(Part 2) Top products from r/knives

If he had been carrying a Swiss Army knife that's probably the style he prefers, Opinel makes single bladed knives that open in the same way his old SAK did, and leatherman makes amazing multitools, I would recommend checking all these brands out.

Opinel knives are usually extremely cheap and run about 20$/£, their most popular knife is the No. 8 for about 12$/£, it comes in other colors and wood types as well. No. 8 is a bigger model and it might be a little bulky for someone use to a SAK, the small the number in the name ex. No. 7, No.6, get smaller as their number designation does. I have the No. 8 Trekking knife in slate and its a pretty great knife for its price (18$/£).

If he likes Swill Army Knives, there are quite a few more options to look at, they can get a little pricey for their size at times, I own the Tinker, this was my first knife and I have found that looking at the tools on these knives would behoove you. I do not need an awl in the knife I carry every day for instance. There are many many options to chose from, and through a little sifting you may find one that you feel suits him best. Victorinox (the brand that makes swiss army knives) also makes knives that are a little closer to the opinels I mentioned earlier, a few of their models (like this one) are simply one or two blades. I would look into local laws however, I know some places do not allow blades that can be opened with one hand like the one I linked you to.

Leatherman makes wonderful multitools and a few pocket knives. Nearly everything they make have blades that lock as a safety feature, although very few can be flicked open, so I would check the specifics of this law, I doubt a multi-tool is illegal. This is the Micra, it appears to be a smaller version of a leatherman I own that I cannot find on their site. This one has a blade that opens in a way that is legal for sure, its blade does not lock either. If you find that some locking blades are allowed, the Skeletool is a favorite of mine, it may look a little outlandish but it has always had the best combination of essential tools out of any of my multi-tools, and it is one of my favorites. The Style is a smaller version with slightly different tools ( I don't think it has screwdrivers), but it's blade does not lock. The skeletool is about 70$/£ I think, and their smaller tools like the micra and style are under 30$/£, this brand has quite a bit more I didn't touch on, if you think he would like something like this I would check out site, I hope you find something that works, I know I'm always thrilled when my girlfriend gets me a new knife.

OK, I think I got this one.

For the younger brother I'd get the Spyderco Delica in one of the bright colors, as it is quite good (cool) looking blade.

It is also pretty light, so will make a great hiking companion.

Isn't the most heavy use knife out there, but will perform when needed.

For the older one I'd get the CTS XHP version of the Cold Steel American Lawman.

It is one of the best hard working blades out there (great for professionals who use their knife as a tool), has a strong lock for additional safety, steel that will hold up and a G10 handle with great grip to it.

Both are well within your budget (compare prices with other sites as well).

Good luck man, hope this helped!

Pretty sleek and badass looking. And on sale at Midway USA for $30 cheaper than BladeHQ and Amazon right now. I've never bought from there, but just noticed the price.

I see the Tech's big brother, the SB1T-L Super SOG Bowie, on multiple "best bowie" lists, so it seems people value what they do in the bowie department. That one's a 7.5" in Aus-8 and the handle is brown leather instead of textured black Kraton. On SOG's site (though you can get better prices) it goes for $75 more than the Tech, so if that's indicative of their own in-house estimation of quality, there's maybe one suggestion on higher quality options you're after.

Staying upmarket, and to put it back in the all-black and sleek tactical-looking department, if a bit less bowie, there's the Fallkniven A1 in black. People rave about their knives.

And if you like the sleek all-black look of that Fallkniven but would rather go budget than spendy on your black badass tacticals, there's the Cold Steel SRK in SK-5 going for a song on Amazon. $35! You could just get that one for dessert. It was so cheap I just got one for fun, just to have it since I'd always liked its shape. Looks like something a Navy SEAL would fight with in the dark. It's comparably manageable in size to the Tech and the design has a long track record. The handle is the same material and pattern as the Tech, no back guard, ricasso half the size, blade width of 5mm instead of 6.1mm, weight a nice 8.2oz instead of 11.2oz, length 10.75" instead of 11". So, just an option for something cool lower down in the budget if you like 'em black and badass.

Here's another sleek black tactical with a bowie blade but otherwise not looking very bowie, looking more spy fighty, the Spyderco Street Bowie, a lot cheaper on Amazon of course.

There's the black version of the classic Ka-Bar Marines fighting knife.

I personally use a KME and a Strop. But I'd recommend getting one of those Lansky Sharpeners with the Deluxe Diamond stones. It's similar enough to a KME; with limited angle choice but 30 25 20 and 17 are good enough IMHO. It runs for only $56 on amazon compared to the KME $180.

I'd also recommend grabbing the Ultra Fine hone on amazon for an extra $9 so you can put a nicer finish on your edges.

Lastly you'll need a strop. You can find one around on the internet or on /r/KnifeSwap occasionally, which is where I found mine. There's a user there that actually makes them by hand and includes compounds with the strop if you're ever lucky enough to grab one from there. But the best alternative is (again on amazon) the Knives Plus Strop Block. It comes preloaded with compound, and a lot of compound, and I've heard nice things about it. It's only $29, or you can go on the Knives Plus website and grab it for $23, but I think its worth the extra six bucks to get free/fast shipping, and have it all come in on the same day/in the same box as everything else.

Hope this helped! :)

Sharpening is one of those weird topics that's really simple at the surface, and which gets really complicated as you dive in.

I'm mostly allergic to complication, so I'll give you the simple stuff that will get you 95% of the way there.

Generally speaking, the desired end result is to grind the edge of the blade to a nice V. It wants to be even and regular, and reasonably smooth. Complications involve things like compound or micro bevels, convex bevels, smoothness vrs microserration, and bevels which vary in angle across the length of the blade, and discussion about just what that angle ought to be anyway.

Start with simple. A nice even V.

This can be done well enough by hand, and it's not terribly hard to learn, but it's hard enough to learn that I don't think people should start there. A guided rod system, like a Lansky sharpener, will take the hardest part of it out of the equation, allowing you to focus on doing everything else right. Once you get good with it, all of your new knowledge and skills will transfer over if you'd like to learn how to do it by hand later.

Other systems involve angled abrasive sticks, more sophisticated guided rod arraignments, and even a little belt sander. They all work very well and all have their advantages and disadvantages.

The Lansky is simple, and cheap. You can have everything you need for under $30:

https://www.amazon.com/Lansky-Standard-Coarse-Sharpening-System/dp/B000B8L6LI/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1504615867&sr=8-2&keywords=lansky+sharpener+coarse

https://www.amazon.com/Lansky-LM007-Pedestal-Mount/dp/B000B8FVZU/ref=pd_sim_200_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=2HSWHHQRKAC55K1WVEAC

Like any sharpening system, there is a learning curve. Start with a cheap knife or two that you don't care about, and expect to come back here with a question or two. Then, once you get it, you're on your way.

Then we can talk about cutting technique, storage and maintenance, and knife selection, all of which matter more in actual use than the details of blade steel. I have a comfortable, well-designed, well-suited kitchen knife I use for everything and it's made out of garbage steel, and it's razor sharp right now. But that's another discussion...

