The Ash1 would be tough to beat as well. great retention on the handle. I think if I was humping one around with a bunch of gear that I would certainly try to find a skinny. I have the CG version, which is a thick beast. I love it. But I also don't have to carry around a duty pack, with water, and ammo, and grenades, and etc, etc, etc. It would be a great all arounder and would not be too long for most military organizations (I know that some have a blade length restriction).