Today, we're going to take a look at a compact fixed blade the Bradford Guardian 3, in this case, an M2 Steel Variant Provided by Action-Concepts.
Пікірлер: 147
@unknownriderinbound3 жыл бұрын
Luckily, with knives we're really good at inventing needs. I need this, I'll figure out why later.
@csquared45383 жыл бұрын
To cut specific things not yet specified.
@BillyBadassTV3 жыл бұрын
Same boat, just pulled the trigger
@Omniseed3 жыл бұрын
It's outrageous, I've got one full flat and one sheepsfoot and they're perfect
@AudibleVisibIe3 жыл бұрын
Spot on lol
@AMERICANPRIDE11003 жыл бұрын
Lol I have many knives funny thing I think they all cut things different things but generally stuff I guess
@malifor22103 жыл бұрын
That size comparison is actually really useful. The fact that it's the same length as the delica fully open and blade length that's similar to the pm2. I've been eyeballing on this knife for my first fixed blade to try out!
@Flarexxxx3 жыл бұрын
Careful just like watches, fixed bladed are a expensive rabbithole......i say sitting next to a collection of fixed blades that are far more expensive than any edc folder i own....i have issues
@randymctavish37282 жыл бұрын
Fixed blades offer next level confidence. Although I love a good casual inoffensive folder much as anyone else.
@jcolterh3 жыл бұрын
I've owned a Guardian 3 with g10 scales and m390 steel for several years. It's a great EDC fixed blade. I really like the leather sheath it came with.
@banditgriot20003 жыл бұрын
Bradford Guardian knife series has been a favorite of mine for a few years now. I have a Guardian 3 in M390 that serves as my range day/weekend belt carry-state legal companion. It cuts cord, pries staples, cuts backer board for targets and opens blister packs very well. I understand it is not a pocket knife for everyone, but it really shines in environs where frequent washing is required and sand would binds actions. Great review as usual.
@carminuccio053 жыл бұрын
Love the guardian 3....i have a full flat 3v version I run in a front pocket sheath from oak city leather and I find myself carrying that over a folder most days.
@bennyc4093 жыл бұрын
I've got one of these guys in Cru Wear and its a wicked little knife! Way more usable than you might think, and super comfortable.
@@oscarlamonte3148 online. It’s true. I run across dozens for sale just last night.
@rjeepster8640 Жыл бұрын
I have knives up to $750 and I finally bought one of these in magnacut and the sheath is scout carry I absolutely love it! This is my EDC along with a Benchmade barrage. Awesome!
@pooslinger68392 жыл бұрын
I have the 3 in v3 and I absolutely love it and even with heavy use, the lanyard hole doesn’t bother me at all and as a matter of fact, it provides a better grip in a weird way. Great review as always, Love you Nick!
@joncardell3 жыл бұрын
Agree about those 4 points by the lanyard hole, especially if you have big hands. Knocking those corners down with a dremel makes it so much better.
@Woodyt3 жыл бұрын
I have several of Bradford knives and I love the Guardian 3, and the other sizes also. They just do nice work and they all feel good to me in my hand.
@danielwasused3 жыл бұрын
the stock sheath is a leather one and i wish more came with a nice kydex sheath.
@holybotulism3133 жыл бұрын
The leather sheath is trash
@m_i_s_t_a_h__j_3 жыл бұрын
My puppy liked the leather sheath.
@oscarlamonte31483 жыл бұрын
100%!!!! Agree I'm a lefty so fk that leather one!! Pisses me off!! KYDEX is so look much better😋😋😎😎
@chriswright81143 жыл бұрын
I've got a box of about a dozen kydex sheaths around here somewhere. if I can find them, you can have them. I'll pirate carry my blade between my teeth before I use kydex.
@Omniseed3 жыл бұрын
They sell kydex too and the Armatus Architect sheath is also perfect for it.
@themawsjawz_94913 жыл бұрын
This man Nick really said "yeet". Phenomenal review as always. Love the fact that you give fair reviews even outside of your comfort zone.
@moose99moose3 жыл бұрын
Regularly!
@joncardell3 жыл бұрын
Fantastic knives from Bradford. Add an Armatus Carry sheath and you’ve got a wonderful combination.