Okay so first we would have to know about the knives you will be using such as what is their Hardness(HRC)? We would also need to know at what angle are you going to sharpen your knife at and where (at work or home)? Traditionally western knives were around 20 degrees but recently thanks to higher HRC knives, angles have been reduced to around 15 degrees to obtain a higher sharpness that is often found in Eastern knives.

1. For Honing steels I would recommend a ceramic honing rod instead as they work better for knives at a higher HRC. Just use it at your knives angle and wash after use.
   
2. A cheaper alternative for a sharpener could be the Worksharp Ken Onion edition which should sharpen knives from 15-30 degrees and has multiple grit belts which includes polishing belts. Watch some videos as there are many on YouTube for this sharpener. The only downside I see to it is that you probably can't use it at work.
   
3. The learning curve of a whetstones is much higher (weeks to months) and is pretty much essential if you are sharpening single bevel sushi knifes such as a Yanagiba. Regardless if you can master this method you can sharpen pretty much any knife to a mirror polish and the total cost would be about $150 for all three stones. Cerax 320 , Cerax 1000, and Suehio Rika pro 5000 to give you a mist like polish.
   
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   As for the F. Dick RS 150...I have never heard of this brand (F. Dick) but from what I can see the RS 150 Has a diamond and ceramic grinding wheels which should be able to sharpen knifes at high hardness and from what I can tell the ceramic hone is probably 1000 grit so it would be a basic working edge in term of sharpness. The major benefit of this machine seems to be that it sharpens your knife quickly and consistently at a fine angle (15-17degreees) and I can see its benefit in a working kitchen (it is small and can work on site). The thing that I don't like about it is the lack of information on it. There seems to be no info on the sharpening angle (I assumed based on its design to sharpen eastern knives which are finer) and no info in regards to the wheel grit (I assumed it is around 1000 grit based on a product showing of it) and any reviews on it. Let not forget the price ($1000+ wow), but it is for a professional kitchen so I suppose that is normal.
   
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   If you get the lansky system you are going to sharpen the knives when you are at home. They can take some time to sharpen but you can achieve that mirror polish if you buy the ceramic stones (1000 + 2000grit) and a strop.
   
   The Lansky Diamond system ($67) is a great place to start as it has 70/120/280/600 grits but you also have to purchase the C clamp stand ($15 and you do need it as you will get tired holding the thing) and higher grit (1000) ceramic stone ($13) and 2000 grit stone ($12). Leather strops with compound if you want an absolute finish. The only complaint I would have about this system is that the stones are not of the highest quality and stop working as the diamonds fall off. The sharpening guides also are fixed and can be inaccurate depending on how large and wide the blade is. So with everything but the strop you are looking around $120.
   
   You should probably check out the KME Sharpener if you are thinking lansky as it is more flexible in the angle settings. You also have to purchase a base for it as well and all together it should run you about $300.
   
   Also check out the spyderco sharpmaker as it has keyed holes (15 and 20 degrees) for its sharpening stones which makes it pretty simple to do a quick sharpening and honing run but I would only use this for maintaining an edge.
   
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   Hopefully others with experience with the RS150 can help but here is a forum regarding a similar product. Also you might want to ask r/AskCulinary if they have any experience with this product.
   
   F. Dick Polish (yes its a product name)

• ~$7-8 Sanrenmu 7010/710 - You can find these at Gearbest for cheap as hell when they have sales but they're absolutely $30 worth of knife
  
• ~$10-20 Opinel no.6-12 - Depends on blade size/steel/handle wood. #6 is under 3in blade if that kind of thing matters.
  
• ~$20 CRKT Drifter
  
• ~$20 Spyderco Byrd Cara Cara2
  
• ~$20-25 Ontario Rat II or Rat I
  
• ~$30 Victorinox Cadet Alox
  
• ~$30 Kershaw Cryo
  
• ~$35 CRKT Ripple
  
• ~$35 Spyderco Persistence
  
• ~$40 Kershaw Skyline - Often on sale in the ~$30 range
  
• ~$40 Kershaw Leek - Same sales as with the Skyline \^^
  
  Honorable Mention: Case knives. Traditional lockbacks. Hard as nails and pretty to boot. True pocket knives. Your grandfather (possibly great grandfather) had one. Good stuff the lot of them. $25-50 will get you a legacy knife that you can carry and use and then pass to your kid.
  
  You don't need to spend $200 to get a quality, durable, reliable knife. I've owned all of these knives at one time or another and loved every one of them. Sure they needed sharpening more often and sometimes something a little more drastic (Sanrenmus are often cheaper to replace than fix) but the value is insane. Plus, lets face facts; we're much more likely to break out our Cadet when we get box duty than our Sebenza.
  
  Knife enthusiasts (brothers) if there's a weighed and measured cheapo that I forgot, let me know.

Well since this post, I've actually done a good amount of research and narrowed it down to pretty much two options:

The Cryo II because of the deep carry clip, good size, speed safe, and reputation


or

The Volt II for its awesome blade shape, tons of features, good comfortable grip, and pretty much perfection. I'm kind of in love with the Volt II. It's just so thick.. It would be my dream EDC knife if it had a grip like the Kershaw Chill with its G-10, diamond pattern handle and thinness. So, idk. I'll probably end up going with the Volt II, I just with the grip were G-10 and more EDC oriented

For mainly camping get a Cold Steel GI Tanto on Amazon. I usually don't like tango style blades but Cold Steel's has a thick edge that's great for bushcraft while the secondary edge/tip is great for prying and other heavy duty tasks. It is 1055 carbon steel so do clean it after every use. I recommend you modify the grip to something better though, I personally use tennis over grips as they are cheap and amazing.

Or if you want something smaller for both camping and EDC I suggest a Kershaw Skyline

This answer assumes 1) you want a few knives to cover different uses and 2) you can dig in the couch cushions for $3.53 or you can wait for Amazon's prices to fluctuate just a little bit. The price on the Kershaw jumped $3 just while I am typing this up...

EDC: Kershaw Blur, $54.17. I'm a little goofy, and I like the serrated tanto even though it looks like ass. I assume for most people, they'd prefer the straight blade. I've had one for a few years, and it works great. Just the right size, comfortable grippy handle, and I love the opening mechanism.

Camping knife: Condor Tool and Knife Bushlore 4.375-Inch Drop Point Blade, $36.41. The QA on fit and finish is apparently an issue with this company, but I didn't notice any problem on mine. It's not going to win a beauty competition, but its a hard worker. One of the comments on Amazon says it's the AK-47 of the knife world. I'm inclined to agree.

Inconspicuous Folder: Opinel #8, $12.95. I don't actually own one of these, so caveat emptor, but they come highly recommended by the hive mind. It's a classy looking folder that you could carry around in your suit's jacket pocket or your briefcase.

I'll second /u/super_octopus 's post! I've got the Sharpmaker and it works great for all my knives, from my Buck 505 with a 1.875" blade to my custom Bowie and Kukri both with over 6" blades. The system is pretty affordable (under $60).

Alternately I've heard really good things about the Lansky system, either the three stone or five stone sets, both of which are even more affordable (under $40).

I've also got a few diamond coated whetstones for freehand sharpening, which work great too, but you just have to be prepared to go slow at first and learn how to hold your blades at the proper angles and sharpen them evenly. DMT makes some good diamond coated whetstones.

So definitely watch a few youtube videos, read the sidebar guide /u/super_octopus pointed out to you, and if you're still unsure on technique, once you get something to sharpen your knives with, try to practice first with some old beater knife or cheap blade that you might not mind having to sharpen a little extra in case it takes you a while to get it right.

Blade steel is fine for an EDC, and handle material looks close to G-10, which I would say is the best handle quality for grip. 3 inch blade, looks like it can be opened one handed from thumb stud.

Before making a purchase, check out the cheaper brands from Spyderco and Kershaw, they have $25 EDCs on sale, with same or better quality blade steel.

Here's a few that might be worth a look:

http://www.amazon.com/Kershaw-Onion-Chive-Pocket-Knife/dp/B0009VC9RW/ref=pd_sim_sg_4

http://www.amazon.com/Spyderco-Ambitious-Black-PlainEdge-Knife/dp/B004MMSDHO/ref=sr_1_10?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1313769769&sr=1-10

http://www.amazon.com/Magnum-Folder-Black-Handle-Blade/dp/B0017KTOV8/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1313769793&sr=1-1

http://www.amazon.com/Gerber-31-000674-MP450-Compact-Paraframe/dp/B003LY43FA/ref=sr_1_5?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1313769825&sr=1-5

Good luck with your purchase :)

Look at the Kershaw Leek, its got a good 3 inch blade, it practically disappears in your pocket, is basically a modern gentlemen's folder, and can get it in several different colors. Its one of the most popular knives out there and is well made. Only thing to watch out for is the tip, its very thin and can break off if you try and use it as a pry bar. You can find the leek for about 40-60 bucks depending on the model.

Link - Kershaw Leek

If you're looking for something heavier duty, the Kershaw Blur or Freefall would be good buys. I use a freefall as one of my EDC knives and think its a great buy for the money. The blur is very well regarded as well, though I don't have experience with one myself.

Link for Blur

Link for Freefall

If you don't absolutely need the spring assist, another idea would be a Spyderco Delica 4, or perhaps a Spyderco Persistence if you want a little cheaper price. Both are solid knives for the money and aren't too bulky in the pocket. You can get the Delica in colors too!

Link for Delica 4

Link for Persistence

No problem.

Kershaw Scallion (Small, assisted opening, steel is not so great)

Kershaw Skyline (good size, G10, nice blade shape, steel can get to a crazy level of sharpness)

Kershaw OSO Sweet (pretty cool assisted opener, great price there on amazon)

Spyderco Tenacious (same decent steel on the OSO Sweet and Byrd, good G10, good blade shape, Spyderco quality, great value)

Byrd Cara2 (Great value, overseas production brings prices way down on all Byrd knives)


Here is one above your price range

And one below your price range

If you like kershaw you can get a blur with S30v steel for around 65$ on amazon if you still want a kershaw. I've never been too impresed with them since I find their build quality to be lacking. They seem to have an excessive amount of blade play and use average quality steels in most of their knives. The a premium steel that can hold a razor sharp working edge. The spyderco delica/endura line is also a great knife. They have full flat ground blades that come razor sharp from the factory with absolutlely no blade play. I personally carry a green delica as one of my edc knives. The dragonfly is also great if you want a knife that dissapears on your person. it is a featherweight knife, that cuts and handles like a much larger knife.

If you are looking for a knife that can take an absolutely harsh beating, I would have to reccomend an Ontario RAT 1 or 2 depending on you size preference. They are a bit heavy in hand compared to other knives it size, but perform just as good as any of my spydercos. It is also on the cheaper side at around 25$.

The benchmades are also a good choice, but I would also reccomend the benchmade mini-presidio.

Anyways, I thought I might as well just post some links to them:

S30v Kershaw Blur

Benchmade Mini Presidio

[Benchmade Griptillian] (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000Q9BOF0/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_S_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=2Q6YQ3PL1NNYW&coliid=I1IO3PSF8569TW)

Benchmade Mini Griptillian (I prefer thumb hole openers, but both griptillians also are offered with combo edges and thumb studs.)

Spyderco Dragonfly

Spyderco Delica

Spyderco Endura

Ontario RAT 1

Ontario RAT 2

I would second the Delica recommendation. Amazon has a Delica 4 ffg in Purple that would do nicely. The Dragonfly 2 in a very dark green frn and a yellow H1 salt frn would be great as well. Great gift idea man!

> You sound like you think this is my first knife I have other knives and I like this one also. I don't think I got ripped off. lol it was only 20 bucks and for 20 it is a pretty sturdy well made knife.

-OP

>I've cut down 2 small trees with this knife and went through a whole winter chopping ice from my gutters and shutters. For $20 you will not find as heavy duty a blade as this.

-Comment on this thread

There are several other 20$ knives that are ridiculously great values. And some of them are folders too, meaning the lock mechanism must be constructed right, or they can hurt the user.

Ka Bar Dozier

Byrd Cara Cara 2

If 20$ can give you a well-constructed folder that won't fail on you, 20$ can get you a nice fixed blade with a good heat treat.

Sure it may not have the same edge retention as a Becker or Izula because of the steel used, but keep in mind fixed blades are typically used with more force than folders are. Batoning, chopping off branches, etc, are more reliant on the user's force than the actual sharpness of the blade.

...And it's still a fixed blade. A piece of steel with handles attached. Unlike folders, there's no mechanical parts to fail. This makes it a very strong design in general. Even though it won't have the same fit and finish as a Becker, it will still have more durability than any folder. But you shouldn't be running these things over with 18-wheelers. It's way more than adequate, if you know to respect the thing.

A full tang fixed blade for 20$ is a steal.

I'm new to sharpening and a friend of mine recommended this sharpener. It got great reviews, but I like to do my research. I was wondering if anyone has any experience with this sharpener. Would it be good for a beginner? If not, can you recommend something else? Thanks.

The Morakniv Companion seems like a good starting point. Pretty cheap where I'm at ordering from Amazon.

Granted, I have a couple Gerbers. Mostly paraframe folders, and for the price, you're better off with a Chinese Kershaw, like the Oso Sweet

I'd suggest getting either a Lansky https://www.amazon.com/Lansky-Standard-Coarse-Sharpening-System/dp/B000B8L6LI/ref=sr_1_5?dchild=1&keywords=lansky+guided+sharpener&qid=1571188328&sr=8-5

or one of the EP clones off Amazon like this one https://www.amazon.com/AGPTEKProfessional-Kitchen-Sharpener-System-Fix-angle/dp/B00ABVS5VY/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=ruixin+sharpener&qid=1571188143&sr=8-3

The actual 1x6" Edge Pro stones will also fit the cheap Edge Pro Chinese clones if you ever want to upgrade them. The EP stones are like $12/piece and better than the ones that come with the kits. Plus they come on nice aluminum blanks vs. plastic so if you ever want to replace them you can get them on the cheap from Congress Tools.

Cheap carbon steel knives I've had my hands on are Glock Field Knife, the Cold Steel GI Tanto, and the Cold Steel Bushman.

The GI Tanto is very heavy and effectively indestructible. My brother in-law describes it as an orc knife. Easy to make a spear out of but not as easy as the bushman. Can be bent 90 degrees laterally and spring back.

The Glock is also indestructable and while not as heavy as the tanto it isnt light either. Very thick spine. Comes with or without a root saw.

The bushman is much lighter and thinner than the other two. Turns into a spear really easily. Can also be bent 90 degrees laterally.

Not saying any of these are the best there is but I have used them all and I couldn't see any of them ever breaking outside of extreme abuse. They're also a fraction of your budget so that's always nice. Don't expect them to be pretty. They're purely utilitarian.

Spyderco has a wide range of folders under $100. There's the Delica, Endura, Dragonfly, Centofante 3, and Stretch to name a few. All high quality, made in the USA.

The Tenacious line (including the Persistence and Ambitious) is awesome if you want good quality for less than $40. However, if you want to spend more, I would definitely recommend US made knives.

Which "super-fine" Lansky hone should I get to accompany the Deluxe Diamond Set that I purchased, seen here:

http://www.amazon.com/Lansky-Diamond-Deluxe-Sharpening-System/dp/B000B8L6LS/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1452449613&sr=8-3&keywords=lansky

I feel that I would like to get a sharper edge than what I can achieve with this basic set. I was considering between the Ultra fine here:

http://www.amazon.com/Lansky-Ultra-Sharpening-Yellow-Holder/dp/B000B8L6MC/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1452449613&sr=8-11&keywords=lansky

or the Super Sapphie polishing hone

http://www.amazon.com/Lansky-Super-Sapphire-Polishing-Hone/dp/B000B8IEB8/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1452449613&sr=8-5&keywords=lansky

Both of which have been recommended, however I do think the ultra fine is better for sharpening, rather than polishing, no?

Nice, I never really got into non-PC gaming but I've heard really good things from the Halo series! As for finding a khukri, you should definitely check your local knife store for one made in 1085 or 1095 steel but if you don't mind getting one online, I'd definitely give this a try!

Depends on what you want to use it for.

The Canopy is thicker out to the tip, giving it more heft for chopping. It is, IMO, the better tool of the two. The Warrior is designed more as a fighter, and so has a lighter, more manoeuvrable (and more fragile) tip. The false edge on the spine isn't really ideal for work, but it'll still get the job done. Both are made from 8Cr13MoV, which is a pretty decent but not exceptional stainless. Overall, decent knives and reasonably priced at $40-50 (Amazon). Both are full tang AFAIK and so should be quite tough.

If you can afford to stretch to around $70, you might want to take a look at the Ka-Bar Becker BK9. Similar size (9 inch blade), full tang, thicker stock (.250 inches IIRC), and significantly better steel (1095). 1095 is a carbon steel, which means you have to be a little be more careful to avoid rust compared to 8Cr13MoV, but it's also quite a bit tougher.

If you mostly intend on doing more 'knife' tasks (slicing, cutting thin limbs, brush), the Canopy might be a slightly better choice, being the cheaper and lighter option. If you want a real chopper, I'd go with the Becker.

In that price range, from lowest to highest price, I found these in a quick search on Amazon:

• Spyderco Ambitious - 2.25" blade, $26.20
  
• Spyderco Tenacious - 3-3/8" blade, $30.13
  
• Spyderco Persistence - 2.75" blade, $31.89
  
• Spyderco Resilience - 4.25" blade, $42.87
  
  All of these use pretty much identical materials, and have identical features and quality. So go with whichever you like best.
  
  The steel used on these is middle of the road (the same as used in your Tremor), but overall quality is outstanding for the price. All around these will outperform and feel nicer than any Kershaws in the same price class, though I have nothing against Kershaw's better knives.

How about the cold steel kobun? Aus 8 is a decent steel for the price. If you want something a lot tougher the cold steel GI tanto is probably the best bang for your buck deal you can get on a knife. Just depends on what size and use you are looking for.

Kobun
https://www.amazon.com/Cold-Steel-17T-Kobun-Tanto/dp/B0034JR4EO

GI Tanto
https://www.amazon.com/Cold-Steel-80PGTK-Tanto-Carbon/dp/B004H9DO4Y


And give as many specifics as you can about the size you want, what you'll be using it for etc. so we can recommend the best knife we can for you

I bought 3 assisted opening knives:

• Leek - Ken Onion
  
• Flash II - SOG
  
• Some junky piece of shit - Smith & Wesson
  
  I'm not 100% satisfied with any of them. I like the SOG the best, but all of them have annoying locks on them that defeat the entire purpose of an auto opening knife. The purpose is to open them quickly with one hand. Well if the safety keeps getting turned on in your pocket then you end up fiddling with them.
  
  My brother on the other hand has a Ken Onion Black Blur and that seems to be a really good knife.

Your price range is pretty limited. Fixed knives are ideal for hiking not so much for a casual EDC.

Have you looked at the [Cryo 2 by Kershaw]( http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d /B00AU6NWP4/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1395338365&sr=8-1&pi=SX200_QL40)? It's a fun knife, good for people with big paws and it's relatively cheap. (Not to be confused with the first Cryo, which is a smaller version of the 2)

Edit..I have huge paws, and happen to have a Cryo2 in my pocket for reference.
http://i.imgur.com/oVmlp09.jpg

I would personally stay away from SOG. They are not as bad as some people on here may tell you but they just can't beat Spyderco, Benchmade and Kershaw. I would stick to these 3 brands when starting a collection and if you want you can expand to other companies. For a price range of $80 you might be able to get a Benchmade Griptilian or Mini-Griptilian. Remember that there are a TON of black coated blades out there. There is even a Black Blade Tenacious which is what I am recommending to you.

I wish I was in your position though. I got into knives about 3 months after I got Eagle. If you get the right knife you can be the coolest guy in the troop or even be the 'knife guy'. Anyway feel free to ask any questions.

I'll give you some options here instead of just one choice.

This CRKT is a wonderful tool.

If you'd like another Spyderco you can't go wrong with a Dragonfly or a Centofante III.

If you've never got a Kershaw they're killer knives for the price. The Leek is a great introduction.

Or, you could buy 2 knives with your fifty. Ontario's RAT I and RAT II are some sweet knives.

Depending on your taste. You simply cannot go wrong with any of these knives.

154cm is pretty good steel, should hold an edge for a while. It's not a supersteel, but pretty close..

Take a look at Lansky's sharpening system. It's pretty inexpensive, but I've used mine for years without any problems. With 154cm you might want to go with the diamond stones. You'll have a complete sharpening kit for around $75

So some will be a little more then 40 but the performance and customer service is worth it.

Cold Steel Extra Large Voyager Clip Pt. Plain https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DPW4LJG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_x3eXDbMZTEMNN

Buck Knives 119 Special Fixed Blade Knife with Leather Sheath - Black Handle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000EHWWJQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_H4eXDbKPRCS8H

Cold Steel Peace Maker II https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BD57RZW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Z5eXDbFY372C4

Ontario Knife Company 8667 Rat-5, Plain Edge with Black Nylon Sheath https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075NNXMSC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_06eXDbRS3PEXY


Buck Knives 620 Reaper Black Fixed Blade Survival Knife https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RQ7WQ2K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_e.eXDbT0Y0DW9

My main EDC knife is a Kershaw Cryo 2 I love it because I'm a fidgeter too and the assisted opening action on this knife is very satisfying to me. Its a little more than $30 on amazon right now but I got mine for about $25 so they do have sales on them. Also its slightly on the heavier side for the size and I know you said you wanted light. Personally I like the heft. If you can find one locally somewhere I'd recommend picking it up and flicking it open a few times.

