ADV Tactical Mini Pitboss 3 Blackout / Dragon – S35VN

Compact, aggressive, and completely blacked out, this ADV Tactical Mini Pitboss 3 brings one of Andre de Villiers’ more recognizable designs into a smaller format without sacrificing the substantial feel that defines the Pitboss. At just over 3.6 inches, the S35VN drop point blade features a black Cerakote finish over ADV’s compound grind. A sharply defined transition between the two grind sections gives the blade much of its aggressive character. A recessed fuller adds another layer of depth while fitting naturally into the monochromatic presentation. The titanium handle is fitted with deeply textured Dragon Scale carbon fiber inlays that do considerably more than add visual interest. The sculpted surface has a distinctly directional feel, remaining smooth when moving with the pattern while providing noticeably greater resistance in the opposite direction. Combined with the pronounced finger grooves and spine jimping, the result is an exceptionally secure, planted feel in hand. Despite its compact dimensions, the Mini Pitboss feels dense and substantial at 5.35 ounces. There is a reassuring sense of strength to the knife that belies its 8.20″ overall length, giving it the feel of a much larger ADV without the corresponding footprint. Deployment comes from the flipper tab with the blade riding on bearings. The action is fast and authoritative with a satisfying acoustic snap on deployment, while pressing the button lock allows the blade to drop shut freely. A sculpted titanium pocket clip provides right-side, tip-up carry and incorporates ADV’s hidden rollerball, helping the clip move smoothly over the pocket while adding its own distinctive mechanical snap during removal. Black titanium hardware and a titanium backspacer complete the blackout presentation, keeping virtually every element of the Mini Pitboss 3 tied into the same dark, aggressive theme.