Is calling a MSG in the Army “Top” appropriate or only exclusively used for a 1SG?

No. If you are in an Acting First Sergeant position as a Master Sergeant, you should still be addressed as First Sergeant. Top is an old school word used along the way that was accepted by many as a First Sergeant. Today times have changed.

I wore the diamond 3 times, I never told people to call me Too, or 1SG. Both are a sign of respect. One way to tell how you affected your Troops is what they call you after your change of responsibility.

I was in during the mid 80’s. I always called him 1st sgt. Never top.

I would only use the term Top to refer to a 1SG that I respected. If I did not respect them I would use the formal and correct 1SG when referring to them.

As for say a MSG being the highest NCO in a Joint Task Force, I might refer to them as Top but ONLY if they earn my respect and ONLY if I was assigned under them. Otherwise, I am going to refer to them as MSG.

First Sgt were always addressed by rank, our shop NCOIC was a Master Guns and he was Top. Sgt Majors always addressed by rank as well.

Normally no.

No, that title is only reserved to 1SG Or if you know that person was a 1SG and have recently left that position.

It's based on their role. The top NCO in the company. Usually it's spoken unofficially. I've never heard the term used in formation but informally, yes.

Top is normally reserved for the 1SG. ... but has been used for MSG. In my time it was a sign of respect. My proper title of address (according to AR600-10 at the time) was ‘Master Sergeant’. I was told that was a mouth full. ‘Top’ was a lot easier on their tongue. I didn’t object.

I liked it.......until Soldiers who didn’t know me well started calling me that. I definitely took it as a term of familiarity, but I never got ticked off about it. I just “educated” my younger Soldiers on when it is and isn’t appropriate....ie- don’t assume “Top” is ok for any 1SG at any time.

It’s not for MSG’s.