For me a folder needs to meet 3 criteria. It needs to be functional, tough , and cheap. For me that is a Cold Steel Voyager series folder. They cut decently, hold a good edge, and can be had for anywhere from $30-$50. The newly redesigned voyagers released in 2011-2012 are even tougher than the original ones with the new locking mechanism and the aluminum liners they are very robust. The best part is at that price point if I lose one or break one I'm not going to be very upset over it, and I can afford to have backups to my backups which will allow me to pass a few around in case of emergency. I have to admit though that there are some really pretty knives out there. I just can't justify the price right now. LOL

regards,
Joe