Spyderco Bradley Bowie FB33GP

Spyderco’s rep for fixed blade knives has grown over the years with many more options. One that caught our eye was the FB33GP Bradley Bowie, which is a pleasing design for most field needs. The build is full tang (one-piece blade and tang) that includes a lower guard to protect the hand. It’s made from precision-ground, PSF27, a tough spray-formed tool steel, the chromium content is 12% which is just below that of stainless, so it needs care after use. The 5.3”, full-flat-ground blade has a stylised Bowie shape with a long false edge (swedge) on top, its pointed tip and full belly offers good cutting ability and control. The handle uses black G10 scales held on by large, hollow rivets, which can act as lanyard or lashing points. The grip shape fills the hand easily and securely, though the G10 is smooth and a bit slippery, which might change with use. At 9.93” long and weighing 7.7oz it’s neither too big nor heavy and offers a strong medium build and works well for gutting and dressing out deer and smaller animals. The sheath is most practical being a custom-moulded Boltaron synthetic. Belt attachment is by a C-clip, which is multi-directional, so you can set it up on your belt as you see fit. The moulding clips around the lower guard for a secure carry and easy withdrawal and insertion.