As a modern knife guy what traditional folder as my first

[ConBon]

For you guys who like the expensive stuff (and that is legitimate), the only warning here is that traditional patterns vary a lot more in design than moderns do. Recommend figuring out your preferred patterns on less expensive brands before dropping big bucks on customs.

I second this. I am actually considering buying a Rough Rider in a new pattern to try both RR and a new pattern.

One word: Stockman.
I hold the stockman to be the ruler of the traditional world, in both utility and popularity.

Another contender being the jack knife. Here's my opinel along with a Camillus jack knife, and my favorite lighter.

Connor