Atomic Zero: The differences I've noticed between survival knives and combat knives are distinct. A survival knife of the same size as a combat knife is usually heavier due to the heavier blade. The point on a combat knife is finer since it must penetrate a person whereas the survival knife needs a thicker, tougher point for prying, digging and/or penetrating hard objects like wood or sheetmetal. Therefore the survival knife has a thicker spine and a wider blade almost to the point. The blades on combat knives are usually hollow-ground to give a sharper edge while a survival knife has a flat or convex grind for durability. Blood grooves are sometimes placed on a combat knife while a survival knife usually has none. The grips are less different but some combat knives have a pointed or flattened "skull crusher" pommel while a survival knife may have a curved pommel (like a machete) for chopping. I haven't been too impressed whith the utility of a tanto-tip blade but it would probably work in a combat knife. There are some knife designs that combine both qualities which sometimes aren't too bad.
However, both knives usually have a subdued finish and durable, utilitarian handles.
There are also hunting knives which have thinner blades and more "belly" and camp knives which appear to be a cross between a survival knife and a hunting knife, IMHO. Both of these types of knives often have polished blades and all kinds of natural and synthetic handles.
These are only my opinions and observations so you should do your own comparisons. It is unlikely you will see hand-to-hand combat in the U.S. woodlines so I would recommend a good, tough, survival knife with a blade under 7". Combat knives are fun to own though. Your choices look good.
Have fun!
