Let’s Talk About Kershaw Mixtape
The Kershaw Mixtape is Kershaw’s answer to the everyday carry (EDC) knife that balances lightweight convenience with practical performance. It’s a budget-friendly option designed for those who need a reliable blade without breaking the bank. The Mixtape features a stonewashed 8Cr13MoV steel blade, a reverse tanto shape, and a comfortable, minimalist handle, all packaged in a design that’s easy to carry.
I was looking for a slim, lightweight knife that I could comfortably carry daily without feeling weighed down. Many of my other knives, while excellent, are simply too bulky for pocket carry during everyday tasks. I needed something discreet, reliable, and affordable.
My initial impression upon unboxing the Kershaw Mixtape was positive. The knife felt surprisingly solid for its lightweight nature. The stonewashed finish on the blade looked great, and the overall design seemed well thought out.
Compared to my CRKT Squid and Ontario Rat Model 2, the Kershaw Mixtape stands out with its slimmer profile and lighter weight. While the Squid is more compact and the Rat 2 offers a more substantial feel, the Mixtape hits a sweet spot for EDC comfort. I chose the Mixtape for its balance of size, weight, and blade shape.
I was excited by the Kershaw Mixtape’s potential. It seemed like the perfect solution for my everyday cutting needs, and I was eager to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Mixtape to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test for the Kershaw Mixtape was during a weekend camping trip. I used it for tasks like food preparation, cutting rope, and opening packages. The knife performed admirably in dry conditions.
The Kershaw Mixtape handled well, even with slightly wet hands when cleaning fish near the creek. The handle offered decent grip, and the blade’s reverse tanto shape proved useful for both piercing and slicing. I did not need any time to get used to it, the knife felt intuitive right away.
The only minor issue was the blade’s tendency to collect some dirt and debris in the pivot area after cutting through sticky tape. This required a quick wipe down to maintain smooth operation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a few months of consistent use, the Kershaw Mixtape has proven to be a reliable EDC knife. It’s held up well to daily tasks, showing only minimal signs of wear on the stonewashed blade finish. The lockup remains solid, and the blade is still centered.
The Kershaw Mixtape requires very little maintenance. I simply clean and oil the blade occasionally to prevent rust and maintain smooth action. Compared to my previous EDC knives, the Mixtape has exceeded my expectations in terms of comfort and ease of carry.
Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Mixtape
Specifications
The Kershaw Mixtape features a 3.1-inch blade made of 8Cr13MoV steel. This steel offers a good balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening, making it a practical choice for EDC use.
The knife features a reverse tanto blade shape, which provides a strong tip for piercing tasks and a usable belly for slicing. This blade design enhances versatility for a variety of cutting tasks.
Its weight is kept down by its minimalist handle. This slim profile helps it disappear in your pocket.
The stonewashed finish not only looks good but also helps to hide scratches and wear. This makes it a more durable and long-lasting finish for everyday use.
The manufacturer is Kershaw. Kershaw is known for its quality knives at affordable price points.
Performance & Functionality
The Kershaw Mixtape performs its intended job of everyday cutting tasks effectively. It’s sharp enough to handle most common EDC needs, from opening boxes to preparing food. The blade shape also makes it useful for more precise tasks.
The knife’s strengths lie in its lightweight design and ease of carry. Its weaknesses include the relatively basic steel used for the blade. The steel could require more frequent sharpening with heavy use.
The Kershaw Mixtape meets my expectations for a budget-friendly EDC knife. It delivers reliable performance without unnecessary bells and whistles.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kershaw Mixtape boasts a minimalist design with a focus on functionality. The handle is simple but comfortable, providing a secure grip without being overly bulky. The weight is well-balanced, making it easy to control during use.
The knife is incredibly user-friendly, with a smooth opening action and a secure lockup. There’s virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Kershaw Mixtape should last for years. The stainless steel blade is corrosion-resistant, and the handle is made of durable materials. Maintaining the Mixtape is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and sharpening.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kershaw Mixtape comes with a standard pocket clip for convenient carry. While there are no included accessories beyond this, the knife is compatible with many aftermarket pocket clips. This allows for some degree of customization. There are currently no other widely available aftermarket parts or significant customization options for the Kershaw Mixtape.
Pros and Cons of Kershaw Mixtape
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry. The Kershaw Mixtape’s slim profile makes it barely noticeable in your pocket.
- Affordable price point. You get a lot of knife for the money with the Kershaw Mixtape.
- Reliable 8Cr13MoV steel blade. This steel provides a good balance of edge retention and ease of sharpening.
- Stonewashed finish. The stonewash hides scratches and gives the knife a stylish look.
- Secure lockup. The blade locks securely in place for safe use.
Cons
- Basic steel requires more frequent sharpening. 8Cr13MoV, while good for the price, doesn’t hold an edge as long as premium steels.
- Minimalist handle design may not suit all users. Some may prefer a more substantial grip.
Who Should Buy Kershaw Mixtape?
The Kershaw Mixtape is perfect for anyone looking for a reliable, budget-friendly EDC knife. It’s ideal for students, office workers, or anyone who needs a lightweight tool for everyday tasks. The Kershaw Mixtape is a great choice for casual campers who need a reliable cutting tool.
Someone who needs a more heavy-duty knife or prefers premium materials should skip the Kershaw Mixtape. Also, avoid the Kershaw Mixtape if you need a knife that can handle hard use.
A lanyard is a must-have accessory or modification, adding a bit of extra grip and ease of retrieval from the pocket.
Conclusion on Kershaw Mixtape
The Kershaw Mixtape offers excellent value for its price. It’s a well-designed, lightweight EDC knife that performs reliably for everyday tasks. The balance of affordability, functionality, and ease of carry make it a compelling option in the budget knife market.
The price of the Kershaw Mixtape is absolutely justified. It gives you a lot of utility for a minimal investment.
I would personally recommend the Kershaw Mixtape to anyone looking for a solid, budget-friendly EDC knife. If you need a reliable cutting tool without breaking the bank, give the Kershaw Mixtape a try. Pick up a Kershaw Mixtape today and experience the perfect mix of lightweight convenience and practical performance!