Kershaw Mixtape Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals Review

Unboxing & First Thoughts on the Kershaw Mixtape Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

The Kershaw Mixtape Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals presents itself as a lightweight contender in the everyday carry (EDC) pocketknife arena. It’s a design that clearly prioritizes portability and ease of carrying without making an overt statement in terms of aggressive styling. My search for a new EDC knife began after my previous, rather robust folder started feeling like a brick in my pocket, and I was specifically looking for something that offered a good balance of utility and unobtrusiveness for daily tasks. Considering alternatives like a smaller fixed blade for simplicity or another well-known folding knife from Spyderco, the Mixtape’s unique handle cutouts and focus on weight reduction immediately caught my eye. Upon initial inspection, the knife felt surprisingly light, and the fit and finish seemed solid for its price point, giving me a sense of cautious optimism for its everyday performance.

Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Mixtape Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for this Kershaw knife was primarily around my workshop and home office, focusing on everyday cutting tasks. I used it to open mail, cut through packaging tape on incoming shipments, trim stray threads on work clothes, and even do some light whittling on a scrap piece of wood for a small project. The knife performed these tasks competently, and its light weight made it comfortable to have clipped to my pocket throughout the day. I did notice that the open-backed design, while good for cleaning, allowed a bit more debris to get into the pivot area during workshop use than a more traditional closed design.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent pocket carry and daily use, the Kershaw Mixtape Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals has proven to be a reliable, if unassuming, companion. It has handled everything from slicing into a stubborn plastic clamshell package to preparing fruits for snacks without complaint. The 8Cr13MoV steel blade, while not a premium super steel, holds a decent edge and is easy to resharpen on my honing rod. I haven’t encountered any significant blade play, and the inset liner lock has remained secure even after being frequently opened and closed. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe down and an occasional blast of compressed air into the open construction keeps it functioning smoothly. Compared to some of my past, heavier EDC knives, its consistent lightness is a genuine benefit, and it easily outperforms cheaper, less robust folding knives I’ve encountered.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Mixtape Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

Specifications

The Kershaw Mixtape Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is designed with weight savings as a primary goal. It features a 3.1-inch blade made from 8Cr13MoV steel with a stonewashed finish, which is excellent for hiding scratches from daily use. The handle is constructed from glass-filled nylon, chosen for its durability and light weight. This knife boasts an open construction without a traditional backspacer, further reducing mass and aiding in cleaning.

The inset liner lock mechanism is also a key weight-saving feature, eliminating the need for a full internal liner. All these elements contribute to an impressive weight of just 2.6 ounces. The reverse tanto blade shape offers a strong tip for piercing tasks while maintaining a usable belly for slicing. For deployment, it features a thumb disk for manual opening, allowing for quick one-handed access.

A single-position pocketclip is pre-installed for right-hand, tip-up carry, a common and convenient orientation. The overall length when open is 7.25 inches, with a closed length of 4.1 inches. The unique handle cutouts and a custom decorative pivot cap add visual interest and contribute to the overall lightweight design.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function as a cutting tool, the Kershaw Mixtape Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals performs admirably for its intended purpose. The 8Cr13MoV steel blade takes a keen edge and, with its stonewashed finish, shows minor scuffs rather than glaring scratches, which is a practical consideration for an EDC knife. The reverse tanto blade shape is surprisingly versatile; the sturdy tip is excellent for tasks requiring a bit of puncturing force, like opening boxes or piercing material, while the gentle curve of the blade provides enough belly for efficient slicing.

The manual opening via the thumb disk is generally smooth, although it requires a deliberate flick to overcome the initial resistance. Once open, the inset liner lock engages positively and feels secure, with no noticeable blade play during use. It feels robust enough for common EDC tasks, though I wouldn’t push it into heavy prying or chopping. The knife meets expectations for a lightweight utility folder, providing solid performance without the bulk often associated with such tools.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this knife is clearly focused on being lightweight and easy to carry, and this is evident in every aspect of its construction. The handle’s cutouts, both front and back, are not just for aesthetics; they significantly reduce material and therefore weight, giving the user a clear view of the single-position pocketclip and the liner lock mechanism. The glass-filled nylon scales offer a secure, though not overly grippy, texture.

While the open construction makes cleaning simple, it does mean there’s less material to cushion the hand during prolonged or strenuous use compared to a fully contoured handle. However, for typical EDC tasks, the 4.1-inch closed length fits comfortably in the hand, and the overall feel is secure. The custom pivot cap adds a touch of flair without compromising functionality, and the overall build quality feels robust, especially given the materials and price point.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability, the Kershaw Mixtape Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals appears to be built for the rigors of everyday carry rather than extreme abuse. The glass-filled nylon handle is known for its toughness and resistance to impacts, and the stonewashed 8Cr13MoV blade is a workhorse steel that, while not the hardest, is very forgiving and easy to maintain. I haven’t seen any signs of stress cracks or structural weakness after several weeks of use.

Maintenance is a breeze thanks to the open construction. A quick rinse under water or a blast of compressed air effectively removes pocket lint and debris from the pivot and lock area. Sharpening is also straightforward; the blade responds well to my ceramic rod and sharpening stone. For its intended use, I anticipate this knife will hold up well over time, with the primary wear being to the blade’s edge, which is easily addressed with regular sharpening.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Mixtape Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals comes with the essentials for EDC, most notably the integrated single-position pocketclip which allows for right-hand, tip-up carry. This is a highly functional accessory that ensures the knife is readily accessible without adding extra bulk. While this specific model doesn’t come with a sheath or other complex accessories, its design is relatively straightforward.

Customization options are limited, as is typical for many knives in this category. The custom pivot cap offers a small visual upgrade, and the handle’s open design might lend itself to minor personal touches if one were inclined to modify it, though this is not recommended for maintaining warranty and performance. Its compatibility with aftermarket accessories is unlikely, as it’s a complete package for its intended role.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Mixtape Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

Who Should Buy Kershaw Mixtape Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals?

This Kershaw Mixtape Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is an excellent choice for individuals seeking a lightweight and reliable everyday carry knife for general utility tasks. It’s ideal for those who prioritize portability and comfort, such as students, office workers, or anyone who finds heavier knives cumbersome. If you need a tool for opening packages, light food prep, or general cutting chores around the house or workshop, this knife will serve you well.

However, users who require a knife for heavy-duty applications like prying, batoning wood, or demanding tactical use might find its materials and design limitations. Those who prefer a faster, assisted opening mechanism or a more ergonomic, textured grip might also want to consider other options. For those wanting a simple, affordable, and easy-to-maintain EDC, this Kershaw Mixtape is a strong contender.

Conclusion on Kershaw Mixtape Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

The Kershaw Mixtape Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals successfully achieves its goal of being a lightweight, functional EDC tool. It offers a practical blade shape, a secure lock, and a design that’s remarkably easy to maintain, all without breaking the bank. While the handle material could offer more grip and the open construction might allow more debris entry, these are minor trade-offs for the exceptional weight savings and ease of cleaning. For its price point of $31.99, it delivers solid performance and durability for everyday cutting tasks, making it a great value proposition. I would readily recommend this knife to anyone looking for an unobtrusive, reliable, and budget-friendly pocketknife for their daily carry needs.