First off I love your reviews. I love TOPS Knives, they're my favorite manufacturer. In fact I think you and I are in the same knife group if I'm not mistaken. I know you do business with Amazon but I just wanted to let you and your viewers know that Smoky Mountain Knife Works sells the HOG 4.5 for $104 with free shipping. Plus it comes with a really nice leather dangler sheath. Thank you for the great videos bud! Keep up the good work and may God bless you and your family.
This review helped me pull the trigger about 6 Mo's ago and after 4 trips into the woods, it's weight, and the clip this knife has become my EDC here in Texas. So I have bin critical at times but as most of your suggestions this was a home run. It replaced my strongarm and not without a bit of hesitation. Thank you Arron it is a great blade.
I really don't like these knife reviews... Every time I watch one, I want to go buy another knife... I already have many more than I'll ever need, yet I love knives, and haven't stopped buying them... Good review Aaron. 😁
I said goodbye to TOPS knives years ago because of their designs until i began subscribing to your channel and have sold me on them again. My Apache Dawn will be in on Tuesday. Thanks!
That thing is like a micarta Tops version of the Gerber Strongarm esp if you mod your Strongarm by shaving down the guards. If anyone likes that Knife but wants a lower cost style blade that kicks butt buy a Strongarm and mod that puppy. Still I love Tops and that knife is worth the money....They need to scrap nylon sheaths and stop this weird nonsense, 20 years and yet they still keep making them.??
Actually got this knife from watching your video and you are right it’s a very good knife. And like it says in the name it’s also a good hunting knife on top of everything you mentioned in the video. Great for gutting deer and processing meat. Great review.
Man! Currently $227.90 before shipping ($185 base + $30 finish + sales tax) to get the camo finish from Tops. What a gouge for direct. Your link is a much better deal at $117, but I'm rethinking my interest in Tops altogether now. Thanks again for the great videos.
I took off the coating and force patina the blade. It now doesn’t fit as snug in the kydex sheath. Anyone have a solution. There are just argument on forums.
Thank you!! I have been debating whether or not to pick one up this is just what I needed!! First video I clicked in the search and it's a winner for sure!
I found out about this knife a few years ago and though it would make an excellent bushcraft/camp knife, but didn't purchase it because it is a narrow, mid-saber grind that is blade that is made with 3/16 thick steel. which all make it a very robust knife and tank-like knife, but don't help any in slicing and cutting tasks, which is what initially drew me to this knife.
I'm looking for a fighting/survival knife, so would you say this fits those roles and does it stab good? Really like the look of this knife and the size so just wanted your opinion on it.
Bit misleading regarding the price. I get it, you got the knife for testing and review purposes from TOPS. Thank you for being honest and transparent about that. It's appreciated. But for anyone _else_ wanting to get this knife with the camo finish, they're going to have to buy it directly from TOPS. That finish is a Customization Option only offered on their website. As we all know, you're automatically going to pay substantially more money buying direct from TOPS than buying from ANY of their Authorized Dealers or Amazon. And that's just for standard models. The ones with customized blade finish or added serrations or Rocky Mountain grips, even more money. So while the standard black finish model might be around $115 on Amazon on a good day, the version featured in this video will literally cost $100 more. $215 for the camo finish option. Far from a good bargain.
Americans are so lucky to have these available on Amazon. Looks more tactical than hunting. I also immediately thought it was good competition for Cold Steel SRK
I really like the looks of this knife, even though I usually gravitate towards a 6-7 inch blade. Something about it really catches my attention. The camo job is cool, but I prefer the black, although I would likely strip it anyway. Not a fan of traction coatings.Strip it, a little Birchwood Casey's Perma Blue, then a coating of butcher block conditioner (mineral oil and beeswax mixture) and bam...good to go!
@@jonathanmayo9667 Rust inhibitors. The bluing is not rough like the factory powder coating, so it slides through material easier and you can make it as light or as dark as you prefer. The conditioner adds further rust protection, and is food safe
@@jonathanmayo9667 I use Jasco paint stripper to remove the coating. The stuff is evil though, so if you do it, wear rubber gloves, and I suggest doing it either outside or in your garage. Remove the handles first, then brush it on..I lay it in a foil pan. Leave it on for about 20-30 minutes or so, and it will bubble up the coating, then scrape it off with a putty knife. If it doesn't all come off, reapply again, but it usually comes off pretty good. Rinse it and dry it then, and follow the directions on the super blu. if you want it light, rinse it after a minute or so..the longer you leave it on, the darker it gets. Rinse it, dry it, then apply some kind of oil, or the wax, or some other inhibitor like EDCI, which you can get at most major knife retailers. I suggest reapplying whatever oil or wax you use after you get home from your outting before putting it away.. The oil will wear off with use.