Opinel makes good knives for hella cheap. I love 'em and think they're classy.

Nah, the Lansky Sharpening System is the best way for beginners to guarantee a nice edge.

It's like $25 on Amazon.

Spyderco Ambitious Folding Knife - Black G-10 Handle with PlainEdge, Full-Flat Grind, 8Cr13MoV Steel Blade and LinerLock - C148GP https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004MMSDHO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_0XoKDb340M13P

These guys go on sale and can easily be had in the sub-$40 range. Super solid for the money.

It's not wood-handled, but I'm sure you can order one that way for a little extra money. You simply can't go wrong with the Buck 119 for a decent fixed blade. The price is right, the warranty great. You can pay a lot more for a knife, but this one more than does the job.

For cheap assisted knives, Kershaw is the way to go. You can get an OSO sweet under $20, or a cryo under $25, both of which are popular around here in their price range. If you have a little more to spend, the Leek is a great choice.

Given the job and the terrain I'm imagining this is more of a general-abuse knife (ie, "sharpened pry-bar") than a dedicated cutter. Accordingly, I'd try not to spend a fortune on it.

Though they're not serrated I'd be inclined to get a couple of these (~$26 on Amazon) which are designed to be cheap abusable knives for this situation. If there's lots of prying to be done an interesting option would be to get a Breacher Bar, plus a sheath for it (such as this one but currently out of stock), wrap the handle with paracord and pair it with a decent folding knife (such as the RAT 1) for actual cutting.

Other usual suspects:

http://www.amazon.com/KA-BAR-Fighting-Utility-Serrated-Sheath/dp/B000BSZDP8

http://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-Short-Tanto-Point-Serrated/dp/B001EIALK6

http://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-Short-Fixed-Blade-Knife/dp/B000JMEWBC/ref=sr_1_5?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1334972468&sr=1-5

(NB: with the Ka-bars make sure you get 1095 carbon steel not 440A stainless.)

http://www.amazon.com/Cold-Steel-Kraton-Handle-Concealex/dp/B000BSY9AS

Or, for something rather smaller maybe an ESEE 3.

Edit: Just remembered the Glock 78 - again it's on the sharpened-pry-bar side of things and sheath and retention are probably better than most of the options above. (It's a proper Glock product and not just some random company that's licensed the name (I'm looking at you, Smith and Wesson) and IIRC is issued in the Austrian forces.) Available in black, olive green, and sand colours. There's also a saw-back version (the Glock 81 IIRC) but I'd recommend against that.

Hey if you can go $54.36, the KABAR kukri is a great machete. I’ve used it a lot backpacking trips.


amazon

Edit: Just re-read about budget - the first comment is a great idea!

I have several KA-BARs and love them all.

I love this one for camping: https://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-Becker-Combat-Bowie-Fixed/dp/B001IPKL7I

This one is always in my car (next to a small KA-BAR tanto, and SOG hatchet): https://www.amazon.com/KA-BAR-200038-BK3-Becker-Tool/dp/B001IPILMA

http://www.amazon.com/Tenacious-Black-Blade-Plain-Edge/dp/B007CK1MNU/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1334068084&sr=8-2 not in your price range but its only 40 dollars and its an amazing value

Another option, the Spyderco Ambitious. A lot along same lines, in your price range and offers some good quality for budget. It is not assisted like you like, but once you get the flick down using spyder hole, it is a fun little blade.
http://www.amazon.com/Spyderco-Ambitious-Black-PlainEdge-Knife/dp/B004MMSDHO

How cheap is cheap for you? You can get a combination synthetic whetstones for less than $10 and, if you are willing to put in a few hours learning something like this, they work better than any pull through sharpener and offer more versatility than most sharpening systems.

If you want it to be easy, too, I'd get this. The $15 could save you a lot of frustration.

I am a meat cutter and I use this Victorinox 10 inch knife and a smaller 6 inch victorinox for trimming steaks. I was wanting to know a good beginner sharpening kit I could get thats not to expensive. I am not sure what counts as a cheap price for stones, but I really don't want to spend more than $40-$50.

I also have this Kershaw pocket knife that has quickly chipped. Not sure if its the metal or what, but would like to know if I would have to buy a separate sharpening kit for a pocket knife.

Thanks!

I have this one - https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B009YKHZ96/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1524452138&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=worksharp+field+sharpener&dpPl=1&dpID=51gMWsQwGHL&ref=plSrch

It’s pretty good. I like how it is guided.

I agree with the BK2, but for something closer to your price range, add 5 bucks to it and get a Buck 119..I love this knife...Perfect for hunting, fishing and general shanking.
Buck 119

I'd go with a Kershaw. Good quality for the price. The Blur is a good knife, I have one. A Kershaw Leak is also a great knife. It's much more concealable.

http://www.amazon.com/Kershaw-Onion-Black-Smooth-Folding/dp/B0009VCA0I/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1398115825&sr=8-2&keywords=Kershaw+Blur

Get him something like this. Nice and light/easy to handle.

In all seriousness though, some kind of Victorinox would be good, maybe the Classic

Also, I think I've narrowed it down to 3

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0009VC9YK?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=ox_sc_act_title_1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00172A3DE?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=ox_sc_act_title_3&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001CZBDF8?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=ox_sc_act_title_2&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

Not looking for you to make the decision, but appreciate any insight you might have like the shape, finger groove etc. being good vs problematic for some people or otherwise.

Don't get this its no good. Don't get me wrong I love Gerber but the crap they have been shoveling out lately is no good. I had one of these. My brother and I were camping out in the woods. We need firewood so I thought a good time to try this new axe out. I let my brother use it first cuz am an awesome big brother like that. (Also side note we have been camping and survival training many many years now we diffidently know how do use axe properly) About 10 or 15 swings in the axe head broke off the handle and flew right by my head. The handle is hollow and weak. Just get this man you will be much happier.

http://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-2-1249-9-Black-Kukri-Machete/dp/B001H53Q8A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1332968543&sr=8-1

I know, I was joking, they say bladehq.com all over them :-D

For around $30, I'm a fan of Kershaw. The Leek and Scallion are sleek, and I just got an orange Skyline, which is more utilitarian and surprisingly light. I haven't tried the OSO Sweet, but you might like its shape and price.

You might try the Spyderco Dragonfly 2. 2.25" blade, great with a zip-tie mod for even easier opening, wonderful cutting power for such a small, compact blade.

Edit: I know you're not a fan of Spydercos, however the blade shape here really gives you maximum torque and control for how incredibly short of a blade you're restricted to.

Big Left, top to bottom:

Gerber Gator Jr.
Harbor Freight $8 survival knife
KA-BAR #1213 Black Straight Edge
Ka-Bar Short Kraton-G Handle

Big Right, top to bottom:

Schrade SCHKM1 Large Full Tang Fixed Blade Kukri
Schrade SCHKM1SM Small Full Tang Fixed Blade Kukri
Schrade SCHF9N

Small stuff, top row, left to right:

Bessey D-BKWH Quick-Change Folding Utility Knife - Wood Grain Handle
Some cheap Husky multitool I got at Home Depot two-for-five-bucks back in '10 or '11
CRKT Eraser

Small stuff, bottom row, left to right:;

SOG Aegis Mini
Kershaw Thistle
Spyderco Resilience

-----

The Harbor Freight was an impulse thing. Same with the cheap-o Home Depot multitools.

