I'm finding that 3" is a good size for me. It's almost always* big enough to cut up fruit when out and about. (which I do a lot of) but small enough to have good control of the tip, when needed.
* cutting the cheeks off of a mango takes more than a 3" blade...
Here's what I have so far in that realm and why I'm still looking after acquiring them:
- Spyderco Delica - Leaves the index and middle fingers crowded. Feels like this is one I should always keep, since I had one before, sold it, then bought another one two years ago. ...or I might give this to my girlfriend
- Spyderco Native - Although it is ergonomically great and the blade is about 3", it doesn't have a lot of cutting edge, due to the finger choil.
- Steel Will Modus (3.3") - The pocket-pecker irritates
- Steel Will Mini Cutjack (3") - Pocket-pecker + lost 1/2" of cutting edge due to choil
- Cold Steel Grik (2.8") - Thumb stud is really in the way for all slicing; can't find a small enough allen wrench to remove it
- CRKT Mah Jouneyer (2.7") - A bit too small, lost cutting edge due to choil
- Spydiechef (3.3") - A bit on the large side; nearly perfect otherwise.
- Spyderco Alastair Phillips (3.6") - Large, but nearly perfect otherwise.
- Victorinox Trekker OHO (3.4") - Bulky to carry; soft blade steel; love the tools though!
I just ordered a Spyderco UKPK; looks like this might be perfect.
Almost ordered a Benchmade 550-1 Mini Grip with the Spydie hole, but didn't want to drop the $178 for it. There's one other Mini Grip with a the Spydie Hole, but I'm not convinced it's worth $100+ either. Plus, the checkering on the FRN versions is a pocket-ripper. (maybe get one and sand down some of the checkering under the pocket clip?)
What have you got in a 3" blade that might do the trick for me?