@
mtnbkr
Chris,
It's been some years since I last bought a (small) traditional production knife...so my best recommendation other than listening to our members here would be to inquire in the
Traditional Forum which I used to moderate with GusK up until some years back. The guys and gals there will be able to give you examples of the breed you're looking for.
My smaller production pieces are generally Case with a smattering of the other well known makers. The one peanut I own was a gift from a member there and has a damascus blade and stag covers.
Take a look at the
Case 32087 pattern, a great little knife, light in weight with useful sized CV blades. It's one of the small knives I've always liked. As to the quality of today's Case knives, the guys on the Traditional Forum will be your best barometer. You'll have to check if it is offered with natural covers, but I've always liked the yellow delrin for some reason.
32087 CV
Clip and Pen Blades
3 3/8" closed; 1.8 oz.
Made in USA
Here's a poor image of the peanut...produced in 1989:
Attachment 64998