Recommendation? Anyone want to help me spend my money?

You mentioned the mini bugout and mini griptilian, great choices. Have you considered the regular sized bugout? Also the mini freek (really spending your money now ;)) and mini presidio are small options.

Others to consider. Spyderco native, lil native. Hogue deka. Hogue x1 micro, manual version.
I wouldn't object to any of those full-sized models, but I think the minis fit what I'm shooting for a little better. The Mini Freek was actually on The Short List when I stumbled into the trade in which I got the Sequel a few years ago. I think it may have to go back on The Short List. I remember handling a Bugout, and was unimpressed because the scales (I now know what they're called . . . ) seemed flimsy. So I was thinking some titanium or aluminum scales for that. Besides, I'd kind of like the idea of a customized knife, even if I can't afford a true custom.

Again, than you all for the suggestions. They've helped me eliminate some, but then made me look at others. So far, I think we're at a zero sum
 
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I will say that’s a sexy little knife! If I wasn’t firmly in the Mnandi camp I would give that a hard look.
I picked one up last week as it was on sale at a price I literally could not say no to.

banana for scale.

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the eklipse is the banana
 
Here’s my two suggestions but there are so many options out there.
1) CRK small 31 Micarta inlay
2) Bm 535-3 CF
Not in any particular order
 
Hey Spats.....I was kind of in the same boat last week in deciding what to buy. Having bought a few knives over the years, I decided I probably should go slightly smaller and lighter.

I have always carried a knife and have a very very modest collection. Just never went as far as getting on forums etc. but this place is a wealth of information and I am glad I joined up. But in researching what I wanted I identified 3 others that I would like to buy ASAP so this kicked into overdrive or maybe a mild obsession according to the wife. Fine by me though.
 
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Based on the specs you laid out my immediate thought was a Mnandi. Probably the best gentleman's folder on the market IMO. The bog oak and Macasar ebony models are 400 new, but can often be found for less on the secondary in like-new condition. If I were to choose another option, the Lionsteel TRE has been tempting me lately. Comes in a variety of configurations and looks pretty sleek.
 
Here are some relatively tame knives that might fit. From left to right and smallest to largest: two different versions of the Mini Begleiter from Kizer, a modified Civivi Bo, a BHQ Exclusive Elementum in S35VN, the Sencut Neches, and the WE Beacon. All the blades are under 3" until the Neches at 3.2". The Beacon has just under a 3.5" blade. While the Beacon is the flattest knife here and carries very well for its size, it does feel noticeably longer in hand.

The WE Beacon is the most expensive knife here while the Sencut Neches (also made by WE) is the cheapest. Coincidentally, those are the two easy competitors for my favorite knife here. I've upgraded both of them to Skiff bearings and both are fantastic. The Neches is only running 10Cr15CoMov but that's effectively Chinese VG-10.

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Looks like made in usa isnt as important as quality is to you so i would look at the italian knives. Lionsteel and viper make some affordable knives with very good steel that will take that sharp edge you want. They have too many for me to list here. I believe im allowed to mention collectorknives… you can head over to his website and take a look at those brands just watch out for those slipjoints and maybe the d2.

I would think the ability to slow roll open the blade would be nice in the office setting but as ive seen some assisted knives mentioned here… if its legal and you dont think youll scare too many people with an auto, there is zero reason (price?) not to buy a microtech. Especially if you are using it to open letters and the sort. It can still be opened discreetly if around the meek.
 
Besides the Advocate, a Small Sebenza with an inlay would be nice. I have one with grey Micarta and it presents fine. You'd have to specify dual thumb studs, though.

Also, I think the Bugout is available with metal handles from the factory. I think my buddy has one.
 
As mentioned earlier, Civivi Rustic Gent is a locking small folder and has a very well done grind, slicey as can be and is also offered with damascus blade as well.

Untitled by GaryWGraley, on Flickr

G2
 
don't think i saw this mentioned - what about the crkt ceo? ticks all the boxes other than where it's manufactured, and i've never seen a knife more ready to be the sharpest letter opener in the office. i don't own any, but have played around with a friend's and they're more interesting in person than i'd given them credit for.

I stumbled upon this on on the internet and it seemed like it was purpose driven for just these kind of jobs.

 
Do yourself a favor and have a look at these 2 knives Spats McGee Spats McGee :

Civivi Appalachian Drifter 2 in S35VN steel and Snakeskin Micarta scales. It's a beatiful classic looking, hollow ground knife.

Kizer Azo Vanguard Mini Begleiter in Bohler N690 steel and green Micarta scales. Beautiful Wharncliff style blade.

These are 2 of my favorite office-type every day carry non-threatening knives, both with very deep carry pocket clips and both under a hundred bucks.

They both also take an insane edge.
 
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