Spyderco Gayle Bradley or Paramilitary 2 (going the distance)

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colemanje09

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Dec 5, 2014
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So after much thought and debate going back and forth between the Gayle Bradley and Paramilitary 2, I picked up a standard black scaled satin blade PM2. And I'm not so sure it was the right choice. No doubt the PM2 is a great knife. It's well balanced and feels good in the hand, but I'm hard on knives. It seems that as far as longevity is concerned, the GB may have been the better pick. So now I have this new PM2 sitting in the box, never been used and may never be used, and now am on the search for a GB. Am I crazy? Because the online community seems to love the PM2. Is the GB a better heavy use knife in comparison? One that is better constructed and that'll last a lifetime? Put it this way, if you could only pick one. Which would it be?
Thanks for the input ahead of time. And I apologize if this subject has already been brought up countless times.
 
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I would get both! They are both great, but different in almost every aspect. As far as which is better for hard use, the GB would probably win as far as steel toughness, but I prefer the compression lock of the PM2 to the liner lock on GB. Even with that said I have never heard of Gayle Bradley lock failure. The GB to me is such a great knife because it looks classy but is tough as nails and feels extremely high-end. The PM2 has a great lock, near perfect ergos and size for me, and my M390 Para 2 is my favorite knife I own. I think they will both last you a lifetime, and I wouldn't be worried about the longevity of the Para 2 at all.
 
Ok thanks. Maybe I should rephrase, instead of hard use, which could take the most abuse?

And bro5.0 No issues with the compression lock on the PM2 so far?

If both were an option I would have them and many more. Love Spyderco. But as a student, money can be an issue at times.

Thanks for the replies and I look forward to hearing more. If anyone has a GB they may want to part with, let me know.
 
Well you could snap the tip off either one easily enough. If you're talking about cutting through hard materials and putting a lot of force behind the cut, either one will do fine. Both locks are reliable. The Para handle will offer better grip if you're stabbing with the knife. I like both but prefer the Bradley because it's a tough, capable knife that also looks good. The Para is purely utilitarian to my eyes.
 
colemanje09 said:
Ok thanks. Maybe I should rephrase, instead of hard use, which could take the most abuse?

And bro5.0 No issues with the compression lock on the PM2 so far?

If both were an option I would have them and many more. Love Spyderco. But as a student, money can be an issue at times.

Thanks for the replies and I look forward to hearing more. If anyone has a GB they may want to part with, let me know.
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No issues, the lock is extremely strong and easy to manipulate..
 
The GB makes a better dedicated hard use folder, yes. But what constitutes "hard use" for you?
 
Generally it would be used as a simple daily tool, cutting string and cardboard. But I do often camp and would use it to shave bark and such. Doubt I'll ever be using it to split wood. I'm definitely leaning toward the GB I believe and will probably list the PM2 for trade. So if anyone is interested let me know. Any reason not to go with the GB instead?

Maybe this is an appropriate question too. Anyone traded away their PM2 and strongly regretted it?
 
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I would give the PM a chance. It is a good strong knife. I'm a GB edc'er and it is a heavier knife. I like the feel of it better then a PM 2. That said, both are serious proven cutting hooters!
 
I own both, and prefer the PM2, but I do not use my knives hard. GB has better materials, better fit and finish, and more pretty. My guess is it will take much more abuse than the PM2. Drawback is that it doesn't carry as well because its heavier and thicker.
 
I owned both and kept GB and then bought another GB(both full liners)early model. GB is a great versatile knife.Can't wait for new GB2 to come out hopefully this year :).(borrowed pic)
 
colemanje09 said:
Generally it would be used as a simple daily tool, cutting string and cardboard. But I do often camp and would use it to shave bark and such. Doubt I'll ever be using it to split wood.
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That's not hard use. A slipjoint would do all of those tasks. It sounds like you just want a GB, so go buy it already.
 
Thanks for all of the input.

The-Stig...I think you're right. I just need to buy or trade for one. After I have had them both, well, then I'll be able to tell which one I prefer
 
Surfingringo's 3 step plan to inner peace and happiness...

1. Keep the pm2.

2. Carry, use and love it.

3. When you have some more disposable income purchase a GB and carry, use and love that one too.

That'll be 5 bucks. ;)
 
I think Gringo nailed it, eventually you'll have both, as will I.

I was also on the fence this week, and decided on the PM2 first (between that and the GB). I'll pick the other one up when I save the funds. With simple care, they will likely both outlast me (as will my P'Kal and Manix 2 XL). I'd keep and enjoy your PM2, as you'll likely buy another one day if you sell or trade off the one you have....you won't be a student "forever".

Have you seen the "PM2 abuse" video on the site of a popular knife dealer? He batons/chops/cuts a bunch of wood, then still shaves the hair from his arm, and still no blade play on his PM2.....built to last!
 
Thanks for the help. And yes surfingringo, I think you're absolutely right.

Razzle, I would definitely like to check out the video. If you could email me the link or post it here I would appreciate it.
 
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