Interesting TOPS Armageddon Variation (Pic)

G

GoodGuy

Joined
Feb 28, 2005
Messages
391
I just acquired a TOPS Armageddon that is a bit different. I got it thinking it was manufactured from S30V steel... a bit unusual for such a big "production" blade and contrary to the specs on the TOPS website. "S30V" is clearly indicated on the blade. See the following picture:

Armageddon.jpg


I contacted TOPS this morning to inquire about this particular Armageddon, and talked to a very nice lady who told me a little about my knife. I first learned that despite the indication, my knife is actually made of good, old fashioned, tough and reliable 1095 high carbon steel. She went on to tell me that some time ago (she said about a year), TOPS erroneously laser etched "S30V" onto three Armageddons. All three were shipped despite the error. After learning of this error, TOPS sent out letters in an attempt to let the buyers know. Before today, TOPS had only been successful finding one of the knives. I guess the one I have now is #2, and there's still one more out there.

On the one hand, I'm a little disappointed that my knife didn't turn out to be manufactured from S30V steel. On the other hand, I think it's kinda neat to have a fairly rare (but interesting) Armageddon variation.
 
but it sucks that you paid so much for 1095 steel, which is significantly cheaper for manufacturers to buy than S30V. I think TOPS should make you some kind of offer (partial refund or a free, smaller knife) because of their goof-up.

However, you did get a killer knife (Trace is a top notch Knifemaker/Designer :thumbup: ) and seeing as the blade is as long as it is, the 1095 should be one hell of a lot tougher than S30V. It won't be near as corrosion resistant though. Thats if you decide to use it (what a dilema). :D

Good score!

Cheers,
3Guardsmen
 
put that baby in the safe with a letter from tops about its genealogy. That sucker is gonna be a good investment in a few years.
 
I would demand that TOPS send me the correct knife and pay for the shipping. Their goof should not be your problem. I would offer them $25 for the old junky mislabeled tool steel job and keep it as a collector.
 
I should clarify... I acquired the knife via a trade from a fellow forum member, and the deal was a fair one. There was no value "premium" associated with the type of steel (though, that was a consideration). I'm actually very happy with my knife. Mistakes happen (I know I've made a few), and TOPS was very friendly when they told me about the knife. I don't feel like TOPS owes me anything and certainly didn't mean to give that impression. I actually prefer the 1095 steel for this type of knife.

I think I'll probably use my big CS knives around the house and farm and keep the Armageddon cherry. I don't know whether it'll really be any more valuable than others, but it is different.
 
Update... I changed my mind. I couldn't resist trying it out, so I used it this morning for some light tree pruning. It handles well and cuts great. It's a keeper.
 
Except for rust resistance, 1095 is better than S30V in every way. So, I wouldn't feel so bad.

WYK
 
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