- Spyderco Para 3 CTS-BD1N steel
I had a Para 3 when it first came out and ended up giving it away. When the Lightweight came out I grabbed one and it's a keeper. The LWT version fixes some of the problems I had with the G10 version (clip, lanyard hole placement, center of balance). Problem is, if I find myself wanting to carry a smaller Spyderco I grab one of my Chaparrals before the Para 3 every day that ends in a "y".
- Spyderco Manix 2 BD-1 or S30V steel
I have a couple of Manix versions...a lightweight and a G10. All iterations take up too much space in my pocket and never get carried. They live in a knife bag now.
- Spyderco Sage 5 CPM-S30V steel
I have a couple Sage versions...they can't kick a Native out of my pocket. Although the Sage 5 (which I don't have) is tempting with the Compression Lock. On a related note, Spyderco has really clouded the waters in the ~3" blade length market. Between the Para3, Native, Sage, Chappy, Delica they almost have TOO many choices!
- Benchmade Bugout S30V steel
Great knife, I have one. I prefer the Mini Bugout.
- Benchmade Mini Bugout S30V steel
IMO this is the Winner. The Mini Bugout is one of my all time favorites and spends a lot of time in my pocket. Find the one with white scales and do a Rit dye job on the handle to make it your own.
- Benchmade Griptilian S30V steel
Unless you're specifically going for the sheepsfoot version, you get a much better knife for a few dollars more with the Hogue Ritter series. It's hard to recommend a Grip with studs when the Hogue exists. That's a hard comment for me to make because I have many Grips in multiple configs that I love, but progress is a thing.
- Benchmade Mini Griptilian S30V steel
See above.
- Benchmade Mini Presidio II S30V steel
The Presidio never got enough of my attention away from a Mini Grip to try one. Its the only knife in this list that I don't own. I can't really offer a comment