Chunky Monkey

The Medford Chunky Monkey is a compact, overbuilt everyday carry (EDC) folding knife designed by Greg Medford. It blurs the lines between a sheepsfoot, Wharncliffe, and cleaver blade, offering a robust and versatile cutting edge in a small package. Despite its diminutive size, the Chunky Monkey is engineered for serious use, embodying Medford's signature heavy-duty philosophy. Its ergonomic handle, often featuring intricate milling or anodization, provides a secure grip, making it a capable tool for various tasks without being overly intimidating.

The design intent behind the Chunky Monkey was to create a highly functional yet discreet flipper knife suitable for urban environments. Its compact dimensions allow for easy pocket carry, while the thick blade stock and strong frame lock ensure reliability. The knife's unique aesthetic, combining a stout blade with premium handle materials, makes it a distinctive piece in the Medford lineup, appealing to collectors and users who appreciate both form and function in a smaller EDC.

The Medford Chunky Monkey was introduced around 2020, with initial models featuring CPM-S35VN blade steel and titanium handles. It quickly gained attention for its robust build quality in a compact form factor. Variants included different blade finishes such as tumbled and Black PVD, and various handle anodizations and finishes, including bronze and blue Art Nouveau flora patterns. Retailers like Blade HQ, Knifecenter, and Eknives offered the model, with prices typically ranging from $400 to $600 depending on the configuration. The model appears to have been discontinued around 2022, as multiple retailers now list it as 'no longer available' or 'discontinued'.

Despite its relatively short production run, the Chunky Monkey developed a following among enthusiasts who appreciated its unique design and Medford's commitment to overbuilt quality in a smaller, more EDC-friendly format. Its discontinuation has made it a sought-after item on the secondary market.