The rest is pretty budget-conscious stuff. No matter what, though, even though they're not considered top-of-the-line or whatever, nobody will ever convince me that Schrade doesn't make some pretty damn good knives.

This is a great little knife for the price; I have one and quite like it.

Spyderco Lightweight Delica, in gray - here. At $58.65 it's just a tad over your stated $50 limit, but I'm confident you'll like it.

7.125-inch open length
4.25-inch closed length
2.875-inch VG-10 steel blade
2.56-inch cutting edge
0.5-inch blade hole
0.09-inch blade thickness
2.5-ounce weight
FRN handle material

I've EDC'd a Spyderco Tenacious for about a year and I love it. If I had to replace it, I would easily consider another Tenacious, or a slightly smaller Persistence.

Part of me really wants a Leek but I'd also like a Kershaw Blur for the assisted opening, and if you can set aside an extra $20, you can spring for the version w/ S30V steel. All of these are within your price range.

As /u/TheUseOfWords said, it's a cool looking shape but uses 420 stainless steel (shitty, in other words). If you want it to look at or are willing to constantly be sharpening it, go for it, but I'd otherwise get an Opinel which looks similar (if not as pretty) and is a lot more utilitarian- though you'd have to take care of the steel a bit to prevent it from rusting.

If you want one for everyday carry, I've been using the Kershaw OSO Sweet as my EDC for quite awhile and absolutely love it.

If you're looking for something to put on your keychain, this might be a bit too big for you. Also "discreet" wouldn't necessarily work with this knife, so maybe not. Sorry :(

The Endura4 looks pretty good! I know this might be a stupid question but what would be the main difference between this and one of the cheaper knives like this Kershaw Emerson?

Is it steel type? Handle materials? Sharpness?

Also, what do you think of the Spyderco Resilience and Tenacious

How small of a knife would you be willing to purchase?
Any of the Spyderco Bug series would be a good choice. Priced right and come in different sizes.

[Bug](http://www.amazon.com/Spyderco-Slip-Joint-Plain-Knife/dp/B003788U9U/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1373555986&sr=8-1&
keywords=Spyderco+bug)

Honeybee

Grasshopper

All three deal


For opening boxes (cutting tape) any of those will suffice. If your cutting cardboard, then mostly the Grasshopper will do (although not efficiently)


Also an Opinel looks classy while still being functional. All different sizes to choose from too.

My current EDC. Kershaw 1830. Not serrated at all, but amazing for the price.

Spyderco's Byrd Cara Cara 2 is pretty good. It's my current EDC and its only 18 dollars currently
http://www.amazon.com/Spyderco-Cara2-Black-PlainEdge-Knife/dp/B0049AYJP4/ref=pd_sim_sg_5

I'd recommend a Spyderco Ambitious. Small, about $30, and won't be difficult to get used to carrying around.

http://www.amazon.com/Spyderco-Ambitious-Black-PlainEdge-Knife/dp/B004MMSDHO

For basic, in-the-field sharpening, I can't recommend Smith's Pocket Pal highly enough. It won't get your knives razor sharp, but it's great for basic "idiot proof" sharpening. I've used it sharpen my Ka-Bars, my Gerber Remix, my Leatherman knock-off, scissors, and lots of other blades. It's simple to use, even on serrated edges, and puts a good working edge on just about anything.

Coldsteel GI Tanto. I own it and love it. $25 cant go wrong. http://www.amazon.com/Cold-Steel-80PGTK-Tanto-Carbon/dp/B004H9DO4Y

For knives under 6" you can't beat this for a CONSISTENT super sharp razors edge.

http://www.amazon.com/Lansky-Diamond-Deluxe-Sharpening-System/dp/B000B8L6LS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1333493117&sr=8-2

Once you fall in love with it you will want this:

http://www.amazon.com/Lansky-Super-Sapphire-Polishing-Hone/dp/B000B8IEB8/ref=pd_bxgy_sg_img_b

Which will help you achieve that uber fine polished edge.

It may seem crazy, but it's cheap and couldn't be easier to use. Really, a monkey could put a razors edge on anything with this system with very little training.

Don't cut yourself (but I know you will anyway!)

Kershaw Cryo 2. Decent multi-purpose knife. Good value. Won't beat yourself up over it if you damage it. Plus it looks sexy.

I have a Ka Bar kurkri. I like it much better than a machete...

Spyderco Ambitious sounds like it would fit.

Edit: Or maybe a Cold Steel Tuff Lite

Lansky diamond hone deluxe kit puts ( for me ) stupid sharp edges on my knives I bought the ceramic stones to go with it and I get a mirror polish everytime...I'll probably upgrade to the KME in the distant future but for now my lansky does just fine and you're not spending $500+ dollars more like $80 - $100 .

• this is the one I have with the 1000grit ceramic and the blue sapphire hone I think it's 2000+ I have this one

Personally, I'd recommend either:
An Opinel.
Simple carbon steel (although they do stainless as well, if you'd prefer) pocket knife with a solid lock, really useful blade profile & edge geometry, and heaps of class. Can't praise these little things enough. My one complaint is that they're not one-hand-opening.
Or a Svord Peasant Knife Mini.
Again, about as simple as you can get in a folder, with a carbon steel blade, and no real locking mechanism to speak of; when you hold the knife, your hand wraps around the tang and keeps the blade from closing on your fingers. Very useful for outdoorsy kinda stuff, as in a pinch, you can thwack the spine of the blade with a big bit of wood to split kindling and whatnot, without worrying about a lock failure. The tang also means you can use your thumb to open it one handed. Only problem with the Svord is that the fit and finish is pretty shoddy. The grind can be kinda wonky, but as a practical odd-job knife, it's not the end of the world.

I would recommend a Spyderco Tenacious I have one, and it is probably the most sturdy folder I have. If that is a little big, you could always go with the Ambitious for less length. Finally, if you want to go still smaller, a Kershaw Cryo 2 may fit the bill. But I only have personal experience with the Tenacious.

At the top end of your budget there's the Spyderco Dragonfly and it fits all of your crieria.

You could also go with something a little more classic, like the Buck 501 or Uncle Henry. Though they both use 400 series stainless.

You might also like the Kershaw Black Gultch.

There's the Buck Nobleman that I've heard decent things about (440A).

And lastly, I don't consider it a party without a Boker.

Gi Tanto is the Best knife at the price 10/10 http://www.amazon.com/Cold-Steel-80PGTK-Tanto-Carbon/dp/B004H9DO4Y/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1415996488&sr=1-1&keywords=cold+steel+gi+tanto

the leek is prone to that problem from what i've gathered. i might suggest you re-profile it or get a different kershaw. i'd recommend the blur. it's a bigger and more capable knife imo. check it out next trip to walmart. i think youll like it.

I have a Smith's Pocket Pal, works great

Kabar Kukri

Great cheap beater kukri.

