TOPS Knives Road Pup Goyo: A Trusted Companion

There are a lot of special knives out there. Some made for combat, some made for bushcraft, some made as bushcraft tools. However, only one was made (or at least named) as a dedication to a beloved bulldog named Goyo. That knife is the TOPS Knives Road Pup Goyo.

The TOPS Knives Road Pup Goyo

Bernabe (Big B) from Big B Leatherworks has made quite a name for himself as a custom leather/leather sheath maker. However, he is also a knife designer who has partnered with TOPS Knives on more than one occasion. With his first two designs, Big B simply contracted TOPS Knives to OEM his knives as limited releases under his own brand.

However, the Road Pup Goyo design is a bit different of a release for Big B. While the initial limited run is released as a Big B Leatherworks exclusive, TOPS Knives has signed on to add the Road Pup Goyo into their official catalog of knives to be released in 2026.

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Over time, I have gotten to know and become friends with Barnabe (Big B). After an online chat, I decided that this release deserved a bit of attention. So, I caught up with Big B. He sent me one of his exclusive Road Pup Goyos with his custom after-market leather pouch to review.

As of now, the official TOPS Knives release is expected to be available at the 2026 Atlanta BLADE Show.

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The Road Pup Goyo, According to Big B

Tactical Knives Magazine: Hey, Brother, I really dig the new Road Pup Goyo. What was the inspiration? Who was Goyo? 

Big B: Goyo was my beloved English bulldog who gained a bit of fame for the videos I shared of us “chatting” together on Facebook. Sadly, he passed away too soon after swallowing a piece of plastic that caused a blockage in his intestine. We still miss him deeply. I chose to name my blade after him because he embodied everything I value—toughness, strength, loyalty, and a compact, powerful presence.

Purpose of the Road Pup Goyo

TKM: What would you say is the main use for this knife design? 

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Big B: I set out to create an everyday-carry fixed blade that also offered multi-purpose functionality, drawing inspiration from tools like the Swiss Army Knife and the Leatherman. As a biker who takes cross-country trips, I often find myself in the dark, digging through my gear bag to find a tool just to tighten a loose screw or bolt. It made me realize that I always had a fixed blade on me and knew exactly where it was.

That led to the idea of incorporating a universal bit receiver into the rear of the blade, allowing it to function as a screwdriver in a pinch. With the help of Leo Espinoza at TOPS Knives, we were able to integrate a rare-earth magnet into the handle to securely hold the bits in place during use.

To complete my setup, I also carry compact Knipex mini pliers on my sheath, secured with ranger bands, creating a practical and efficient multi-tool system.

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TKM: Your Road Dog is a decent-sized, practical blade. Why the smaller design? 

Big B: I’ve always preferred smaller blades for defensive use and everyday tasks. I find them especially practical for light camping—they’re lightweight, easy to carry, and simple to conceal. I’ve been a fan of models like the TOPS Tibo, Scandi Trekker, and the ESEE Izula, and have consistently found that size and style to be incredibly useful.

I also kept my family in mind during the design process. My wife and daughter have always gravitated toward smaller blades. So, I saw an opportunity to create something that would appeal to that demographic as well—functional, approachable, and easy to handle.

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The Future of Big B

TKM: What is next on deck for Big B Blades?

Big B: Now, I don’t have anything new in development due to the demands of my full-time job. I typically focus on leatherwork projects during my weekends. That said, I’m always turning over new ideas and concepts in the back of my mind.

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TKM: Talk about the add-on leather pouches and how people can order them.

Big B: The TOPS Kydex sheath already comes with 2 notches that let you carry two universal screwdriver bits. I designed a small pouch that slides through the beta loops on the sheath, giving you extra space for additional screwdriver bits, a compact fire kit, or a small first-aid kit.

This pouch is also compatible with other smaller TOPS knives that use the same horizontal carry system and beta loops.

People can message me on Facebook, on Big B Blades made by TOPS Knives, or on my Instagram, big_b_leatherworks. 

TKM: I think Goyo is smiling down on you from Bulldog Heaven.

Big B: We think of Goyo often—he was such a special part of our family.

I’m happy to see that so many people who have purchased my limited-run version of the blade truly understand its value. It’s a practical, hard-working fixed blade that goes way beyond just being a knife—it’s genuinely a multi-purpose tool in a fixed blade. 

My initial thoughts on the GOYO Road Pup

When I opened the box that I received from Big B, I noticed this neat little blade, at about 7.25 inches in overall length. Although it’s smaller than his first two offerings, it’s not that little.

The razor-sharp 3-inch 154CM blade is a legal length to carry in most places that I can think of. Outside of schools, municipal buildings, and airports, of course. While the TOPS Knives production version will have a Cerakote finish, I am a huge fan of this tumbled finish.

The handle and scales are exceptionally comfortable on this EDC blade. They are curved and rounded off in all the right spots. The blade is extremely light, coming in at just 4.1 ounces. It’s no chopper by any means. It is meant to be lightweight and fast.

With the dual belt loops on the included Kydex sheath, it can be easily carried scout-style or across the body for a quick draw. Like its two larger brothers, the Road Pup Goyo has thumb jimping, a bottle opener, and a wire-bending notch.

What sets it apart, aside from size, is the rare-earth magnet inside the butt end of the knife. There is a hole to hold different-sized screwdriver bits, which are secured by the magnet. The sample I received included the handmade leather pouch. With its dual-button snaps, it can easily secure a screwdriver bit, a house key, and some folded-up cash.

Testing The Road Pup

As a smaller blade, I wanted to test basic cutting on materials. First, I grabbed a ballistic nylon shoulder sling that I had sitting around my garage. I found that the Road Pup Goyo made easy work of it. Whether just slashing at the bag with the tip or using the belly of this little blade to slice apart the shoulder and MOLLE straps, the Goyo destroyed it like a puppy with a cheap dog toy.

Next, I wanted to see how the little blade would handle slicing up some wire. I grabbed some old stereo cables and went to work. Once again, the Road Pup cut through the rubber coating, material liner, and wires with ease. After both tests, the Road Pup Goyo remained paper-slicing sharp.

Trusty EDC Companion

I like this little blade and can see myself rotating it into my EDC. The handle is small and comfortable, the blade is lightweight and sharp, and it can open a tasty beverage. The sheath is sturdy, and the leather pouch comes in handy.

While I didn’t have a chance to test it using screwdriver bits, I can see how that can be a useful option. I think that Bernabe has an overall winner with the Road Pup Goyo. I look forward to handling the TOPS production version at BLADE Show. In the meantime, I highly recommend picking up the limited-edition version from Big B before it sells out.

TOPS Knives Road Pup Goyo Specs

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