Damn, I've been really wanting to buy aone tops knife but they have so many great designs that its hard for me to choose only one. If you come across a tops Alaskan harpoon could you review it? Thanks.
Hi Aaron always love your reviews! I need help please. Whenever I go out in the wilderness I always like to be prepared no matter what. So when I go out I always have my Ontario Raider Bowie with me. I want a knife to compliment it. I’m stuck the tops Mohawk hunter, tops silent hero or the tops Brakimo. Please help with your input. It would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
What finish is on your knife. I am done with Tops traction costed knives. I truly like the design of this knife. Listen up Tops Knives, use river wash or something other than that traction coat. PLEASE.
Very good comparison to the HOG. Solid reasoning for the value behind the Mohawk. With the Mohawk is there any hint of a hollow grind or is it a flat saber grind? I'm glad you mentioned the handle coloring. I thought for sure it was some kind of bolster. I'm glad it's one solid micarta slab on each side.
Out of the Esee line-up, the Laser Strike would be the closest zo the Tops Mohawk I guess. Love the Laser Strike, would be interested which one you´d prefer - ?!
More attention to detail for the money. White liners. More ergonomic handle. Even more jimping. Differential heat treat done right. In my experience holds an edge significantly more then any esee. This is just my opinion
Hi Aaron, I know that you're not an ex-soldier / tactical guy - but on the other hand your reviews are quite good and since you address that tactical side of various blades I think that you might (with some training) include a throwing knives part on your vids . Just think about that ! (At least for the knives which are suitable for throwing - cause, of course, not all of them are ) I really appreciate the fact that you're one rather rare knives reviewers which include prying / stabbing tests on their reviews - which I think is really helpful when choosing one knife over another ... Not that all of us are knives experts but is good to know the capabilities of a blade ... Just think about that, please ? It might be fun for you, as well ...😊 Especially that you seem pretty fit, a younger "Chuck Norris" resemblance somehow 😊
The price on this knife has went up since you made this video lol, I just bought one last week and the cheapest I could find it was on blade hq for 125 bucks. The highest I found it was 130 but its only a 10 dollar rise for a really awesome blade.
@@gideonstactical Some knives, like the BK7 for instance, are benchmarks. In this case though the BK2 is a better comparison choice based on blade length. Mohawk Hunter offers better handles and sheath but what about the steel and ergonomics?
Klaatu58 I would argue that the Becker BK2 though somewhere in size is completely different. It is thicker, heavier, and not designed for piercing at all. It’s funny that you bring the BK to up because I will be doing an update video in the next few weeks on it. But if I had to choose only one to take me with me on my regular outings I would take the mohawk hunter in a heartbeat over the BK2.
Why 420 is inferior to 1095? First of all, why compare two different types of steel (stainless to carbon) and also heat treat wise, they're both excellent.
I have yet to handle a Tops that I would really like and keep. So far the few that I've bought I was not impressed. it's either uncomfrotable handle or a comfortable handle with some stupid milled traction grooves that hurt the hand or some other gimmicks. The kydex sheath with that clip is not good. Can't put tek-lok on it. I'm done spending hundreds of dollars on gear online.
Mike Carr if they have the Puuko available, they sold out on the first time they put them out. You might be about to get now with there second generation.
3V is discontinued www.knifecenter.com/item/CS38CKC/cold-steel-38ckc-srk-survival-rescue-knife-fixed-cpm-3v-black-blade-kray-ex-handle-secure-ex-sheath
@@Eldofarmboy No it's not. Only the black version was discontinued. It was replaced by satin version soon after and it's in production. Currently out of stock. Slow boat from Taiwan I guess.
I'm really liking that knife , but there is soo much competition in that size and price range. I just don't have any room for it , I wish i did . I still have my BK16 , BK15 , CS MasterHunter , SRK , StrongArm , Buck Reaper & Punk and a few others I can't remember their names ( I know , poor me). So I'll have to pass . Maybe if they make a 7" inch model .....
I just discovered the HOG 4.5 now comes standard with the Leather Sheath from TOPS. That is a good upgrade.
Agreed
First off I love your reviews. I love TOPS Knives, they're my favorite manufacturer. In fact I think you and I are in the same knife group if I'm not mistaken. I know you do business with Amazon but I just wanted to let you and your viewers know that Smoky Mountain Knife Works sells the HOG 4.5 for $104 with free shipping. Plus it comes with a really nice leather dangler sheath. Thank you for the great videos bud! Keep up the good work and may God bless you and your family.
