Does the Guardian 3.5 Knife Stand Up to EDC?

On The Trail Or For EDC, Count On The Bradford USA Guardian 3.5

They say, “Seeing is believing,” but I’ve always found that experience is more convincing. That’s the case when I had a chance to use the Guardian 3.5 from Bradford USA. A while back, I reviewed the smaller Bradford Guardian 3 for our sister publication, Everyday Carry Essentials. Upon seeing that knife, a fixed blade with horizontal sheath intended for everyday carry, I instantly proclaimed it to be among my new-found favorites.

That knife is sized right to conceal easily yet has enough blade to give it the capability to handle most tasks. While I still see that knife as a very good choice, longer experience with it convinced me that, at times, a better one-knife option for me would be something with a bit longer handle. That’s where the Guardian 3.5 enters the picture.

Comfort and Practicality in the Field

The original Guardian’s handle always impressed me with its comfort in a variety of grips—whether I was using it for basic camp chores or more detailed work. You can even grip it from the butt for a bit of extra leverage, though that’s more of a workaround than a recommendation for heavy chopping. Still, if you’re out in the woods with nothing handier, it can step up in a pinch.

One thing to note: when it comes to striking a ferro rod, the Guardian’s finger choil is really your only option for throwing sparks. It’s a trade-off, though, because the choil and blade design also contribute to the knife’s overall utility and feel in hand.

Durable and Refined

What sets this knife apart is its blend of rugged functionality and refined details. The spear point blade and tough finish hold up well after real use—skinning, carving, you name it—then clean up easily, maintaining their good looks. It’s the kind of tool you don’t mind getting dirty, because you know it’ll polish up just fine after the job is done.

I often found myself carrying the Guardian as a nimble companion to a larger camp blade. It’s not a chopper or a self-defense specialist; it’s made for cutting, and it excels at that. Each time I pick it up, it delivers a sense of confidence and capability—easy to carry, comfortable to use, and tough enough to handle abuse.

While it has a few limitations—like its size or less-than-ideal performance with a ferro rod—those are balanced by its strengths in everyday utility. Bradford offers bigger blades for heavier work, but the Guardian 3.5 is purpose-built for practical use on the trail or around camp, and operates exceptionally well in that role.

Taking Measure

The Guardian 3.5, as the name suggests, has a blade that’s listed at 3.5 inches, with a 3-inch cutting edge. That’s the same as the Guardian 3, although that model is configured a bit differently. When actually using these knives, a big benefit of the Guardian 3.5, however, is that it is ¾-inch longer— 7.25 inches overall, compared to 6.25 inches for the Guardian 3. That extra length is used entirely to give the knife a longer grip, providing a better, more secure hold. That’s important for certain uses, including long cutting sessions or employing the knife in a defensive situation.

Because I’m often choosing a fixed blade for everyday carry these days, I have a feeling this knife will see lots of use.

The Guardian 3.5 I put to the test had a drop-point blade of Bohler M390 steel with a stonewashed finish. Austrian Bohler M390 is a popular steel right now and for good reason. It’s used in the industrial world because of its good wear resistance, that translates to very good edge retention when used in knives. It offers good corrosion resistance, too. You might want a tougher steel for big choppers, but for small to mid-sized knives it’s very good.

Blade Steel Options

One of the standout features of the Guardian 3.5 is the wide range of blade steels available, so you can really zero in on what matters most to you—whether that’s edge retention, toughness, ease of sharpening, or price point. Here’s a quick rundown of the choices:

• AEB-L: Known for its fine edge and easy maintenance, thanks to its small carbides. Great for those who like to strop their blades to a razor finish.
• M390: The steel on my test knife. It holds an edge for ages and shrugs off corrosion, but it’s harder and can be a bit more prone to micro-chipping if you push it beyond typical use.
• N690: Sits nicely between AEB-L and M390. Tougher than you’d expect and often compared to VG-10, but with a little more backbone.
• D2: A budget-friendly option with excellent edge retention and toughness, though it can be a touch more prone to micro-chipping than N690.
• CPM-3V: If you need a tough tool steel that keeps its edge at high hardness, this is a solid pick. It’s often hardened to around 61 HRC.
• CPM-M4: Similar to D2 in carbon content, but holds onto its toughness even at higher hardness levels. A favorite among those who push their blades hard.
• Nitro-V: Close to AEB-L in composition, but with better corrosion resistance and edge stability, thanks to added vanadium.
• Vanadis 4 Extra: A premium powder steel designed to resist chipping, even at high hardness.
• Magnacut: The new kid on the block, combining stainless properties with high carbon edge retention. It’s a top performer but a bit tougher to sharpen.

Most steels used on this model have a working hardness in the 60–62 HRC range. While it’s tempting to just go for the most expensive steel thinking it’s automatically the best, the differences are more about how they hold and regain an edge than outright performance in the field. Choose based on your sharpening preferences and the kind of use you expect.

Comparing Steel, Handle Feel, and Sheath Options

When sizing up the Guardian 3.5 alongside other popular fixed-blades like the LionSTEEL M2M, OKC Rat 3, ESEE Izula II, and ESEE Xancudo, some distinctive differences emerge—especially in steel selection, ergonomics, and carry options.

Steel Matters

The Bradford Guardian 3.5 boasts Bohler M390 steel—a high-end, Austrian stainless prized for its edge retention and corrosion resistance. That puts it a step above many competitors, which often stick with more basic (but durable) tool steels. With the Guardian, you’re getting a blade that maintains a sharp edge longer and shrugs off moisture, making it a great choice for both outdoor use and everyday carry.

Handle Comfort and Options

Handle ergonomics can make or break your experience with any bushcraft or EDC blade. The Guardian 3.5 stands out here, offering thick, rounded Micarta scales that fill the hand and provide a secure, comfortable grip—even during prolonged use. While some competitors (such as the LionSTEEL M2M) feature a longer handle to accommodate larger hands or varied grip styles, the Guardian’s design is intentionally generous for a knife this size. For those looking to save a bit or try something different, there’s a G-10 handle version available, though the Micarta’s smooth, contoured feel is tough to beat once you’ve tried it.

Sheath Carry Versatility

Sheath versatility also varies across these options. The Guardian 3.5 is kitted out with a classic leather sheath (with a plastic insert) optimized for horizontal carry—a favorite for low-profile, comfortable wear. Some knives in this category offer more adaptable sheath systems out of the box, like Kydex sheaths with multiple mounting options or accessories for MOLLE compatibility. That said, you can find aftermarket Kydex for the Guardian 3.5 if you prefer different carry setups.

Ultimately, the Guardian 3.5 delivers a compelling package with premium steel, a well-shaped handle, and a solid, though specialized, sheath—making it a reliable companion whether you’re headed down the trail or just out running weekend errands.

Field Maintenance & Sharpening

How does the Guardian 3—or in this case, the 3.5—stand up when it comes time to touch up the edge? I took both AEB-L and Magnacut steel versions along for a little real-world maintenance.

Now, AEB-L may not hold that razor-sharp edge quite as long as Magnacut, but it redeems itself in terms of quick field sharpening. With just a pocket stone and a strop, I was able to bring the edge back after a handful of passes—certainly helpful if you’re out on the trail and far from a proper workbench.

Magnacut, on the other hand, requires a bit more patience to dull but rewards you with easy edge restoration, too. Even after plenty of use, a dozen or so passes on the strop brought it back to cleanly slicing paper—no fuss, no drama.

All in all, whether you’re the type who keeps your maintenance kit minimalist or someone who enjoys tinkering with steels, you’ll find the Guardian 3 series straightforward to maintain in the field. It’s one of those rare tools where tough jobs don’t lead to tough touch-ups.

