I'm a new member here but a long time appreciator and collector of blades. One thing has been consistent with my opinion of particular knives as with anything else: change. I've gone from one end of the knife spectrum and back again, but what I've ultimately discovered is that use shapes long-term preferences. That means just buying a few, preferably cheap but well-regarded knives, and going on the adventures required to test them really will determine what works for you. Then, when you get an idea for what kind of edge retention you'd like, handle shape, blade shape and length works for you, spending money on this new hobby doesn't seem so haphazard.
For camping or hunting adventures, I'd recommend a two-blade combination. One for food-prep and light stuff, the other for heavier stuff. If you're hunting, definitely keep one edge in reserve for meat processing if you're after big game. The Rat-1 by Ontario is excellent for the price point as a hard-use folding knife that can double (kinda) as a tactical carry folder. I've had a lot of fixed blades but I don't claim to be an expert there; the Becker guys always seem to be the most enthusiastic. Last weekend, when I was doing 10-12 miles a day with thousands of feet of elevation change searching for Elk, I was perfectly happy carrying an 8-ounce Mora sheath knife. Your knives should integrate with your gear. Going lightweight? Carry a tough but dependable knife with good edge retention that doesn't require a lot of sharpening. Driving an RV? Have a knife for every job. Trust fund? Get the best supersteels available.
But, I think, having held the mike way too long and the crowd is starting to groan, you should just buy a knife and get out there and use it.
