Kizer Mini Sheepdog handle scales
Kizer Mini Sheepdog handle scales
In 2020, Kizer Cutlery—the premium Chinese EDC knife brand founded in 2012—released the Mini Sheepdog (model V4545 series) as a compact evolution of the popular Sheepdog designed by renowned custom knifemaker Matt Diskin. Debuting in mid-2020 (with early drops and reviews around summer 2020), it addressed demand for a smaller, more pocketable version of the Sheepdog's iconic sheepsfoot blade and ergonomic profile
The Kizer Mini Sheepdog features a 3-inch sheepsfoot blade in premium N690 or S35VN stainless steel (stonewashed or satin finish) for excellent slicing, edge retention, and corrosion resistance. Weighing ~3.2–3.5 oz with 7.1-inch overall length, it includes a liner lock, thumb-stud deployment, caged ball bearings for smooth action, textured G-10 or Micarta handles (black, green, gray variants), and reversible deep-carry clip—ideal for everyday carry (EDC knives), urban tasks, and discreet utility
Priced affordably (~$80–$130 MSRP, China-made), it earned immediate praise for Diskin's refined ergonomics, buttery flip, and value—quickly becoming a bestseller in Kizer's Sheepdog family. Variants (20CV steel, carbon fiber, titanium, button lock editions) followed, solidifying the Mini Sheepdog as a benchmark in compact sheepsfoot folders and Kizer's reputation for high-performance, designer-inspired folding knives