Good Lookin’ Blade

The handle scales on my test knife were green camo Micarta. Those scales were thick and rounded enough to provide a very comfortable grip. At the front, the handle scales come to a stop well before the blade begins, and the knife’s shape has an ample groove for the index finger to protect the hand during use. This is different than with Bradford’s larger Guardian 4, which makes use of an enlarged choil to incorporate a place for the index finger halfway beyond the plunge line.

Despite the handle’s relatively compact size, I found it surprisingly accommodating in a variety of grips. The scales are wide enough to fill the hand nicely, providing a secure hold whether using a standard or ice-pick grip. Even during extended cutting sessions or when bearing down on tougher materials, I never felt in danger of slipping—credit to both the texture and swell of the Micarta.

The reverse grip is a touch less comfortable due to the curvature of the handle, but overall the ergonomic shaping keeps things manageable. If you need extra momentum for light chopping or want to strike a ferro rod, you can choke back on the handle from the butt. It’s not the primary intent of this knife, but it’s certainly capable in a pinch.

At the butt end of the tang, the handle material is cut away for better access to the lanyard hole and to provide some exposed tang that could be used for light pounding purposes.

For those considering handle materials, the Micarta version offers excellent comfort and grip. There are G-10 handle options available as well, which come in at a lower price point, but the smooth contours and in-hand feel of Micarta make it hard to trade down once you’ve used it.

At the butt end of the tang, the handle material is cut away for better access to the lanyard hole and to provide some exposed tang that could be used for light pounding purposes.

Like the Guardian 3, the Guardian 3.5 comes with a tan leather sheath with wrap-around belt loop designed for horizontal carry. A plastic insert helps to keep the leather safe from the knife edge. It also keeps the sheath from collapsing on itself, so reinserting the knife after use is easier.

…the Guardian 3.5 comes with a tan leather sheath with wrap-around belt loop designed for horizontal carry.

The belt loop on the sheath is very tight. You don’t want it to be loose as it keeps the sheath from flopping around. I expect it will stretch a bit over time to make it easier to run a belt through it. Belts up to 1 ½ inches wide should fit.

Comparing Micarta and G-10 Handles

When it comes to comfort and overall quality, the Micarta handle on the Guardian 3.5 truly stands out. The thick, rounded Micarta scales provide a grip that feels satisfyingly substantial—even for extended use. There’s plenty of room for different hand positions, making it easy to find a hold that works for you, whether you’re making fine, controlled cuts or bearing down for tougher jobs.

G-10 handles are also available for the Guardian 3.5. While G-10 versions typically come in at a lower price point (usually saving you around $50), they don’t quite offer the same in-hand experience. There’s a noticeable difference in the smooth contouring and natural warmth of the Micarta compared to the more utilitarian feel of G-10. The G-10 certainly gets the job done and maintains the knife’s functionality, but the Micarta delivers on comfort and grip in a way that’s hard to beat.

If ultimate comfort during long sessions is your priority, the Micarta scales are a worthwhile upgrade. Those looking to save a bit can still expect a capable handle from G-10, but the tactile advantages of Micarta might have you reaching for this version time and again.

Easy Customization

One of the convenient features of the Guardian 3.5 is how simple it is to personalize the knife to suit your preferences. Swapping out the handle scales or upgrading your sheath is straightforward, thanks to the knife’s thoughtful design.

If you ever want to change the look or feel of your knife, both Micarta and G10 handle scales are available, and they’re easy to swap out with just a couple of screws. Several custom makers offer unique color and material options as well, so there’s no shortage of ways to make your Guardian 3.5 your own.

The same goes for the sheath. While the knife comes standard with a tan leather sheath, Kydex options are readily available and can be purchased directly or from a variety of aftermarket makers. Upgrading to a Kydex sheath with a Tek Lok or other attachment system is as simple as ordering the new sheath and sliding your knife in—no special skills required.

