Hi All,
Well, it seems I've at least got people expressing themselves! Having lurked around more at other forum subjects I've found that this isn't necessarily a unique event.
Possibly a few admissions/confessions may be due on my part:
1) I do want a knife that is as strong as a tractor, and I want one that I personally find at least moderately attractive. Cutting like a Ferrari is optional - I'll take the cutting performance of, say, a Ford - as long as I can get it sharp. (I feel I should also add here that it's looking as if the Howling Rat from Swamp Rat knives may just fit this bill - including the Ferrari-like cutting ability - for under $100. If you haven't looked at this company, I strongly suggest you do. After seeing several additional pictures of the knife, it's actually better looking than I initially thought.) Also, I feel it's rather sad if there are people out there carrying knives they find ugly when there are so many options available.
2) I do, regretably, possess an ego.
3) I WANT (i.e. don't NEED) to carry a stout fixed blade knife while on duty on my job. I imagine there are more than a few people on these forums that would share that desire if it were an option.
4) When I complete the process of equipping my vehicle, I will be carying (among other things): Long prybar; short prybar; bolt cutters; various other hand tools in a tool box; various surgical instruments (forceps, hemostats, scissors, etc.); 2 ladders; portable cable winch; dart gun for chemical immobilization; field euthanasia kit; evidence collection kit; camera; video camera; flood light; various gloves/gauntlets; various nets; various other animal capture tools - including catch poles; field stretcher; human first aid kit; animal first aid kit; road emergency kit (flares, etc). On my person, I do/will be carrying (among other things): cell phone; keys; prybaby; folding knife - right front pocket; sabre hard-case pepper spray - left front pocket; stinger flashlight; latex gloves; leather gloves; paramedic kit (shears, tweezers, forceps); one stout fixed blade knife (hopefully). In other words, I plan to be prepared.
The knife I'd like does exist. In fact there are many examples - several that have been recommended by fellow knife nuts on this very thread. The primary problem with many of these recommendations has been price - even here I might get lucky with a Christmas present.
Lastly, let me once again say thanks for all the suggestions, and if anyone else has other examples for <$200 let me know.
SCDUB
