The word Tactical translates into practical functionality, especially among military and law enforcement. That was the thought going into the knife's design. The CUMA Tactical Street Defense program was created by world-renowned CQC expert Sijo Waysun Johnny Tsai in 2000. SiJo has over 31 years in the martial arts along with 25 years’ experience as an instructor. He wanted to create a truly functional knife that could be used for CQT combat, street defense, and as an all-around tool for the outdoor sportsman. A few others helped along the way offering expert advice to ensure TOP performance of this blade. Those experts include TOPS KNIVES founder/owner Mr. Mike Fuller and Brent Beshara – the creator of the BESH WEDGE (BESH gave the knife its name).

What was mandatory for the blade? It had to be overbuilt, strong, and durable. So Mr. Tsai approached TOPS Knives to make it. Its full tang frame is 1095 high carbon steel. At just 3/16" in thickness, this is one wickedly fast blade. The belly of the blade is deep for chopping firewood and shelter building.

It needed to have a large curved primary bottom edge. The handle had to offer two types of grip options: The "long grip" for full extended machete swings, and the “choked-up grip” for precision cuts or carving. Finally, a small pry bar for scraping and a lanyard hole at the butt of the handle. Mr. Mike Fuller has stated that the CUMA TAK-RI is extremely interesting and no other knife in the extensive TOPS catalog is quite like it.

Once you hold the CUMA Tak-Ri, you will immediately agree it is "Hard To The Core". In Fact, the Tak-Ri caused such a buzz at the 2011 SHOT Show that Lou Ferrigno (The Incredible Hulk) pre-ordered his from the TOPS Knives booth.

Knife Type
Fixed Blade
Overall Length
13.50"
Blade Length
7.00"
Cutting Edge
7.00"
Blade Thickness
0.190"
Blade Steel
1095 RC 56-58
Blade Finish
Coyote Tan Coating
Handle Material
Green Canvas Micarta
Handle Style
Rocky Mountain Tread
Knife Weight
16.3 oz
Sheath Included
Yes
Sheath Material
Black Ballistic Nylon
Sheath Clip
Molle Backing
Designer
Wayson Johnny Tsai