I think this question of peacable carry is one more knifenuts should actively think about. Although self defense is a legitimate concern, knives should be carried with the idea of utility first and foremost. The reasons are as follows: a) the odds at any time of a mugging are fairly low; b)guns are so common that most criminals have access to them and most of us do not want to put a gun against a knife; c) carrying a knife that is legally designated a weapon and using might well get us into more trouble than letting a chump take your wallet.
That being said, I am not anti-knife carry. I just think that a legal sized one hander that can legitimately be described as a utility knife makes the most sense from a protection and legality standpoint.
Since I have talked so much, I guess I should answer he question. My favorite peacable carry item is the Leatherman Micra. This is the most inoffensive cutting tool imaginable!
Any of the under 3inch SAKs are great also. Plus one should not forget the Camillus U.S. army etc. knives. As for one handers, the Benchmade 705 Axis, Spyderco Native, Delica, or Standard are my favorites. These aren't too intimidating if you don't flick them.