This review helped me pull the trigger about 6 Mo's ago and after 4 trips into the woods, it's weight, and the clip this knife has become my EDC here in Texas.
So I have bin critical at times but as most of your suggestions this was a home run. It replaced my strongarm and not without a bit of hesitation. Thank you Arron it is a great blade.
First knife I thought of as a competitor to this and is about the same price, size and has a Kydex sheath is the Esee Laser Strike.
Esee sucks
I really don't like these knife reviews... Every time I watch one, I want to go buy another knife... I already have many more than I'll ever need, yet I love knives, and haven't stopped buying them... Good review Aaron. 😁
Mannn, I just hopped on the train recently…. So hard not to buy more 🤣😭😭
I said goodbye to TOPS knives years ago because of their designs until i began subscribing to your channel and have sold me on them again. My Apache Dawn will be in on Tuesday. Thanks!
When I got the Tops Cochise I felt the same way. They make great knives, something for everyone.
How Do I Get a Camo Coated One?? I can only find black traction coat.
Finally a more in depth review of the Mohawk Hunter! Now will definitely get one. Great review and thanks for sharing!
Strongarm has a wicked 90° spine, good steel with edge retention and a nice sheath. Its my current go to.
That thing is like a micarta Tops version of the Gerber Strongarm esp if you mod your Strongarm by shaving down the guards.
If anyone likes that Knife but wants a lower cost style blade that kicks butt buy a Strongarm and mod that puppy. Still I love Tops and that knife is worth the money....They need to scrap nylon sheaths and stop this weird nonsense, 20 years and yet they still keep making them.??
This has put TOPS knives on my radar for real now.
This is my bugout bag knife. It’s ideal and perfect for what I need it for. Silky Zubat, Tops Yacare and Tops Mohawk Hunter is my go to kit.
From your video , this knife reminds me of the Gerber strong arm in general shape and design.Thank you . Cheers
Actually got this knife from watching your video and you are right it’s a very good knife. And like it says in the name it’s also a good hunting knife on top of everything you mentioned in the video. Great for gutting deer and processing meat. Great review.
fck fracking super glad to hear that!
Man! Currently $227.90 before shipping ($185 base + $30 finish + sales tax) to get the camo finish from Tops. What a gouge for direct. Your link is a much better deal at $117, but I'm rethinking my interest in Tops altogether now. Thanks again for the great videos.
I have one from 2013. Still comes into rotation. I'm surprised it's not discontinued as a lot of other models I own are. Great video Aaron
Is the Yacare 10.0 finished it’s production run?
Really disappointed that the links don't offer the camo blade styling option. Any suggestions? Can I buy yours?
E Masterson you have to get it from tops
Love all the authenticity and enthusiasm in your vids . It carries over on camera good.
I took off the coating and force patina the blade. It now doesn’t fit as snug in the kydex sheath. Anyone have a solution. There are just argument on forums.
Thank you!! I have been debating whether or not to pick one up this is just what I needed!! First video I clicked in the search and it's a winner for sure!
Great detailed review thanks Aaron not to mention the triple header Saturday!
I found out about this knife a few years ago and though it would make an excellent bushcraft/camp knife, but didn't purchase it because it is a narrow, mid-saber grind that is blade that is made with 3/16 thick steel. which all make it a very robust knife and tank-like knife, but don't help any in slicing and cutting tasks, which is what initially drew me to this knife.
I'm looking for a fighting/survival knife, so would you say this fits those roles and does it stab good? Really like the look of this knife and the size so just wanted your opinion on it.
I would say that is exactly how this knife fits and works!
@@gideonstactical Alright sounds great. Thanks for the quick reply
Gerber Strongarm is hands down the best deal on a the market.
Love my Strongarm. Great knife. Great sheath.
Thanks for another great knife review. Like your pinkie lanyard idea on knives. I tried it and it works.
How does it compare to the TOPS Dawn Warrior?
One of my favorite knives so happy i got the Mohawk hunter
That is one Badass knife Aaron. It does look military looking. Thanks for showing this knife Sir
Bit misleading regarding the price. I get it, you got the knife for testing and review purposes from TOPS. Thank you for being honest and transparent about that. It's appreciated. But for anyone _else_ wanting to get this knife with the camo finish, they're going to have to buy it directly from TOPS. That finish is a Customization Option only offered on their website.
