GREAT review Mist, as always. I too like thick spined knives. I think it is because i have broken a few & seen many more broken. Some people say you can only use a knife for x,y,z. I use mine as the tool it is. I try not to pry with them. I try not to throw them. Have i done it ? ABSOLUTELY. I have not broken any since i got out of the Army (81-84) & NYSANG (84-89). I broke 3 Ontario bayonettes & 1 Ka-Bar fighter. Tops makes a fine product IMHO. You just have to figure out what actuall works & whats not of use to you. Again- great review.