As usual, Trembula hit the nail on the head.
I own several cold steel's, several spyderco's and I have also lost some over they years. It all depends on how much you are willing to spend. I would recomend not going really expensive at first because you are still finding out the size, weight, style, etc. that you like and works for you. If you work in an office setting for example, you may want a folder that looks nice, is light, and maybe is easily consealable since your boss or coworkers may freak if they see "the Widowmaker 2000" sticking out of your suit. If you work in a more laid back setting, it is different.
The make and lines of some edged weapons make them look like a "killing" knife. It is not always a good idea to carry one that looks really intimidating, especially if you get pulled over in a routine traffic stop.
Check with Columbia River Knife and Tool at
www.crkt.com , they have some good quality knives (like the M16 line) that are very affordable. I stopped looking at the really expensive knives a long time ago. For one thing, I can't afford them, and for another it is not necessary to spend a lot of money when you can get something that will do the job you want it to for cheaper. I would love to have a Shiva Ki Spirit Blade, but at about $3000, I will wait till I win the lottery.
As for worrying about mussing up your knife, you can carry a smaller pen knife or pocket knife as well, to use for small cutting tasks. This keeps the edge on your defensive folder sharp. I always recomend to my students also that whatever knife they buy and carry, they should use it in solo command and mastery. You can do this if you choose to, be careful. This makes you familiar with your knife.
And, check with your local laws in regard to what you can and can't carry. No sense in getting it if you can't take it out of your house. Just my $0.02.
