Been on my radar for quite awhile and I finally pulled the trigger on it! This particular knife will be my fixed blade EDC. It's actually perfect for me in every way. Love seeing the Guardian videos and you can bet, it's gonna be my last Tkell knife... Great video here TOS!!!
It’s funny you are talking about this maker. I was just looking at his website way early this morning. I am in love with his stuff. Especially this model. I really want one.
Seriously you can't go wrong with this blade or any of his other models! So much has gone into it - plenty of thought that contributes to usefulness! 👍🗡️🔥
This guy is doing good work. He has a big TH-cam presence, and actually has several good designs offered in some pretty interesting material. From what I've seen, I'm pretty impressed. I predict that he is gonna blow up pretty quickly, and I think were gonna be seeing his stuff offered by some bigger distributors. He is a pretty sharp and innovative dude, and his prices are really good for the quality. I am 100% gonna order a custom from him at some point in the next few months. I'm glad he reached out and asked you to do a review, because his stuff really deserves more attention. Anyone looking for an EDC fixed blade (especially a utility defense crossover knife) you should really check him out. Those prices won't be so crazy low forever!
Thank you Matt I'm honored that you think this. I really didn't set out to try and be different just for the sake of being different if that makes sense. I just try to make blades that are useful, comfortable, and durable. Often that means doing things differently than everyone else only because I haven't found what I personally wanted in a blade. I listen to customers when they have ideas and input. After all my customers are why I have had any success at all. I'm not doing anything magical, I'm just not doing what anyone else is doing.
I've been watching Tim's videos and commenting on several. I also have my eye on purchasing his knives. You did an excellent job on your review. You have a new subscriber!😁👍
Nice! Very cool grind. Awesome looking even though I typically don't like tantos. Excellent that this is a small US maker. Intriguing nickel boron coating (very interested in trying this coating out). So cool!!! Would make an excellent tactical/defensive tool. Thanks for reviewing it.
Thanks for the opportunity to experience your excellent blade Tim! Best of luck going forward, as I believe these will really catch on with the true tactical and EDC users! 🗡️👍🔥
Absolutely beautiful,strong and very functional knife,Tkell Knives!Would you also consider making a 6.5 inch version of this knife with lets say CPM Magnacut steel or other?I believe if you could produce this,then I believe it would sell very,very well for your company!
@@MrBlessed70 I'd definitely consider it. I do think that a 6.5 blade length would throw the balance off on this handle platform. The Mercenary platform would probably be better.
Do you like this better than the Smilodon? Aesthetically it looks like a pry bar. In 1095 I sure like that Szabo Express.....I enjoy your channel, thought I'd have a little fun and put you on the spot and see what kind of PC answer I get if any, cheers.
I'll take the challenge! 😆 The Smilodon is purpose built for point down edge in techniques. This guardian is primarily point up edge out, and wasn't driven around aesthetics in the design of Tim Kell. It certainly can be used in pikal position as well in a pinch. How'd I do? 👍🗡️👊
@This Old Sword Blade Reviews I can't ask for a better response, pointed (pun intended), concise, and informative. I'll add that the three grind Smilodon is certainly purpose built for that pushing cutting and ripping CQB, which I'll never do.. The Pinkerton grinds are pure artistry. It sets a standard that is hard to beat, especially considering the cost. Appreciate your reply.
I've had two of his knives (tanto and warthog) and they're fine. My biggest issue is that the designs just deserve better materials. He's also one of those "1095 plus my magic voodoo HT equal superior steel" which is untrue at best, a blatant lie at worst. I sold my warthog after a week or so, but I have some pretty extensive use on my tanto and there's nothing special about the HT in use. It rolls, chips and dulls in every bit the same way as Ontario's 1095. The design is great, though, and the sheath/clip is probably the best kydex sheath I've used. If he upgrades the steel, I'd possibly try another one but the ~$250 custom fixed blade "space" is about as oversaturated as a market can get (yay, us!) so that's a pretty big maybe. It's nice to see that he's finding success. I'd never wish for a fellow former marines business to fail!
3v, Carbon 5, M4, even S35vn would be nice. 1095 steel is basic stuff and I still don't understand why knives that cost $100+ are made from it. A Benchmade Leuku is $150, so $20 more and is 5 inches of 3v steel which is vastly superior. I bought one just for a user but I'll pick up a Leuku if I want a knife I can actually beat on.
