ZT 0350, ZT 0200, or blur.
ZT 0350. the steel is S30V, which is a favorite of many forumites, and keeps an edge very well. the blade length is 3 1/4 inch, which makes it pretty chunky. it is a liner lock, and is assisted. the knife is lighter than the 0200, but heavier than some other offerings. Price~110.
ZT 0200. This knife is my primary EDC in case everything goes to heck and i need a knife i can depend on. the handle is amazing, the ergos are great, the blade steel is good, the blade is long and has a good ratio of thickness to length. it is unassisted, and is a liner lock (note- the liners on these things are huge. i would not hesitate a second do anything with it.) the only downside is that it is heavy, but this will not be a problem if you wear jeans or something with a belt. if you work in sweats, this could be a problem. other then that, it will not matter that much. Price: ~125
Kershaw Blur. this knife is fast opening, the blade is very nice and practical, the steel is nice in the more expensive ones, and the handle is great. the handle is aluminum, and so it feels great, but they also put in a very grippy insert so that it is really easy to grip securely. it is light, the clip is nice, and it is so much fun to flick. it is a liner lock, bet it is nowhere close to the 0200 in strength, so take that into account. Price: ~90
All these knives are made in America.
It is my opinion that you should go to a store and try many options before you make your decision. this could turn out to be an expensive mistake if you do not like it.