I own many Spyderco knives. For a small knife, the Ladybug is hard to beat. I started carrying a Delica many years ago, and have since downsized, with no regrets. The newest Ladybug (Ladybug 3, as well as the slightly larger Delica 3) have a larger thumb hole, and additional grip features that keep it firmly in hand even better than before. This newer generation also uses VG10 steel, with even better edge hold (doesn't dull as quickly) than before. The now discontinued Jester model is my personal favorite. It's the same size as the Ladybug, but with a slightly better blade for my uses. I prefer the ComboEdge version on my small knives (half-serrated, half-plain edge) as it greatly increases your cutting power, ideal for the smaller sized knives and makes them seem much larger than they really are. Serrated edges cut better and hold their edge longer, but most folks can't sharpen them without taking them to a qualified knife specialist. Seems that among knife afficinadoes, people feel a need to sharpen their own blade. But with the newer, harder steels used today, sharpening is becoming a very rare thing.

If you plan to use your knife backpacking, I suggest getting something other than black/green/camo/etc. Makes it much easier to find (both in your pack, and when you drop it in the bush). The LadyBug 3 is now available with a black, white, or orange handle. If you opt for a Ladybug 2, you can get them in black, blue, forrest green or red.