Welcome to BladeForums zyx,
I'm not really familiar with S&W knives but I have a lot of misgivings about buying knives from companies that don't have a lot of experience in the art of producing knives.
That said, the S&W FL2 looks interesting. It's apparently a Darrel Ralph design and is a frame lock. I'd keep my eye out on that FL2 passaround thread and ask those guys.
The Wilson Combat knives look interesting too (but expensive!) and someone mentioned that on another thread.
If you're just starting out, you should also consider CRKT knives since they probably make the best entry-level knives as you probably already know. Oh yes, and Kershaw makes a few good inexpensive knives too.
As for the 50/50 blade, most people here prefer plain blades as it's the most versatile. But you should really research the pros and cons of plain edged, fully serrated, and 50/50's and decide what your needs are. I have all types but these days I buy primarily plain edged. However, my last purchase was a fully serrated Spyderco Police.
