Shorttime
Gold Member
- Joined
- Oct 16, 2011
- Messages
- 4,002
I wanted a backup fixed blade, and I wanted it to be plenty sturdy, but small enough to carry easily. The idea was to have a knife that I feel confident in using for non-knife things, if it was needed. Although specialty tools exist for prying and hammering, knives are more fun. 
I looked at the usual suggestions from ESEE, Boker, Becker, and high-end things like the Game Warden.
But in the end, they were all pretty much the same. I know that steel quality and heat treat are important, but part of me simply wants a big chunk of sharpened steel.
TOPS is quite happy to provide one, in the Lil' Roughneck. Say what you want about their marketing (I think it's a little goofy, too), their designs are mostly solid.
The spine is 3/8" thick, and the blade is ground high, and flat.
Here is a side view, next to my Nano, and Mini-Recon.
It push-cuts paper right out of the box, and although I think it weighs close to two pounds, my work boots weigh more. I don't mind.
I haven't tried to cut apart a car or pry open a door with it, so I can't really judge it's function, but the weight is confidence inspiring.
Some here will say that this is an example of form triumphing over function, and I agree, to an extent. It's as gonzo as a Jeep with tank treads.
But the role it fills for me is "whatever tool I have is the one I'm going to use". I don't plan on having to self-extract from a car or a building, but I feel good about it's ability to handle those things.
If I ever do have to cut, pry, or hammer, my way out of something, I'll let you knife knuts know how it does!
I looked at the usual suggestions from ESEE, Boker, Becker, and high-end things like the Game Warden.
But in the end, they were all pretty much the same. I know that steel quality and heat treat are important, but part of me simply wants a big chunk of sharpened steel.
TOPS is quite happy to provide one, in the Lil' Roughneck. Say what you want about their marketing (I think it's a little goofy, too), their designs are mostly solid.
The spine is 3/8" thick, and the blade is ground high, and flat.
Here is a side view, next to my Nano, and Mini-Recon.
It push-cuts paper right out of the box, and although I think it weighs close to two pounds, my work boots weigh more. I don't mind.
I haven't tried to cut apart a car or pry open a door with it, so I can't really judge it's function, but the weight is confidence inspiring.
Some here will say that this is an example of form triumphing over function, and I agree, to an extent. It's as gonzo as a Jeep with tank treads.
But the role it fills for me is "whatever tool I have is the one I'm going to use". I don't plan on having to self-extract from a car or a building, but I feel good about it's ability to handle those things.
If I ever do have to cut, pry, or hammer, my way out of something, I'll let you knife knuts know how it does!
. And in case of a zombie apocalypse would you describe the use of that knife as a weapon against zombies as a blunt instrument or bladed? As I imagine you be bashing in heads with blade and not stabbing. As a side note I've head these work good for picking Prius's out of your trucks grill have you had to use it for that yet?
