From clearing debris in my yard to repairing the skirting on my home, this knife was an indispensable tool. Its keen edge and manageable size made it perfect for everything from heavy-duty cutting tasks to precise work. Even in food preparation, which became a daily challenge without modern conveniences, the Mink XL excelled.
The knife's performance in clearing things like tree limbs - a task I encountered frequently during my post-hurricane repairs - was exceptional. This is a testament to its well-executed geometry and the keen factory edge. Although I wasn't technically camping, the experience was eerily similar, and the Mink XL rose to every challenge.
What impressed me most was the blade's durability. Despite the constant use in less-than-ideal conditions, the edge retention was remarkable. The slight belly of the blade allowed for full edge contact on flat surfaces, a crucial feature when working with various materials during the cleanup and repair process.
This unexpected "field test" reinforced my belief that a well-designed fixed blade like the Mink XL isn't just a tool for outdoor enthusiasts, but a reliable companion in unforeseen emergencies. Its performance under these trying circumstances elevated it from a good knife to an exceptional one in my eyes.
Specifications:
Model:D0104
Blade Length:3.99" | 101.50 mm
Overall Length:8.02" | 203.60 mm
Blade Width:1.24" | 31.40 mm
Blade Thickness:0.118" | 3.00 mm
Blade Material:Nitro-V
Blade Grind:Flat
Blade Style:Modified Sheepsfoot
Blade Finish:Black Stonewash
Hardness:HRC 60±2
Handle Length:4.02" | 102.10 mm
Handle Width:0.94" | 24.00 mm
Handle Thickness:0.46" | 11.60 mm
Handle Material:Micarta
Weight:3.62 oz | 102.6 g