I noticed a few differences off the bat, but didn't realize all of the little differences you pointed out. This is a good informative video for how to make sure people get one that is legit.
Good morning, Dirk. Can you tell me how to decipher the serialization numbers on Medfords? I know they’re significant of a date, but I forget how they’re read
Many kind thanks for putting this out there Dirk buddy, awesome vid as always!!! Very scary how at a passing glance, the clone looks so much like the genuine knife.
Just wondering how the clone stacks up in use?I would rather abuse a cheap knife that looks expensive than beat up an expensive knife.i never want to really use my expensive knives....
@@DirkWerning maybe your right I should just use the tool,but I'm not rich and once I can buy a blade of this standard instead of school supplies and kid things,it hurts my wallet when I muck it up...I'd rather beat up a clone.
@@ahilbilyredneksopinion I get that but the tool is built to be used. Buying clones is supporting people who copy and steal other people’s ideas. That’s all.
The logo on the fake looks like a pair of open legs 🦵 lmao 😂 this was a great video.. I thought of myself as a knowledgeable person but I learned a lot on this video
I bought one of these clones recently, fully knowing I was doing so. While your video was very informative about the differences between the real and the fake, I'll be honest....as an avid knife collector I think Medford should be less pretentious about knife making and take some lessons from the counterfeiters. The fasteners on both sides of the fake are more preferable than the authentic version with a single fastener system. I found a vintage Benchmade Ernest Emerson Specwar, circa 1996 that employed the same technique as Medford, by threading the screws into the back handle...it failed at some point prompting the previous owner to drill them out and use smooth pins. When I received the knife the pins too were failing. I ordered stainless steel connector screws from Australia and fixed the problem. I realize this has hurt the value of the knife, but that was the case before I owned it.....and after many attempts to win this knife at auction over that last 20 years...I really don't care...I found one. But back to my Medford clone....my lock face is very close to the real Mccoy....the brand logo is stamped, not painted...so whoever is putting these out is doing a very good job at quality control and attention to details. As far as that goes...if you are truly wanting to buy an authentic Medford Praetorian ....please do your research before you buy, because they are stupid expensive. As for me and others like me....I'm content with a high quality clone that I'm not afraid to pick up and carry with me everyday, because I had to take out a second mortgage to buy it!!😅😅
@@DirkWerning and in most all cases I don't support clones either....especially on the Benchmade end of the spectrum. Its gotten to the point where nearly every Benchmade on eBay is in question, with the exception of a few. The "Medford" clone I purchased really didn't disappoint me though... it was an "American veterans" edition of some kind(at least that's what the box states). Haven't been able to find another like it or any info on it, but the seller disclosed that it was a copy...so a gold star to him for honesty. And to anyone reading (and I'm sure you'll agree) always buy direct from the manufacturer or accredited auction site if you want to be certain. It takes away the thrill of the hunt....but at least you know it's real. Keep up the good work with your videos...they are very informative. Thank you!✌️
I still like the clone knife I own one and it works really well and does it's job. Plus I'm cheap so I can't afford a $400 dollar knife or not willing to waste my money on $400 knife I might as well be paying my rent for $400 just not worth that price for a knife but I understand why it cost because how it's made and the metal. But clone works just as good in my opinion.
@@DirkWerning well I bought a clone and works well enough for me so idrc the clone knife is okay with me. Plus you can tell they aren't exactly the same you can spot the flaw but Idc bout the tiny differences. But honestly I find them both equally as good yeah I'm sure the real deal is perfect in every way and better but still I'd prefer a getting a cheap clone that works as good.
if someone could never spend 700 bucks on a medford and wants a 28 dollar clone, let it be. they would never have bought one anyway. its not going to take any sales from them. not the same customer.
I agree 100%... I could never justify myself spending $600+ on a knife. I can justify spending $180 on a knife. If I'm going to spend $600+, it's going to be on a 🔫 ... 😂
Great Video as always - In pictures of the clones I've seen most have Hinderer/Strider style pivots instead of the 2 hole, or 6 hole - just another tell
Lol the ccanku 1136 isn’t even close to the original with the scales but it’s well built as good as any ganzo or civivi . I think we all buy a clone to check them with our originals .
