How cool would it be: thoughts on a budget Gayle Bradley

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Mar 16, 2014
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I was thinking that it would be awesome to have a "budget" Spyderco Gayle Bradley that used plain G10 and maybe S30V instead of M4.

Aim for the $80-90 range.

I think it would be a hit.
 
If you're gonna spend $90, why not save an extra $30-50???

And just so you know, the handles are already g10 with a carbon fiber laminate top. It's not gonna get much cheaper anyways because the F&F is flawless.
 
I think the M4 is what makes the Bradley so special. Wouldn't be the same knife otherwise.
The scales wouldn't change the price much either. Look at the sage 1 and chaparral 1 for example. Both use carbon fiber and are right around $100.
Keep in mind too that this is a collaboration knife. Spyderco has to charge enough to give Mr. Bradley his cut.

Even at the current price of $150 or so its worth every penny. I'd suggest you either save a bit longer or maybe go with a para 2. Not trying to be rude and shoot down your idea, that's just my take.
 
Though I certainly appreciate the handle on the Gayle Bradley, the main attraction for me is the blade steel and blade shape. I would be up for an FRN model. Don't know if that would be significantly less expensive, and it may not satisfy people that really push the limits on their knives. Mike
 
Don't change the gayle bradley. It's perfectly priced just where it is. The M4 MAKES the knife. You can buy them here for about $130, which is a steal of a steel.
If it works, don't change it.
I have owned at least seven nib. I love 'em.
I just gifted one to a new son-in-law several days ago. He is an experienced hunter and he's delighted.
 
S30V and G10 for that price would be the Manix 2. A knife that resembles the Bradley folder for less money would be the Stretch.
 
I've had a Bradley folder since about the day after they came out. I think it is a budget knife as it is quite honestly. You will be hard pressed to find a similar design and the same materials for a lesser price anywhere. If they are out there, i haven't seen them. Other companies that offer similar materials also charge a premium for it. The overall quality of the fit and finish on these knives is unmatched as far as I've seem compared to most everything in the same material department and price range. Granted, I bought mine when they were $120, not sure what they go for now.

Other companies like CRKT do budget friendly versions of expensive knives, in collaboration with the designers. I'm not in favor of Spyderco doing it though. No need to budget down something that is already a good value, especially with so many other folders flooding the market in the last 4-5 years.
 
You can get them here LNIB for $105-$120 if you're patient. I'd argue best production folder and bang for your buck under $150.
 
I agree with the above sentiment, however I do think that a GB with Micarta scales would be just as functional and, to me, it would look more fitting for the type of knife it is. I don't think this would lessen the cost, just look more appropriate (to me). I guess I am saying I wouldn't mind seeing different versions, but, as stated, the current steel should remain.
 
F that..... I'll take the GB 2 when it comes out with it's updated design and titanium liners :)
 
don't get me wrong, i love M4 but i'd also love to see the Bradley in stainless, perhaps s90v
 
don't get me wrong, i love M4 but i'd also love to see the Bradley in stainless, perhaps s90v

Seconded. M4 is a good steel, but I prefer stainless. Elmax or M390 could also work well. I would want something better than S30V to compete with M4. If the blade steel costs more then "downgrade" the handles to G10 instead of carbon fiber laminate.
 
To change the Bradley for a cheaper price tag, would be like having Roseanne Barr sing the national anthem at half time.:barf:
 
I wouldn't get a Bradley if it werent in m4...

^This^

Well, ..M2, 3V, even in D2....maybe....would do nothing to the price point however. S30V?..:yawn:..All would be a step down or sidways however. The GB folder is about as "in the sweet spot" as you can get, overall. Price, material, FF....I would change nothing.

No offence OP
 
^This^

Well, ..M2, 3V, even in D2....maybe....would do nothing to the price point however. S30V?..:yawn:..All would be a step down or sidways however. The GB folder is about as "in the sweet spot" as you can get, overall. Price, material, FF....I would change nothing.

No offence OP

None taken. I've enjoyed reading the commentary.

I have a GB in the mail to me right now, btw. :D
 
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