Benchmade, Spyderco, or Kershaw?

[craytab]

delica 4. combined with preon 2 (thats what i recomend for a flashlight) the price is under 150)

This would be the way I would lean if I were you and I liked the spyderco look. I don't have a spyderco (I don't like the funky hole thing or blade shape) and I don't have a benchmade, the delica 4 is on my list (despite the look, I know, weird) and represents an excellent value.

Further, you never really stated what you want this knife to do other than EDC? That is a broad range of tasks. I often carry 2 EDC blades, one for light work (like the skyline or a CRKT lake) along with another heavier fold for if I need something tougher but is much less people friendly. The question of what you expect from this knife will significantly dictate what you get.

Do look at kershawguy. There is a ZT0350SW (?) there now for $95. This and a Preon 2 would put you at budget with both a serious light and a serious knife. BTW, nice choice on the light. I have the Preon 1 and love it. You can get different bodies that will transform between the 1 & 2 for cheap. Really nice feature in the series.

 

[Cardiackid]

In the 3.5" category, I have a Benchmade Griptilian, Spyderco ParaMilitary 2 and a ZT 350. I love the PM2, but it is a special edition in M390 steel. The M390 is an awesome steel, but outside of your price range. You can get a 350 blemish within your price range, but it is not a light knife. I would recommend the Grip. It is 2oz. lighter than the 350 and incredibly smooth. Personally, I would recommend you go a little over your budget and get the Doug Ritter version. It has a redesigned blade and better steel. The s30v will hold an edge a lot longer than the standard 154cm.