First Impressions:

Having reviewed several mini models from Vosteed, I'm consistently impressed by their compact and appealing design. The Mini Nightshade is no exception, offering a scaled-down version of its full-sized counterpart without compromising on functionality.

Handling and Ergonomics:
The Mini Nightshade excels in ergonomics, thanks to its curved handle and blade that align with the natural arc of the hand. With average-sized hands, I can comfortably grip the handle with three fingers, and even four when choking up a bit, without risking proximity to the blade. The jimping on the spine and rear handle aids in grip and control, although it's positioned a bit behind where my thumb naturally lands.

Blade Performance:
The Shilin Cutter blade shape is known for its superb performance, particularly in draw cuts. The blend of a tip-centric design with a generous belly makes it versatile for delicate tasks and pull-through cuts. The full flat grind and thin edge enhance cutting efficiency, while the 14C28N steel provides a great balance between cost and performance, offering excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance.

Lock Mechanism:
The cross-bar lock, while secure and easy to use, feels somewhat unusual on such a small knife. However, it functions reliably, locking the blade securely. Its ease of disengagement with the index finger and thumb adds to its safety and user-friendliness.

Portability:
The Mini Nightshade's compact size makes it perfect for carrying in a fifth pocket, with its slim profile ensuring minimal space usage. The thumb studs allow for smooth deployment despite their small size, although I found the studs on the Mini PsyOp slightly easier to operate.

Overall:
Vosteed's mini knives, including the Mini Nightshade, are highly appreciated for their practicality and performance. This knife is ideal for those who prefer a smaller blade without sacrificing functionality. If you're in the market for a compact yet powerful EDC knife, the Mini Nightshade is an excellent choice.

Specifications
- Blade Length: 2.60 inches
- Overall Length: 6.31 inches
- Blade Material: 14C28N
- Blade Grind: Flat
- Blade Style: Shilin Cutter
- Handle Material: G10
- Weight: 1.80 oz
- Lock Type: Crossbar Lock
- Designer: Yue

Pros:
- Compact and lightweight, perfect for EDC
- Excellent ergonomics and grip
- High-performance blade with versatile design
- Smooth blade deployment with thumb studs
- Secure cross-bar lock mechanism
- Ambidextrous and reversible pocket clip

Cons:
- Cross-bar lock might feel awkward on a smaller knife
- Thumb studs are slightly smaller, making deployment a bit tricky for some users