It’s hard to know what is and is not a no-name brand if you’re new to knives. There’s no discernible difference (on the surface) between a pop-up vendor who just re-brands cheap knives and a true manufacturer. One of the best ways to start figuring this out is to not shop on Amazon. A dedicated and trusted knife store like: BladeHQ, KnifeCenter, WhiteMountainKnives, KnifeJoy, KnivesShipFree, and a few others, will give you the best info. You will find better ways to filter and budget options that are much better choices. But it’s still overwhelming.

If you have a specific style of knife you’re looking for, and you’re not sure if it’s a good or bad brand, I’d start by asking here (or over in [email protected]

As other’s have said, there are some good budget brands out there for well under $50.

Cold Steel AD-10 for an overbuilt knife. Cold Steel Verdict for a more traditional tanto shape

Civivi Brazen would be great for a more budget option.

Lots of choices out there for sure.

Looks like things are starting to come back online for some.

Primary on the phone plan and my phone is SOS only. All other family members on my plan have working phones. Interesting.

Made in the USA with a gate opening of 0.63 inches so probably one of the smaller ones out there. https://www.stageriggingwarehouse.com/430-62085-smc-force-tac-d-aluminum-carabiner-screw-locking-tactical-black.html

from the page: “1,000 lb. load-bearing buckle” and “PROUDLY HAND-CRAFTED IN THE USA” This is likely the closest thing you’re going to get to meeting your stated criteria.

https://defybags.com/products/tactical-austrialpin-cobra-keychain

Assuming you’re on a budget, I’d look to Kershaw first and then CRKT at Cabela’s. In particular, the Kershaw Heist. This is a fantastic ECD and a cross-bar locking knife as well. Light weight, thin, good blade shape. It’s D2 steel so semi-stainless but getting a nice patina on a blade is expected with an EDC.

Are these your only choices?

Adult fidget spinners for sure.

For what it’s worth, I can run 129.0.2-1 via the PortableApps interface without error.

You did the scales? Those look nice.

This is an astonishing amount of effort. The design looks fantastic. Thank you for posting the files.

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So this appears to be a rip-off of the Frost Cutlery … and I can’t believe I’m writing this… Cockfighter IV.

https://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/vintage-frost-cutlery-flying-falcon-1842192303

In the examples I’ve seen, instead of the word “stainless” in gold it has the Frost logo.

edit: Ebay shows a non-serrated version available now! ;)

https://www.ebay.com/itm/166672484893

wild. do you remember where you got it from?

Good to hear. I like it so much I own 3 different variations of the Elementum. The shape and design of the blade makes it a great all-around utility knife. From your basic box opener and strap cutter to food prep (cleaning before and after, of course). The neutral design makes it a lot less intimidating to others if they ask to borrow it.

What sort of budget do you have? $50 $200 $600? I tend to live in the budget world when it comes to pocket knives and would recommend something like the Civivi Elementum II which has great utility, is not aggressive looking, and provides a ton of value for the money.

It is very easy to get overwhelmed with choices. I would say pick something from a reputable reseller, with a decent return policy, and pick something that your partner likes the look of. If you have the budget, buy a couple different ones to get a feel for what is and is not good in-hand and in-pocket.

A button lock knife is very popular. Many are well under $100. I’d recommend the CJRB Pyrite Alt for a blade shape more similar to a razor. if you want even smaller the Mini Pyrite Alt is a great 5th pocket carry. https://www.knifecenter.com/kc_new/store_store.html?steel=AR-RPM9&style=Wharncliffe&usrsearch=pyrite&sortType=priceAs

KnifeCenter is sold out as well.