I agree with you guys, Spyderco seems to make a great product for the price. Previous to getting involved directly in the knife industry, I had seen their products, and thought they were a little *odd looking* for my own preferences.
After talking to many people, I dipped my toe in the water and got my first one- It was a Native, and sadly we have parted ways. Since then I have picked up a Delica 4 (it has a FFG blade and bright blue FRN handles- I love it and carry it almost daily) I also picked up an Ed Shempp designed Kukuri. The knife is a tank, but the handle is a little skinny in my opinion. I have bought a few more since then and am continually pleasently surprised with the build quality. Some scoff at the prices, but when your knife lasts, it is a good value.
One knife that was recently released is a more "budget friendly" version of the UK Penknife. They did them with a FRN handle instead of the G-10 the original had. They are also giving you the option of a drop point or a leaf shaped blade (the leaf blades have not hit the stores as of this post.)
Sorry if this seems like I am rambling, but I feel pretty strongly about my little tools with the holes in the blade.
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Jake Bowen
Not Your Mama's Knives