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.
First Impressions
Compared to the original, the Mini Momo is downright adorable. But don’t let the smaller size fool you—it’s just as impressive. Kizer kept all the features that made the Momo great: the high-quality 154CM blade steel, aluminum handles, and even the signature molded clip. The design evokes thoughts of samurais and pagodas, blending a Japanese-inspired aesthetic with modern functionality.
Handle & Ergonomics
Comfort? Check. While the Mini Momo doesn’t scream “ergonomic,” it just works. The gentle curve of the handle, paired with rounded angles, feels natural in hand. The top of the handle leans into my grip, almost like it was designed specifically for me (thank you, Vladimir Legachev). The way the handle transitions seamlessly into the blade reminds me of karesansui, the Japanese art of raked gravel gardens—flowing lines and simplicity that feel intentional and serene.
No extra texture or jimping here, just clean lines and smooth aluminum. My black-and-purple version is a stunner, with the anodized bolster creating a striking contrast. It’s minimalist and elegant, proving once again that sometimes less is more.
Clip Performance
The molded clip? It’s solid. The tension is just right, and while I would’ve loved to see a steel clip like on the Mini Mystic, I understand why Kizer went with this choice—it keeps the look cohesive. Functionally, it works, and I have no major complaints.
Blade Design
Let’s talk about that blade. While it’s not a true Kiridashi, it clearly draws inspiration from Japanese design. The spine drops ever so slightly into a tapered belly, creating a blade that’s precision-focused and incredibly sharp. The tip-centric design is perfect for detailed tasks—think precision cuts, detailed work, or anything you’d normally grab an X-Acto for.
That said, there’s always a tradeoff: precision vs. robustness. While the Mini Momo leans heavily into the precise category, the blade feels durable enough for regular use. Just don’t go prying anything open—it’s not that kind of knife.
Deployment
The front flipper is the only way to open this blade without ruining its vibe. It’s proud enough to give you excellent thumb purchase, whether you’re flicking it open or going for a slow, deliberate roll. Some folks like to use their index finger for front flippers, but that’s not for me—I value my fingers too much to attempt that. I’ll stick to what works and keep my thumb in charge.
Final Thoughts
The Mini Momo is everything I wanted in the original Momo but in a smaller, more pocket-friendly package. It’s a celebration of balance, blending Japanese-inspired design with everyday functionality. If the full-sized Momo felt like a sword, the Mini Momo is the tanto—sleek, refined, and ready for anything.
I’m thrilled Kizer decided to scale this down because now we have the best of both worlds: a striking design in two sizes to suit any need. If you’ve been eyeing the Momo but hesitated because of its size, the Mini Momo is your answer. Trust me, this one’s worth a place in your collection.
Specs:
Overall Length: 7.35 " / 186.7 mm
Opener: Front Flipper
Blade Style: Drop Point
Blade Length: 3.20 "/ 81.30 mm
Blade Thickness: 0.12 "/3.0mm
Blade Material: 154CM
Handle Length: 4.15 "/ 105.4 mm
Handle Material: Aluminum
Pocket Clip: 3D Non-Reversible
Weight: 3.38 oz/ 95.7g
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