@CSLFiero3 жыл бұрын
the pm2's blade with the delicas handle size sounds like a dream
@jeffcanyafixiy3 жыл бұрын
Nick awesome review. I've had the Guardian on a "gotta get list" for a year. Never pulled the trigger, primarily I seldom EDC a fixed blade. Thanks again, stay safe, stay sharp!! 👍🇺🇸👍🔪
@markbabcock402053 жыл бұрын
Great review Nick. I have the Guardian3 myself, same blade geometry and finish in 3V. I carry it in an Armatus architect kydex sheath. As for the handle fasteners, I believe if you buy a set of scales they send a bit to change it out. Thanks
@jkeips783 жыл бұрын
Totally agree about lanyards other than choppers, or working over water, above ground, etc. I have only ever found them to attract animal matter when dressing game, food when prepping, etc.
@AntOfEgypt3 жыл бұрын
James is awesome, I’ve purchased a half dozen knives from him over the past couple years, either for myself or my dad. Always great choices at fair prices.
@branhasknowidea3 жыл бұрын
I recently picked up my "first" fixed blade that has stuck around longer than trying it on my belt once. It's a Bradford 3.5, 3D G-wood, 3V, Full-Flat. I have the leather sheath for a smaller carry profile, Kydex with the tek-lock for rougher use, or grab and go. I am thoroughly impressed. It's such a great cutting tool. Hair-whittling sharp straight from Bradford, and stays that way after a few passes down my strop progression (6, 3, 1, 0.5). Without the forward finger choil you lose some of that choke up feel in the grip, but the way the 3D scales round out, they fill the swell of your palm perfectly, and it's forward enough, (for my large size glove hands, anyway) to not get poked by the way too deep, completely unnecessary, useless, lanyard cut out. This Guardian 3.5 small fixie can tackle the precision tasks and take a beating like a champ. Definitely glad I chose this over the 3. Hope someone finds this useful in conjunction with Mr. Shabazz's review if looking to purchase. EDIT: I do wish they did do some forward jimping like the Giant Mouse(?) designs for that precision work, but the jimping that is here, is functional and just well done. P.S. It must be noted, their customer service is phenomenal. It's like talking to human beings while being treated like a human being. Definitely a "great" in my book.
@Rick-mo2zm3 жыл бұрын
Just got a G3 Wharnie with Vanadis 4E steel, DLC coated with 3D natural micarta scales a couple weeks ago...it has kicked a majority of my Spyderco folders out of my pocket ever since!
@matusknives3 жыл бұрын
The blade shape and size is spot on for an actual working knife, but one actually needs to go for either 3.5 or 4 to get a full size handle. I would love to see the 3 with a 4-sized handle. With handle this small I would wish for a little shorter and thinner blade and could call it EDC/urban fixed blade. The design is very interesting.
@johnmiller79633 жыл бұрын
I have a Guardian 4 and I smoothed the area around the lanyard hole due to the same hotspots. Now it's great.
@thepowerbill13 жыл бұрын
I love edc fixies. You should get yourself a Murray Carter neck knife. They can make a belt sheath if you’re not into neck carry. They are beautiful blades. Another great review Nick! Thanks man.
@slamfire6005 Жыл бұрын
I like your unique voice… you could do a lot of voice acting for video games… like for npc venders, quest givers, open world monologue etc.
@janvlasan83693 жыл бұрын
Hi. Probably nobody will read this, but for me it is actually easier to EDC a fixed blade than a folder. And the reason is pocket space, which comes at a premium in my pants. So in one pocket I have my keys (don't wanna carry a knife there, it restricts access to the keys at the bottom of the pocket and could scratch the knife). In the other I have my phone, so I definitely don't wanna carry a hardened steel object there). I also don't wanna carry my knife in my back pocket, because sitting is something I like to do from time to time... So the only option is my belt. And since I like nice leather belts, I don't wanna put my knife clip all over that... And since I kind of have to carry a knife sheath anyway, might as well carry a fixed blade in there and save myself the hassle of taking it out of the sheath AND THEN opening it. Just my two cents on the topic and something to consider when choosing between a fixed blade and a folder. Thanks for your videos Nick, they always pi** me off when you find some absolutely beautiful gem that I can't afford... yet ;)
@roel.vinckens3 жыл бұрын
I read it. Thanks for sharing!
@holybotulism3133 жыл бұрын
Cargo pants/shorts... More pockets
@janvlasan83693 жыл бұрын
@@holybotulism313 I do carry cargo pants/shorts :) I just didn't wanna also explain, that I need my wallet in one of my pockets (my favourite pants have zippered pockets on thighs, so no pocket clip there). And in the other pocket I like to carry some paper tissues (most practical s**t ever, also i a zippered pocket). Also some people like those skinny jeans (weirdos), so I kind of wanted to just give another way of solving this problem and suggest they consider EDC fixed blade. I am certain, it's not for everyone but I genuinely believe that for some people it is a lot more comfortable/practical to have a small fixed blade rather than a folder (for example for the reasons discussed above).
