Help me choose a EDC 100 - 150$ range..

[dangerhack]

I know you said mainly looking at Benchmade but I'm going to be that guy...

It doesn't have a lanyard "hole", but does have a "post" in the back of the handle for attaching a lanyard. Assisted 3.25" blade. Only thing it lacks in your description is obviously the axis lock.[/QUOTE
Very nice I do love the aggressive look of zt knives am carbon fiber isnsick

 

[fishiker]

+1 for the ZT 0566

 

[K.O.D.]

Spyderco Gayle Bradley. $140~ if you do your research. CPM-M4 hollow ground blade, 3.5", carbon fiber scales.

I don't care for a/o, but if that's your thing, Kershaw/ZT are the best in the business. In your price range, I'd look at the 0350, 0566, and 0770.

Despite going against every fiber of my being, being nearly everything I dislike, my orange BM 585 mini-barrage is a nice knife. Check out its big brother the regular Barrage.