Preview: Cold Steel Mini Leatherneck

Based on the company's popular Leatherneck series of knives, Cold Steel announced the launch of its Mini Leatherneck lineup, which provides many of the same fixed-blade features of its larger offering in a small, compact package that's ideal for daily carry.

There are inherent benefits to a fixed-blade knife, not the least of which is the added strength and rigidity you get when you're not relying on a locking mechanism to keep a blade deployed. The Cold Steel Mini Leatherneck series provides that added strength with three different blade profiles. You can get a Tanto, Double Edge Spear Point or a Clip Point blade, all measuring 3.5 inches long and featuring a stout, ergonomic handle measuring 3.25 inches long. Each blade is crafted from 8Cr13MoV steel, making it easy to sharpen and ensuring that it'll hold and edge.

Handles on each model of the Cold Steel Mini Leatherneck line are constructed of trademarked Kray-Ex polymer, and in addition to the ergonomic construction, the handles also feature an aggressively textured surface that provides positive control when cutting. The knives also come with a large stainless-steel guard featuring broad quillons and an enlarged pommel, as well as a sleeved lanyard hole. Each knife comes with its own Secure-Ex polymer sheath that functions with Cold Steel's C-clip or a bead lanyard.

The Cold Steel Mini Leatherneck weighs between 3.1 and 3.3 ounces. Depending on the blade profile, suggested retail pricing ranges between $25.99 to $29.99. For more information, visit coldsteel.com.