives I feel like I have a real chunk of steel in my hand. That's a good thing.
TOPS uses a good versatile steel; 1095 High Carbon Alloy. It's not an exotic blend but it works well. The high carbon content of the steel allows for greater hardening. But this means there is less chromium in the alloy which makes it less corrosion resistant. Just like any tool it requires proper maintenance. I wipe my knife with a silicone treated cloth regulary and experience no corrosion issues. And this thing is ALWAYS on me (unless illegal).
As I understand it TOPS blades are differentially heat treated which is real advantage. There are compromises in everything including knives. A knife blade can be made to hold an excellent edge by hardening it. However, hardening can make the blade brittle and this loss of flexibility makes the blade easier to break. By differentially heat treating the blade its cutting edge is made harder than the body of the blade. The makes for great edge retention while still allowing some greater toughness in the overall blade. I believe Japanese sword blades are made this way as well but I could be mistaken about that.
A fixed blade knife can be superbly designed but it's completely useless without a good, versatile sheath. How is it to be useful without a comfortable method of carry. You'll never have the knife on you. Well I'm happy to say TOPS did as good a job with the sheath as the knife in this case. I prefer IWB (in the waistband) carry for my handguns and found this knife while searching for a fixed blade with an IWB sheath. I could not believe how few of these are available. Or maybe they just aren't well advertised. For me comfort and concealability begin and end with IWB holsters/sheaths.
The TOPS Calcutta knife/sheath system gets my highest recommendation for comfort, concealability and utility. It can be worn inconspicuously with any clothing, feels great in the hand and is a well-designed, useful tool. TOPS products in general are excellent.
This page was last modified on 07 Jun 2008 21:25