Displaying items by tag: kizer

Some knives slice, some pierce, and some, like the Kizer Dogfish, strike fast and hold on tight. Named after the dogfish shark, a member of the Squalidae family, this blade takes after its namesake—a small but aggressive predator known for its tenacity and sharp bite. Dogfish sharks might not be the biggest hunters in the ocean, but they make up for it with persistence, adaptability, and a set of teeth that mean business.

Damned Designs patterns are quite iconic in the industry. Even though many of their designs share similarities, it's not unlike other makers such as Todd Begg or Ken Onion. Every knife designer has their own style and flair, making their work instantly recognizable, and the Invictus is no different.

The name Invictus comes from Latin, meaning unconquerable or invincible. However, it's most notably associated with the poem by William Ernest Henley, not Hemingway (common mix-up). The poem’s theme centers on resilience and inner strength, making Invictus a fitting name for a knife you can carry anywhere, confident that it will handle whatever life throws at it.

Jens Anso is a name that carries weight in the knife world. His designs are known for their clean lines, modern aesthetics, and an emphasis on ergonomics. If you've handled his work before, you know he blends function and form in a way that just makes sense. Anso has collaborated with some big names like Zero Tolerance, Böker, and now Kizer, bringing his unique touch to production knives.

Those who read my reviews know that I appreciate a knife that offers a high degree of utility. While I enjoy a variety of blade styles, my favorites tend to be wharncliffe, sheepsfoot, and cleaver blades. Any blade shape can be useful in different situations, but I find these three to be the best for general-purpose work. Knives with a good amount of belly are excellent for tasks like food prep and skinning, but a straight-edged blade offers better precision, ease of sharpening in the field, and a well-defined tip for detailed cutting.

That brings us to the Kizer Task, a knife that visually resembles models like the Gerber Flatiron, featuring a relatively straight blade profile and handle. This is a good thing—straight handles paired with straight blades tend to excel in utility and everyday carry.

When the Kizer Momo debuted earlier this year, it was an instant head-turner. With its sleek lines and gorgeous blade, it was like the samurai of folding knives. But as much as I loved its precision tip and crazy-sharp edge, I found myself leaving it in the kitchen more often than not. Why? Well, the full-sized Momo is a pocket hog, and despite its beauty, it wasn’t practical for everyday carry. Enter the Mini Momo, a compact version that retains all the greatness of its big sibling but in a size that makes sense for EDC.

Kizer has kicked off 2025 with the Mini Mystic, one of four exciting new models to hit the market. Designed by Paul Munko, the Mini Mystic is a scaled-down version of the popular Mystic, a knife that won over enthusiasts with its ergonomic design and high-performance Rex 45 steel. While the original Mystic was a phenomenal tool, its 4+ inch blade size wasn’t ideal for everyone. The Mini Mystic addresses this by offering a more pocket-friendly design, with a 3.2-inch blade and an overall length of 7.58 inches—right in my personal EDC sweet spot.

The growing trend of small, pocket-friendly fixed blades is one I’m absolutely thrilled about, and the Kizer Muskrat is another standout addition to this category. As someone who appreciates the practicality of smaller blades for everyday tasks, I can confidently say the Muskrat hits that sweet spot between function and portability.

Knives have been an essential tool for humanity since the dawn of time, evolving from crude, utilitarian implements to objects of artistry and craftsmanship. They are not just tools—they are a reflection of us, infused with purpose and memory. From the rough-hewn tools of early man to intricate, embellished designs forged by skilled hands, knives represent both functionality and beauty. For me, this blend of utility and artistry is what fuels my passion for them.

When it comes to EDC fixed blades, my journey has been eye-opening. Having been a folder guy for decades, I’m now finding these small fixed blades to be versatile in ways I hadn’t fully appreciated. While I’ll likely remain a folder enthusiast, the Kizer Harpoon Mini is one of those knives that’s making me rethink my stance.

Kizer’s Militaw Series: A New Wave of Innovation and Design

Kizer has truly outdone itself with the latest expansion of the Militaw series, combining their hallmark quality and innovation with new, exciting options for knife enthusiasts. From premium models to the more accessible Vanguard offerings and the introduction of a fixed blade and mini versions, there’s something in this lineup for everyone. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just looking for a reliable everyday carry, the Militaw series continues to impress.