high(er) edge retention slipjoint/lockback

znode said:
Definitely, but the Spyderco shape is at the least nontraditional. Here I'm basically preparing for the worst in the urban jungle - the possibility that I might have to use it in front of people in power that I have never met before. Basically, I should not hesitate a bit to use it, and traditional-looking knives meet that criteria.
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If you think a byrd is still too much, I'm guessing swiss army is your best bet then, it's probaby as non-threating as they come.
 
Here is a Queen stockman I just received in D2, sounds like what you're looking for. Also a Buck stockman and SAK Soldier.

5zpcjmg.jpg
 
Optimally yes, reduce the primary grind to minimize the edge profile. You can probably file it and then smooth it out with a coarse stone.

-Cliff
 
If you can go to $50, have a look at the Fallkniven U2, a small lockback, with SGPS steel at Rockwell 62. Takes a wicked edge and holds it very well. It is also a very basic shape and not 'tactical' looking at all.
I can't believe it hasn't been mentioned yet.
Greg
 
Yes! the Fallkniven U-2 would be a perfect choice. It has top notch steel (right up there with ZDP-189) and is a very simple looking knife.

http://www.newgraham.com/detail.aspx?ID=5298
(I couldn't find it in stock for $50 at the moment, you might want to call NGK and ask when they are getting more.)

You might also want to take a look at Buck's custom shoppe. You can get the Buck 110 in ATS-34 or BG-42 (recommended). It's a little over your price range ($84 with BG-42), but that is still a very nice knife for the price.

http://www.buckknives.com/custom_knife_shoppe.php
 
Howdy neighbor,
I also am in San Diego (IB). The only trouble I have had with the blade challenged is with the corporate twits at our Eastern headquarters who have tried to ban all blades in the corporation. Our local site administration has bowed to them to the extent of reducing the blade length limit from 3" to 2 1/2", but there is still no limit on style.

Outside of work I usually carry a Native III (3") or my large Dozier (3.6"). Never had any problems, but then I only pull my knife out if there is some cutting to do and no one seems to have an issue with it. That includes the Chula Vista police officer who helped me recover my stolen car. Not even a raised eybrow.
 
For that purpose, I like the Queen D2 models the best. You can find several in your $40 price range with natural handles (look at cumberland knife works or sooner state knives). As noted, about half come with obtuse edges that need to be reprofiled. Once that is done, they hold an edge well.

FWIW, Kalifornia state law does not limit folder size on college campus. Individual schools or municipalities (such as LA) may have more strict rules.
 
If you are going to be on a college or any kind of school campus make sure you know the state law regarding schools and/or the schools policy. Although it may be legal to carry knife X in the state as a whole many states have additional laws banning "weapons" which includes knives from school campuses and possesion in those places can be charged as a felony. Also even if you don't get in state trouble some schools policies forbid knives and being caught with one on campus may be grounds for dismissal. I've seen janitors/maintence people have to switch to that new leatherman without a knife blade because of such laws, bottom line just make sure you know the knife laws where you will be and you will be fine.

Case Sodbusters are great knives but I find the handles too thick for pocket carry for my taste. The small BUCK lockbacks are great knives, also check out the Spyderco Dragonfly or Cricket, small but very useful and non-threatening.
 
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