Specifications
- Overall Length: 7.54" (191.4 mm)
- Blade Length: 3.14" (79.7 mm)
- Blade Thickness: 0.12" (3.2 mm)
- Blade Material: Nitro-V steel
- Handle Length: 4.40" (111.7 mm)
- Handle Material: Carbon Fiber
- Weight: 3.93 oz (111.3 g)
- Lock Type: Button Liner Lock
- Opener: Flipper, Thumb Stud, Button
- Pocket Clip: Deep Carry, Reversible
Design and Build
The Mini Grouper's carbon fiber handle and satin-finished blade give it a sleek, modern aesthetic. The carbon fiber handle, while generally a high-end material, has a glossy basket weave texture that feels somewhat cheap, especially compared to the smooth surfaces I'm used to. The areas where material was removed to form the handles, particularly where the index finger rests, feel slightly off, detracting from the overall quality feel.
Blade Performance
The blade of the Mini Grouper is crafted from Nitro-V steel, known for its high hardness, excellent corrosion resistance, and exceptional edge retention. This makes it a reliable tool for a variety of tasks. The drop point blade shape, enhances the knife's versatility, making it suitable for cutting, slicing, and piercing tasks. It reminds me of the Nightshade, another knife with a great versatility.
Ease of use
The button lock works flawlessly, providing plenty of security without the risk of accidental disengagement. The flipper and thumb stud make for quick and smooth deployment, ensuring the blade is always ready when needed. The blade path avoids contact with fingers when closing, which for me is a thing of beauty.
Pocket Clip
A great feature of the Mini Grouper is its deep carry, reversible pocket clip. This allows for discreet and convenient carry, making it an ideal choice for everyday carry. The clip's ensures that the knife sits deep in the pocket, minimizing visibility and potential snagging.
Real-World Applications
The Mini Grouper performed well in various everyday tasks. Its compact size and lightweight build made it easy to carry, while sharp blade handled cutting tasks with ease. Whether you're opening packages, preparing food, or handling more demanding cutting jobs, the Mini Grouper delivers.
Conclusion
Overall, the Kizer Mini Grouper is an outstanding folding knife that offers excellent value for its price. Despite some reservations about the feel of the carbon fiber handle, the knife as a whole is quite nice for its price range. The high-quality blade material and user-friendly features make it a solid choice for anyone in need of a reliable pocket knife. Priced at $79.00, it provides high-end features and performance in a compact and stylish package. Whether you're a seasoned knife enthusiast or someone looking for a reliable knife, the Mini Grouper is a great choice.