Medford Knife & Tool Merc-1 Praetorian Automatic OTF D/A (3.5in Tumbled Plain S45VN) MKT-MERC1-001

The Merc-1 is Medford's first entry into the OTF world. This is the production version with the arrow motif on the handle scale. The handles are black aluminum, the clip is black PVD, and the glassbreaker is blued titanium with a ball insert.

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Our take on this OTF is that it is a noble attempt at a first OTF by Medford. The blade to handle ratio is excellent and the proportions are correct. The slight curve of the handle allows for a secure and comfortable grip. Despite the thick blade stock, this thing is extremely sharp as would be expected from a Medford and the sharpness exceeds every other OTF manufacturer. Blade play is minimal especially in the forward position. Often when doing a pull cut with an OTF, the blade will get lodged in the material and pull the blade out a bit but this doesn't happen with this OTF.

The issue that some will be concerned with is that the knife is a bit clunky. There is side to side movement on the blade when opened or closed enough to make noice when shaken. The noise is worse when the blade is retracted. We also found the button to be too smooth so pushing with the front of your thumb rather than the pad of your thumb will be needed to prevent slipping off.

The reliability of this knife has proven to be consistently good. The blade was able to be deployed in every direction and even retracted when pointed straight down (with the exception of one time after many repeated deployments).

We would have made some changes with the button and to clean up the clunky feeling; but other than that the knife is well done.

If you would like more information about the clunk/rattle when the blade is retracted prior to purchase please contact us. Since this knife is not considered defective with the noise, it will not be eligible for a full refund if a return is desired.