I'm looking for a good fixed blade/single blade locking knife for everyday use that's easy to clean. I'd like something with a blade less than three inches, suggestions?
Another vote for the Spyderco Dragonfly. It's just a really nice knife and stays super sharp.
Spyderco Dragonfly http://www.rockynational.com/3557_C28P_Spyderco_Dragonfly_SS-_Stainless_Steel_Plain_Edge.html
I'm very happy with mine.
9 Answers
The Kershaw Leek is a great blade. Opens quickly, locks closed and open, slim profile and the blade is right around 3".
http://www.kershawknives.com
You can't go wrong with a CRKT Made from the best steel around CRKT knives last a long long time. Super easy to clean and sharpen. It comes with a very nice sheath with a 2.75" blade, and a 6.5" overall length. All that for $40.00
The Kershaw Chive and the Benchmade Mini-Tipika are both excellent knives. I have both and really like both.
The Kershaw is a good carry-around knife. It is extremely easy to open and is extremely sharp for such a small knife.
The Benchmade are also great. They are a more rugged and durable, but tend to be a little bulkier. You really can't go wrong with either.
http://www.kershawknives.com/productdetails.php?id=41&brand=kershaw
http://www.benchmade.com/products/product_detail.aspx?model=10412-1
If price isn't a concern I'd recommend going with something from Microtech.
Most of their knives are auto or dual action, but they do make some in manual only.
Great workmanship, great materials, and a fun addiction :)
My personal EDC (every day carry) is a cali legal utx-70 - it's a dual action (auto in and out) OTF (out the front). Under 3 inches and kicks like a bull.
Best knife I've ever owned was my Myerchin A377P Rigging Knife. Solid stainless handle and blade, locking, folding, 3/4 cerrated 1/4 straight blade, and a fold out marlin spike. About $75.
Myerchin Offshore Crew Pro Rigging Knife
Take care of it, and it will take care of you.
The Spyderco Dragonfly is a great knife. I carry mine every day and use it for everything from opening mail to cutting cardboard to sharpening pencils. It's heavy and durable, and the blade is totally legal for carrying around. Even though it's small, it's pretty intimidating to look at.
Spyderco Dragonfly
Cold Steel Pendleton Mini Hunter, it's a 3-inch fixed blade.
http://www.rockynational.com/3263_36LPM_Cold_Steel_Pendleton_Mini_Hunter.html