Note that Blackie Collins has since designed a newer version of the CIA letter openener, and it can be found at:
http://www.shomer-tec.com/
I beleive the material has been upgraded, in addition to the addition of a clip on one side of the handle, and partial serrations on one edge.
There are also the Frequent Flyers, (expensive, IMO) G-11 bldes by Mad Dog:
http://www.mdenterprises.com/
The same site should sell the Mirage series, which is ceramic, which will hold a far better edge than any composite, at the cost of brittleness, and high cost (too expensive, again, IMO).
If It doesn't absolutely have to be a knife, just must be a self-defense tool (you won't get too much utility cutting out of most of the blades here anyway), then options increase. CS (http://www.coldsteel.com) sells the Delta Dart, a triple sided spike type item. Also, Newt Livesay's site will also have the "Executive Ice Scrapers" if you look around a bit. This is a fairly innocuous punch enhancer that can be sharpened some.
There is also the Worden DTL Kerambit, though I personally have no with it. It's an impact weapon, and can be found at Shomer-Tec.
Finally, the Comtech Stinger, which many of us are a fan of. There is a thread currently going in the Filipino Combat Arts Forum about it that might shed some light. they can be found at:
http://www.cobattech.com
or
http://www.szaboinc.com/
in addition to being found at Shomer-tec. The Stingers come in blue and green, in addition to black.
All this being said, if you really want a knife, that can kinda hold an edge, will do the job, is easy to carry, and easy on the wallet, I'd go with the NRG. In fact, I did. I have 2.
Note: Plastic knives, like the ones we're discussing currently, are illegal in CA. Just so you're aware. Illegal to just possess. They would of course, be illegal to carry into any secured area in any state.
Illegitimi Non Carborundum,
Joe S.