This flexibility makes it easy to upgrade, replace, or just experiment with different setups depending on how you want to carry the Guardian 3.5 or what kind of adventure you plan to take it on.

To The Test

My Guardian 3.5 arrived very sharp, and I didn’t need to resharpen the blade during my time using it on various materials ranging from nylon rope and strapping, wood, canvas, cardboard and in the kitchen on carrots and celery.

The Guardian 3.5 is a candidate for times when you might be carrying just one knife with you. It’s the kind of blade you might ask to do a little of everything. So, while it’s not a dedicated kitchen knife, if I’m on the trail or in camp and it’s the knife that’s on my belt and easiest to access, I’m probably going to put it to use.

…the longer handle of the Guardian 3.5 makes it a better all-arounder in practical use.

What I found with the Guardian 3.5 is that it’s very comfortable in the hand and easy to control when making various types of cuts. Many knives are sharp. In my mind, what separates the good ones from the great ones is the degree to which the cuts are seemingly effortless. To achieve that, a knife must feel like it’s a natural extension of the hand.

Magnacut vs. AEB-L: Real-World Cutting Comparison

If you’re deciding between the Guardian 3 in Magnacut and AEB-L, there are some practical differences to keep in mind—especially if you plan to really put your knife through its paces.

During my tests, the Magnacut blade arrived sharper than the AEB-L, almost eager to glide through whatever I threw at it. Magnacut’s powder metallurgy means excellent edge retention, and it genuinely shines when it comes to holding an edge. Cut after cut—well over a hundred through tough rope—the Magnacut kept performing, while the AEB-L started to show wear a bit earlier, needing attention sooner after about a couple dozen rope passes.

On cardboard, it was a similar story. The Magnacut held a fine working edge for longer, while the AEB-L version began to feel rougher more quickly, though it still powered through without major complaints.

Touching up the edges brought out another key distinction. The AEB-L was easier to sharpen back to working order, responding quickly to a few passes on the strop or hone. Magnacut, while not difficult, needed a bit more care to bring back that razor crispness—but rewarded you by staying that way for much longer.

So, which is better for you? If your adventures or workdays put your blade to extensive, repetitive use—think long hikes, camp chores, or a lot of processing materials—the Magnacut steel is a clear step up, offering more stability and less maintenance between sharpening sessions. On the other hand, if you value a blade that’s easy to refresh on the go, the AEB-L version is no slouch and sharpens up quickly, even in the field.

Both steels have their fans, but for those prioritizing edge longevity and a little extra peace of mind on longer outings, the Magnacut upgrade delivers meaningful performance gains.

Best Uses

Sometimes you find the knife that, for you, is the Goldilocks: not too big and not too small, but just right. While the Guardian 4 is an excellent belt knife, it’s a bit large for everyday carry. And while the Guardian 3 is an excellent EDC knife that’s a bit easier to conceal, the longer handle of the Guardian 3.5 makes it a better all-arounder in practical use. Worn horizontally on the belt near the front of the waistline, the Guardian 3.5 can be concealed easily under a sweatshirt. I’ve made it work for pocket carry as well.

Let’s face it: There is no one knife that’s ideal for all situations and all purposes. The Bradford USA Guardian line offers a wide range of models to suit your purposes. I’m not getting rid of my Guardian 3 any time soon, and the Guardian 4 is an excellent choice when I need more blade. But the Guardian 3.5 overlaps both those models in its usefulness and capabilities. It is one I’ll reach for often as a trail or camp knife. Because I’m often choosing a fixed blade for everyday carry these days, I have a feeling this knife will see lots of use. My experience with it so far has me convinced.

Comparing the Guardian 3 to the Competition

When it comes to compact fixed blades, the Guardian 3 holds its own alongside several well-regarded competitors, each with its own strengths and quirks.

