You know the Tom Brown Tracker by TOPS Knives? We all do; it is one of the most recognizable knife patterns of all time, and very distinct. Even the silhouette is as recognizable as that of a Nessmuk-style Skinner or Buck 119 Special.
It is a versatile knife, but it is also a bloody behemoth, and there are times when you might want to be served by that level of versatility without the extra mass.
Those are the times you should strap a Wenger Blades Aphid Tracker to your belt. Here’s what this knife offers, all in a much lighter and more convenient form factor than the TOPS Tom Brown Tracker.
Premium Steel
First, the Aphid Tracker from Wenger Blades hits way out of its weight class because it is made with CPM-3V tool steel, an alloy that is, more than anything else, renowned for its ridiculous toughness.
It’s notable for its toughness because there are other, more corrosion-resistant steel alloys out there, and others that are harder and will hold an edge longer. But there are few alloys that are as tough as 3V.
This alloy is extremely resistant to shock and abuse. That means you could baton with it, pry with it, even throw it (even though you shouldn’t) and you will likely not be able to damage it; and that is a highly desirable trait for a survival or bushcraft knife to possess.
The Versatility of a Compound Grind in a Convenient Size
Like other Tracker-pattern knives, the Aphid Tracker has a compound grind with a wide, flat blade that has a straight section and a curved belly near the tip.
Herein is vested most of the versatility of the blade, as it enables the blade to maintain two separate edges, a fine edge and a coarser edge, or just two fine edges, which can be used for a combination of chopping, splitting, batoning, feather-sticking, push and draw cuts, skinning, cleaning small game and fish, and so much more.
But, unlike other Tracker-pattern knives, this one is much more compact and much lighter. It’s only 6” overall, with a 2.62” blade and it only tips the scales at 3.8 ounces.
No-Nonsense Scales and Handle Ergonomics
The scales of the Aphid Tracker from Wenger Blades are made of G10 and are available in several different colors. What’s important here however is that G10 is basically bombproof. It is non-reactive, non-absorbent, and requires effectively no maintenance.
It is also highly wear-resistant, shock-resistant, and in the case of this knife, is made with ergonomic contours that improve grip and traction, regardless of the conditions. There’s even jimping on the spine to improve control when the knife is held in a saber grip.
A Great Sheath
Lastly, the sheath is often a weak point of an otherwise great knife, but that is not the case here. The Wenger Blades Aphid Tracker comes with a Kydex sheath that is ready for tip down carry as well as scout carry.
Since it is perforated along the margin, it can also be rigged for carry according to a wide range of other disciplines. And, since it is a thermoplastic, it offers several of the advantages of the G10 scales, namely that it will never need any maintenance.
That’s Not All: Where to Learn More About This and Other Wenger Blades
At the end of the day, the design and compact size of the Aphid Tracker make it a great compromise over larger knives, but it is far from the only Wenger Blade that has made waves.
If you want to learn more about this or other designs from that brand, visit The Knife Connection or get in touch with their customer service team directly and they will be more than happy to assist.
For more information about tactile knife company and Lionsteel Please visit: The Knife Connection.
