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Saturday, 22 June 2024 05:45

Vosteed Mini PsyOp Featured

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A psychological operation (PSYOP) is a military strategy that uses targeted messaging to influence the emotions, motives, and behavior of a target audience. This can include enemy forces, neutral populations, or even allied groups. PSYOP campaigns can employ a variety of tactics, such as spreading disinformation, using propaganda, or broadcasting messages of persuasion. The ultimate goal of a PSYOP campaign is to achieve a military objective without the use of direct force. What does all that have to do with pocketknives? The PsyOp is a new design from Geoff Blauvelt in collaboration with Vosteed knives.

Geoff, from Schwenksville, Pennsylvania, has a rich background in fine arts, which he skillfully integrates into his knife designs. In 2011, he founded Tuffknives on YouTube, beginning as a knife reviewer and later transitioning into knife modding. His journey in knifemaking took a significant turn when he met John Gray, who mentored him in the craft and helped him start his own company. This company now produces and sells custom folders, leveraging the following Blauvelt had built from his YouTube days and his extensive experience modding production knives. He is known for his preference for a hands-on approach to knifemaking, using minimal machinery to maintain a more handmade, open style in his creations.

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The design we're taking a look at today is the mini version of that fast-selling knife. I wondered why PsyOp would be a good knife name. I'm used to all kinds of crazy names, but this one is different. The name PsyOp could suggest that it's not just about physical sharpness but also about the mental sharpness required in tactical situations. Versatile and adaptable, it's suitable for a wide range of tasks, from everyday carry to emergency situations.

Ok, enough chit-chat, let's get down to business. The Mini PsyOp has an overall length of 6.49", a blade length of 2.69", and a handle length of 3.80". First impressions: it's cute. It's small and gives me Sebenza vibes. The handles on this particular version are olive-green Norplex UltreX™ Micarta. Norplex is an American manufacturer of composite materials, and this is just one of their products. Changing materials can change the game. This micarta is different from other Vosteed models, immediately evident when you pick it up. It's got more texture, like that in canvas or burlap micarta. I love it, very nice texture with the right amount of grip.

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As far as ergonomics and design go, it's comfortable despite its diminutive size. There's a shallow recess for your index finger with a prominent finger guard. The guard is shaped in a way that allows me to choke up and get four fingers on the Mini PsyOp comfortably. There is jimping on the top of the handle, both near the spine and on the backspacer. I feel the jimping wasn't necessary since the micarta grabs you well enough. The handle features a lanyard hole, good for those that wish to tether the Mini PsyOp to something or add some bling. The knife uses a crossbar lock, which is ambidextrous and easy to use one-handed. The pocket clip is also reversible, great for you southpaws.

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The Elmax steel blade has proven its worth in daily use. Its edge retention is impressive—I've used it for quite a few EDC tasks without needing to sharpen it. From breaking down small boxes to opening packages, slicing apples for a snack, and even some light food prep, the PsyOp has handled everything with ease. The blade's corrosion resistance has also been noteworthy, showing no signs of rust despite exposure to my sweaty hands or Georgia's relentless humidity.

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After some use, I can say the Vosteed Mini PsyOp is great for those seeking a compact, high-performance EDC knife. Its small size makes it perfect for urban or office environments where a larger knife might be frowned upon. While it's not suited for heavy-duty tasks, it excels at the everyday cutting tasks most of us encounter. The combination of the Elmax steel, thoughtful design, and pocket-friendly size makes the Mini PsyOp an excellent choice for those who appreciate a capable, discreet EDC blade.

David Bowen

As Co Founder of Multitool.org David has been a multitool enthusaist since the 90's.  David has always been fascinated with the design inginuity and uselfulness of multitools.

David is always looking forward to what's new in the industry and how the humble multitool continues to evolve as it radically changes and improves the lives of users.

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