As we all know, you're automatically going to pay substantially more money buying direct from TOPS than buying from ANY of their Authorized Dealers or Amazon. And that's just for standard models. The ones with customized blade finish or added serrations or Rocky Mountain grips, even more money. So while the standard black finish model might be around $115 on Amazon on a good day, the version featured in this video will literally cost $100 more. $215 for the camo finish option. Far from a good bargain.
Americans are so lucky to have these available on Amazon. Looks more tactical than hunting. I also immediately thought it was good competition for Cold Steel SRK
I really like the looks of this knife, even though I usually gravitate towards a 6-7 inch blade. Something about it really catches my attention. The camo job is cool, but I prefer the black, although I would likely strip it anyway. Not a fan of traction coatings.Strip it, a little Birchwood Casey's Perma Blue, then a coating of butcher block conditioner (mineral oil and beeswax mixture) and bam...good to go!
Timbo437 what does this provide to the blade?
@@jonathanmayo9667 Rust inhibitors. The bluing is not rough like the factory powder coating, so it slides through material easier and you can make it as light or as dark as you prefer. The conditioner adds further rust protection, and is food safe
Timbo437 how could I do this?
@@jonathanmayo9667 I use Jasco paint stripper to remove the coating. The stuff is evil though, so if you do it, wear rubber gloves, and I suggest doing it either outside or in your garage. Remove the handles first, then brush it on..I lay it in a foil pan. Leave it on for about 20-30 minutes or so, and it will bubble up the coating, then scrape it off with a putty knife. If it doesn't all come off, reapply again, but it usually comes off pretty good. Rinse it and dry it then, and follow the directions on the super blu. if you want it light, rinse it after a minute or so..the longer you leave it on, the darker it gets. Rinse it, dry it, then apply some kind of oil, or the wax, or some other inhibitor like EDCI, which you can get at most major knife retailers. I suggest reapplying whatever oil or wax you use after you get home from your outting before putting it away.. The oil will wear off with use.
Damn, I've been really wanting to buy aone tops knife but they have so many great designs that its hard for me to choose only one. If you come across a tops Alaskan harpoon could you review it? Thanks.
Does seem more tactically balanced, as you stated, but I really like the concept. That coating is sick too, haha.
i cant find this knife anywhere with this camo pattern...only the black Version is everywhere availabel.
Hi Aaron always love your reviews! I need help please. Whenever I go out in the wilderness I always like to be prepared no matter what. So when I go out I always have my Ontario Raider Bowie with me. I want a knife to compliment it. I’m stuck the tops Mohawk hunter, tops silent hero or the tops Brakimo. Please help with your input. It would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Is this knife similar enough to the Cold Steele SRK in 3V that is so hard to find?
Nice knife.
Great review !
Does this knife come in a plain single color, and not that "camo" pattern ?
Keep up the great work !!!
The FU Crew Channel yep plain black if you want
What finish is on your knife. I am done with Tops traction costed knives. I truly like the design of this knife. Listen up Tops Knives, use river wash or something other than that traction coat. PLEASE.
Can you make a video on how/where you store your knives? because I have a serious problem with that.
TOPS is one of the best IMO. I've never been disappointed with their knives. I think I have 21 of them. 👍🏼
Very good comparison to the HOG. Solid reasoning for the value behind the Mohawk. With the Mohawk is there any hint of a hollow grind or is it a flat saber grind?
I'm glad you mentioned the handle coloring. I thought for sure it was some kind of bolster. I'm glad it's one solid micarta slab on each side.
If you're still wondering, it's a flat saber grind.
Out of the Esee line-up, the Laser Strike would be the closest zo the Tops Mohawk I guess. Love the Laser Strike, would be interested which one you´d prefer - ?!
The Mohawk Hunter, I don't like the choil and handle on the laser strike as much.
Thanks, really appreciate that you still find the time ro reply despite your channel has grown a lot!@@gideonstactical
How is this knife compared to an ESEE 4?
More attention to detail for the money. White liners. More ergonomic handle. Even more jimping. Differential heat treat done right. In my experience holds an edge significantly more then any esee. This is just my opinion
In terms of 1095 coated blades with micarta handles your money is better spent with TOPS
I believe the hog 4.5 comes with the leather bushcrafter sheath now.
I just saw that! Thank you for bringing it to my attention
Hi Aaron,
I know that you're not an ex-soldier / tactical guy - but on the other hand your reviews are quite good and since you address that tactical side of various blades I think that you might (with some training) include a throwing knives part on your vids . Just think about that ! (At least for the knives which are suitable for throwing - cause, of course, not all of them are )
I really appreciate the fact that you're one rather rare knives reviewers which include prying / stabbing tests on their reviews - which I think is really helpful when choosing one knife over another ...
