Ultem is the trade name for polyetherimide, a high-performance polymer developed in 1982 and composed of a lightweight, flexible thermoplastic resin characterised by high resistance to heat and high strength and stiffness. Ultem has been used extensively in the aerospace, aviation and automotive sectors, as well as being one of the main materials from which spectacle frames are made. It comes in a variety of solid or transparent colors, and it is in this latter form that it has recently been enjoying success in the sports knife sector, such as the Civivi Mini Praxis that we are presenting to you. It is not the only knife in the Chinese manufacturer's catalog to have an Ultem handle, but it is certainly one of the most interesting. The Mini Praxis is actually not so "mini", since the blade measures 75.6 mm for an overall length of 172 mm; for comparison the standard Praxis model has a blade length of 95 mm for an overall length of 214 millimetres.
Civivi Mini Praxis, a lightweight and affordable EDC
The blade of the Civivi Mini Praxis is made of D2 steel hardened to a hardness of 59-61 HRC, has a drop point blade and is characterised by a high bevel and a full-length false edge that produces a pleasant aesthetic effect and make the blade pretty light, thanks also to its thickness of 2.5 mm. This contributes to making the Mini Praxis relatively lightweight in relation to its length: only 73 grams. Of particular note is the excellent craftsmanship of surfaces and factory sharpening. The lines of the blade look even cleaner and more streamlined thanks to the absence of opening studs or thumbholes: blade is deployed by an easy-to-operate and well-shaped side flipper. In terms of shape and length, the blade is an excellent compromise for everyday use.
The yellow-colored handle has a textured surface with diagonal checkering that make for an excellent grip without interfering too much with the transparency of the material; in this way, the stainless steel lining is visible and its lightening cuts become an aesthetic and characterising feature of the Mini Praxis. The stainless steel clip is on the right-hand side only and allows the knife to be carried tip-up. For once there is no possibility of swapping it from one side to the other, but this is not necessarily a bad thing. On the contrary, you avoid having the grip riddled with holes that may be convenient for those who want to change the clip position but are quite objectionable aesthetically. The screws are also made of stainless steel, and given the final price, one can hardly expect titanium ones.
A brief consideration on price: the Mini Praxis Ultem version costs $46.70, 45 euros approx., which drops to just $35 in the version with G10 grips. It is hard to imagine a knife with a better price-quality ratio. Its small size makes it an ideal choice for those with small hands and female users.
Civivi Amirite, the return of the "mozzetta"
The second model we present is called Amirite and belongs to a higher size class, with a blade length of 88.3 millimeters and an overall length of 213.5 mm. The weight is also considerably higher: 130 grams, which is almost double the Mini Praxis, but the cutting capacity is also considerably higher. The Amirite, in fact, features a Nitro V5 steel blade with a modified Wharncliffe profile. This is basically like a "mozzetta", with a slightly more pronounced tip angle than that of the traditional Italian knife. This makes a true cutter-style tip that allows for very precise work. The maximum thickness of the blade is 3 millimeters, but the flat grind on the sides makes it relatively light and efficient, an aspect underlined by a truly remarkable factory sharpening. The satin finish is equally well made, smooth and without any uncertainty. The Amirite's blade is ideal for precise cuts but also for preparing food: during our tests we found that it cuts sausages flawlessly.
The Civivi Amirite is a button lock, thus it can be opened by simply pressing the button and flicking it with the wrist. For those who prefer more subtle gestures, there are two options: you can operate the side flipper that discreetly protrudes from the handle, or the ambidextrous stud on the blade that offers a solid point on which to press with the thumb. In any case, opening is made pleasant and very smooth by the caged ceramic ball bearing pivot assembly. The handle is made of rough G10, with a slight texture vaguely reminiscent of micarta, and is available in blue, black and olive green. In the latter variant, the blade has a blued finish. The clip is made of steel and can be moved from one side of the handle to the other, and for this purpose there is a small recess on the left side with a corresponding screw hole. Thanks to the good handle size, the Amirite fits well even in XL-sized hands and although the texture is very light, it allows a firm grip. Certainly, this is a medium-sized EDC, capable of carrying out even demanding work. Those looking for a knife for everyday use with an original and efficient design will definitely want to consider the Civivi Amirite, which costs $90, or around 90 euros.
To find out more, visit the Civivi website.
Civivi Mini Praxis and Amirite specs and prices
| Manufacturer | Civivi | Civivi |
Model: | Mini Praxis | Amirite |
Type: | EDC folder | EDC folder |
Design: | Civivi | Civivi |
Blade Material: | D2 steel, 59-61 HRC | Nitro V5 steel, 59-61 HRC |
Blade Profile | Drop point | Modified Wharncliffe |
Closure: | Liner lock | Button lock |
Blade Length: | 75.6 mm | 88.3 mm |
Overall length: | 172.5 mm | 213.5 mm |
Grind: | Flat | Flat |
Finish: | Satin | Satin |
Grip: | Ultem | G10 |
Weight: | 73 g | 130 g |
Price: | $46.70 | $90 |
