Tops Cqt 747

Joined
Sep 22, 2000
Messages
1,221
I was finally able to obtain one of the CQT folders, and it is truly impressive, due to the size AND the quality.

Anyone looking for a truly tough folder should certainly take a close look at the CQT series from TOPS.

Also, thanks much to Brian Jones for his writeup on the 747.
 
mikemck,

I also bought the Tops CQT 747 Magnum after reading Brian Jones review. It is one hell of a knife! It is now my EDC.

Enjoy!
 
Bob,

Have you disassembled the CQT yet? It would seem that there are only 4 small torx head screws holding everything together, but I'm not sure. Are there any "surprises" that I need to watch out for?

So far, I'm really impressed with the CQT, although it is a bit difficult to manipulate left handed.
 
Mike,

I have not yet disassembled my CQT.

So far I have just lubricated the pivot with a couple of drops of Tuff-Glide.
 
Mike,

What makes it difficult for left-handers to use? I'm a southpaw and was very interested in getting the Magnum, but this worries me a bit.

Thanks!
Zero
 
Atomic Zero,

It's the size that makes it a bit difficult, but then, I have very small hands also. If you have medium or large hands, I'm pretty sure it would not be much of a problem at all.

Just to clarify, when I say hard to manipulate with the left hand, I'm referring to closing the CQT one handed, much as you would close it with the right hand...IE, manipulate the liner with the thumb and then use the index to push the blade closed.
I can close it left handed once or twice, but that's about it, for about an hour or so. So actually, it's not even a problem with the left, unless you are just cycling it repeatedly.

Also, moving the liner lock out of the way with the left thumb and then using your leg or some such for assistance in closing also works nicely, but it does not look as fancy, if you know what I mean, although it's still a one handed close.

Opening is totally ambidextrous, due to the thumb disk. Although the left side is not relieved, opening with the left thumb is still easy and secure.

Does that help any? The CQT is a fantastic knife, and worth every penny. If you are looking for one, I would suggest Patrick at
http://www.s4supply.com .

I don't work for S4, and am in no way affiliated, I'm just an extremely satisfied customer.
 
Mike,

Thanks for the answer. It really helps a lot.

I'm glad it's just the liner that can be troublesome. I'm used to closing it on my leg or a nearby table like you described. I was just worried about opening, but I forgot it was a disk. Duh.

While I've been partial to tantos in bigger folders, the hunter's point for this knife has been recommended. I'll probably never have to defend myself with this (or any) knife, so what am I losing out on if I get the tanto instead?

Zero
 
Hey guys,

Thanks, Mikemck, Bob -- I'm glad you like the CQT, and humbled that my write-up piqued your interest.

Atomic Zero -- the hunters point is merely a preference for me, but the tanto will serve you well, too. All these posts about a tanto blade not being as good for utility are bunk. It's a matter of adjusting your technique alittle bit for the blade shape. Plus, sharpening is easier with a tanto. I couldn't review the tanto specifically, because I never played with a CQT Tanto, that's all.

Enjoy the knife! It's my daily carry as well!

Best,

Brian.
 
Hi all
Thought I would jump in here. I just got the TOPS CQT Magnum Tanto just before Christmas. It is very BIG and impressive. The knife is very "hefty" in hand. The quality is very good and it came very sharp. The nylon sheath is very nice in that it can be carried both vertically or horizontal on the belt. I can see how people saw that it makes a great back-pack knife or that it is the best "folders" when you don't have a fixed blade.

On a sad note, I have smaller hands and I find it hard for me to open:mad: I think it is because I can't get the leverage to thumb it open quickly. For that reason I'll most likely sell it or trade it off. However, my hat is off to TOPS for making a very "stout" knife.
 
Centurian,

Practice the PEGO -- Police Emergency Grip Opening. Hold it by the open slot in the handle and flick open the blade (just like any other folder you might flick open). The slot in the handle keeps it in your hand securely. It'll pop out ready for use in an instant. I never use the thumb stud anymore on it.

Best,

Brian.
 
Brian,

I think your write-up piqued everyone's interest! It's how I found out about TOPS in the first place. It's been on my list ever since for over-sized folders along with the Sifu. I've never had problems with tanto points for utility use so I thought I was missing something in the whole tanto/spearpoint debate.

Centurian, is the problem with opening leverage or is the action gritty? I have small/medium hands as well, so I hope it's the latter. I've never used a thumb disk before, either!

Zero
 
I'll have to try the "flick" open method. The thumb stud opening isn't cutting it. I may still trade off the knife, just a little to wide for my taste. But thanks when I get home I'll try to opening it that way see if that changes my mind.
 
Brian,

I definitely agree about the PEGO opening. I have large hands and I still prefer the PEGO. It took a little practice for me to get used to it but now it is the only way I open my 747.
 
I have not had any trouble opening with the thumbstud, even with my very small hands, but I'll give the PEGO a try myself, to see which I prefer.

Here's a question..What keeps the blade from bottoming out and dulling the edge? I can't see a stop pin or anything else to stop it from happening, although I don't think my edge is bottoming out.
 
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