Up front, I don't trust liner locks, and will not likely ever own a Hornet.
That said, I think it's diminutive size actualy fits a niche in the defensive knife category quite well; you can hold it in your hand unopened, but ready for action, and noone will see anything but your clenched fist, which won't attract too much attention.
Also, last I heard, you're not allowed to have a knife with a blade longer than 3 inches on a military base, unless it's in a multi-tool or something. This, of course, disregards any bayonets or other knives authorized for training or drill...