2 New Tools from TOPS Knives: Mini Tanimboca Puukko and Ucon Hawk

TOPS Knives just released two new cutting tools at two different ends of the size spectrum. Both are additions to two lines for which TOPS is becoming very well known. The Mini Tanimboca Puuko fits well into the bushcraft lineup and the Ucon Hawk is a great addition to their line of hatchets.

Mini Tanimboca Puukko

TOPS Tanimboca Puukko has been a big success since it was made available in 2017. So, it was only fitting that when Goran approached TOPS about making a mini version, we were interested. The Mini Tanimboca Puukko is a great tool for making bushcraft items (utensils, kuksa, baskets, blow guns, etc. are all things that Goran had in mind with this), whittling around the fire, and even accomplishing some EDC uses.

This knife is smaller than most and has no guard (so use caution). The knife can be held close to the cutting edge and in multiple grips. If you like making things with your hands especially in the woods, this knife is going to be a must-have. It has the classic Puukko look, but in a much, much smaller package. The spine is ground to 90 degrees for scraping tasks. Well-rounded Black Canvas Micarta handles make the handle comfortable despite its size. The brown leather sheath is set up for a tip-down neck carry, but also has a loop that will fit most belts.

The Mini Tanimboca Puukko was designed by Goran Mihajlovic, who also designed the original one made by TOPS. Goran is originally from Serbia but grew up in Germany. He has lived in Colombia now for many years. He owns a nature reserve called Tanimboca that houses hundreds if not thousands of species of plant, animal, and insect. Throughout his entire life, he has been a knife user and enthusiast. In recent years he has begun making knives at his forge in the Amazon jungle. He prefers Puukkos for their ability to perform well at large variety of cutting tasks.

Mini Tanimboca Puuko at TOPSKnives.com

Ucon Hawk

Hatchets have proven their usefulness over the years, time and time again. They are great for splitting smaller pieces of wood, chopping branches, limbs, and even small trees when necessary. They’re helpful when you need to clear a country road of debris and you forgot your chainsaw again. Some people even prefer them to large chopping knives. That’s why the Ucon Hawk was made.

This tool is similar in dimension to the Hammer Hawk, but it is a little lighter and made with 1095 instead of 1075. TOPS famous differential heat treat gives a tool that will be strong and hold its edge very well. The handles are made from a new material that mixes layers of G10 and rubber to provide maximum grip. The portion of the tang between the handle and the bit is rounded allowing the user to choke up for detailed cuts. So this can do all of the jobs of a hatchet and some of the jobs of a knife. It comes with a 2-piece leather sheath so that it can be carried multiple ways with safety in mind. It’s sure to become the go-to hatchet in your collection.

Ucon Hawk at TOPSKnives.com