@Endeavor545Ай бұрын
Thanks Nick! That answered some questions for me.
@grandepatron3 жыл бұрын
Great video please keep doing fix blade reviews I like the perspective.
@ThatBoyMGee3 жыл бұрын
Funny. In Europe it's the other way around. At least in Germany. You can carry fixed blades. Also concealed. But no folders. Just slip joints...
@Foxholeatheist3 жыл бұрын
I have two G3s, one in Wharncliffe and one in Sheepsfoot. I got the Armatus Carry sheath for both, and that looks like what you got with your review knife. Excellent little knives.
@Foxholeatheist3 жыл бұрын
Wait, after I looked again, that's not quite the Armatus sheath. But... the AC sheath is nice. :)
@aaronritchie79263 жыл бұрын
YES I’ve been waiting for this for so long!!!
@Abby_Normal_19693 жыл бұрын
I kinda like that Braford knives will occasionally use unusual steels for their blades. I have my eye out for one of the Vanadis 4E blades.
@faretheewell37113 жыл бұрын
Vanadis 4e is fantastic
@pitiedvod3 жыл бұрын
I do love a small camping knife or outdoors knife. I tend to take a folding saw or axe with me so I don’t tend to want a big chopper but more of a bush crafting, working knife when I go out in the woods for a few days, so that design is quite tempting.
@KanersWorld3 жыл бұрын
Saw this year's ago thought about it may get one and bam you posted a vid about it yesterday! Good timing
@alexanderbertallo19953 жыл бұрын
Great review. Much love from Switzerland
@MrSomeofthem Жыл бұрын
I have bought several knives from Action Concept, including a couple Sebenzas… I love Bradford knives. Had a Guardian 5 which I sold and bought the 4 in 3V. Now I’m waiting on this model (Guardian 3) in Magnacut from James 💪🏻💪🏻
@andrewjackson21373 жыл бұрын
Love Bradford Knives. Gave a guardian 3 to my father for a hunting trip, and he said that he was able to fully skin out 3 deer before it needed any edge repair. I have another one on my survival kit, and plan to get another one later on. Oh, and the non 3d scales don't have those pointy bits near the lanyard hole. Much better.
@mavrickcube3 жыл бұрын
According to Bradford website if I understand correctly, I think the knife handle was designed that way as to use it as a bottle opener 🤷🏾♂️ if that is the case, IMO that's pretty cool
@Crusty_Otter2 жыл бұрын
Great review Nick. I've been curious about the Bradfords for a while now. I absolutely LOVE the M2 in my older Benchmades so I'm strongly tempted to try a Guardian 3.5 or larger in M4 or 3V but I can't decide. Love DLC as well, wasn't aware the Nimbus was possibly a modified version of it. I've watched more than a few reviewers say much the same thing about the lanyard hole cut out. Seems like Bradford should offer scales without the cutout, either at time of order or as an optional accessory purchase. Maybe Flytanium could be persuaded to work on it.
@totallyrandomstuffandrevie960910 ай бұрын
The M4 is fantastic!
@piercemontgomery20923 жыл бұрын
I like the idea of the Guardian 3 and other small fixed blade knives but, like you, they don't really fit into what I come up against on a daily basis. Good review!
@janjimpson2403 жыл бұрын
I have one of these in N690 that went for around 120 on Amazon. I love it! Just ordered micarta scales and a kydex sheath for it
@NathanKrick3 жыл бұрын
The difference between the X and X.5 (3 and 3.5, 4 and 4.5, etc) is the handle, not the blade length. The .5 models don't have the handle with the forward finger choil. The Guardian 3 is 3" as in it is less than 4". I do agree that the name is confusing to someone who has not looked at the entire line and my first thought when I first saw the knives was that the 3 was 3" and 3.5 was 3.5".
@coreystafford70083 жыл бұрын
That lanyard area is the only reason I returned mine when I got it in. Just unfortunate for all of the good I had heard about it. Ended up with the MBK Field Trekker instead
@BlazeBerger3 жыл бұрын
I've gotten some nice deals from action concepts. Great to see them represented here.
@jkanecutlery3 жыл бұрын
I EDC the Guardian 3 in Cruwear regularly. It’s excellent
@thomasmaloney8433 жыл бұрын
These type of knives are good for EDC when doing messy tasks.
