Tops Hog vs Becker bk-16?

[JJMartinez]

Hey everyone, I’ve been looking for a comparison between these two knives and I’m striking out. I was hoping you knife junkies would maybe be able to help a brotha out. Does anyone have them both and mind taking a comparison pics for me and help me decide where to spend my money? Thanks!

 

[Munzer]

I can't assist with any pics, but i did own and use both knives (also sold both knives). I preferred the over all look of the Hog 4.5, but in terms of actual use, the BK16 was a superior knife. More comfortable in hand, had better edge geometry and held its edge better. Also, there are aftermarket items you can get to pimp it out if that's your thing. The Hog is a more robust knife (thicker blade stock), heavier overall with a non-skeletonized tang (if my memory is correct) and the BK16 is skeletonized.

The BK16 has a better sheath and the stock handle scales are a little slick but have better ergos. Another issue I didn't like about the Hog was that it didn't really throw sparks. I squared off the spine and never had any luck getting good sparks from a ferro rod. I believe TOPS does some kind of differential heat treatment for a softer spine on their knives (not positive though). Using a ferro rod may not be an issue for you. Overall, I think money is better spent on the BK16.

And considering the BK16 is roughly half the cost of the Hog....you can get the BK16, a bahco laplander folding saw, and a couple mora HD companions.

 

[Revolverrodger]

I can vouch for the bk16

 

[DJC72]

The bk16 is a nice belt knife! I was surprised at how slicey the Becker was and the price is very reasonable.

 

[Seesteel]

I will take the Tops Hog (If 4.5) Little on the heavy side but it's balanced very well over BK-16 which for my taste is too light... 6.4 oz Vs 8.3 oz

 

[Hurrul]

Only have the HOG.

Compared to other TOPS I own, it has one a well executed out handle design - wider across the beam (most of my other models are thin and not great even in thin gloves), 3-D shaped so it has a noticeable palm swell, and no jimping.

Full height primary grind does help it's cutting performance since the steel stock is 3/16" stout. Still pretty thick behind the edge and from what I have seen (online only), maybe not as slicey as the BK 16 is thinner stock, and likely has a leaner edge. Not posative about that from my own experience, but indicated by Munzer and DJC72 above.

I would have preferred a kydex or leather sheath, but mine came with a nylon and plastic insert type. Works, but looks like you can currently pick one up in a leather pouch sheath.

 

[Makael]

Both are nice. I'm a fan of both brands. Becker better price. Tops has better scales but more money. If your buying aftermarket scales for the Becker then the argument is closer.