Hey all. So I have a little Christmas money burning a hole in my pocket and I'm looking for a new EDC fixed blade. I've narrowed it down to a few and was wondering what your thoughts were and if you had any similar recommendations. Here's what I'm looking at, at Blade HQ. Bradford Guardian 3 Bradford Guardian 3 Wharncliff Southern Grind Jackal Pup Bark River Highland Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G891A using Tapatalk
Guardian 3 Wharncliff !! I have the clip point and can't leave it alone. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
How big is your hand/what size glove do you wear? For me, that would determine the final choice. If you have a really small hand (say a size S or M glove) then none of these will probably be uncomfortable to hold for any length of time. If you need more handle length, the Bark River (BR) Mini Fox River or Classic drop point might suit you better at 4+ inches each. All the companies you listed are good ones. I've heard a lot of good things about Bradford and BR has a huge following with a superb warranty. Of the ones listed, the Southern Grind is my least favorite. It is also quite a bit smaller then the others. As a resident of MI, I might be biased toward Bark River just a tad..
I have to keep the sharpened edge of the blade under 4" to be legal in my state. As for hand size, my hands are a bit odd short fingers but wide palms. I typically wear a medium glove and they are usually good in finger length but snug in width, until they stretch out. I have held both the Jackal Pup and the Guardian 3 and they are both comfortable.
If you are trying to go as compact and light as possible, I'd go G3 with spear type point. I like a wharncliffe blade but not sure it's worth another $40-50. The BR Gunny and Classic drop point are high on my list as well if you want a slightly longer handle and overall knife.
I have the Guardian 3. It's become one of my favorite fixed blades. Good steel, good ergonomics (for me at least - I have smaller hands) - lots of utility in a small package. I met the owner and his wife at Blade Show this past summer. Very nice folks that seem to genuinely care about their customers and providing good products.
