looking for my first good knife

[UpChUcK]

I'd echo theedge13's recommendation for the Buck Vantage Pro. You get the much touted 330V steel, G-10 handle scales in a strong liner lock. The handle is comfortable and the blade size and shape is nice for EDC. I have one in my EDC rotation.

Check out the Kershaw Skyline too. It is still my favorite EDC knife and gets the most use/carry. It is US made but you can get it from WalMart for $35. The Kershaw Leek is also an great EDC and is assisted opening if you like that. The Leek (all black) is also available at Walmart but is more expensive at $50.

The above are all ~3" blades, which is my EDC size choice. For a ~4" blade, the Endura 4 FFG (full flat grind is a great choice. I had the Endura 4 w/ the saber grind and didn't like it so much but it was a tough knife because of the saber grind. Then I got a Endura 4 G-10 w/ FFG and that is a terrific knife. The FFG is a bit more than the price limit that you set @ ~$60, but I feel it is worth the extra cost.

 

[Brad "the butcher"]

After using a RAT-1 for a couple years now I think it is the best bang for the buck around.
Really good slicing drop point and solid as hell.
for the 25 to 30$ they go for it is a steal.

 

[soapboxpreacher]

man...a RAT 1 folder is hard to beat IMO and would cost you about half your limit. I use the hell outta mine and it asks for more. Matter of fact i was weeding the yard the other day and i had some kind of stubborn deep rooted weeds that i used the knife to exterminate. didnt hurt it at all..

I have this one:

•Features
•4-Position Pocket Clip
•Reversible Thumb Stud
•AUS-8 Steel 57-59RC
•Open Post Construction
•Hardened Stainless Steel Liners
•Heavy-Duty Liner Lock
•Cutting Edge: 3.25 in
•Open Length: 8.6 in
•Closed Length: 5.0 in
•Weight: 5 oz

Touch shy of 4" blade but honestly it is enough...especially for a folder. A Buck Vantage Pro Small may work too... better steel

smaller blade yet..but still...plenty IMO Vantage Pro Large has the same size blade as the RAT 1.

•Blade: 2 5/8" (6.7 cm), S30V stainless steel, drop point
•Thickness: 0.120"
•Length: 3 3/4" (9.5 cm), closed
•Weight: 2.3 oz. (65.2 g)
•Handle: CNC contoured black G10
•Clip: Stainless steel, reversible, discreet carry
•Made in USA

Wow that Buck is really nice! Great steel and a great grip. Impressed!