TOPS Survival Knife Review: Ops Badger

Published on July 23, 2016
Duration: 13:57

This review of the discontinued TOPS Operation Badger knife highlights its robust construction, featuring 1095 steel, a comfortable micarta handle, and functional jimping. While praised for its chopping and prying capabilities, the reviewer notes the original sheath's low quality and the knife's discontinuation. The review also compares it to other survival knives like the Ontario RAT 7 and Buck Punk.

Quick Summary

The TOPS Operation Badger is a discontinued heavy-duty survival knife featuring robust 1095 steel, a comfortable micarta handle, and functional jimping for control. While praised for its chopping and prying capabilities, its original sheath is considered low-quality, with aftermarket options recommended. TOPS customer service is highlighted as excellent.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Discontinuation
  2. 00:08Knife Overview & History
  3. 00:32Availability & Collectibility
  4. 00:43Reviewer's Web Store
  5. 00:52Signing the Blade
  6. 01:02Knife Description & Size
  7. 01:11Sheath Analysis
  8. 01:38Sheath Retention & Design Critique
  9. 01:50Sheath Alternatives (Red Hill Kydex)
  10. 02:11Handle Material & Ergonomics
  11. 02:27Blade Design & Features
  12. 02:45Blade Thickness & Grind
  13. 02:53Sharpening & Edge Quality
  14. 03:06Blade Coating & Rust Resistance
  15. 03:12Steel Type (1095) & Value
  16. 03:29Price Point & Steel Quality
  17. 03:33Torx Screws & Rusting
  18. 03:46Lanyard Attachment & Pommel
  19. 03:57Handle Length & Comfort
  20. 04:07Competitive Options Introduction
  21. 04:15Ontario RAT 7 Comparison
  22. 04:43TOPS Knife Tip Breakage Incident
  23. 04:55TOPS Customer Service A+
  24. 05:12RAT 7 Handle & Design
  25. 05:24Buck Punk Comparison
  26. 05:55Buck Punk Blade Steel & Thickness
  27. 06:05Buck Punk Price & Availability
  28. 06:22Swamp Rat Knives Comparison
  29. 06:35Swamp Rat Blade Thickness & Durability
  30. 06:51Swamp Rat Value & Sheath
  31. 07:08ESEE RC6 Comparison
  32. 07:22ESEE RC6 Sheath Quality
  33. 07:37Summary of Woods Blades
  34. 07:48Definition of Woods Blade Use
  35. 07:58Self-Defense Applications
  36. 08:01Revisiting Operation Badger & Discontinuation
  37. 08:16Final Thoughts & Competition

Frequently Asked Questions

What steel is the TOPS Operation Badger knife made from?

The TOPS Operation Badger knife is constructed from 1095 steel. This steel is known for its toughness, ease of sharpening, and affordability, making it a popular choice for survival and field knives.

What are the key features of the TOPS Operation Badger's handle?

The TOPS Operation Badger features a micarta handle, which offers excellent grip even when wet. It is designed without an extended tang that could batter the pinky finger during heavy chopping tasks, providing a comfortable and secure hold.

How does the TOPS Operation Badger's sheath compare to aftermarket options?

The original sheath for the TOPS Operation Badger is described as low-quality, with ineffective velcro retention and a lack of a drain hole. The reviewer strongly recommends upgrading to a custom Kydex sheath from providers like Red Hill Kydex for better security and functionality.

Is the TOPS Operation Badger knife still in production?

No, the TOPS Operation Badger knife has been discontinued by the manufacturer. The reviewer notes that finding it may require looking at secondary markets, and its collectibility is uncertain.

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