more of a safety knife something thats durable and versatile, something that can handle rough tasks if necessary
First off, welcome to Blade Forums

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Glad you're here. :thumbup:
Single knife approach:
Bottom line is if you want something that can handle the rough stuff, forget about a folder...because.....they obviously are designed to fold, and require some maintenance from time to time because of the locking mechanisms that all share, no matter what style of lock they have; for the $ Check out an Esee Izula 2.
You will forget about it in your pocket, or you can wear it as a neck knife, no clip on the outside of your pants, and the steel is time tested to meet a variety of needs...whether cutting, prying, or basically any other task you would need from an EDC.
Ergonomics are great, and beat out any folder I have ever had for extended use..
If you can afford more:
Go with a combo approach...once you get the Esee, get a good Swiss Army knife with the tools you like to accompany it, but before that, get a good multitool like a Leatherman Charge Ti.
With a combo approach you'll have all you need for specialized situations, but again, if you are talking about a single EDC...that can "handle rough stuff" and won't send you into debt...get an Esee Izula 2.
Great warranty..US made.., and has over time had more time in my pockets than Spyderco, Reeve, or Strider ( to name a few).
Peace, and all the best in your search,
Seth
My well loved (and used) Esse Izula 2 (middle):
