I also noticed. I used to have a Pasayten.
I would guess the Pasayten predates the SAR5 by "more" than a couple of years. I would guess I had my Pasayten 3-5 years ago (?????).
They both have a very similar shape and both about 10" oal. Maybe coincidence (????).
But, the Pasayten is much slimmer and lighter in both handle and blade with a 1/8" blade. Whereas, the handle in particular is MUCH chunkier on the SAR5.
Also, the SAR5 is convex. :thumbup:
For my part, I feel that most "general" knife shapes have probably been done by now. So, short of designing freaky/funky blades, at some point most anything made is going to at least slightly resemble something else.
So, I don't get too worked up over "similar".
If "exact", then I consider it a knock-off. Similar, or use of "some" of the same design features/shapes is just somewhat inevitable.
I remember being very excited about the design and look of the overall design from pics online and while ordering one..... But, then it showed up. I think the "design" was very good. But, my particular knife was horribly made.
I know a lot of people like Tops. But, the Pasayten I received had the WORST factory grinds on the blade I have ever seen. Prior to the Pasayten, I had two other Tops knives with no problems. I don't know what the heck happened to my Pasayten. The spine was almost as thick as the primary grind near the edge in some places. The primary grind near the edge towards the tip of the blade was way thicker than near the ricasso. The whole blade was wavy and crooked like a dogs hind leg. Looked like a hacked trainer grind type blade and a bad one even for that.
I contacted Tops about it to see what they might do and received horrible customer service IMO.
I don't know if all Pasaytens are as bad as the one I got. Since I had two other Tops knives that looked fine, I have to doubt it. I assume my Pasayten was a bad fluke or among a small bad batch or something. But, based on the customer service experience alone, it will take a lot to convince me to consider a Tops knife again.
Short of the horrible grinds and horribly edge on mine, the Pasayten was actually a good design and a handy shape, weight, etc. with excellent balance and feel in the hand. It could have been good.
......... I don't consider stating the facts as bashing. I give credit where due and point out flaws as I see them. I try to be fair and honest. But, I call things like I see them. If that is bashing, then so be it.
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