So I'm not into knives at all really. I have a gerber multitool I wear at work and bring around that is often very handy. But otherwise don't drink the knive cool aid.

Recently I've kinda decided I do want to get (1) and I mean One. Not starting a collection of 20 knives like a lot of guys tend to do. My friends Army Gerber I liked, 4-5 inches, sharp as hell, but beat it up prying and other uses as well as not being something I'd want pointed at me. After seeing the knife laws for 3.5 inch in colorado I've been having some trouble finding what I want. I'm a fan of a pretty basic straight edged thicker (more abuse?) type knife. No bizzare spyderco's. Not in the market for some of these $200 knives either as knice as they are.

I am looking for something that could be used for defense is needed. (Which the multitool can't do well except for gouging with the pliers) But still be used for small time utility work/trimming my nails when bored etc. This is primarily for work where we still have a pants on head retarded policy of having firearms, but they are locked in the safe.... (This is worked on being changed but until then..)

So far CRKT has jumped out as having a lot of styles I like, though several are just over the 3.5 limit. Given I live across the street from work and that I will only wear at work, I think I'm ok with going a little over as I likely wouldn't ever have an issue.

Ones I've written down as being a fan of in no particular order. :
Ignitor
Fire Spark
M16 -01KS and -10KS
Delegate -1055
M21 G10
Foresight (Tad pricey. )
Vertex



So any advice/pointers/laughing @ my choices etc? Also wondering if any good places in NOCO that would have a lot to look at/fondle these? I know Jensens has a knife case but didn't seem like the ones I like. (All little micro folders or big ol bowie tactical types.)