Handle and Comfort

I’ve said it before—simple is better. The Yipper’s handle is a perfect example of how simplicity can speak volumes when done right. No wild curves or excessive flair here. Just well-cut G10 over solid, non-skeletonized liners that offer plenty of rigidity. The micro-diagonal milling is subtle, tasteful, and functional. It adds a light texture without chewing up your hands or your pockets.

In hand, the knife offers a solid three-finger grip with a bit of pinky overhang. That might sound tight, but it works. The proportions feel deliberate, and there’s just enough substance to make it feel capable. There’s mild jimping on the spine, and I’m honestly glad. With a knife this size, skipping excessive jimping helps it feel cleaner and smoother in use.

Pocket Clip

The shorty deep carry clip reminds me of the one on the Benchmade Bugout—short, simple, and efficient. It disappears in the pocket and holds the knife securely. It’s also reversible, and MKM thoughtfully included a filler tab to cover the unused side. That’s a small touch that helps keep things looking clean.

Retention is solid. It slides into jeans easily, though I noticed it can snag a bit on looser fabrics like gym shorts. In those cases, it might take a two-handed effort to stow away. Still, it does the job, and the knife stays put once clipped.

Blade and Performance

The Yipper rocks a 2.9" reverse tanto blade in Magnacut steel, and it’s a fantastic pairing. The tip angles downward in a way that makes slicing through boxes or clam shell packaging effortless. Despite the compact size, the geometry gives you great control and bite at the tip.

Magnacut continues to impress me with how well it holds an edge. After weeks of use, I haven’t needed to touch it up yet. That said, I don’t love the coated blade. With Magnacut being as corrosion-resistant as it is, a coating feels unnecessary. I would’ve preferred a stonewashed or brushed finish to complement the blacked-out hardware.

Still, looks aside, performance is where the Yipper shines. It might be a little guy, but it’s all bite when it needs to be.

Locking Mechanism

Crossbar locks are a solid choice for ambidextrous use, and MKM’s take on it works well here. One-handed manipulation is doable, though I’ll admit it’s a little trickier with smaller knives like this. It could just be me, but I find the smaller frame can make accessing and pulling back the lock a bit fiddly. That said, it still closes smoothly, and I can swing it shut with a little wrist flick.

An interesting twist here—MKM made the omega spring tension adjustable. That’s not something you see often, and it adds a layer of customization that more discerning users might appreciate.

Closing Thoughts

The Yipper might not look like much at first glance, but it packs more character and function than you'd expect from a knife this size. It’s lightweight, sleek, and made with high-end materials and a reliable crossbar lock.

If you’re after a compact EDC that disappears in the pocket, cuts like a champ, and feels like a little Italian rocket—this one’s worth checking out. Simple, practical, and just a bit rowdy.