Bradford Knives Guardian 3.5 Sabre BRAD35S117 Review

First Impressions of Bradford Knives Guardian 3.5 Sabre BRAD35S117

The Bradford Knives Guardian 3.5 Sabre BRAD35S117 arrived, and my first impression was, “This is a serious piece of kit.” Bradford Knives has a reputation for crafting high-quality, American-made knives, and this one certainly lives up to that standard. The combination of the stonewashed Bohler N690 blade and jade G10 handle screams durability and functionality.

I’ve been searching for a reliable fixed-blade knife for my upcoming elk hunting trip in the Rockies. I needed something compact enough for everyday carry but robust enough to handle field dressing and other camp tasks. The Guardian 3.5 seemed to strike that balance perfectly.

The initial unboxing experience was excellent. The knife came securely packaged in a box, accompanied by a high-quality brown leather belt sheath. The weight feels substantial in hand without being cumbersome, suggesting a well-balanced design.

I was also considering the Benchmade Hidden Canyon Hunter and the ESEE-4. However, the Guardian 3.5 edged them out due to its superior steel (Bohler N690 vs. Benchmade’s S30V and ESEE’s 1095) and the more refined aesthetics. While the others are undoubtedly capable knives, the Bradford felt like a step up in quality and craftsmanship.

My first impression is overwhelmingly positive. I am eager to put this knife through its paces in the field.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Bradford Knives Guardian 3.5 Sabre BRAD35S117 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Bradford Knives Guardian 3.5 Sabre BRAD35S117 was during a weekend camping trip in the Allegheny National Forest. I used it for various tasks, from preparing food to feathering sticks for a fire. The Bohler N690 steel held its edge remarkably well throughout the weekend, even after repeated use on hardwoods.

The weather was damp, but the jade G10 handle provided a secure grip, even when wet. I found the knife comfortable to use for extended periods, thanks to the ergonomic handle design. The sheath worked well, providing secure retention.

The only surprise was the initial stiffness of the leather sheath. It required a bit of breaking in to draw and re-sheath the knife smoothly.

Extended Use & Reliability

After three months of regular use, the Bradford Knives Guardian 3.5 Sabre BRAD35S117 has proven to be incredibly reliable. I have used it extensively for camping, hiking, and various chores around the house. The blade shows minimal signs of wear, and the edge retention remains excellent.

The only visible wear is some slight discoloration on the stonewashed finish, which adds to the knife’s character. Maintenance is simple; I clean the blade after each use and occasionally apply a thin coat of oil. It’s proved easy to keep in top condition.

Compared to other knives I’ve owned, like my old Gerber StrongArm, the Guardian 3.5 outperforms it in edge retention, comfort, and overall quality. The Bradford is a clear step up in terms of both performance and craftsmanship.

Breaking Down the Features of Bradford Knives Guardian 3.5 Sabre BRAD35S117

Specifications

• The Bradford Knives Guardian 3.5 Sabre BRAD35S117 has an overall length of 7.75 inches (19.69cm). This size makes it a very handy and practical EDC or outdoor knife.
• The blade length is 3.5 inches (8.89cm), crafted from Bohler N690 stainless steel. This steel is known for its excellent edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
• The handle is made of jade G10, providing a durable and grippy surface. G10 is resistant to moisture, temperature changes, and impacts.
• The knife features a full, extended tang, ensuring maximum strength and stability. This makes it suitable for demanding tasks.
• The Guardian 3.5 weighs approximately 0.5 lb, which is a comfortable weight for carrying and using. This weight suggests a robust but not overly heavy build.
• Additional features include a lanyard hole for added security and versatility. This allows for easy attachment to a pack or wrist.
• The knife comes with a brown leather belt sheath for convenient and secure carry. The sheath is well-made and fits the knife perfectly.

These specifications translate to a knife that is both durable and highly functional. The quality materials and thoughtful design ensure that it can handle a wide range of tasks.

Performance & Functionality

The Bradford Knives Guardian 3.5 Sabre BRAD35S117 performs exceptionally well in various cutting tasks. The blade is sharp and holds its edge through extended use.

Its strength lies in its versatility and durability. The Bohler N690 steel provides excellent edge retention, while the G10 handle offers a secure and comfortable grip.

The design could be slightly improved with jimping on the spine for enhanced thumb control. But overall, it exceeds expectations for a knife in this category.

Design & Ergonomics

The Guardian 3.5 boasts a well-thought-out design. The combination of the stonewashed blade and jade G10 handle creates a visually appealing and functional tool.

The handle is comfortable to hold for extended periods. It has a secure grip, even in wet conditions.

The knife has a full tang construction. This adds to its overall durability and stability, while contributing to a satisfying, substantial feel.

Durability & Maintenance

The Bradford Knives Guardian 3.5 Sabre BRAD35S117 is built to last. Its high-quality materials and robust construction ensure long-term durability.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning and occasional oiling are all that is needed to keep the knife in top condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Guardian 3.5 comes with a high-quality brown leather belt sheath. This provides secure and convenient carry.

Aftermarket options include different handle colors and materials, as well as custom sheaths. The full tang design also allows for easy modification of the handle scales.

Pros and Cons of Bradford Knives Guardian 3.5 Sabre BRAD35S117

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Bradford Knives Guardian 3.5 Sabre BRAD35S117?

The Bradford Knives Guardian 3.5 Sabre BRAD35S117 is perfect for outdoorsmen, hunters, and anyone needing a reliable fixed-blade knife for everyday carry. Its compact size and robust construction make it ideal for a wide range of tasks.

Those looking for a budget-friendly option or those who prefer a larger blade might want to consider other options. A slightly larger blade may be more useful for heavy duty chopping tasks.

A must-have accessory is a quality sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge. A ferro rod can also come in handy when paired with the knife for fire starting.

Conclusion on Bradford Knives Guardian 3.5 Sabre BRAD35S117

The Bradford Knives Guardian 3.5 Sabre BRAD35S117 is an outstanding knife that delivers exceptional performance and durability. Its high-quality materials, thoughtful design, and excellent craftsmanship make it a worthwhile investment.

The price is justified by the superior steel, robust construction, and overall quality. It’s a premium knife that will last for years with proper care.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Guardian 3.5 to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile fixed-blade knife. Invest in quality, invest in the Bradford Knives Guardian 3.5 Sabre BRAD35S117!