The Worksharp Field Sharpener is awesome. I've used it to sharpen small, medium, and large knives without an issue. Even my hatchet. It has everything you need to get a great edge on a blade but it's small enough you can throw it in a backpack.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009YKHZ96/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_vpsVCb71PVYZY

Just ordered this myself - http://www.amazon.com/Kershaw-8700BLK-Shuffle-Multi-Function-Knife/dp/B00I0RXHWS/ref=pd_bxgy_sg_img_y

This is my current EDC -
http://www.amazon.com/Kershaw-3812-Thistle-Folding-Knife/dp/B00I0RV72K/ref=sr_1_91?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1426258907&sr=1-91&keywords=kershaw+knives

Some other good ones -
http://www.amazon.com/Kershaw-3850-Swerve-Folding-Knife/dp/B00AU6NSFI/ref=sr_1_82?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1426258868&sr=1-82&keywords=kershaw+knives

http://www.amazon.com/Kershaw-1830-Stainless-Steel-Handle-SpeedSafe/dp/B00172A3DE/ref=sr_1_105?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1426258970&sr=1-105&keywords=kershaw+knives

http://www.amazon.com/Kershaw-8200GRY-Funxion-SpeedSafe-Knife/dp/B006YBYA32/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1418746570&sr=8-9&keywords=kershaw+funxion+emt

http://www.amazon.com/Ontario-8902-Utiliac-Folding-Knife/dp/B002VXO9BK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1418781567&sr=8-1&keywords=Ontario+Utilitac+II&pebp=1418781564939

Spyderco Ambitious

I carry mine in that little pocket or on my belt depending on the day. Its been 4+ years and its amazing.

http://www.amazon.com/Work-Sharp-WSGFS221-Guided-Sharpener/dp/B009YKHZ96/

This is my favorite field sharpener.

Sometimes I'll just take an ultra fine rod from my Spyderco Sharpmaker for quick little touch ups.

I have the black K-Bar kukri

http://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-2-1249-9-Kukri/dp/B001H53Q8A/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1414719045&sr=8-2&keywords=kabar+combat+kukri

There's a lot I like about it after 2 years of regular use. It's a really functional blade design, really durable, undeniable cool factor.

BUT mine has some flaws that I would like to avoid if I ever buy another one.
It is heavy. I mean it feels like you're swinging a mallet, not a machete. Good for tackling thick wood, terrible for light brush.

The inside curve is really tough to get sharp without a round stone. Makes it difficult to maintain when you use it like I do. It's the most frustrating knife I've ever sharpened. High grit Wet/dry paper on a telephone book works OK, but it takes a long time to repair nicks.

There is something about the top of the handle that makes it kind of uncomfortable when using it for long stretches. I think its the sharp corners of where the handle flanges out at the top. I may try to grind these round with a dremel and see what happens.

So I'd be interested to hear if this one avoids those problems. The handle does look more comfortable than mine.

I'd suggest you save up a little bit more and get something more worthwhile. A Spyderco Tenacious can be had for $34, for example.

If you are dead set on a $20 knife, atomedge's mention of a Byrd Robin or even a Byrd Cara Cara 2 would be a good place to start.

http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Sandvik-Military-4-1-Inch/dp/B009NZVZ3E/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1382540279&sr=8-2&keywords=mora+knife

http://www.amazon.com/Spyderco-Ambitious-Black-PlainEdge-Knife/dp/B004MMSDHO/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1382540355&sr=8-9&keywords=spyderco+tenacious

http://www.amazon.com/Opinel-No8-Carbon-Pocket-Knife/dp/B002SCUO04/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1382540386&sr=8-2&keywords=opinel

http://www.amazon.com/Svord-Peasant-Knives-Knife-Handles/dp/B004HV3A3W/ref=pd_sim_hg_15

All good quality knives under $30

You dont have to bother with it, honestly. I think i might have found one, and i dont want to take up your time. I might just buy it at the reenactment. if not...http://www.amazon.com/Buck-0119BKS-B-Special-Fixed-Blade/dp/B000EHWWJQ/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=5GMPSHFP41R3&coliid=I1BANATUJDVRT2

at the distance of inspection i will have, it should pass.

http://www.amazon.com/Gerber-31-000345-E-A-B-Pocket-Knife/dp/B002RILCLY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1396204876&sr=8-2&keywords=gerber+razor+knife

Small, simple, effective.

The delica and endura aren't necessarily combo edge, plain edge versions are very popular. Try the Kershaw Leek or other kershaw offerings, all are very sleek.

Currently I only have a Shun honing steel for my kitchen knives. I was considering buying a sharpening kit like these:

• Smich's CCKS
  
• Accusharp 001
  
• Smith's PP1

Watch murray carter on youtube, pick up a sharpening stone from a hardware store and practice.

Or buy one of these on amazon Work Sharp WSGFS221 Guided Field Sharpener https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009YKHZ96/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_eZaCyb9CW1MHG

Or this Work Sharp WSGSS Guided Sharpening System https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00X9KU3GO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_8ZaCybDZE6G0C

They are good for beginners and very versatile.

A Spyderco Military
https://www.knifecenter.com/item/SP36GPE/spyderco-c36gpe-military-folding-knife-s30v-satin-plain-blade-black-g10-handles

A Benchmade Contego
https://www.knifeworks.com/best-selling/benchmade-contego-810-1401-3-9-in-m390-stainless-blade-plain-edge.html

A Varusteleka Terava Skrama
https://www.varusteleka.com/en/product/terava-skrama-carbon-steel/30189?gclid=CjwKCAjw6vvoBRBtEiwAZq-T1d5uNsQfQiYZZF3_IMTAYXt95L0MML6Hgc7pwsw6j4rTbLhIYC2EpxoCTT4QAvD_BwE

A Varusteleka Terava Jaakaripuukko
https://www.varusteleka.com/en/product/terava-jaakaripuukko-carbon-steel/56524

Spyderco Sprig
http://www.nationalknives.com/spyderco-sprig-fb37ggrp-fixed-blade-knife-4-25-plain-edge-blade-forest-green-g-10-handle-sheath/

Spyderco Southfork
Out of production, but one of my favorite models. Unfortunately they are pricey even used.

Ontario Rat I
https://www.bladehq.com/item--Ontario-RAT-Model-1-Liner-Lock--36924

Becker BK9
https://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-Becker-Combat-Bowie-Fixed/dp/B001IPKL7I

Becker BK5
Out of production, but one of my favorite models. Unfortunately they are pricey even used.

Pretty sure this is not a pocket knife, but a utility knife. The kind that you can replace the blade on. Locking mechanism is likely on the other side. Link of example below

https://www.amazon.com/Gerber-Lite-Pocket-Knife-31-000345/dp/B002RILCLY/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1485374864&sr=8-3&keywords=utility+knife

Work Sharp Guided Field Sharpener https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009YKHZ96/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_jzNRDbMRGSRND

It has angled guides to help get you used to sharpening

be patient, it takes a little while to learn. but its well worth it. remember to wrap your index finger around the lighter, rather than trying to force the lighter into that crevice.