For those familiar with the CRKT S.P.E.W., the Guardian 3 sits in a similar size category, offering discreet, comfortable carry and the flexibility needed for everyday use. However, the Guardian 3 brings upgraded materials, fit, and finish to the table—a noticeable step up for those who appreciate a tool that wears its quality on its sleeve. Of course, that comes with a bigger investment, so if misplacing knives is a concern, the S.P.E.W.‘s price may ease your mind.

Looking at options like the Ontario Rat 3 and Esee Izula II or Xancudo, the main differences become apparent in customization and carry versatility. These models often sport Kydex sheaths with interchangeable clips, and in some cases, you’ll find MOLLE compatibility for various setups on a pack or belt. If adaptability in carry is a top priority, these alternatives might fit the bill.

The LionSteel M2M deserves mention for those weighing ergonomics and sheath versatility. Its extended handle design may better accommodate larger hands, and it typically arrives with a more flexible leather sheath system, allowing for varied carry positions besides horizontal.

The White River Knives Exodus 4 stands out to hikers and backpackers seeking a lightweight knife with a handle large enough for a full grip, all while keeping the profile slim for horizontal carry.

Meanwhile, the Kizer Smolt offers a more budget-friendly entry into the small fixed blade category, trading some premium features for affordability and compact size.

Among this crowded field, the Guardian 3 carves out its place with excellent steel choices, a contoured handle that feels secure in hand, and a leather sheath that nods to traditional styling. Where some compact fixed blades skew purely utilitarian, the Guardian 3 manages to balance rugged outdoor functionality with a touch of refinement. Whether dressing game or whittling by the fire, it’s a blade that’s just as comfortable looking sharp at the end of a long day’s work.

Comparable Alternatives to the Guardian 3

If you’re in the market for a small fixed blade suited for everyday carry and trail use but want to compare options, you’ll find several contenders that stack up well against the Guardian 3. Many of them occupy the same sweet spot of being compact, capable, and well-designed.

For those who appreciate flexibility in carry options, knives like the Ontario RAT 3 and ESEE Izula II offer sturdy builds and come equipped with Kydex sheaths that allow for both horizontal and vertical belt carry. The RAT 3 even offers models compatible with Tek-Lok clips and MOLLE straps, making it a practical choice for tactical and outdoor users alike. Similarly, the ESEE Xancudo brings solid performance in a lightweight, versatile package.

The LionSteel M2M is another solid alternative, very close in price and size to the Guardian 3. It sports a longer handle, which may appeal to those with larger hands or who simply prefer more real estate. Like the Guardian 3, it features a well-made leather sheath, though the M2M’s sheath tends to offer more carry versatility beyond horizontal setups.

For ultralight packing or those wanting an easy-to-carry blade that doesn’t sacrifice a full grip, the White River Knives Exodus 4 stands out. It delivers a lightweight build paired with a comfortable handle and is tailored for folks who value minimal bulk without compromising utility.

Budget-conscious buyers might want to check out knives similar in footprint but at a more accessible price point, like the Kizer Smolt. While it comes in at about half the price, it still delivers respectable performance in a compact fixed blade format.

What sets the Guardian 3 apart from these alternatives is the combination of its premium steel, contoured handle, and classic leather sheath—a more refined take on the robust outdoor knife. It’s the type of blade that handles chores with gusto and, thanks to its excellent finish, emerges looking no worse for wear, ready for whatever comes next.

For The Guardian 3.5

Bradford Knives offers the Guardian 3.5 in configurations other than the one I tested. In addition to the drop-point blade, you can have a Guardian 3.5 with either a tanto blade or the company’s new sheepsfoot blade. If you prefer a blade finish other than stonewashed, some models have blades with a Nimbus or black DLC finish that come with black leather sheaths. Kydex sheaths are available too.

