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

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.

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

My only real complaint is:

1. They don’t have a “build your own” program which I think would be amazing (but probably not worth the cost on their part)
2. In the age of modern steels, they haven’t changed their formula. Now, look, I’m not asking for a Magnacut blade or anything like that, but something with a bit more edge retention? How about 14C28N? And yes, I can buy the MKM Campo with M390 steel which pretty much meets my needs except it’s $160. I feel like, with their buying power, Victorinox could put out something with better steel for only slightly more money.

Anyway, these are pie-in-the-sky thoughts. the SAK is a standard by which others look to emulate for good reasons.

I have a Farmer X in green ALOX, a Camper in black ALOX, and the classic Hiker in red ABS and I’m happy with all 3. My Hiker is now my go-to for gathering fatwood in the nearby forest. That saw is perfect for the branches I’m looking for.

But the author told it’s not a joke, so I don’t know if he’s serious or still joking.

He’s still joking.

That does not look good at all. I hope the maker responds.

I would certainly reach out to the maker directly. That seems like a real issue if he’s forging the blades himself.

It is not normal for damascus but there could be a lot of factors here. How are you sharpening it? What sharpening system or sharpener are you using? Who made the knife? Can you talk more about the manufacturer?

Jansport is excellent. I recently sent a 30-year-old bag in for warranty work which they honored at no cost to me other than shipping. A great choice.

Anything for the knife community. 😄

I have an Ozark Trail insulated cup as well and it’s great! Not dirt cheap, I agree, but far better value than a Yeti for sure.

Ha! Indeed.

Ok that is something I had not at all considered. Very good idea.