I finally got my replacement lock for my Evolution Mini, but after the scare of the "Bic Key" I am not so sure that I trust the new lock any more than the old one, it just doesn't feel solid.
I was wondering if anyone has any recommendations on a alternative to the Mini.
I like a small lock that I can put in my back pocket.

You have a fine lock. The only other "mini" lock sold in the USA that might be stronger is the OnGuard Brute "mini". The Brute locks both arms of the "U", and the Evolution locks just one. But, it would be a rare crook who has the time and energy to cut one arm, let alone two.

In a "lab" test, the full size Krytonite New York lock, and the full size OnGuard Brute will "score" higher than the "mini" versions. Thicker metal means they would be harder to defeat by prying or cutting while on a "workbench".

But, out on the street, the "mini" versions are likely to work equally well. I use the "mini" locks by putting them around the rear wheel directly behind the seat tube and attaching it to a sturdy pole. That protects both the rear wheel and frame. (I use a cable lock and bolted skewer to protect the front wheel).

The mini versions fit rather tightly around the rear wheel and pole, making it impossible to use a certain type of prying tool that is commonly used by crooks on larger locks. Cutting a lock quickly requires power tools, which does not happen on many public streets in the USA, outside of Manhatten.

onguard has discontinued their brute mini. it disappeared from their website months ago and the buyer at my LBS tried unsuccessfully to order me one. the only sizes it comes in now are standard and long.

The 2005 model OnGuard Pitbull "Mini" would be a good alternative to the "Brute". It weighs 2.2 pounds, about the weight of the Brute "Mini". Its 3.5 inch by 5.5 inch size works well for my preferred locking method. I use the "mini" to lock the rear wheel directly to the rack or post. If the "mini" lock is positioned on the rear wheel just behind the seat tube, the rear wheel and frame are both secure. I use a bolted skewer and combination lock cable for the front wheel.

I like "mini" size locks because there is a "cheap", easy to find tool that crooks can use to quickly break a large, light-weight, inexpensive U-lock. That tool works well on 5 inch by 9 inch U-locks, but it can not be used on a mini-lock, as a "mini" lock does not provide enough space for the tool. I am sure some members of this Forum know WHICH cheap tool crooks use to break large sized U-locks. Hopefully, no member will be posting photos, diagrams or videos instructing people on how this tool is used. (Such as the "helpful" photo posted last week on the fastest method for cutting a cable lock).