I've had good luck with my SAK Farmer, but for a tough little lock blade knife I really like my Kershaw OD-1. It does a great feather stick and makes a fine carver. It is hollow ground and the tip is thin, but damn, even thin steel can cut wood just fine! I just wouldn't place alot of pressure on the tip, light drilling would be fine.
I don't here many folks is this forum mention Kershaw, but they make a really great knife for the price. You might not like everything in their line (I know I don't), but they do some nice little Made in the USA folders for under $50.00.
I've got a Packrat on the way, after I get a chance to use it I'll post a quick review of it and the OD-1.
Brandon