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Medford Knife & Tool
Published: October 21st, 2024
Medford Knife and Tool, founded in 2010 by Greg Medford, is a company known for producing some of the most robust and durable knives on the market. Based in Phoenix, Arizona, Medford Knives has become synonymous with overbuilt designs, precision craftsmanship, and a no-compromise approach to quality. Over the past decade, the company has evolved from a small operation into a dominant force in the knife industry, with a passionate following of knife enthusiasts, military personnel, and first responders.
Greg Medford’s diverse background is the cornerstone of the company’s philosophy. A native of Arizona, Medford has had a lifelong passion for edged tools, starting with restoring Japanese swords in the mid-1980s. This early experience gave him a deep understanding of blade geometry and design, laying the foundation for his future endeavors in knife-making.
Medford’s career path took several interesting turns. He served as a U.S. Marine Corps infantryman during Operation Desert Storm, where his experience in combat highlighted the importance of reliable, durable tools. After his military service, Medford further explored his interests in martial arts and aviation, becoming a professional pilot and close-quarters combat instructor. These experiences uniquely shaped his approach to knife design, combining the precision of aviation with the rugged demands of combat and tactical environments.
- Medford Knife & Tool was founded in 2010 by Greg Medford (pictured above) in Phoenix, Arizona
- Greg Medford is a former U.S. Marine Corps infantryman, who served during Operation Desert Storm
The hallmark of Medford Knives is their focus on durability and functionality. Medford’s product line is characterized by overbuilt designs, featuring thick blades and robust handle materials, making them highly durable and reliable. Whether you’re in the military, law enforcement, or simply need a dependable everyday carry knife, Medford’s offerings are designed to withstand the toughest conditions.
One of the key factors that set Medford Knives apart is their use of premium materials. The blades are often crafted from high-quality steels such as CPM-S35VN, CPM-MagnaCut, CPM-3V, and more. Titanium is frequently used for the handles, adding strength while keeping the knives lightweight and easy to carry. Each Medford Knife is hand-assembled, inspected, and finished by skilled craftsmen at the company’s facility in Phoenix. This emphasis on handcrafting ensures that every knife meets strict quality standards, a process that sets Medford apart from mass-produced knives.
Central to Medford Knife and Tool is its strong commitment to American manufacturing. Greg Medford is a staunch advocate for keeping production within the U.S., both as a matter of principle and practicality. He believes that the American workforce, with its high standards for quality and ethics, is essential to producing knives that are not only functional but also ethically made.
- Medford Knife & Tool proudly sources almost all of its components domestically
Medford Knife and Tool represents a commitment to craftsmanship, durability, and American values. Greg Medford’s diverse background, from his military service to his expertise in martial arts and aviation, has uniquely positioned him to create knives that are both functional tools and works of art. Medford Knives are designed to last a lifetime, and their emphasis on American manufacturing ensures that they are made with the highest standards of quality.
As the company continues to grow, it remains committed to the values that have defined it from the start: quality, durability, and a deep respect for American craftsmanship.
Written by Drew Clifton
What to Buy
The Medford Praetorian T folding knife features a robust 3.75" CPM-S45VN stainless steel tanto blade with a black DLC-coated finish, ensuring exceptional durability and cutting performance. This manual folder operates smoothly with a thumb stud and ball-bearing pivot, and it locks securely with a framelock mechanism. The titanium handles are textured for enhanced grip, complemented by a bronzed titanium pocket clip, bronze hardware, and a lanyard hole. At 4.9" closed and weighing 9.3oz, this knife is built for heavy-duty tasks. Each knife comes with a certificate of authenticity and a waterproof military-style hard case. Crafted by renowned knifemaker Greg Medford, this exceptional tool is proudly made in the USA.
The Medford M48 is a premium American-made folding knife designed for everyday carry. Featuring a 3.9-inch CPM S35VN stainless steel drop point blade with a tumbled finish, this knife offers exceptional toughness and corrosion resistance. Its 4.6-inch olive green aluminum handle provides a secure grip, and the knife includes standard hardware, a reversible pocket clip, and a lanyard hole for versatile carrying options. Perfectly blending durability with a sleek design, the Medford M48 is built to handle everyday tasks with ease while maintaining a sharp, reliable edge. Designed by Greg Medford and proudly made in the USA.
The Medford On Belay is a premium folding knife with a 4.12" CPM S45VN stainless steel drop point blade, finished with a sleek black DLC (diamond-like carbon) coating. This manual folder opens with a thumb hole and features a robust framelock design. Its flamed titanium handles boast a striking tsunami wave design, complemented by PVD-coated hardware and a matching titanium pocket clip. Measuring 5.25" closed and weighing 9.6oz, it combines durability and style. Designed by master knifemaker Greg Medford, this knife is proudly made in the USA, embodying craftsmanship and precision engineering.
Expert Reviewed
T.C. Barnette
T.C. Barnette is a dynamic media personality and the esteemed spokesperson for SMKW (Smoky Mountain Knife Works), where his passion for knives intersects with his captivating on-screen presence. With a magnetic charisma and deep expertise in cutlery, T.C. has become a beloved figure in the knife community.