Newb Question (recommendations)

I'm not a knife guy. So Looking for some noobie suggestions on a knife for carry and every day use. First are there any legal issues I need to be aware of. Is there any length that won't get me hassled, I believe I read 3" but not too sure on that. Autos are a no-go in CO if I'm reading it right?

So really I'd like some recommendations on a good knife. I'm not picky about brand nor am I looking to make friends with my knife. Looking to Keep it below $100 for my first knife the GOV didn't buy for me.

Assuming we're talking about folders - pretty much any good brand will do the job(Benchmade, SOG, Spyderco, etc.)
I personally carry SOG Flash II - very nice EDC knife IMO.
3.5 blade is a limit (from what I understand)
Autos are no go, unless you're LEO (again from my understanding)
I've tried EDC fixed blade - not my thing/too much attention..

As far as folders go recommend you go to Sportsman's Or Gander or someplace and hold a few, try them out. You might like the assisted opening or hate it and there are numerous choices even in the design of that feature that may feel awkward or may feel natural. There a couple styles that require monkey fingers to operate IMO and are slower to open than a non-assisted. Some folks can't stand liner locks or might dislike the grip material once they feel it. Blade design/shape is a very personal thing and will likely be a major factor in your decision. Personally I wouldn't own a Spyderco but that's not to imply there is a thing wrong with them I just don't like them, same as some folks don't like Glocks (no really!) though I am a huge fan of Benchmade for example.

Usually well-known brands are a fairly safe bet, the quality of a knife is tied up in the steel used and the construction. Among other things grip materials, where it was made (US or import) influence the price and be an indicator quality as well. Just like cars, stereos or anything else many of the "top" brands command a premium due to their popularity and in the strictest sense are over-priced for what they are but many folks will pay it to have the "coolest" thing. YMMV but there are many very fine blades produced by custom makers and some of the more mainstream brands such as Buck.

Unfortunately I've never been able to settle on a single knife EDC or otherwise and you will probably end up with a drawer full like most of the rest of us. Personally I currently carry a CRKT Ignitor T most days (an inexpensive EDC) but various other knives depending on what I plan to do that day.

edit: one other thing to consider is where/what you are doing. I never carry expensive knives when I'm doing construction or electrical work as they tend to get lost. Seems minor but I have lost a ton of knives that way and it does influence what I carry.

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Originally Posted by Whistler

edit: one other thing to consider is where/what you are doing. I never carry expensive knives when I'm doing construction or electrical work as they tend to get lost. Seems minor but I have lost a ton of knives that way and it does influence what I carry.

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There is a lot of truth in this. The more expensive knife, the more likely it is to be lost. On the other hand, my brother asked to borrow my knife when he was helping me roof my house. After about 15 minutes of him cutting shingles with my Benchmade, I realized what he was doing and gave him a razor knife.

I like Gerber knives as well, as they are fairly inexpensive, and so far it has held up well. Easy to sharpen and hold a pretty good edge.

kershaw leek is a great edc it is what I find myself carring the most its cheap, small, feels good in the pocket, and its sharp, assisted opening, the only downfall is the blade is kind of thin so you cant pry on stuff or use it as a screwdriver and its a liner lock wich most people dont like but ive never ever had this one fail in the 5 years ive had the leek http://www.trueswords.com/images/pro...k_1660_540.jpg

Well,...dont be disgruntled if you wind up with a small box of different blades. As most have alluded to, a lot about EDC's are "Feel". What serves YOUR purpose, what feels good in YOUR hand, what opens well for YOU. You'll probably have to play with a few in actual use. Definately handle as many as possible before you buy. That'll eliminate a lot.
I've used expensive ($500ish) EDC's but i've been afraid to use them for things i'd use my $50 blades for. I sold them. They were of no benefit if you are afraid you might scratch or break them.
If i'm not in the urban areas i prefer a fixed blade. But fixed blades scare sheeple and widen the eyes of some law enforcement.
Strictly self defense is different then a work tool.
Do you have any martial arts training?
Karambits are great EDC's if you've worked with them.
Most recently i've been carrying a 5.11 Double Duty Karambit and it does everything i want, it's very well made, and can be had for about $70.
Try a variety.

Keep it at or under 3.5" and stay away from auto/switch blades. Spring assist is okay.

Find a store with a good knife selection and start fondling.

Benchmade and Kershaw are my two favorite companies. Good steel. Good ergonomics. Good selection.

http://pic100.picturetrail.com/VOL68.../400402055.jpg

I just used my EDC knife, and it is a Kershaw. For the last several months I have been carrying it, I thought it was a Gerber. My description is for the Kershaw, to correct myself.

I have a Kershaw Speedsafe (spring assist) and I love it.

Another vote for Kershaw. Mine is a Volt II, assisted opening, inexpensive but decent quality for EDC. Not out megabucks if I should lose it.

http://www.kershaw-knives.net/images...st-600x500.jpg