I got a Spyderco Endura I'm ZDP-189... I thought it was real for years because I could never get a decent edge on it. (I knew ZDP-189 was a beast to sharpen. When I sent it in to Spyderco for sharpening, they told me it's a clone, but a very good clone... $130 down the drain.
I'm glad Medford doesn't use D2 much anymore and I'm glad to see better steel choices from them like 20cv,Magnacut and s90v. As a matter of fact after I saw that knife center had the exclusive in s90v I bought a 187 otherwise I may have never tried a Medford because they are not really my style of knives. After getting the 187 in s90v I realized how good Medford knives are. I ended up buying a USMC fighter folder about a week after getting the 187. Both are very good knives IMO. I'd like to try out one of their knives in Magnacut if I can ever find one and I'm not sure what to get, either a slim midy or a marauder..
@@DirkWerning yeah, I was actually curious about that the way they step it down on not just one side but both making it even thinner there for even less room to get in there to close the knife. That was a poor design IMO. He should have done the opposite on the lock side and it probably would be a much better knife. Not saying I wouldn't buy one but I can see how that could be aggravating. Is it at least easy to move the lock bar as far as strength it takes to push the lock bar over?
Dirk, do you know how the number codes on the blade work? My Genesis is stamped with “912-027”. I thought it meant manufacturing date and the order it was made. But I thought you might know a little more?
Awesome info! I've been looking at a few Medfords that I thought were real but looking at that lock face makes it obvious they were clones. Glad I didn't waste my money!
In general I think that clones shouldn't be given any attention as it in a way is advertising for them. Don't feel like this video is like that. People selling clones as the real thing is definitely something to worry about with Medfords and require the added scrutiny.
sheffieldsg thanks an I agree. That’s why I was hesitant to make this video. Again I’m in no way condoning clones at all!!!!! But also wanted to point some things out to help make sure people are informed.
Maybe I misheard you in regards to the rounded hardware screws being a sign to spot a fake , but on the Medford site I can see a few models with rounded screws . I'm new to Medford knives , so I could be Mistaken .
Very informative! Has anyone ever seen a dressy clone? Only ones I've seen are pretty standard builds. No sculpting & usually no ano. I forgot Medford used safety torx starting out!
@@jgardner925 when did Medford add the "D" to signify CPM D2? I'll admit I don't study his knives obsessively but I know he didn't put a D in the past.
I noticed a few differences off the bat, but didn't realize all of the little differences you pointed out. This is a good informative video for how to make sure people get one that is legit.
Langdon Bueschel agreed there are lots of little things. Feeling in the hand it’s east to tell but really trying to help out someone buying online.
Good morning, Dirk. Can you tell me how to decipher the serialization numbers on Medfords? I know they’re significant of a date, but I forget how they’re read
Many kind thanks for putting this out there Dirk buddy, awesome vid as always!!!
Very scary how at a passing glance, the clone looks so much like the genuine knife.
Nick Senkovs indeed it does. Takes a real look to not be fooled.
Great info. I appreciate you putting information like this out there. Buying 2nd hand always has its anxiety
blu280 absolutely agree.
The rounded hex screws are on the originals as well... no?
Just wondering how the clone stacks up in use?I would rather abuse a cheap knife that looks expensive than beat up an expensive knife.i never want to really use my expensive knives....
Eh I think that’s the issue. Just use our expensive knives. They are built to be a tool. I would not get a clone just to you.
@@DirkWerning maybe your right I should just use the tool,but I'm not rich and once I can buy a blade of this standard instead of school supplies and kid things,it hurts my wallet when I muck it up...I'd rather beat up a clone.
@@ahilbilyredneksopinion I get that but the tool is built to be used. Buying clones is supporting people who copy and steal other people’s ideas. That’s all.
@@DirkWerning ok.now you got me there.i didn't look at that angle. Now that I am I'm kinda mad at my clones
@@ahilbilyredneksopinion well there ya go.
Not trying to make you feel bad just pointing out my take on things.
