REVIEW: TOPS C.U.T. 4.0 Combat Utility Tool

Folder or Fixed for daily use? Everyone has to decide for themselves, there are plenty of pros and cons. As a tip for a great EDC knife with a fixed blade from the TOPS brand, we present to you the C.U.T. 4.0.

TOPS Knives has been making knives in collaboration with designers from various backgrounds such as Bushcraft, Martial Arts, SWAT, Law Enforcement, or Special Forces since 1998.

The result is an extensive range of knives that fit into all categories depending on the design. Paired with good craftsmanship, carefully selected and tempered steel, reasonably priced series knives for heavy use are created. TOPS is indispensable in the scene alongside KA-BAR/Becker and ESEE.

The TOPS C.U.T. 4.0 was designed by martial artist Joshua Swanagon. Swanagon mainly trains with Karambits and loves the function of a ring at the end of the handle. This concept also found its way into the C.U.T. 4.0 - it is not just a combat knife, but a versatile all-rounder for the outdoor area.

C.U.T. stands for Combat Utility Tool, and that's exactly what it is - a tool suitable for cutting, chopping, piercing, or breaking.

Weighing 179 grams with a total length of 216mm and a blade length of 108mm, the knife is easy to handle.

The 5mm thick blade is made of 1095 carbon steel with a hardness of HRC 56-58. This steel is easy to sharpen, not as brittle as D2, and holds its edge quite well. It is a full tang blade. The handle scales made of Canvas Micarta provide secure and non-slip grip due to their shape and texturing.

On the top of the blade, you will find the thumb ramp, which provides additional grip while cutting.

The finger ring at the end of the handle prevents slipping and is also usable with gloves due to its size.

The knife handles just as well in a reverse grip as it does when held in a regular grip.

Reverse Grip

Normal Grip

The included Kydex sheath is primarily intended for horizontal carry. It features two rubber loops that are secured with a snap button. But these are not ordinary buttons: the so-called "Pull-the-Dot" buttons can only be opened in one direction - this means that the loops do not open under tension, but only when pulled at the outer end of the strap. This eliminates accidental opening. The loops can be removed or repositioned.

Horizontal carry can be worn on the front or back of the belt. Due to its slim design, the knife carries barely noticeable.

In the outdoor area, the knife impresses us: the blade length is optimal for chopping.

But it also allows for fine carving or feathering work.

In addition to grip, the finger ring also has another function: destruction! It can be used with minimal effort.

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