Well, I know you are unimpressed with Spydies now, but... the best buy in a well made 2 5/8" pocket knife with upgrade steel (S30V), a strong lockback design, and a reversible clip is as near as your local WallyWorld - The Spydie Native @ $40. If you want a great 2.5" bladed lockback, less the clip, check out the Buck 503 Prince - also available there - at $25 - very handsome/functional pocket knife. Another great choice - but closer to your 3" limit - is the Kershaw 1660DAM - the Leek in Damascus steel - $70-$80 mail order - + s/h. All made in the USA, too (The Damascus is from Alabama!).
Stainz