TOPS Knives Lioness Elite Fixed Blade Review

Was the Tops Knives Lioness Elite Fixed Blade Knife the Right Choice?

For over a decade, my life has revolved around the world of outdoor and tactical gear. I’ve seen countless knives, from budget-friendly options to high-end custom pieces, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The Tops Knives Lioness Elite Fixed Blade Knife caught my eye with its unique aesthetic and the promise of both grace and strength.

I was seeking a versatile fixed blade that could handle both delicate tasks and more demanding cutting chores. Many knives are either too bulky for fine work or too fragile for tougher applications. I needed something that could transition seamlessly between carving wood, preparing food in the field, and even self-defense if necessary.

Upon unboxing the Lioness Elite, I was immediately struck by the Wild Purple Cerakote finish. The color is unique and eye-catching, yet still subdued enough to avoid being ostentatious. The black G10 handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, and the overall build quality feels incredibly solid.

I considered knives like the ESEE-4 and the Benchmade Bushcrafter 162. However, the Lioness Elite’s more refined blade shape and thinner profile appealed to my desire for a knife that could handle a wider range of tasks. The Tops Knives Lioness Elite Fixed Blade Knife promised to be a blend of beauty and function, something I was eager to test.

My initial impression was one of excitement mixed with a healthy dose of skepticism. Could this knife truly live up to the hype, or would its unique design compromise its performance? I was eager to find out.

Real-World Testing: Putting Tops Knives Lioness Elite Fixed Blade Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Tops Knives Lioness Elite Fixed Blade Knife took place during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was damp and cool, providing a good opportunity to evaluate the knife’s performance in less-than-ideal conditions. I used the knife for a variety of tasks, including preparing kindling, carving tent stakes, and preparing meals.

The Lioness Elite handled each task with surprising ease. The blade’s contour and finger tread allowed for precise control when carving, while the full tang construction provided ample strength for splitting small pieces of wood. The G10 handle remained secure and comfortable even when wet, offering a confident grip.

One minor issue I encountered was the sheath retention, which felt a little too tight initially. It required some extra effort to draw the knife, but this improved with repeated use. Overall, my first experience with the Tops Knives Lioness Elite Fixed Blade Knife was positive.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Tops Knives Lioness Elite Fixed Blade Knife has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. I’ve taken it on numerous hiking and camping trips, used it for various tasks around the house, and even incorporated it into my everyday carry rotation. The Lioness Elite has consistently performed well in a variety of conditions.

The blade has held its edge remarkably well, requiring only occasional touch-ups with a ceramic honing rod. The Wild Purple Cerakote finish has proven to be surprisingly durable, showing minimal signs of wear despite heavy use. Cleaning is simple, usually requiring just a quick wipe down with a damp cloth.

Compared to other knives I’ve owned, the Lioness Elite strikes a good balance between size, weight, and performance. It’s large enough to handle demanding tasks, yet compact and lightweight enough to carry comfortably all day. The Tops Knives Lioness Elite Fixed Blade Knife has exceeded my expectations in terms of both durability and versatility.

Breaking Down the Features of Tops Knives Lioness Elite Fixed Blade Knife

Specifications

The Tops Knives Lioness Elite Fixed Blade Knife boasts a well-considered set of specifications that contribute to its overall performance.

• Blade Length: 4.13 inches, providing a good balance between cutting power and maneuverability.
• Overall Length: 7.63 inches, making it compact and easy to carry.
• Blade Material: 1095 steel, known for its toughness and ability to hold a good edge.
• Blade Finish: Wild Purple Cerakote, offering excellent corrosion resistance and a unique aesthetic.
• Handle Material: Black G10, providing a secure and comfortable grip in all conditions.
• Weight: 3.7 oz, lightweight and easy to carry for extended periods.
• Thickness: 0.13 inches, balancing strength and cutting performance.
• Sheath Material: Black Kydex with a rotating clip, allowing for versatile carry options.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the knife’s performance and usability. The 1095 steel provides excellent edge retention, while the G10 handle ensures a secure grip. The Kydex sheath offers a safe and convenient way to carry the knife, and the overall dimensions make it suitable for a wide range of tasks.

Performance & Functionality

The Tops Knives Lioness Elite Fixed Blade Knife performs admirably in a variety of roles. Its blade shape is well-suited for slicing, carving, and general utility work. The knife’s full tang construction and robust materials ensure it can withstand heavy use without failing.

The Lioness Elite’s strengths lie in its versatility and comfortable ergonomics. The finger tread on the blade provides excellent control for delicate tasks, while the contoured handle prevents fatigue during extended use. The only real weakness I’ve found is the sheath retention, which can be a bit tight at times.

The Tops Knives Lioness Elite Fixed Blade Knife has met and even exceeded my expectations. It’s a well-designed and well-executed tool that performs admirably in a variety of situations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Tops Knives Lioness Elite Fixed Blade Knife features a thoughtfully designed blade shape and a comfortable, ergonomic handle. The blade’s contour allows for both precise slicing and powerful cutting, while the finger tread enhances control. The black G10 handle provides a secure grip even in wet or slippery conditions.

The Lioness Elite is user-friendly and requires no real learning curve. Its intuitive design and comfortable ergonomics make it easy to use right out of the box.

Durability & Maintenance

The Tops Knives Lioness Elite Fixed Blade Knife is built to last, thanks to its durable materials and robust construction. The 1095 steel blade is tough and resistant to chipping, while the Wild Purple Cerakote finish provides excellent corrosion protection. The G10 handle is virtually indestructible, and the Kydex sheath is designed to withstand years of abuse.

The Lioness Elite is easy to maintain and repair. The 1095 steel can be easily sharpened with basic sharpening tools. The G10 handle can be cleaned with soap and water.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Tops Knives Lioness Elite Fixed Blade Knife comes with a black Kydex sheath featuring a rotating clip. The rotating clip allows for both vertical and horizontal carry, providing added versatility. While there are no official customization options offered by Tops Knives, the Lioness Elite is compatible with a variety of aftermarket lanyards and belt clips.

Pros and Cons of Tops Knives Lioness Elite Fixed Blade Knife

Pros

• Unique and eye-catching Wild Purple Cerakote finish.
• Durable 1095 steel blade with excellent edge retention.
• Comfortable and secure G10 handle.
• Versatile blade shape suitable for a wide range of tasks.
• Rotating Kydex sheath for flexible carry options.

Cons

• Sheath retention can be a bit tight initially.
• 1095 steel requires more frequent oiling to prevent rust.

Who Should Buy Tops Knives Lioness Elite Fixed Blade Knife?