I think I am a bit of a knife snob to be honest. But my thinking is this: IF I am in a situation where I really need to depend in my knife for a variety of things...from self defense to EDC applications to other more common tasks, I want the best quality I can afford...and a blade that will do many things very well.

I also prefer an "assisted open"...NOT a switchblade...for both convenience and speed.

For years I carried a CRKT Ignitor...and I was reasonably happy with it. Moderate price...serrated blade/edged combo. But one day I was in a hunting store that carried more of the high end blades and discovered Benchmade products. These are significantly pricier...but the quality is unparalleled. I have a number of them now and they have all performed flawlessly in a variety of very rough situations.

I prefer to maintain my knives. They are oiled and cared for regularly...and in return they have provided the kind of service I can trust.

But in addition to asking yourself what uses you are planning to put your blade to, you need to consider which ones fit YOU. It needs to be comfortable in your hand, easy for you to open and close and frankly...it needs to be a blade you will LIKE. In many respects your knife is an everyday partner. It really helps if you genuinely like what you carry every day.

I also favor a folding knife for EDC as ones worn on the hip of the fixed blade variety, tend to attract a lot of unwanted attention from the public as well as the police -- depending on where you are.

Hope this is helpful.

BB

Skip MEC altogether.

Price is always way over market for anything. In 30 years of prepping, I have bought one thing there. A backpack rain cover.

+1 on the mora OD green heavy duty companion. Bushcraft Canada has the best prices and selection. Until you get other preps sorted out, save on the knife until you have the spare cash to upgrade. Like anything else, there is no limit to what you can spend. But what do you NEED to spend? Learn the bushcraft and skills on a 'disposable' knife. When you get your nice one, It won't be abused too bad.

If you really are bent on spending a lot. Get the ESEE series of knives. Like the 3 or 5. (Worth a YouTube video watch!). Unlimited lifetime warranty. It breaks, it's replaced. No questions asked.

I should update the thread.

I'm very upset with farmgal, as I now grab those ceramic knives at the dollar store every time I go there:)

I found another Mid price, Jack of all trades knife, in the Gerber Strongarm. Has some Tacticool applications, and can do for a basic survival knife. Can be had for 44 bucks in the states, 100 here. Kids love theirs.

Airlines in Canada now allow in carry-on luggage blades 0f 2.36" (6cm) or less, so consider a ESEE Candiru or CRKT folts minimalist. (Not allowed for travel to the US still) https://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/aviationsecurity/page-147.htm

I still stand by the usefulness of the ESEE series, I may have an addiction there. I REALLY want a Junglas to play with on the acreage. If any of you are looking for Xmas ideas for me. (I can try)

To save a LOT of money, "The Knife Connection" in the US is much cheaper than here, and ships to Canada. If anyone else finds a US knife store that happily ships here, I'd be thrilled to know about it.

Warriors and Wonders is a great store to go knife shopping.
Mora knives are good cheap and light knives. For the cost, you can buy a couple of them, and not be concerned if one breaks or gets lost.
I have several different types.
Also, ESEE knives are very good, strong, and durable knives.
As mentioned, a good knife should be only part of a group of cutting implements.
I carry a 13 inch hatchet/axe, a folding pruning saw and a Leatherman in addition to my ESEE 4 knife.