The TOPS Knives El Pionero is the result of a legendary 2021 collaboration between edged weapons expert Ed Calderon and TOPS president Leo Espinoza. Drawing from Ed’s extensive background in counter-narcotics and executive protection, this fixed blade is modeled after the functional simplicity of a classic paring knife. The design features Ed’s signature finger divot for tactile edge orientation and easier extraction, paired with a false edge to optimize piercing capabilities. Complete with a low-profile, customizable Kydex sheath, El Pionero combines professional-grade defensive utility with the rugged Idaho-made craftsmanship TOPS is known for.