First Impressions of Fred Perrin 1907 Neck Knife
The Fred Perrin 1907 Neck Knife immediately struck me as a minimalist yet highly functional tool. Crafted by Fred Perrin, a name synonymous with tactical knife design, this little blade promises big utility in a small package. Its diminutive size and Kydex sheath make it ideal for concealed carry, but does it live up to the hype?
I was looking for a lightweight, easily accessible blade for emergency situations while hiking and camping. Many larger knives are cumbersome, and folders can sometimes be slow to deploy when seconds count. The Fred Perrin 1907 Neck Knife seemed like the perfect solution.
Upon unboxing, I was impressed by the clean lines and simple design. The black stonewash finish on the stainless steel blade gives it a rugged, no-nonsense appearance. It feels solid in hand, despite its small size, and the integral finger ring offers a secure grip.
Compared to other neck knives I’ve used, such as the CRKT Minimalist or the ESEE Izula II, the Fred Perrin 1907 Neck Knife is significantly smaller and lighter. While the Izula II offers more blade length for heavy-duty tasks, the Perrin’s compact size and discreet carry are definite advantages. It won out due to it’s size and ease of carry.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The Fred Perrin 1907 Neck Knife seems well-made and designed for a specific purpose. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it could deliver on its promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Fred Perrin 1907 Neck Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Fred Perrin 1907 Neck Knife on a weekend backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I primarily used it for food preparation, such as slicing sausage and cheese, as well as for opening packages. The knife performed admirably in these tasks.
The humid mountain air didn’t affect the grip, and the stonewash finish seemed resistant to staining. It was easy to deploy and re-sheath, even with slightly damp hands. The one thing that I noticed was the size, which was something I had to get used to.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Fred Perrin 1907 Neck Knife has held up remarkably well. The stonewash finish shows minimal signs of wear. The blade remains sharp.
I’ve used it for everything from cutting rope and cordage to carving small pieces of wood for fire starting. It’s proven to be a reliable and versatile tool. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe with a damp cloth.
Compared to my experience with other neck knives, the Fred Perrin 1907 Neck Knife stands out for its comfortable grip and secure sheath. While the blade is shorter than some, its sharpness and ease of carry make it a valuable addition to my gear. It is a very well made tool that is holding up to it’s expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Fred Perrin 1907 Neck Knife
Specifications
The Fred Perrin 1907 Neck Knife boasts a 3.25″ overall length, making it incredibly compact and easy to conceal. The blade itself is 1.75″ long, crafted from stainless steel with a durable black stonewash finish. It’s a one-piece construction, adding to its strength and reliability.
The inclusion of a finger ring enhances grip and control, while the cord lanyard provides an alternative carry option. The Kydex neck sheath ensures secure retention and quick deployment. This is a serialized limited edition of 600, adding to its collectibility.
Performance & Functionality
The Fred Perrin 1907 Neck Knife excels at performing everyday cutting tasks. Its sharp blade makes quick work of cardboard, rope, and food. The finger ring provides excellent control, allowing for precise cuts.
The blade’s short length can be a limitation for some tasks, such as batoning wood or heavy prying. However, it’s not designed for such activities. It’s primarily intended as a personal defense or utility blade for smaller, more delicate jobs. It is a tool for specialized tasks.
Design & Ergonomics
The Fred Perrin 1907 Neck Knife features a minimalist design that prioritizes functionality. The one-piece construction ensures durability. The finger ring and textured handle provide a secure and comfortable grip.
The Kydex sheath is well-designed and holds the knife securely, but allows for a quick and easy draw. There’s virtually no learning curve. The knife is immediately intuitive to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel blade and one-piece construction of the Fred Perrin 1907 Neck Knife ensure excellent durability. The stonewash finish is resistant to scratches and corrosion. The knife requires minimal maintenance.
A simple wipe with a clean cloth after use is generally sufficient. Occasional sharpening may be needed to maintain the blade’s edge. I believe that this knife will last for years.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Fred Perrin 1907 Neck Knife comes with a Kydex neck sheath and a cord lanyard. There aren’t many customization options available. However, the Kydex sheath can be easily modified to accommodate different carry methods.
Some users might choose to add paracord wraps to the handle for added grip or aesthetic appeal. The knife’s simple design makes it compatible with most aftermarket sheaths designed for similar-sized blades. There are other sheaths made for this specific knife but aren’t made by Fred Perrin.
Pros and Cons of Fred Perrin 1907 Neck Knife
Pros
- Extremely compact and lightweight, making it ideal for concealed carry and EDC.
- Durable stainless steel blade with a corrosion-resistant stonewash finish.
- Secure Kydex sheath for quick and reliable deployment.
- Integral finger ring provides excellent grip and control.
- Serialized limited edition, adding to its collectibility.
Cons
- Short blade length limits its utility for larger tasks.
- One-piece construction offers limited handle customization.
Who Should Buy Fred Perrin 1907 Neck Knife?
The Fred Perrin 1907 Neck Knife is perfect for anyone seeking a compact and easily concealable blade for self-defense or everyday utility. It’s well-suited for hikers, campers, and survivalists who prioritize lightweight gear. It is also a great option for those who need a discreet backup blade.
Those looking for a heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks should skip this product. Users with larger hands might find the handle too small to grip comfortably. You may need a larger knife.
A sharpening stone or steel is a must-have accessory to maintain the blade’s edge. Consider purchasing a custom Kydex sheath for different carry options. Paracord is also great for different configurations.
Conclusion on Fred Perrin 1907 Neck Knife
The Fred Perrin 1907 Neck Knife is a well-designed and highly functional tool that excels in its intended role. It’s a compact, lightweight, and easily concealable blade that’s perfect for everyday carry or as a backup option. The quality is excellent.
At $35.99, the price is justified by the quality of materials and construction. The limited-edition status also adds to its value. It is a good value for the money.
I would personally recommend the Fred Perrin 1907 Neck Knife to anyone looking for a discreet and reliable blade for self-defense or utility purposes. It’s a worthwhile addition to any gear collection. Consider adding the Fred Perrin 1907 Neck Knife to your arsenal today!