An Underrated EDC Brand Minimizes One Of Its Best Titanium Knives Even Further

Vero Engineering has proven its pared-down design prowess. Now, the brand is taking things to the next level.

Vero Engineering Nova Mini knife closeup

Published February 13, 2025

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Despite winning multiple awards at last year’s Blade Show Texas, Vero Engineering is still a relatively unknown knifemaking brand. Part of me appreciates that I’m in the know, but another part wants to shout from the rooftops about how great this brand’s knives are.

But maybe I don’t have to shout too loud, so long as the brand keeps dropping knives like the Vero Engineering Nova Mini. This exceptional cutting tool reimagines one of Vero’s best designs, making it even more carry-friendly.

Vero Engineering Nova Mini knife in hand in front of blurry green background — The Nova Mini retains the original’s iconic, minimalist styling but puts it in a more EDC-friendly package.

Even less to love (and that’s a good thing)

The original Nova was founder Joseph Vero’s very first design to feature a MagnaCut super steel blade. As is often the case with Vero Engineering’s offerings, the design lets the materials do the talking.

Like its predecessor, the Nova Mini continues that tradition. It’s just as minimalist, opting for sleek lines over boisterous stylistic flair. The chief difference is that the Nova Mini is a good deal smaller.

Whereas the original was 8.29 inches with a 3.65-inch blade, the Mini is only 7.5 inches with a 3.25-inch blade. While an under-0.8-inch difference might not seem like much, it’s a huge difference in EDC and ergonomic terms.

Thankfully, most of what else there was to love about the original Nova remains, but there are some differences.

Vero Engineering Nova Mini knife closed on wood table in front of black background — Along with this blacked-out version, the Nova Mini comes in five different configurations.

Sleek and splendid

Alongside the Nova Mini’s lanyard hole, there’s a swath of exceptional materials and mechanisms to get excited about. There are even a couple of other noteworthy changes.

As you can see in the image above, the knife has an integrated frame lock, just like its predecessor. However, that lock now functions alongside a Böhler M390 steel blade instead of the original MagnaCut one.

The steel swap is interesting, as M390 and MagnaCut are relatively similar — though MagnaCut is slightly tougher while M390 has slightly better edge retention and wear resistance. I have to assume the change was mostly due to the availability of supplies.

(It’s worth noting that there’s also a Damasteel version, but it has already sold out.)

Beyond the steel swap, the knife retains its titanium handle scales and a caged ceramic ballbearing pivot. It’s a refreshing blend of old and new, helping to keep this new expression fresh without losing what made the original great.

Vero Engineering Nova Mini knife spine in hand — The Vero branding on the blade’s spine is one of my favorite subtle design inclusions.

Pricing and availability

Vero Engineering’s Nova Mini is currently available on the brand’s website. Pricing starts at $390 for the base model and goes up to $650 for the (sadly sold-out) Damascus version.

If the rest of the brand’s catalog is any indication, this knife will likely sell out quickly, even considering its high price.