Just some food for thought here and not the ultimate answer, but there are very few who press the materials of their blades to the ultimate. I'll agree that modest steels shouldn't constitute a high priced knife. But it really has become a numbers game and the steel that your knife is made out of is kind of like having cards in a hand. We like to know we have a handful of good cards. Put sharpen your steel as you use it in most knives will perform just fine, with rare exception. Just saying... 👍🗡️👍
If it's any warthog purchased since blade show last year then it was purchased from my scratch and dent section as those have been out of stock for a LOONG time. Tantos same story I haven made those in a REALLY long time either. Coincidentally those are both well before my new heat treatment which isn't voodoo (or a blatant lie) it's just a better process. We all learn and get better as we perfect our craft. All heat treatment isn't equal and I know it's not popular to say but these "super steels" can be garbage also if not heat treated properly. I offer lifetime warranty on all of my blades and if yours are or were rolling edge then they definitely need warranty replacement and I'm very sorry that your blades are less than my best. It is extremely rare that I have a warranty issue and I'd love to rectify it for you. Even if you got rid of them I'll still make it right.
@@TkellKnivesNoticed you brought back the warthog. I’m thinking of pulling the trigger on it. Is it a good self defense blade and also which of the two steels do you prefer? Thanks
When your FOLDERS debute. ? Best blade . Love my Guardian and Striker, just waiting for YOUR folders. Sentry Grid fits perfect on Guardian. #TRUEEDCTOOLS
I have this knife and it has become my EDC. It's perfect for what it's designed for and hides away nicely.
You still rocking this blade?
That thing is just sick! Amazingly precise edge grind, as you say. Someone is very skilled, indeed. Thanks for sharing.
Been on my radar for quite awhile and I finally pulled the trigger on it! This particular knife will be my fixed blade EDC. It's actually perfect for me in every way. Love seeing the Guardian videos and you can bet, it's gonna be my last Tkell knife... Great video here TOS!!!
Thanks for watching, Jorge! 👍🗡️👍
So how is the blade treating you so far? I’m thinking of getting one. Thanks
@@wolverinegnr haven't gotten it yet. I'm pretty sure I'm gonna really like it!
It’s funny you are talking about this maker. I was just looking at his website way early this morning. I am in love with his stuff. Especially this model. I really want one.
Seriously you can't go wrong with this blade or any of his other models! So much has gone into it - plenty of thought that contributes to usefulness! 👍🗡️🔥
This guy is doing good work. He has a big TH-cam presence, and actually has several good designs offered in some pretty interesting material. From what I've seen, I'm pretty impressed. I predict that he is gonna blow up pretty quickly, and I think were gonna be seeing his stuff offered by some bigger distributors. He is a pretty sharp and innovative dude, and his prices are really good for the quality. I am 100% gonna order a custom from him at some point in the next few months. I'm glad he reached out and asked you to do a review, because his stuff really deserves more attention. Anyone looking for an EDC fixed blade (especially a utility defense crossover knife) you should really check him out. Those prices won't be so crazy low forever!
Agreed on all points! 😁🔥🗡️👍
Thank you Matt I'm honored that you think this. I really didn't set out to try and be different just for the sake of being different if that makes sense. I just try to make blades that are useful, comfortable, and durable. Often that means doing things differently than everyone else only because I haven't found what I personally wanted in a blade. I listen to customers when they have ideas and input. After all my customers are why I have had any success at all. I'm not doing anything magical, I'm just not doing what anyone else is doing.
I have several of his knives and they are absolutely awesome. Great quality and some of the sharpest knives I've ever owned.
I should have another one or two coming in for review sometime over the next month. 🗡️👍🔥
Great review sir. Just found out about Tkell and their are very few reviews on his models. Thank you for your work
Glad to help 👊🗡️👍
Nasty looking wharncliffe cutter!
I just bought the gaudian. I am excited it get it in 3-6mos
Quite the wait, but worth it! 😁🗡️👍
I've been watching Tim's videos and commenting on several. I also have my eye on purchasing his knives.
You did an excellent job on your review. You have a new subscriber!😁👍
Glad you're with us! Welcome! 🗡️👍🗡️
It's a good looking knife! He sounds like an awesome maker. Great video 👍
Mines in bound from Tim! It’s going to accompany my bugout 9mm and mini flashlight kit!
Nice! Very cool grind. Awesome looking even though I typically don't like tantos. Excellent that this is a small US maker. Intriguing nickel boron coating (very interested in trying this coating out). So cool!!! Would make an excellent tactical/defensive tool. Thanks for reviewing it.
Thanks for watching! Actually if you don't like tantos flip it over and it's a warnecliff! 😁🤔👍
It's a great looking knife and that coating sounds amazing. Will have to get one of Kell's knives.
Excellent review and good information about this knife maker. Cheers from Texas.
Thank you for taking the time to do check it out. Great detailed review. Nice thumbnail too.
