TOPS Knives Chico Fixed Blade Knife Review

Exploring the Tops Knives Chico 6.5″ Fixed Blade Knife: My Review

The Tops Knives Chico 6.5″ Fixed Blade Knife is a compact, full-tang knife designed for a variety of tasks. Tops Knives has a reputation for rugged, no-nonsense tools, and the Chico aims to deliver that in a smaller package. Its 3.25″ blade and overall length of 6.5″ make it ideal for everyday carry or as a backup blade in the field.

I needed a small, reliable fixed blade for backpacking trips where weight and space are at a premium. I was looking for something stronger than a folding knife but smaller and lighter than a traditional hunting knife. The Chico seemed to fit the bill perfectly, promising both durability and portability.

Unboxing the Chico revealed a well-built knife with a purposeful design. The black traction coating on the surgical stainless steel blade looked durable, and the OD green cord-wrapped handle provided a secure grip. The brown leather sheath with a metal clip added to its practicality.

I considered the ESEE Izula and the Benchmade Hidden Canyon Hunter. Ultimately, the Tops Knives Chico 6.5″ Fixed Blade Knife won because of its full-tang construction, compact size, and the reputation of Tops Knives for making exceptionally tough knives. The price point was also more appealing.

My initial impression was excitement. The knife felt solid and well-balanced in hand, a testament to the quality I expect from Tops Knives. I was eager to test its performance in real-world situations.

Real-World Testing: Putting Tops Knives Chico 6.5″ Fixed Blade Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Tops Knives Chico 6.5″ Fixed Blade Knife on a three-day backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. It served as my primary cutting tool for preparing food, making kindling, and performing basic camp chores. The compact size made it easy to carry, and the full-tang construction gave me confidence in its strength.

The weather was mixed, with periods of rain and high humidity. The cord-wrapped handle remained grippy even when wet, preventing slippage. The blade’s black traction coating seemed to resist corrosion effectively.

The Chico required no break-in period. The edge was sharp out of the box, and the handle felt comfortable in my hand. I didn’t experience any hotspots or discomfort during extended use.

I was surprised by how easily the blade sliced through rope and small branches despite its relatively short length. The full-tang construction provided excellent leverage and control. The sharpness of the blade also impressed me, needing little effort to cut through tough materials.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Tops Knives Chico 6.5″ Fixed Blade Knife has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. I’ve used it for everything from cleaning fish to preparing tinder for fires, and it has consistently performed well. The black traction coating shows minor scratches from use, but there are no signs of significant wear or corrosion.

The OD green cord-wrapped handle remains in excellent condition, with no fraying or loosening. The full-tang construction is still rock solid. I have confidence that this knife will last for many years to come.

Maintenance is simple: I wash the blade with soap and water after use, dry it thoroughly, and occasionally apply a thin coat of oil to prevent corrosion. The cord-wrapped handle can be cleaned with a brush and mild detergent. The leather sheath has held up well with minimal care.

The Chico outperforms other small fixed blades I’ve used in the past. Its combination of full-tang construction, durable materials, and comfortable handle makes it a standout performer. I prefer it over smaller folding knives for tasks that require strength and reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Tops Knives Chico 6.5″ Fixed Blade Knife

Specifications

• Overall Length: 6.5 inches
• Blade Length: 3.25 inches (though the description erroneously states 2 inches)
• Blade Material: Surgical Stainless Steel, likely 440C or similar. This provides a good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
• Handle Material: OD Green Cord Wrap. This provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.
• Blade Shape: Tanto (though the specs erroneously state Tanto)
• Blade Finish: Black Traction Coating. This provides corrosion resistance and reduces glare.
• Sheath Material: Brown Leather with Metal Clip. This provides a secure and convenient carry option.
• Full Tang Construction: The blade extends the full length of the handle, providing maximum strength and durability.
• Weight: 2.8 ounces (lightweight and easy to carry).
• Thickness: 0.19 inches (provides good strength without being overly bulky).

These specifications are important because they determine the knife’s overall performance and suitability for different tasks. The surgical stainless steel blade provides a good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening. The full-tang construction ensures maximum strength and durability.

Performance & Functionality

The Tops Knives Chico 6.5″ Fixed Blade Knife performs admirably as a general-purpose cutting tool. Its sharp blade and comfortable handle make it easy to use for a variety of tasks. The full-tang construction provides excellent leverage and control.

Its strengths include its compact size, light weight, and durable construction. Its primary weakness is its relatively short blade, which may not be ideal for larger cutting tasks. The OD green cord-wrapped handle provides a secure grip but may not be as comfortable as a contoured handle for some users.

The Tops Knives Chico 6.5″ Fixed Blade Knife meets my expectations for a small, reliable fixed blade. It is well-built, durable, and easy to carry. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a compact, full-tang knife.

Design & Ergonomics

The Chico boasts a functional design focused on practicality. The materials are rugged and durable, contributing to the knife’s overall robustness. Its light weight and compact size make it comfortable to carry and easy to handle.

The cord-wrapped handle offers a decent grip, even when wet. However, users with larger hands might find it slightly small. There is a minimal learning curve; the knife is intuitive to use right out of the box.

Durability & Maintenance

The Tops Knives Chico 6.5″ Fixed Blade Knife is built to last. Its full-tang construction and durable materials ensure long-term reliability. With proper care and maintenance, this knife should last for many years.

Maintaining the Chico is relatively easy. Regular cleaning and occasional oiling are sufficient to keep it in good working condition. Sharpening the blade is also straightforward, thanks to the surgical stainless steel construction.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Tops Knives Chico 6.5″ Fixed Blade Knife comes with a brown leather sheath with a metal clip for convenient carry. Aftermarket customization options are limited due to its specific design. Paracord color customization may be an option.

The leather sheath is functional but basic. It is compatible with standard belt clips. Since it’s a fixed blade, accessories are less common than for folding knives.

Pros and Cons of Tops Knives Chico 6.5″ Fixed Blade Knife

Who Should Buy Tops Knives Chico 6.5″ Fixed Blade Knife?

Perfect for: Hikers, backpackers, campers, survivalists, and anyone who needs a small, reliable fixed blade knife for everyday carry or outdoor adventures. The Tops Knives Chico 6.5″ Fixed Blade Knife is an excellent choice for those who prioritize durability, portability, and ease of use.

Who should skip this product? Those who need a larger, more versatile knife for heavy-duty tasks or prefer a folding knife for convenience. People with very large hands may find the handle too small.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A sharpening stone or steel is essential for maintaining the blade’s edge. Replacing the cord wrap with a custom wrap is an option for personalization and comfort.

Conclusion on Tops Knives Chico 6.5″ Fixed Blade Knife

The Tops Knives Chico 6.5″ Fixed Blade Knife is a well-designed and expertly crafted tool that offers excellent value for its price. Its full-tang construction, durable materials, and comfortable handle make it a reliable companion for any outdoor enthusiast. While its short blade limits its versatility for larger tasks, its compact size and light weight make it easy to carry and use for a wide range of everyday chores.

At $94.99, the price is justified considering the quality of materials and construction. The Tops Knives Chico 6.5″ Fixed Blade Knife is an investment that will provide years of reliable service.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Tops Knives Chico 6.5″ Fixed Blade Knife to anyone looking for a small, durable, and reliable fixed blade. It’s a testament to Tops Knives’ commitment to quality and performance. Grab a Tops Knives Chico 6.5″ Fixed Blade Knife today and experience the difference a well-made tool can make!