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.

When I’m looking for an everyday carry fixed blade, there’s a mental checklist I go through. Size—does it hit that sweet spot between being compact enough for EDC but big enough for actual work? Weight—is it light enough to carry without feeling like a brick but substantial enough to inspire confidence? Materials—can it handle tough tasks, resist corrosion, and sharpen up easily? And then there’s the carry setup—can I strap it to a pack, drop it in a pocket, or clip it to my belt without it being a hassle?

Benchmade’s new Dacia checks a lot of these boxes. On paper, it’s a real winner. It’s lightweight, rugged, and designed with both everyday tasks and outdoor adventures in mind. But after carrying and using it, I’ve got a few thoughts on where it excels—and where it stumbles.

The Kansept Baba Yaga, designed by Greg Schob of Sparrow Knives, is a fascinating blend of artistry, performance, and durability. Schob, a custom knife maker and active-duty Coast Guardsman, brings his expertise and passion for functional, EDC-focused designs to this collaborative effort. Named after the mysterious and powerful witch of Slavic folklore, the Baba Yaga knife mirrors its namesake—unassuming in appearance but harboring immense capability.

Kansept has been on a roll this year, cranking out one standout design after another, and the Cybin is no exception. This little marvel comes from the mind of Scott Stills, a part-time knifemaker from Asheville, North Carolina, who’s pouring every ounce of his passion into Edgy Bladeworks. His creations reflect a bold, dark sense of humor and a love for unique designs, and the Cybin—a nod to psilocybin, the psychedelic compound found in "magic mushrooms"—is a perfect example.