Bradford Knives

Although not as large or as widely recognized as some of the biggest knife brands, Bradford Knives, with its reputation for craftsmanship and quality, stands shoulder to shoulder with the greats.
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Beloved from all over, it's one of the first brands that come to mind when people think about fixed blade knives.

Check out our collection of Bradford knives.

How Bradford Knives got its start

Knifemaker Brad Larkin's love affair with knives goes all the way back to his early childhood. Christmas was a time he greatly anticipated. Each year, his dad would gift him with a new knife. So it's no surprise that over the years, he built up quite the collection.

In 2011, while working as a machine operator for the Larkin family business (Larkin Precision), it occurred to him that he was in a perfect position to turn his passion for knives into a business. One year later, Brad Larkin and the newly minted Bradford Knives debuted the Guardian 3, a compact fixed blade knife designed for everyday cutting.

What types of knives does Bradford offer?

Currently, Bradford Knives only offers fixed blade and kitchen knives—no automatics in the lineup. The Bradford Guardian line of fixed blade knives is particularly popular for its versatility.

Are Bradford knives suitable for everyday carry (EDC)?

Definitely! Bradford's Guardian knives are compact in size and come with a carrying sheath, typically made from leather or Kydex, making them highly portable.

Can Bradford knives be used for outdoor activities like camping or hunting?

Yes, they can. They're sharp, durable, and rust-resistant—so feel free to cart your Bradford knife along. Because they're made of high-quality materials, they can withstand heavy use and exposure to harsh conditions. You can rest assured in the security of knowing you have a reliable tool on hand.

What types of steel are used in Bradford knives?

Bradford primarily uses the following steel types to produce its fixed blade knives:

  • MagnaCut: Developed by metallurgist Dr. Larrin Thomas, MagnaCut is a premium alloy used specifically for knifemaking.

  • CPM-3V: Known for its exceptional ability to resist impact, CPM-3V is ideal for knives used in demanding situations, such as heavy-duty chopping.

  • M390: M390 is a specialty steel produced by Austrian steelmaker Böhler. It's considered one of the best knife steels available.

  • N690: Also produced by Böhler, N690 is a corrosion-resistant stainless steel designed for cutting tools like knives and surgical instruments. An N690 knife remains sharp even in harsh environments.

  • Elmax: Produced by Swedish steel manufacturer Uddeholm, Elmax is a high alloyed tool steel that's best suited for high-performance cutting tools.

  • Trainium: Trainium is a high-performance steel that balances durability and edge retention, making it a perfect choice for many types of knives.

  • AEB-L: Ideal for kitchen knives, AEB-L is known for its fine grain structure, which is responsible for the knife's very sharp and precise edge.

Do Bradford knives come with options for custom handles?

Yes, they do. Bradford Knives offers many different handle scales. You can choose solid colors in G-10, Micarta, or carbon fiber. Smooth or textured handles? Bradford has them. You can even swap out handles—many Bradford knives come with interchangeable handles.

If you prefer your own custom-made handle, that can be arranged, too.

What is the best way to sharpen a Bradford knife?

Use a high-quality sharpening stone or get in touch with a sharpening professional or service. You can also send the knife back to Bradford, and they'll take care of it.

Where can I buy authentic Bradford knives?

Northwest Knives is a leading Bradford knives online retailer. We offer different types of knives from reputable manufacturers, including Bradford, Spyderco, Hogue, and Kershaw.

Some of the Bradford fixed blades we proudly carry include:

  • The Bradford Knives Fillet N690 is a high-quality fillet knife featuring a Böhler N690 stainless steel blade and a satin stonewash finish. Your purchase includes a large leather pouch for when you need to store or transport your knife.

An image showcasing the Bradford fillet knife with an N690 blade. Next to the knife is a black leather sheath.

An image featuring the Guardian 3 next to a tan leather sheath on a wooden background.

An image showcasing the Bradford Knives Guardian 3.2S with OD green Micarta handle on a black and wood background. To the left of the knife is a tan leather sheath.

An image featuring the Guardian 6 on a solid black and wood background. This particular Guardian 6 features a natural Micarta finish.

Do Bradford knives come with a warranty?

Brad Larkin and his team are 100% behind the quality of the products they offer. Their guarantee? All Bradford fixed blade knives come with a lifetime warranty. Just pay the shipping and handling fees.

Want your knife sharpened? Send it back. If your knife's blade sustains damage from normal use, Bradford Knives will repair it—even replace it, if necessary.

Are Bradford knives legal to carry in the United States?

In the United States, most knives are legal to purchase and carry. Fixed Blades are widely accepted for carry in almost any area.  Please check your local laws before carrying a Bradford Guardian knife or any type of knife.

Is a Bradford fixed blade knife worth it?

Yes, it is! Bradford Knives doesn't scrimp on quality and provides numerous handle customization options—at an affordable price. Each knife features premium materials like CPM-3V and N690 steel, making it suitable for various tasks, from outdoor adventures to every day carry.

Got any questions or concerns? Contact our sales team via phone or email.
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