Medford Necromancer Fixed Blade Review

First Impressions of Medford Necromancer Fixed Blade

The Medford Necromancer Fixed Blade is a formidable piece of edged weaponry from Medford Knife & Tool, known for their robust and unapologetically overbuilt designs. This particular knife, with its compact 2.25″ blade and overall length of 5.5″, initially strikes you as a potent, albeit smaller, tool designed for specialized tasks. I first encountered this knife at a tactical gear expo, immediately drawn to its aggressive lines and the promise of Medford’s renowned durability.

I was looking for a compact, fixed-blade knife suitable for everyday carry (EDC) and close-quarters self-defense. My primary concern was finding a knife that could withstand significant abuse while remaining easily concealable and quickly deployable. I wanted something more substantial and reliable than a folding knife, even the higher-end models.

Upon unboxing, the Medford Necromancer Fixed Blade made a strong first impression. The tumbled finish on the S35VN stainless steel blade exudes ruggedness, while the coyote brown G10 handle provides a secure and comfortable grip. The heft of the full tang construction inspires confidence, and the Kydex neck sheath adds to its practical carry options.

I considered the Benchmade SOCP dagger and the ESEE Izula II before settling on the Medford Necromancer Fixed Blade. The Benchmade, while lightweight, felt less substantial in hand. The ESEE Izula II, while an excellent knife, lacked the aggressive design and perceived strength of the Medford.

My initial impression was one of cautious excitement. I was impressed by the apparent build quality and materials, but also slightly skeptical about the practicality of such a stout knife in such a compact package. Only real-world testing would reveal whether this was a truly exceptional tool or just an expensive novelty.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Medford Necromancer Fixed Blade to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Medford Necromancer Fixed Blade came during a week-long backcountry hiking and camping trip in the Ozark Mountains. I used it for various tasks, including food preparation, fire starting (batoning small pieces of wood), and general camp chores. The conditions were varied, ranging from dry and sunny to damp and cool evenings.

The knife performed admirably, though its small size required a bit of adaptation. The G10 handle provided a secure grip even with wet hands, and the S35VN steel held its edge well throughout the week. I was surprised by its effectiveness in batoning, given the blade’s relatively short length.

The only minor issue was the initial stiffness of the Kydex sheath, which made drawing the knife a bit difficult at first. However, after a few days of use, the retention loosened up, and drawing became smoother. Overall, my first experience was positive and reinforced my initial impression of quality.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Medford Necromancer Fixed Blade has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. I’ve carried it regularly as part of my EDC, utilizing it for everything from opening packages to more demanding tasks like cutting rope and prying. There are no signs of significant wear and tear.

The tumbled finish on the blade has effectively masked any minor scratches, and the G10 handle remains pristine. Cleaning is straightforward. A quick wipe with a damp cloth and a light oiling of the blade are all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.

Compared to other knives I’ve used, the Medford Necromancer Fixed Blade stands out for its sheer robustness and edge retention. It surpasses my previous EDC blade, a Spyderco Paramilitary 2, in terms of durability and overall confidence-inspiring feel. It may be small but it is mighty.

Breaking Down the Features of Medford Necromancer Fixed Blade

Specifications

• The Medford Necromancer Fixed Blade has an overall length of 5.5 inches (13.97cm). This compact size makes it ideal for concealed carry and close-quarters use.
• The blade length is 2.25 inches (5.72cm). The smaller blade sacrifices some utility for increased concealability and maneuverability in tight spaces.
• The blade material is S35VN stainless steel. This high-end steel offers excellent edge retention, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance.
• The handle is made from coyote brown G10. G10 is a durable and grippy composite material that provides a secure hold even in wet conditions.
• The construction is full tang. The tang extends the full length of the handle, providing maximum strength and stability.
• It features a lanyard hole for added carry options and customization. This allows for attaching a lanyard for enhanced grip or securing the knife to gear.
• It weighs 0.38 lb. The weight gives it a substantial feel without being overly burdensome for everyday carry.
• The included sheath is tan Kydex designed for neck carry. Kydex is a durable thermoplastic that provides excellent retention and protection for the blade.

These specifications are not just numbers; they contribute directly to the knife’s intended purpose and overall performance. The S35VN steel ensures the blade stays sharp even after heavy use, while the G10 handle provides a secure grip in any environment. The full tang construction guarantees the knife can withstand significant force without failing.

Performance & Functionality

The Medford Necromancer Fixed Blade performs exceptionally well for its intended purpose as a compact, robust self-defense and utility tool. The blade’s size and shape allow for quick and precise cuts, and the full tang construction provides the strength needed for more demanding tasks. Its strengths lie in its durability, concealability, and ease of deployment.

However, its small size can be a limitation for larger tasks, such as preparing larger meals or processing significant amounts of firewood. The blade’s thickness also makes it less ideal for delicate cutting tasks. Ultimately, it meets and exceeds expectations within the scope of its intended design, making it a very specialized tool.

Design & Ergonomics

The Medford Necromancer Fixed Blade features a utilitarian design focused on functionality and durability. The coyote brown G10 handle is ergonomically shaped to provide a comfortable and secure grip, even for extended periods. The knife has a substantial weight, providing a confidence inspiring balance.

While the design is not overly refined, it is undeniably effective. There is a slight learning curve associated with drawing the knife from the Kydex sheath, but once mastered, deployment is quick and efficient. The knife is user-friendly and intuitive to handle.

Durability & Maintenance

Given Medford’s reputation and the materials used, the Medford Necromancer Fixed Blade is built to last a lifetime with proper care. The S35VN blade is highly resistant to corrosion and wear, and the G10 handle is virtually indestructible. The knife is relatively easy to maintain.

Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional oiling of the blade are sufficient to keep it in excellent condition. The simplicity of the design also means there are fewer parts that can fail, further contributing to its long-term reliability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Medford Necromancer Fixed Blade comes standard with a tan Kydex neck sheath. Aftermarket options are limited due to the knife’s specific design and size, but a variety of lanyards can be added through the lanyard hole. Custom Kydex sheaths are also available from independent makers, offering alternative carry options and personalized designs.

The blade steel can be customized through Medford directly, as availability of materials at time of manufacture can vary. G10 handle colors may also be customizable through Medford or aftermarket sources. These additions can personalize the look of the knife and improve carry options for the user.

Pros and Cons of Medford Necromancer Fixed Blade