One shouldn't have to apologize for recommending the Cold Steel Voyager. I've used more of that series more than any other knife. It's got a mirror-polished steel blade, an exceptionally strong and lightweight Zytel grip and a strong lock. It feels good in the hand, sharpens easily and is easy to sharpen and maintain. The serrations make sharpening a rare requirement and the blade length and configurations are legion.
Benchmades and Kershaws have excellent reputations, but just out of curiosity, with so many Spydercos, why are you looking for a non-Spyderdo? Just looking for something different? Or are you going to be using it for something else?