Thanks for the opportunity to experience your excellent blade Tim! Best of luck going forward, as I believe these will really catch on with the true tactical and EDC users! 🗡️👍🔥
Absolutely beautiful,strong and very functional knife,Tkell Knives!Would you also consider making a 6.5 inch version of this knife with lets say CPM Magnacut steel or other?I believe if you could produce this,then I believe it would sell very,very well for your company!
@@MrBlessed70 I'd definitely consider it. I do think that a 6.5 blade length would throw the balance off on this handle platform. The Mercenary platform would probably be better.
That's a wild looking grind
Do you like this better than the Smilodon? Aesthetically it looks like a pry bar. In 1095 I sure like that Szabo Express.....I enjoy your channel, thought I'd have a little fun and put you on the spot and see what kind of PC answer I get if any, cheers.
I'll take the challenge! 😆 The Smilodon is purpose built for point down edge in techniques. This guardian is primarily point up edge out, and wasn't driven around aesthetics in the design of Tim Kell. It certainly can be used in pikal position as well in a pinch. How'd I do? 👍🗡️👊
@This Old Sword Blade Reviews I can't ask for a better response, pointed (pun intended), concise, and informative. I'll add that the three grind Smilodon is certainly purpose built for that pushing cutting and ripping CQB, which I'll never do.. The Pinkerton grinds are pure artistry. It sets a standard that is hard to beat, especially considering the cost.
Appreciate your reply.
Can you review the dawson deep notch in magnacut
I'll take a look. Thanks for pointing it out! 🗡️👍
I've had two of his knives (tanto and warthog) and they're fine. My biggest issue is that the designs just deserve better materials.
He's also one of those "1095 plus my magic voodoo HT equal superior steel" which is untrue at best, a blatant lie at worst.
I sold my warthog after a week or so, but I have some pretty extensive use on my tanto and there's nothing special about the HT in use. It rolls, chips and dulls in every bit the same way as Ontario's 1095.
The design is great, though, and the sheath/clip is probably the best kydex sheath I've used.
If he upgrades the steel, I'd possibly try another one but the ~$250 custom fixed blade "space" is about as oversaturated as a market can get (yay, us!) so that's a pretty big maybe.
It's nice to see that he's finding success. I'd never wish for a fellow former marines business to fail!
Good feedback for Tim. Perhaps he'll reach out. What would you feel a better steel would be?
3v, Carbon 5, M4, even S35vn would be nice. 1095 steel is basic stuff and I still don't understand why knives that cost $100+ are made from it. A Benchmade Leuku is $150, so $20 more and is 5 inches of 3v steel which is vastly superior. I bought one just for a user but I'll pick up a Leuku if I want a knife I can actually beat on.
Just some food for thought here and not the ultimate answer, but there are very few who press the materials of their blades to the ultimate. I'll agree that modest steels shouldn't constitute a high priced knife. But it really has become a numbers game and the steel that your knife is made out of is kind of like having cards in a hand. We like to know we have a handful of good cards. Put sharpen your steel as you use it in most knives will perform just fine, with rare exception. Just saying... 👍🗡️👍
If it's any warthog purchased since blade show last year then it was purchased from my scratch and dent section as those have been out of stock for a LOONG time. Tantos same story I haven made those in a REALLY long time either. Coincidentally those are both well before my new heat treatment which isn't voodoo (or a blatant lie) it's just a better process. We all learn and get better as we perfect our craft. All heat treatment isn't equal and I know it's not popular to say but these "super steels" can be garbage also if not heat treated properly. I offer lifetime warranty on all of my blades and if yours are or were rolling edge then they definitely need warranty replacement and I'm very sorry that your blades are less than my best. It is extremely rare that I have a warranty issue and I'd love to rectify it for you. Even if you got rid of them I'll still make it right.
@@TkellKnivesNoticed you brought back the warthog. I’m thinking of pulling the trigger on it. Is it a good self defense blade and also which of the two steels do you prefer? Thanks
It’s slightly larger than the Street Beat but it looks like you get twice the cutting edge.
When your FOLDERS debute. ?
Best blade .
Love my Guardian and Striker, just waiting for YOUR folders.
Sentry Grid fits perfect on Guardian.
#TRUEEDCTOOLS
Did you add the sentry because the grip wasn’t good? Im thinking about buying the guardian. Do you still recommend this knife? Thanks
No jimping?
Nope
Don't see it on his website.
Thanks for bringing that to my attention. I reached out to Tim and here's the link: tkellknives.com/shop-1/ols/products/guardian-pre-sale-coming-soon
@@OGBladeReviews Thank you.
I can't understand how anyone could like that knife. 😂
But I'm always happy to see others being excited about something.
So you'll have to explain whether you're speaking of the aesthetics of the knife or the usefulness of the knife? 🤔
My sheath is made different
👍