SOG Aegis.

quote:

Originally posted by Aeteocles:
Given your constraints, I would get the Kershaw Launch 1.

Auto, USA Made, CPM-154 Steel.

If it didn't need to be assisted, I would actually prefer a Flipper only knife. The flipper on most knives becomes an integral finger guard to protect your hand from sliding forward onto the blade.

I really agree with the second part of this post. Flippers are my favorite type of folding knives, for both the finger guard feature mentioned, and for the reason they are very quick, safe, and easy to deploy. There are a number of good ones around, from all the usual makers, and they are usually less expensive than comparable auto-assist.

quote:

Originally posted by YooperSigs:
Boker Kalashnikov Auto. Works great. Priced so if you lose it or break it, you wont want to kill yourself. I have two.
Caution: No manual safety. So if you are sloppy about how carry it, it can open in your pocket.

I was just gifted a Mini Kalashnikov. I haven't carried it, yet, but have no concern wrt it having no lock. Carried in the right pocket, the release button will be facing inward. And it requires a very positive press.

quote:

Originally posted by SJS:
SOG Aegis.

^^^ Looks good here > https://bladereviews.com/sog-aegis-review/

I've always got a Spyderco PM2 on me.

If you're not in a hurry - there's the new Endella.

Sized to literally split the difference between the iconic Endura 4 and Delica 4 Lightweights

Or, their new Para 3 lightweight. Here's Eric Glesser discussing the design, and demonstrates breakdown and reassembly (he calls it a Paramilitary 3 several times).

I've carried a Blur for years. I loss my 1st one but found a replacement on ebay 2-3 years for around $55. I worked with a volunteer FD/EMS for over 40 and my Blur never let me down.

I love my benchmade mini barrage, but it is a bit over $100.

Also, due to recent events, I won’t me buying any more of their knives, but they are awesome.

Cold steel swift. Just a little over a 100 but well worth it.

Assisted opening non liner lock, I'd seriously consider a Benchmade Barrage. If you can give up the liner lock or frame lock I love my ZT 0350BW. You can catch them on Amazon for 95ish

After a bunch of back and forth, I settled on a Kershaw Launch 5. I chose the 5 beause of the ramped thumb rest and the cut out on the underside of the handle for better purchase on the handlen in a defensive use. Excited to get it.

If it’s worth its salt, I may have to try a Launch 4 also as an off duty EDC knife. It is the CA legal model (less than 2” blade) but reviews well from people wanting a diminutive knife on a daily basis.