The logo on the fake looks like a pair of open legs 🦵 lmao 😂 this was a great video.. I thought of myself as a knowledgeable person but I learned a lot on this video
Thanks for the knowledge, I learned a lot
Neeves Knives perfect. Glad it was helpful.
I bought one of these clones recently, fully knowing I was doing so. While your video was very informative about the differences between the real and the fake, I'll be honest....as an avid knife collector I think Medford should be less pretentious about knife making and take some lessons from the counterfeiters. The fasteners on both sides of the fake are more preferable than the authentic version with a single fastener system. I found a vintage Benchmade Ernest Emerson Specwar, circa 1996 that employed the same technique as Medford, by threading the screws into the back handle...it failed at some point prompting the previous owner to drill them out and use smooth pins. When I received the knife the pins too were failing. I ordered stainless steel connector screws from Australia and fixed the problem. I realize this has hurt the value of the knife, but that was the case before I owned it.....and after many attempts to win this knife at auction over that last 20 years...I really don't care...I found one. But back to my Medford clone....my lock face is very close to the real Mccoy....the brand logo is stamped, not painted...so whoever is putting these out is doing a very good job at quality control and attention to details. As far as that goes...if you are truly wanting to buy an authentic Medford Praetorian ....please do your research before you buy, because they are stupid expensive. As for me and others like me....I'm content with a high quality clone that I'm not afraid to pick up and carry with me everyday, because I had to take out a second mortgage to buy it!!😅😅
You make some great points. I still cannot and will not support clones. It’s just WRONG.
@@DirkWerning and in most all cases I don't support clones either....especially on the Benchmade end of the spectrum. Its gotten to the point where nearly every Benchmade on eBay is in question, with the exception of a few. The "Medford" clone I purchased really didn't disappoint me though... it was an "American veterans" edition of some kind(at least that's what the box states). Haven't been able to find another like it or any info on it, but the seller disclosed that it was a copy...so a gold star to him for honesty. And to anyone reading (and I'm sure you'll agree) always buy direct from the manufacturer or accredited auction site if you want to be certain. It takes away the thrill of the hunt....but at least you know it's real. Keep up the good work with your videos...they are very informative. Thank you!✌️
Great video for someone looking to get into Medford, thanks!
youngmatt79 just here to help.
Thanks for the video brother
#FUCKCLONES
I still like the clone knife I own one and it works really well and does it's job. Plus I'm cheap so I can't afford a $400 dollar knife or not willing to waste my money on $400 knife I might as well be paying my rent for $400 just not worth that price for a knife but I understand why it cost because how it's made and the metal. But clone works just as good in my opinion.
Nope clones are theft of another design and takes money away from the original maker/designer.
Yes it will cut but.....
@@DirkWerning well I bought a clone and works well enough for me so idrc the clone knife is okay with me. Plus you can tell they aren't exactly the same you can spot the flaw but Idc bout the tiny differences. But honestly I find them both equally as good yeah I'm sure the real deal is perfect in every way and better but still I'd prefer a getting a cheap clone that works as good.
@@xPixelboix there are ways of getting moser cost effective knives than getting clones.
There's clones of everything, nobody cares. I'm getting me a clone suckas!!!
Link to purchase clone please, LOL
N0ZP1K3R hmm actually a lot of people care.
if someone could never spend 700 bucks on a medford and wants a 28 dollar clone, let it be. they would never have bought one anyway. its not going to take any sales from them. not the same customer.
I agree 100%... I could never justify myself spending $600+ on a knife. I can justify spending $180 on a knife. If I'm going to spend $600+, it's going to be on a 🔫 ... 😂
Great Video as always - In pictures of the clones I've seen most have Hinderer/Strider style pivots instead of the 2 hole, or 6 hole - just another tell
lcscape yes agreed you mostly see the other type of pivot.
Lol the ccanku 1136 isn’t even close to the original with the scales but it’s well built as good as any ganzo or civivi . I think we all buy a clone to check them with our originals .
Hmm I typically do not buy clones to check out. This was loaned in so took the opportunity to compare and discuss.