If you still want a knife, but no longer a bottle opener: this is my favorite

I'm not Military, but when my father was in the Marine Corps in the 70s he was issued a KaBar Big Brother.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004NN7NAA/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1504240595&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=kabar+big+brother&dpPl=1&dpID=31E-qMF2BsL&ref=plSrch

A lot of guys these days receive the Gerber 06 Auto

http://www.bladehq.com/item--Gerber-06-Automatic-Knife--1471

This is pretty much just the fixed blade version of the 06, but some guys get the Gerber LMF

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0009JVOCA/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1504240771&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=gerber+lmf&dpPl=1&dpID=31Yjv1xqlVL&ref=plSrch


And the most common military issue fixed blade is the classic Kabar Fighting Knife.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001AIAIP8/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1504240839&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=kabar&dpPl=1&dpID=31wN6v6RMlL&ref=plSrch

The EAB Lite might be what you're looking for, it's very reasonably priced and allows you to use common utility razor blades that can be easily switched.

Not too far from the sticks though. (It's a joke, I have and like this knife, but down vote away.)

This is all you need. You could buy 3 with your gift card. Seriously, not all knives have to have military color schemes.

I think the leek is a much sexier knife in the kershaw line. No plastic in it's construction and an assisted opener. The amazon pic doesn't really do it justice though.

The chill is a damn nice knife that doesn't cost a lot, but sexiest? Not quite.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003CHANLO/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1510161174&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=delica+4&dpPl=1&dpID=41w6rWFbu4L&ref=plSrch

You can find it in ZDP as well as different blade shapes and waves and whatnot. None of them would break 100 bucks.

Kershaw Cryo 2 https://www.amazon.com/Kershaw-Knives-1556TI-Pocket-Knife/dp/B00AU6NWP4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497505790&sr=8-1&keywords=cryo+2 the kershaw cryo and Ontario rat are pretty much the two higest regarded budget knives in their price category but the cryo has more of what your looking for.

https://www.amazon.com/Gerber-Lite-Pocket-Knife-31-000345/dp/B002RILCLY. They sell these at Lowes for 8 bucks and they're still kinda cool. I'd say carry BOTH and use that for throats and ne'er-do-wells and a box cutter for boxes.

Buy from amazon first of all! Found that same tenacious for [$40] (http://www.amazon.com/Spyderco-Tenacious-Black-Handle-Blade/dp/B007CK1MNU/ref=sr_1_2?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1370645397&sr=1-2&keywords=spyderco+tenacious) and I saw a clash for $22.

If you just want the cutting advantages of a ceramic blade, why not get something like the Gerber EAB Lite and put ceramic utility blades in there?

Amazon acts as an escrow, so of course the money hasn't even been withdrawn from my account yet since it wasn't shipped out. If you look on an Amazon price [history] (http://camelcamelcamel.com/Kershaw-Onion-Black-Smooth-Folding/product/B0009VCA0I?context=browse) the knife has dropped to as low as $30 while being fulfilled by Amazon, so $15 isn't that extraordinary. And as I've stated earlier, it's not a mistake as much as we all want to believe that. There's no reason a shop would open for five days, take hundreds of orders for a vast array of items, and cancel all of them while changing shop name at the same time. And as stated earlier as well, on the Complaints Board (a place to check online stores for legitimacy via reviews) all of the complaints all follow the same fishy pattern.

Get a buck 119. They're on sale right now on amazon

http://www.amazon.com/Buck-0119BKS-B-Special-Fixed-Blade/dp/B000EHWWJQ

Give Spyderco a try, you won't be disappointed. A Tenacious is just under your max budget.

You can get a Kershaw cryo2 for that price range and it's a solid knife.

Kershaw Knives 1556TI Cryo II
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00AU6NWP4/

Can’t go wrong with OKC for the price. Another option might be a Becker BK9.

https://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-Becker-Combat-Bowie-Fixed/dp/B001IPKL7I

They’re both made from one of the standard “big knife” steels, but I can assure you that the BK9 is as tough as they come. My buddy’s has seen hard use year after year and the edge it still pristine. It’s all about the heat treatment and both companies have their proprietary method. For my money, I just think the Bowie shape is much better suited to daily chores as opposed to a kukri design, which was primarily for combat.

Anyway, just my 2¢.

If you have a smaller knife for camp chores such as carving, food prep, fishing and lighter duties, you may want to check out the Becker BK9 as a heavy use blade that you can baton with.

You could try using a whetstone or if you plan on sharpening more knives theres the [Worksharp](Work Sharp Knife & Tool Sharpener https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CVN8HV5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_4dSiDbE15AM4P) or there's the [Sharpmaker](Spyderco 204MF Triangle Sharpmaker https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000Q9C4AE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_SfSiDb6Z4RQ96). If its just a SAK then id just use [this](Smith's PP1 Pocket Pal Multifunction Sharpener, Grey https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000O8OTNC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ZgSiDbZ9N142D)

http://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-2-1249-9-Black-Kukri-Machete/dp/B001H53Q8A/ref=pd_cp_hi_0

I got this one. I have absolutely abused it to hell and back in the past two years. I have never sharpened it and it's still sharp. It still looks great.

I love it.

I agree it's a thin knife so it's pretty low profile
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0009VC9YK/ref=mp_s_a_1_2/192-0371227-4240206?qid=1452718021&sr=8-2&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=kershaw+leek&dpPl=1&dpID=31Lj8DrjepL&ref=plSrch

The Kershaw Black Leek.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0009VC9YK/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_i_ano4CbWHPH91T

http://www.amazon.com/Kershaw-Onion-Black-Smooth-Folding/dp/B0009VCA0I/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1397301659&sr=8-2&keywords=blur+knife

If you would rather spend more time sharpening and less money, then go with a Lansky sharpening jig. They make 3 and 5 stone sets:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000B8L6LI/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=13WRHYXC9PQV4&coliid=I1W91L5C7EZMB6

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000B8L6LI/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1511067414&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=lansky+kit&dpPl=1&dpID=51RQXn40slL&ref=plSrch

+

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000B8L6NG/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1511067237&sr=8-4&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=lansky+kit&dpPl=1&dpID=51BaDAQP9dL&ref=plSrch

Lansky Sharpening System with Stand

Amazon

YouTube

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000B8L6LS/

Consider: http://www.amazon.com/Buck-0119BKS-B-Special-Fixed-Blade/dp/B000EHWWJQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1320989368&sr=1-1

Check Smith's Pocket Pal
https://www.amazon.com/Smiths-PP1-Pocket-Multifunction-Sharpener/dp/B000O8OTNC

My fancy sharpening stone set disappeared many years ago. So I just bought one of these.

Smith's PP1 Pocket Pal Multifunction Sharpener

I use if on everything from my Swiss Army Knife all the way to my Ka-bar.

It's this one (link provided for example only).

How about this?

Here is a compromise. Ka-Bar 2-1249-9 Kukri https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001H53Q8A/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_AVH6wb14H4XQG

https://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-Becker-BK9-Combat-Bowie/dp/B001IPKL7I

http://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-Becker-BK9-Combat-Bowie/dp/B001IPKL7I/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1398719025&sr=8-1&keywords=bk-9

Gerber EAB & 250 blades (5x 50 packs) Irwin Industrial Tools Bi-Metal Blue Utility Blade, 50-Pack

I can open boxes for the rest of my life!

For an EDC: 2x Spyderco Delica 4

best bang for the buck. seriously