Benchmade Lone Wolf Mini-Landslide

One of the best folders you can get for $50.

I bought this as a replacement for my ancient Swiss Army Knife, lost when moving a few years back. I wanted a decent-quality pocket knife for backpacking, mainly for emergency use, but also for cutting line if needed and for food preparation. I thought fifty bucks was a lot to spend for a pocket knife (since then I've learned you can easily pay upwards of $500-2000). But I went with this one because of good reviews of the Lone Wolf line of knives. 

Lone Wolf knives are based in Oregon and were acquired by Benchmade a few years back. I don't know anything about the history of the company, but I can say that my knife is superb. I've handled a number of knives costing many times as much, and this one holds its own.

It's very solidly constructed of N680 steel and has a well-textured synthetic grip. The blade is perfectly centered, opening and closing easily with one hand using the small stud at the base of the blade. It's a back-lock model, meaning that the blade locks open and can be closed by depressing the metal piece near the end of handle.

What I most like about this knife, besides its solid construction and smooth action, is its size. It's perfect for slipping into the hip-belt pocket of my pack or into my pants pocket. It's got a well-made clip, permitting you to attach it inside your trouser pocket if you prefer. This knife won't get away from you, especially if you get the bright orange handle. Especially if your eyesight is as bad as mine, this color helps you locate the knife at dawn, in twilight or even darker conditions.

I wouldn't leave home without it.