Description
TOPS Knives owner Leo Espinoza hand-customized this FMS XL, giving it the same attention to detail and precision fit that define every piece from the TOPS Custom Shop. It's a larger, more commanding version of the original FMS-crafted for users who want added reach and weight without sacrificing balance or control.
The handle is made from G.L. Hansen & Sons multi-colored G-Carta, a unique composite of natural fibers and fabrics mixed with epoxy under pressure and heat. Each block of G-Carta is one-of-a-kind, with its own color flow and character. The result is a handle that's both incredibly tough and visually distinctive, built to last through years of use.
The 440C stainless steel blade features a forge-textured finish that highlights its handmade nature. Its thin, sharpened edge delivers smooth, precise cuts with reliable edge retention and excellent corrosion resistance.
Craig Powell, TOPS General Manager, crafted the sheath by hand in a three-tone plum-styled leather design blending shades of red, blue, and black. Every stitch and contour shows expert handwork, resulting in a sheath that fits securely and develops rich character over time.
Each knife is marked with the TOPS Custom Shop logo, confirming its authenticity and elite craftsmanship.
The FMS XL was inspired by the practical blades used in the open-air markets of Vietnam, known for their clean cuts and simple efficiency. This larger version keeps that same working spirit but adds size and strength for those who prefer a more substantial knife. It feels solid and balanced in the hand, easy to control.
Only a limited number of these 440C FMS XL knives even exist, and just one was made with this exact configuration. So far, they've only been seen at trade shows, and this is one of the very few ever made available online.





