Guardian Tactical

About Guardian Tactical

Andy Buerk is a nationally renowned blade design engineer. In 2012, he teamed up with computer numerical control (CNC) master machinist Brian Mercer to create Guardian Tactical USA. Their mission? Develop uniquely designed tactical products for responsible self-defense, everyday utility, and safety.

Although relatively new compared to its more established peers, Guardian Tactical is a trusted name in the tactical knife industry. Its lines of automatic knives are increasingly becoming favorites among knife enthusiasts and collectors around the world.

Where are Guardian knives made?

Guardian Tactical products are proudly made in the USA—in the company's state-of-the-art facility by some of the most skilled machinists and assembly technicians in the industry.

Guardian knives undergo a rigorous manufacturing process that includes critical tolerance testing verification. This ensures knives are of the highest quality and perform exceptionally well, even in demanding environments. Guardian Tactical uses the most advanced CNC technology, which enables precise machining and intricate detailing, so that each part of the knife is crafted to specifications.

What are the main features of Guardian Tactical USA knives?

• Elmax stainless steel blade: Produced by Böhler-Uddeholm, Elmax is a superior, high-end knife steel known for its toughness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance. This powder metallurgy stainless steel is sometimes dubbed the "best all-around knife steel."

• Patented out-the-front (OTF) design: Guardian's innovative, double-action locking mechanism features a ramped thumb slide that's separated from the handle by a steel plate and three ceramic balls. This reduces friction on the blade during opening and closing (a common issue among OTF knives), making deployment smooth and practically effortless. Also, because Guardian OTF knives lock up nicely and tightly, they don't have the severe wiggle other OTF brands have.

• Wide range of blade styles: Each Guardian Tactical line offers several blade style options. For example, you can get a RECON-035 blade in the following styles: drop point, tanto, dagger, dagger with partial serrate, and double-edged dagger.

• Wide range of handle colors: Available Guardian knife handle colors include black, blue, olive drab (OD) green, burnt orange, red, and desert tan.

• Tip-down pocket clip: Each Guardian Tactical knife comes with a well-designed but discreet and low-profile pocket clip for enhanced portability and accessibility. Depending on the model, the clip can either be fixed or reversible.

What is the Guardian Tactical RECON-035?

The Guardian Tactical RECON-035 is an everyday carry (EDC) OTF knife that's quickly racking up a huge following for its "just right" size and smooth deployment capabilities.

RECON-035 tactical knife features:

• Blade steel: Elmax

• Blade length: 3.375 inches

• Blade styles: Drop point, tanto, dagger, dagger with partial serrate, double-edged dagger

• Handle materials: Aluminum and carbon fiber

• Handle colors: Black, blue, red, green

• Pocket clip: Tip down

Guardian Tactical RECON-035 vs. RECON-040: What's the difference?

Guardian Tactical RECON-040 knives are slightly larger compared to the RECON-035. They're designed for users who want more beef in their OTF. RECON-035 knives, meanwhile, are suited for all hand sizes and are much easier to pocket.

RECON-040 tactical knives also feature Elmax stainless steel blades. Blade lengths vary between 3.75 and 4 inches. Blade style options include drop point and tanto, and finishes include blackwash, standard black, and stonewash. Just like the RECON-035, RECON-040 tactical knives come with a tip-down pocket clip.

Both RECON-035 and 040 have lanyard holes. The RECON-040 is equipped with a nested glass breaker.

What is the Guardian Tactical GTX-025?

The GTX-025 is the most compact OTF knife from Guardian Tactical—essentially, the RECON's little bro. Although small, it fits both large and small hands nicely.

GTX-025 tactical knife features:

• Blade steel: Elmax

• Blade length: 2.5 inches

• Blade finishes: Black, satin, dark stonewash, two-toned

• Handle materials: Anodized aluminum

• Handle colors: OD green, black, blue, burnt orange

• Pocket clip: Right/left tip down

Are Guardian Tactical knives good for everyday carry?

Many Guardian Tactical knives are compact in size, making them ideal for EDC. The smooth OTF mechanism characteristic of popular Guardian automatics allows for quick, hassle-free blade deployment. Also, the tight lock-up mechanism prevents the blade from wobbling, ensuring safety and reliability during use.

Are Guardian knives legal to carry?

Knives are generally legal to purchase and carry in the United States. However, certain features may be restricted. Federal law doesn't allow the use of automatic knives, but they can be purchased in a state where they're permitted.

Before buying a Guardian Tactical knife, be sure you're familiar with applicable local laws. Verifying and correctly understanding the regulations in your area is critical, as they can vary depending on the jurisdiction.

Do Guardian Tactical knives come with a warranty?

Yes, they do. All Guardian knives are covered by a limited lifetime warranty against material or workmanship defects. The warranty doesn't cover damage as a result of misuse, abuse, neglect, modifications, or improper blade sharpening.

Guardian Tactical will also sharpen your knives free of charge for as long as you own them.

Where can I buy Guardian Tactical USA knives?

Northwest Knives, a Guardian Tactical authorized distributor, is a trusted online retailer of premium-quality automatic knives. We carry tactical knives from the world's leading brands, including Guardian Tactical, Benchmade, Boker, Heretic, Hogue, and Kershaw.

Guardian Tactical knives sold at our shop include:

• Guardian Tactical GTX-025 OTF (Dark Stonewash Finish)

• Guardian Tactical GTX-025 OTF (Black Finish)

• Guardian Tactical RECON-040 (Black Elmax Blade, Black Aluminum Handle)

• Guardian Tactical RECON-040 (Stonewash Elmax Blade, Black Aluminum Handle)

Got any questions? Reach out to us via this contact form. We respond within 24 hours. Alternatively, call us at 208-884-8626.