Meanwhile, I'm starting to think about alternative knives. Even with the great price we were getting, the knife cost about $27 ready to ship out of my basement. Do you know how hard it is to find a good pocketknife for under $30? Especially one that we can give with pride because it's a quality item that can give a lifetime of service?
I'm starting to look at the Camillus Arclite neck knife as an alternative. It lists for $27, but seems to be readily available in the $18-20 price range. At that price, we can still afford to have the knife engraved, while a $30+ knife would pretty much shoot down engraving.
A fixed-blade "hideout" knife has its advantages and disadvantages. As configured, it can be worn around the neck, under the shirt. Not as convenient as in a pocket, but it's always there. The chain is a good safety item, because the chain will break before you can get your neck broke, or stangled, with a cord. Camillus also makes an accessory kit to allow the kydex sheath to be hooked to a belt, web gear, etc..
Anyway, this is just my first pass at the problem. Camillus makes good knives, and I carry a Camillus, rather than a Hobbit Hole knife (sorry) myself. Suggestions are always welcome.