I have a short Ka-Bar tanto with the synthetic grip.
I got it when I was just getting started, I wasn't sure what features to look for, so i just went with a reliable brand...
The synthetic sheath can rub on the edge if you aren't careful during the draw dulling the blade. (I was confused the first few times about were my razor edge went)
I found the grip a little awkward, somehow it always ended up feeling too small or pinching.
Until I ground down the top guard. Problem solved. And now I can put my thumb on the spine for more control. The knife is easily 100% more practical after that mod.
If you asked me before I did that I would have said it wasn't a good knife for the tasks you outlined...now it might be pretty good, but i haven't really evaluated it in detail.
btw, it batons fairly well.