Since this is Throwback Thursday, I thought I'd share the first decent knife I bought. I was working for a construction/environmental/dive company when I was 18. I needed a good knife for work, so I bought a gerberblades LST. I think I paid about $15 for it, way back in 1989. I didn't have the money for a Buck 110, which was the standard for working knives, so I bought this. It is hard to believe, but there was a time before one hand opening, pocket clipped, serrated blade knives. Spyderco knives were just coming on the scene in the late 80's and those were really pricey. So, I made do with the knife I had. I cut hundreds of pieces of rope- nylon, poly and jute, tape, cardboard, shrink wrap, burlap, construction fabric and many other things. The blade can be sharpened to a razor edge and stays sharp for a decent amount of time. Before September 11, 2001, it was the knife I carried when I flew. I never had it given a second look at the airport. Even now, when I want to carry a knife that no one pays attention to, I'll carry this one. The long lanyard allows it to be easily pulled from my pocket, I just keep the knot sticking out. It opens and closes smoothly and is easy to clean, I just throw it in the dishwasher. Lock-up is still solid after 25 years. I probably won't be sticking the blade through a car door or suspending 50 pounds off of the back. The LST was made for a solidly locking lightweight knife and that is what it has been. There is no lateral blade play, either. This is one well built knife. Blackie Collins got it right when he designed these. These are a great value for the money. Sometimes people get so enamored with all of the trick features found in new knives that they forget it is a tool for cutting. The Gerber LST is perfect for cutting, is classy enough for carry with a suit but strong enough for construction work. For less than $30 (Gerber MSRP is $23), you can carry an amazing knife. Try one out, you'll be glad you did. I've got over $2000 just in Emerson Knives, many Spyderco and Benchmade Knives as well as other brands, but the LST still has a place in my EDC rotation.