Personnel that go about the everyday business of soldiering have their favorite tools that work for them during FTEs (Field Training Exercises.) Here is where guys have their gear with them until lost or stolen. Some decent steel can be seen in this catagory.
Special Forces also have their favorites and quality steel can be seen here as well, but many times gear doesn't make it back from a mission as it is either lost or jettisoned. For this reason, a guy who has a $300 fixed blade, may bring an issued or cheaper substitute when the likelihood of it being history is present.
In consideration of the above, it could be misleading to consider what is used on Ops by SF. Various knife makers with commercial availability have had contracts for knives used by SF.
An everyday soldier may need a good knife for thirty years. A SEAL may need a knife for thirty minutes.
[This message has been edited by Nimrod (edited 01-07-2001).]