MKM Root Slip Joint Olive Review

Is the MKM Root Slip Joint Olive Right for You?

As an equipment specialist with a decade of experience across diverse environments, I’ve developed a keen eye for tools that blend utility with enduring craftsmanship. My search for a reliable, elegantly simple slip joint knife led me to the MKM Root Slip Joint Olive. This knife promises a classic aesthetic married with modern materials, a combination that always intrigues me.

My immediate need arose from a desire to pare down my EDC (Everyday Carry) to essentials, specifically seeking a non-locking blade that felt substantial yet discreet. While I considered several well-regarded traditional brands, I was drawn to the prospect of a newer manufacturer like MKM pushing the boundaries of familiar designs. The initial impression of this knife is one of refined simplicity; the olive wood handle feels organic and smooth, hinting at careful finishing.

The price point of $144.90 positions it above many entry-level slip joints but below high-end customs, placing it in a compelling niche. It strikes me as a tool designed for those who appreciate understated quality and a connection to natural materials.

Real-World Testing: Putting MKM Root Slip Joint Olive to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds were practical, everyday scenarios: opening mail, breaking down shipping boxes, and performing minor tasks around my workshop. I carried the MKM Root Slip Joint Olive for a solid two weeks, giving it ample opportunity to integrate into my daily routine. The weight felt perfectly balanced for its size, and the satin finish Bohler M390 stainless blade showed immediate promise with its keen edge.

The olive wood handle, while beautiful, offered a moderately grippy surface. It felt secure enough for light tasks, though I noted that in very damp conditions, it might become slightly slick. There were no immediate issues, no stiffness in the action, and the blade snapped open with a satisfying, albeit not overly aggressive, sound.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months of consistent pocket carry and use, the MKM Root Slip Joint Olive has proven itself to be a resilient companion. Its daily duties have included slicing through paracord, prepping food during impromptu outdoor lunches, and even performing some very light wood carving in my workshop. The Bohler M390 steel has held its edge remarkably well, requiring only a few light touch-ups with a ceramic rod to maintain razor sharpness.

Durability has been excellent; the olive wood handle has developed a lovely patina and shows only minor scuffs from being in my pocket alongside keys. There are no signs of the blade loosening in its pivot, nor has the slip joint mechanism lost any of its positive engagement. Compared to some budget slip joints that quickly develop blade play or dull prematurely, this knife feels like a significant step up. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe with a damp cloth and occasional light oiling of the pivot point is all it needs.

Breaking Down the Features of MKM Root Slip Joint Olive

Specifications

The MKM Root Slip Joint Olive presents a thoughtful set of specifications designed for utility and aesthetic appeal. It features a 2.75-inch (6.99cm) Bohler M390 stainless blade, a length that strikes an excellent balance between capability and legal carry in many areas. The 3.75-inch (9.53cm) closed length makes it compact enough for comfortable pocket carry without being obtrusive.

The handle is crafted from olive wood, a material renowned for its attractive grain and natural warmth. The blade is made of Bohler M390 stainless steel, a high-performance powder metallurgy steel known for its exceptional edge retention, corrosion resistance, and toughness, making it a premium choice for blade material. This knife has a lanyard hole for added carrying options, and its mechanism is a classic slip joint. The entire package weighs in at a mere 0.26 lb (approximately 118 grams), contributing to its comfortable carry.

These specifications translate directly into practical performance. The M390 blade means you’ll spend less time sharpening and more time using the knife effectively, a significant advantage for frequent users. The size is ideal for most everyday cutting tasks, and the slip joint mechanism, while requiring a manual closing action, offers a classic, reliable, and generally safer alternative to automatic or assisted opening mechanisms for those who prefer a more traditional interaction with their tool. The inclusion of a brown leather pocket sheath with a magnetic clip is a thoughtful addition, offering a protective and secure way to carry the knife.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of any knife is to cut, and the MKM Root Slip Joint Olive excels at this fundamental task. The Bohler M390 blade arrives exceptionally sharp, slicing through paper and cardboard with minimal effort. Its satin finish is not only aesthetically pleasing but also contributes to reduced glare in bright conditions.