Not that all of us are knives experts but is good to know the capabilities of a blade ...
Just think about that, please ?
It might be fun for you, as well ...😊
Especially that you seem pretty fit, a younger "Chuck Norris" resemblance somehow 😊
That's why I have the tops Baja 4.5 in leather bought it for 120
The price on this knife has went up since you made this video lol, I just bought one last week and the cheapest I could find it was on blade hq for 125 bucks. The highest I found it was 130 but its only a 10 dollar rise for a really awesome blade.
Are you going to review your kelty external frame anytime soon?
Parker It will b Sometime this summer
Why the camo blade???
I like the hog 4.5 more, despite the sheath, good vid!
What is that watch?
Nice review Aaron!
Interesting. I'd be interested in putting a beating on that knife but I think I'll wait for it to hit 2nd market
If you like the Gerber strong arm, save your money and get this
WOW, I just discovered this knife yesterday. I looked up reviews of this knife and a major channel post a video on it. Subscribed.
Welcome to the GT family!
Nice review and definitely seems tough and I really like the colors
Mohawk Hunter vs Gerber Strong Arm?
Thanks for the review, one day i will own a TOPS
ATB Del
Handsome package and value. How does it compare with KA-BAR, though?
Klaatu58 which Kabar? I would put tops in the Kabar, Esee world any day?
@@gideonstactical Some knives, like the BK7 for instance, are benchmarks. In this case though the BK2 is a better comparison choice based on blade length. Mohawk Hunter offers better handles and sheath but what about the steel and ergonomics?
Klaatu58 I would argue that the Becker BK2 though somewhere in size is completely different. It is thicker, heavier, and not designed for piercing at all. It’s funny that you bring the BK to up because I will be doing an update video in the next few weeks on it. But if I had to choose only one to take me with me on my regular outings I would take the mohawk hunter in a heartbeat over the BK2.
Thank for the video, there is just few of them on TH-cam about the knife, nice:-) FM
New watch?
Jean-Baptiste Cardamone yep! Video soon
Really beautiful design looking fixed blade!!! :D
Whaaat?! Tops knife that isn't ridiculously overpriced. The world must be ending.
Why 420 is inferior to 1095? First of all, why compare two different types of steel (stainless to carbon) and also heat treat wise, they're both excellent.
I've got several of both steels and I'll take 420 any day
Something tells me a new watch review video is in GT's future?
Big Sasquatch maybe lol
I'm really not that big on 1095.
I have yet to handle a Tops that I would really like and keep. So far the few that I've bought I was not impressed. it's either uncomfrotable handle or a comfortable handle with some stupid milled traction grooves that hurt the hand or some other gimmicks. The kydex sheath with that clip is not good. Can't put tek-lok on it. I'm done spending hundreds of dollars on gear online.
this screams upgraded strongarm.
In Germany I have literally to pay twice as much for the knive.
I Pass over 115$ . Too much for 1095, I will go with BK7 for 77$ . Only TOP'S B.O.B. is good
So this has kicked your ESEE to the curb?
For 125.00 you can have a Benchmade puuko. Or a steep country in s3v. And s30v. Stainless made in USA.
Mike Carr if they have the Puuko available, they sold out on the first time they put them out. You might be about to get now with there second generation.
I got the Cold Steel SRK in 3v for a couple dollars more. For literally less than $10 dollars more, id go with the SRK with the super steel.
3V is discontinued
www.knifecenter.com/item/CS38CKC/cold-steel-38ckc-srk-survival-rescue-knife-fixed-cpm-3v-black-blade-kray-ex-handle-secure-ex-sheath
@@Eldofarmboy No it's not. Only the black version was discontinued. It was replaced by satin version soon after and it's in production. Currently out of stock. Slow boat from Taiwan I guess.
@@LXT43 where can you get it? Knife center doesn't show a satin version
I'm really liking that knife , but there is soo much competition in that size and price range. I just don't have any room for it , I wish i did . I still have my BK16 , BK15 , CS MasterHunter , SRK , StrongArm , Buck Reaper & Punk and a few others I can't remember their names ( I know , poor me). So I'll have to pass . Maybe if they make a 7" inch model .....
Malone strikes again
$148, not $115
Srk for 3x the price.
Cool blade not a fan of the paint job I’d get rid of that paint job and put a better clip on the sheath bam 💥 I’m a genius.
Barry Bueler the paint is a custom order. In comes black standard
🥰😘🤡
Either you keep unsubbing or TH-cam is messing with your sub count...
throw that p.o.s sheath away, and buy a spec-ops jumpmaster
Better than esee