Man that would be an expensive mistake to make. If you bought a fake Medford. For what 600 to ........dollars. Wow
I got a Spyderco Endura I'm ZDP-189... I thought it was real for years because I could never get a decent edge on it. (I knew ZDP-189 was a beast to sharpen. When I sent it in to Spyderco for sharpening, they told me it's a clone, but a very good clone... $130 down the drain.
I'm glad Medford doesn't use D2 much anymore and I'm glad to see better steel choices from them like 20cv,Magnacut and s90v. As a matter of fact after I saw that knife center had the exclusive in s90v I bought a 187 otherwise I may have never tried a Medford because they are not really my style of knives. After getting the 187 in s90v I realized how good Medford knives are. I ended up buying a USMC fighter folder about a week after getting the 187. Both are very good knives IMO. I'd like to try out one of their knives in Magnacut if I can ever find one and I'm not sure what to get, either a slim midy or a marauder..
The slim midi is actually pretty cool. Other than the lock bar access can be tough for some.
@@DirkWerning yeah, I was actually curious about that the way they step it down on not just one side but both making it even thinner there for even less room to get in there to close the knife. That was a poor design IMO. He should have done the opposite on the lock side and it probably would be a much better knife. Not saying I wouldn't buy one but I can see how that could be aggravating. Is it at least easy to move the lock bar as far as strength it takes to push the lock bar over?
Price... I won a Medford Praetorian on ebay for $26.⁰⁰ with $6.⁰⁰ shipping. 😅
😂😂😂
Dirk, do you know how the number codes on the blade work? My Genesis is stamped with “912-027”. I thought it meant manufacturing date and the order it was made. But I thought you might know a little more?
Yeah I'm also curious
Awesome info! I've been looking at a few Medfords that I thought were real but looking at that lock face makes it obvious they were clones. Glad I didn't waste my money!
Badmunky EDC1 glad I could help.
What is the pivot action on the clone?
Meh it’s okay. Cheap China clone action lol
Always buy from an authorized dealer or from people you know or trust. Buying anything from internet with pictures is always a risk. Buyer beware.
Tdc1573 absolutely.
Highly informative video Dirk. Crazy that there are clones out there, though unfortunately not surprising.
Thanks. 👍
Fakes are bad. I'd of had no idea I was buying a fake knife
Wrong Time Watch exactly why I did this video.
In general I think that clones shouldn't be given any attention as it in a way is advertising for them. Don't feel like this video is like that. People selling clones as the real thing is definitely something to worry about with Medfords and require the added scrutiny.
sheffieldsg thanks an I agree. That’s why I was hesitant to make this video. Again I’m in no way condoning clones at all!!!!! But also wanted to point some things out to help make sure people are informed.
Maybe I misheard you in regards to the rounded hardware screws being a sign to spot a fake , but on the Medford site I can see a few models with rounded screws . I'm new to Medford knives , so I could be Mistaken .
They have been changing hardware over the years now so I’m not sure what they are offering currently.
Good comparison vid for the “new to Medford knives”
Desire 68 thanks man.
If you can't spot that's a fake, you haven't watched enough Dirk Werning :))
Cherrywood Bladeworks 👍🏻👍🏻
Is the stonewashed blade another sign? Haven’t seen a legitimate one with that finish on the blade.
Jordan Southall yes that would be another good indicator.
Thanks Dirk, this was a good video.
On the hardware, my Praetorian T has domed hardware that is proud of the scale.
KnifeCursed yes it should have.
Dirk Werning Thanks.
Very informative! Has anyone ever seen a dressy clone? Only ones I've seen are pretty standard builds. No sculpting & usually no ano.
I forgot Medford used safety torx starting out!
I’ve only seen plain clones.
What about the "D" next to the logo on the blade?
That signifies what blade steel it is. D is for D2(not your grandfather's D2). S is s35vn. 3 is 3v and 9 is s90v.
@@jgardner925 when did Medford add the "D" to signify CPM D2? I'll admit I don't study his knives obsessively but I know he didn't put a D in the past.
@@dark_gravity_edc I don't know exactly but I've seen it on Medford's that are roughly 7-8 years old.