The slip joint mechanism provides a positive lock-up when the blade is open, though it’s important to remember it’s not a true locking blade and should not be subjected to prying or heavy chopping forces. It performs perfectly for slicing, scraping, and general utility cutting. Its biggest strength lies in its ability to retain an edge; after weeks of use, it still performs admirably. A minor weakness might be the lack of a true lock for more demanding tasks, but this is inherent to the slip joint design and expected.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the MKM Root Slip Joint Olive is a masterclass in understated elegance. The combination of the satin finished M390 blade and the olive wood handle creates a warm, organic feel that is a pleasure to hold. The olive wood scales are smoothly finished, fitting snugly against the liners with no perceptible gaps.

Ergonomically, the knife is comfortable for its intended use. The 3.75-inch closed length fits well in the palm, and the gentle swell of the handle provides a secure grip for most tasks. The lanyard hole is a practical addition, allowing for easy attachment of a paracord lanyard or a small bead. The blade deploys smoothly, and the nail nick is well-placed for right-handed users.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction, the MKM Root Slip Joint Olive is built for longevity. The Bohler M390 steel is highly resistant to corrosion, meaning you don’t have to obsess over immediate drying after exposure to moisture. The olive wood handle is a natural material that, with minimal care, will age beautifully.

Maintenance is thankfully minimal. A quick wipe-down after use, occasional light oiling of the pivot, and periodic sharpening are all that’s needed. I haven’t encountered any obvious failure points; the construction feels solid and well-engineered. It’s designed to be a reliable user, not a fragile showpiece, though its aesthetics are certainly worthy of admiration.

Accessories and Customization Options

The MKM Root Slip Joint Olive comes with a practical accessory: a brown leather pocket sheath. This sheath is designed for pocket carry and features a magnetic clip, which is a clever and secure way to attach it. The leather itself is of good quality, offering protection to the knife’s handle and blade.

Customization options for this particular model are limited by its design as a classic slip joint. While some users might opt to add a custom lanyard to the lanyard hole, there are no other significant modification points inherent to this design, which is part of its charm. The focus here is on the knife itself and its direct usability, rather than extensive modification.

Pros and Cons of MKM Root Slip Joint Olive

Who Should Buy MKM Root Slip Joint Olive?

The MKM Root Slip Joint Olive is an excellent choice for individuals who appreciate traditional knife designs combined with modern, high-performance materials. It’s perfect for the EDC enthusiast who wants a reliable, sharp, and aesthetically pleasing knife that is legal to carry in most places. This knife would also appeal to someone looking for a discreet tool for light utility tasks, such as opening packages, cutting twine, or preparing snacks.

Those who should probably skip this knife are users who require a locking blade for heavy-duty applications, such as prying, batoning wood, or any task that puts significant stress on the blade. If you prioritize a tactical or robust working knife, a slip joint may not be the best fit. For those who are new to slip joints, I’d recommend watching a few videos on safe operation to get a feel for the mechanism. A good quality sharpening stone or ceramic rod would be a beneficial complementary item to keep the M390 blade in top condition.

Conclusion on MKM Root Slip Joint Olive

The MKM Root Slip Joint Olive represents a thoughtful blend of classic form and modern function. Its performance is significantly enhanced by the choice of Bohler M390 steel, ensuring a blade that stays sharp through extended use. The olive wood handle offers both beauty and comfortable ergonomics for everyday tasks.

Considering its price of $144.90, the value proposition is strong, especially when factoring in the premium steel and the inclusion of a well-made leather sheath. It’s a knife that feels substantial and reliable without being bulky, making it a joy to carry. I would wholeheartedly recommend the MKM Root Slip Joint Olive to anyone seeking a refined, high-quality slip joint knife for their EDC rotation or as a dependable tool for light utility. If you appreciate craftsmanship and performance in a simple, elegant package, this knife is an excellent investment.