Normally I wouldn't recommend other knifes because you already listed the ones you were looking at (see JasonKlass's post about Backpacking Complaint Dept.), but you mentioned that you are open to other choices. So, here are my two choices, #1 and #2 . They are to be carried together. The scissors are used for almost everything, and the knife for those very few times when you need it. I know that JimShaw doesn't like the knife choice. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> Anyways, knives are very personal. What works for one doesn't work for all. I liked your first choice better than the other ones. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />