I saw that the CRKT M16 was recommended a lot, and wanted to add a note to that : do not buy any of the lower end M-16s. the AUS-6 mine was made of was horrible, and would not keep an edge for longer than 2 weeks (without being used!).
I've been adequately happy with my SOG Trident for quite some time now, although I would've like it in CM154, or even better, S30V.
I dislike most Spydercos, but only because of the backlock. I've had the locking mechanism fail on me while in use because I gripped it too hard (I have meaty hands). They've gotten better about release placement in recent years, so don't write them off. I do really like the Spyderco Native; It's very light, for every day carry, without sacrificing usability.
Find a locking mechanism that you like and are comfortable with. I prefer Axis locks, or similar. CRKT should be lauded for their auto-lawks system, for liner locks.
It's very important to know what is and isn't legal in your locality. Most people in California think that there is a limit on the length of a folding knife. There isn't.
For California, the pertinent information can be found in section 12020 of the State Penal code, and might be linkable here :
WAIS Document Retrieval Nowhere is there a mention of length limits.
Good thing to know as well:
Quote:
A nonlocking folding knife, a folding knife that is not
prohibited by Section 653k (switchblade regulations), or a pocketknife is capable of ready use
as a stabbing weapon that may inflict great bodily injury or death
only if the blade of the knife is exposed and locked into position.
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...which means that a closed folding knife can always be carried concealed in the state of California.