You can choose among several handle options as well. Some have naturally textured Micarta or Richlite scales and some handles feature a very aggressive texturing of raised checkering. My Guardian 3 in Tiger Stripe has this texturing and it’s very good for use in wet or sloppy conditions. Bradford offers some carbon fiber and G10 scales too.

Blade Steel Options

One of the strengths of the Guardian 3.5 line is the breadth of steel options available. Whether you prize edge retention, toughness, or ease of sharpening, there’s likely a version that fits your needs. Here’s a summary of the steels you might encounter on various Guardian models:

• AEB-L: A tough steel with fine carbides, allowing for a very sharp edge and easy maintenance.
• Bohler M390: Renowned for exceptional edge retention and corrosion resistance, though it can be more prone to microchipping if abused.
• N690: Strikes a balance between toughness and edge holding, with a reputation similar to VG-10, but often tougher after Bradford’s treatment.
• D2: A classic tool steel known for its hardness and edge retention, though it may chip more easily than N690.
• CPM-3V: A high-toughness tool steel, heat treated to a sweet spot (often 61 HRC) for excellent edge stability and durability.
• CPM-M4: Another high-speed tool steel with a blend of toughness and wear resistance, maintaining strength even at high hardness.
• Nitro-V: Similar in composition to AEB-L, but with added vanadium for increased edge stability and corrosion resistance.
• Vanadis 4 Extra: A powder metallurgy steel designed for high hardness with impressive resistance to chipping.
• Magnacut: A modern stainless steel combining the corrosion resistance of stainless with edge retention more commonly found in high-carbon steels, though it’s a bit more challenging to sharpen.

With these steel choices, you can tailor your Guardian 3.5 to fit your priorities—whether you’re planning for tough field use, daily carry, or simply want a blade that’s easy to maintain.

No matter which configuration you choose, the Guardian 3.5 stands out for its versatility. The range of blade shapes, finishes, handle materials, and steels means you can really dial in the knife to suit your preferences, from aesthetics to performance in the field.

How the Guardian 3 Stacks Up: Price and Steel Compared

If you’re weighing your options before diving into the Guardian 3, it’s helpful to see how it compares with a few well-known knives in a similar price bracket and size range. Here’s a quick look at some popular choices and how their steel and pricing line up:

• Bradford Guardian 3: Priced around $130, you can choose from premium steels like AEB-L, Magnacut, or M390. This puts it squarely in the mid-price EDC range, but with the edge (pun intended) of steel options you’d expect to find on higher-priced models.
• Esee Izula II: Typically found for about $85, the Izula II features 1095 carbon steel. While it’s tough and easy to sharpen, it requires a bit more care to keep rust at bay.
• LionSteel M2M: At roughly $169, the M2M comes with Bohler M390—a high-performance stainless steel that’s comparable to the best the market offers for edge retention and corrosion resistance.
• White River Knives Exodus 4: Coming in at about $175, the Exodus 4 offers S35VN steel, which strikes a nice balance between toughness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance.
• OKC Rat 3: A budget-friendly alternative near $73, the Rat 3 uses 1095 carbon steel, similar to the Izula II, solid but not stainless.

In summary, the Guardian 3 is competitively priced given the premium steel choices, slotting neatly between affordable workhorses and higher-end bushcraft knives. Whether you prioritize budget or the latest in blade tech, it’s clear the Guardian 3 holds its own among the crowd.

Bradford Knives/Guardian 3.5

Overall Length: 7.25 inches
Blade Length: 3.5 inches
Cutting Edge: 3 inches
Edge Type: Plain, drop point (sheepsfoot, tanto also available)
Blade Thickness: 0.15 inch
Steel: Bohler M390 (CPM-3V also available)
Grind: Sabre (full-flat also available)
Finish: Stonewashed (Nimbus or black DLC also available)
Weight: 6.3 ounces
Sheath: Leather with plastic insert, horizontal carry
Origin: USA
MSRP: $189 (as tested)

SOURCE

Bradford USA
BradfordKnives.com