Founded in 1979 by the late Al Mar, formerly of 3rd.Group Special Forces, Al Mar Knives is now owned by Gary Faddin, a man who also knows what a knife should be. In their web site they claim to rival custom made knives. They also say, "At Al Mar Knivesa Warrior's Edge Means Factory Perfection. I believe them on both counts and always keep a Sere 2000 clipped in easy reach. I can't think of higher praise for a knife than to trust your life to it.
Most of you know that Masters of Defense was purchased by Black Hawk some years back. M.O.D. knives are great, but a bit expensive. Black Hawk now has brought out many of the same knives in user versions that the ordinary guy can afford. These are very good knives and I think you will be pleased with them. Take a look at their website, www.blackhawk.com
Cold Steel makes serious knives for serious knife users and they have the guts to back it up with their amazing free vidio "Solid Proof." I've used Cold Steel knives for many years and believe in them. Everything from traditional pocket knives to a War Hammer. Take a look and take a look at Cold Steel's web site too. Their address is www.coldsteel.com.
Columbia River tells us in their web site that they are "dedicated to making practical, purpose-driven knives that are high in quality, inovative in design, and tops in value." I believe them. I've never seen a Columbia River knife that didn't meet this criteria. And they back up their knives with a great warranty. Columbia River makes everything from small pocket knives to very fine weapons designs. You will probably find a knife you need here.
Below you will find a list of the knife smiths they work with. I'm impressed with them and I believe you will be too.