Got your reply balzaccom;
A small group of us, usually just 4 or 5, hike in the Olympic mountains. We love to explore old abandon trails and logging roads or climb peaks without established routes. As a result we are in areas where ether fires are allowed, or there isn't a chance in He** anyone is ever going to know. Certainly not in the dry season, but when it is raining for example, it sure is nice to have a small fire. I am just saying our situation is different.
As I recall one well known through hiker stopped carrying a knife altogether and said he didn't miss it. Interesting. I think one of those small disposable razor utility knifes weighs less than a ounce. Why not?