@CSLFiero3 жыл бұрын
my favorite part of a fix blade is speed of opening.
@rustyshackleford43663 жыл бұрын
I got this in Micarta and leather sheith and n690 and I’ve enjoyed mine a lot but I mostly use it in the kitchen
@mittyvidz8259 Жыл бұрын
I've owned several of Bradford's knives including 2x Guardian 4s that have the same handle scales as this one just slightly bigger. I have larger hands and the first one gave me hot spots that I had to smooth down with abrasive paper. The second one I got about 18 months later didn't have the hot spots for some reason.
@showstopper78813 жыл бұрын
My guardian 4 just arrived last week. The first thing I had to do was file those 4 corners down on the handle by the lanyard hole
@johnbarnesNnaptown3 жыл бұрын
Nick Shabazz " first off in the name of full disclosure I haven't purchased a knife with my own money since 2013"
@NickShabazz3 жыл бұрын
Lol. If only. I think my last full bill purchase was... two days ago?
@keithcon35052 жыл бұрын
When I got my guardian 3 I took my dremal to the sharp edges on the back near the lanyard hole and a rounded the finger choil a mil or two and she was good to go
@Ego_Katana Жыл бұрын
Good review. Just picked up one of these in MagnaCut. Ergos and size are perfect for an EDC (3D handle).... but the leather sheath it comes with is a waste. Definitely grab one of the kydex sheaths with your purchase to avoid shipping cost like I did. Looking forward to carrying this... it's stellar.
@matusknives3 жыл бұрын
If knife handle is too small for Nick Shabazz, you should consider yourself warned ...
@NikeaTiber3 жыл бұрын
The kydex sheath is also great for neck carry.
@alex57x283 жыл бұрын
The biggest downside of folding knives is that nearly all of them are illegal to carry here so a small fixed blade is the way go for me.
@motaman80743 жыл бұрын
I must have missed the disassembley video.
@fearnoevilllc97193 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the warning about ebay scammers, Nick! Just wish it was a few weeks earlier. Lol 🤣
@Madman65053 жыл бұрын
For a smaller fixed blade I would go with a White River Backpacker Pro with G10 scales. The sheath is slim and there are no wacky ergos.
@ninemimesleft2 жыл бұрын
I had a 3 and got rid of it. Now I have a 3.5 in Nitro V and I love it.
@johnhurley46563 жыл бұрын
I was close to buying one of these, but a sheepsfoot in m390. I went with a Viper Durus 2 instead, and don’t regret it. But I still contemplate getting one of these at some point in the future. I’m with you on folding knives being easier to carry, especially with laws... I make sure to wear mine with a work uniform in a place where it cannot be concealed, which sounds like a hassle, but always has it easily accessible. It’s a great little work knife.
@dionst.michael1482 Жыл бұрын
The viper durus is such a sweet little knife. Stumbled upon the model just this evening before I saw your comment. I’d be interested in finding out which you preferred more after trying them both.
@noahgreene72823 жыл бұрын
Looks like a perfect front pocket knife
@frankrice12533 жыл бұрын
Thanks Nick. This (I think) would be a good one to send to Australia for some knife lab testing- g-day m8.
@christiansalazar46042 жыл бұрын
I wish these came with the choice of an included leather or kydex sheath, rather than just the leather one. It sucks to have to pay extra for the kydex sheath and TecLock.
@BA-hk3ct2 жыл бұрын
Like you said it depends on how you live and where you live. For me the only downfall is that the spine won't work for a fire steel
@2chevEv2 жыл бұрын
I cant stop thinking this guy sounds like Sol Rosenberg from Jerky Boys. Lol
@RockyMountainBlades3 жыл бұрын
Go Nick! Reviewing fixed blades! I thought you didn’t enjoy them as much but, people are always allowed to change their opinion.
@northernninety73 жыл бұрын
I have the N690 version wooden scales. Nice knife.
@RyanPennington872 жыл бұрын
I feel like the first 20 minutes of every video of a just leading up to the closing pun.
@jimyocum95563 жыл бұрын
I find myself in agreement.. I've never got one because of the way the handle is at the lanyard..they have slab scales and handle broom but that lanyard hole looks like a problem on all of them you don't need a lanyard on a 3-4" bladed knife..nice review
@redfoxfpe45993 жыл бұрын
Bought my knives from Action Concepts always! 😉
@AMERICANPRIDE11003 жыл бұрын
Got the 3v with the leather sheath tiger g10 140$ great knife
@b16crxt3 жыл бұрын
I think I'd buy some custom scales to delete the lanyard hole. Love the Bradford Guardian 3.
@benjamincarter60953 жыл бұрын
Love this knife at 3.5, and I have large hands. Worthy of a kydex sheath.
@barkingspider20073 жыл бұрын
Cool knife, Thanks for the review.
@marksd56503 жыл бұрын
Hey Nick, check out Toor Knives in California. Next time it’s time for a fixed blade. Appreciate your reviews.
@Cbyfz2 жыл бұрын
The lanyard mafia has had another win here. Funny.
@Seriously1403 жыл бұрын
These are currently on sale on eBay for less than $180!
@mattadler47103 жыл бұрын
Had no clue this variant existed. Pretty sweet. Little pricey so ill probably opt for a different one for my first, but I do plan to get one asap.
@t-baggs2 жыл бұрын
99 bucks on ebay right now. I just grabbed one!
@Adam.2973 жыл бұрын
Speaking of small fixed blades, any interest in the MKM Mikro?
@michaelo56653 жыл бұрын
Gotta love oregon. I can walk around with a broadsword as long as I dont attempt to conceal it.
@larrymarinas2496 ай бұрын
Got guardian 3 knives like it but sheath don't like it , could u sent me a kydex sheath instead. Thanks
@SeniorSupreme3 жыл бұрын
For a small cheap fixed blade check out the Rainier Fastpak. I think it’s a better knife for what the size is going for.
@Omniseed3 жыл бұрын
It's also made by Brad's brother!
@rabbitslayer423 жыл бұрын
What do knife makers have against steel color steel?
@NickShabazz3 жыл бұрын
In this case, the steel isn't stainless, so the coating has some value against rust.
@justinbrown48553 жыл бұрын
Odd this blade has been out for years and was looking at it few days ogo now I really want it 😫
@tgrossner3 жыл бұрын
Do we get a disassembly video? ;-)
@rickjohnson40092 жыл бұрын
I've bought from action concepts before A plus seller
@joshuaw.76663 жыл бұрын
I love small fixed blades but I can’t justify a Bradford at that price. On the other hand I love me some L.T. Wright knives!
@Omniseed3 жыл бұрын
They have models for a hu dred less
@CSLFiero3 жыл бұрын
how are you gonna kvetch about a lanyard hole when there is actually no clip digging into your palm! also, the deep well at the end of the sheath is so that you can secure the knife against the side of your leg or hip (wherever you happen to have it clipped in fact) and your skin has some space to press into the sheath that isn't knife.
@dustinewing79743 жыл бұрын
Everybody that loves edc fixed blades should check out AZWelke Sheaths!!!
@msongy49473 жыл бұрын
I’m surprised at your criticisms especially a as a self professed non fixed blade guy. I agree with the compactness and convenience of carry a folder affords but sometimes the trade offs are worth their differences. Your lack of understanding why while being called a Guardian 3 sports a 3.5” blade is a lack of research on your part, not mislabeling. Can’t argue it being moderately over priced but that argument could be made for most of the USA made main line manufacturers. Fact is quality comes at a premium. While I own one and hold it in high regard it’s not my favorite in that size category. Still looking for the perfect knife, both folder and fixed blade. Do expect I’ll ever find either, but then if I did, I’d be terribly disappointed to have to give up the search.
@PatDsNutz3 жыл бұрын
Have this knife and I hate the lanyard hole/handle debacle.
@coffee_carry Жыл бұрын
Snake Bite Grits are actually very delicious! 😂😂😂
@mr.3rdbud5552 жыл бұрын
Price is 125 on ebay now
@rooster67493 жыл бұрын
love to see more of these maybe bark rivers if, youd be interested i have a handful id love to send for ur review
@jamesharris14933 жыл бұрын
Hey Shabzz checkout the Tops model Cat and the Saw model.
@Blakdog333 Жыл бұрын
A small fixed-blade always makes... ..some laws do not!
@azraelsblade3 жыл бұрын
No disassembly? ;-P
@L3001USPSA3 жыл бұрын
What part of Austin TX is that business card background image from?
@KosherCookery6 ай бұрын
I love the style, but it's just too thick for me.
@butchcassidy33733 жыл бұрын
I've got a black jack neck knife I carry on the river fishing. Love the magnetic leather sheath. Thinking about this knife for belt carry. Anybody that can recommend this or another belt knife hit me up with a comment