Gear TOPS Knives Releases the Baja 4.5 Recoil Staff June 26, 2015 Join the Conversation At RECOIL, we review every product fairly and without bias. Making a purchase through one of our links may earn us a small commission, and helps support independent gun reviews. Read our affiliate policy. Find out more about how we test products. Like TOPS Knives? Did you like the Baja 3.0? Then you'll want to check out the Baja 4.5. It's now available. Described as the “stretched sibling” of its predecessor, the Baja 4.5 has been treated with the TOPS Black River Wash, is equipped with Green Canvas Micarta handle scales and a bow drill divot. TOPS says, “Unlike TOPS’ other models in the 4 to 4.5 inch range, this one is 5/32” thick. That thickness along with a full flat grind gives it strength over 1/8” blades, but allows it to maintain superb cutting capabilities since it’s slightly thinner than 3/16”. Our professional heath treat gives a long lasting edge that is easy to re-sharpen once it is eventually needed. The jimping on the spine and along the finger guard is ideal for a solid grip in hard use or slippery conditions. Due to the thinner blade, it gives you better precision and greater range from making delicate cuts to cutting thick branches with ease. These same qualities make the BAJA 4.5 great for food prep as well. The inspiration for the name and design comes from Baja California. From the high point of Devil’s Peak at 10,157 feet, to the low Sonoran Desert, to the beautiful beaches, Baja is known for its contrasts. It is recognized worldwide for some of the most rugged, ‘bad ass' terrain.” The Baja 4.5 comes with a leather ‘dangler' sheath. MSRP is $200, though they are being offered as of this writing at $160 here on the website. Specs: Overall Length: 9.25” Actual Cutting Edge: 4.5” Blade Length: 4.88” Thickness: 0.16” (5/32”) Steel: 1095 Finish: Black River Wash Handles: Green Canvas Micarta Sheath: Leather Dangler (black or brown availabl) Weight: 6.2 oz Weight with sheath: 12 oz Why you can trust RECOIL Since our founding in 2012, RECOIL remains the premier firearms lifestyle publication for the modern shooting enthusiast. We deliver cutting-edge coverage of guns, gear, accessories and technology. We go beyond basic reviews, providing no B.S. buyer’s guides, hands-on testing and expert analysis on everything from firearms and survival equipment to watches and vehicles. Our reviewers are the backbone of our operation and come from diverse shooting backgrounds: Former law enforcement, military veterans, competitive shooters, seasoned hunters and plain old firearms enthusiasts. Furthermore, we’re not just gun experts, but dedicated journalists who adhere to the strictest standards of our profession. At RECOIL, editorial independence is the foundation of everything we publish and the cornerstone of reader trust. Our editors, writers and content creators make all editorial decisions independently, free from outside influence. That boils down to: advertisers don’t dictate our coverage, the outcomes of our reviews or what we recommend in our buyer’s guides. First and always, our commitment is to our audience—ensuring every review and article is accurate, unbiased, and driven by real-world experience. Whether you’re selecting your next firearm, upgrading your gear, or exploring the latest innovations in the shooting world, RECOIL provides the trusted insights you need to make informed decisions. Learn more about our Editorial Standards and how we review products. NEXT STEP: Download Your Free Target Pack from RECOILFor years, RECOIL magazine has treated its readers to a full-size (sometimes full color!) shooting target tucked into each big issue. Now we've compiled over 50 of our most popular targets into this one digital PDF download. From handgun drills to AR-15 practice, these 50+ targets have you covered. Print off as many as you like (ammo not included). Get your pack of 50 Print-at-Home targets when you subscribe to the RECOIL email newsletter. We'll send you weekly updates on guns, gear, industry news, and special offers from leading manufacturers - your guide to the firearms lifestyle.You want this. Trust Us.
