Lots of good advice, thanks all.
Question: blade shape. What do you all recommend? I love the look of tanto blades, but are there pros and cons to the different shapes?
I know I'm way overthinking a pocket knife purchase, but hey, with all this knowledge here, doesn't hurt to ask!
A tanto has a more forward cutting edge than other designs and the tip is stronger, making it better suited for stabbing, prying, etc.. than many other option...
For EDC it wouldnt be my personal fist choice.. but if youre interested in something for typical routine cutting tasks (opening an occasional box, cutting a piece of rope/string, etc..) and self defense.. a tanto would serve you every bit as well as anything else..
a clip point (think bowie).. or a drop point (many of the knives recommended in this thread are drop points) are probably more "universal".. but, every blade design style has its advantages and disadvantages (a clip point for example has a lot of "belly" and is very good for cutting, and a thin tip that is good for "detail" work (you can get it into smaller places, etc..). but can be prone to breaking at the tip if you are doing any real prying or digging around with it (especially true on small sized knives where the tip is very thin and very narrow)...
But.. again.. if youre really looking for a basic "tool" for normal, everyday, routine purposes.... just about anything will do... just get something you like and are comfortable with..
If you have a specific primary purpose in mind.. I would then be more concerned about blade shape/design and make sure you get something that is known to work exceptionally well for that specific purpose..