Looking for knife selection assistance

[Notalentbum]

I have an Ontario 498 USMC combat knife. It is pretty much what I want but just a bit too big. I'm thinking something with essentially the same blade shape but maybe only about an inch wide and 1-2" shorter. The handle on my 498 is good enough but a bit nicer in this area won't hurt. Also want a fitted leather sheath for it.
I'm not really much of a "knife guy" so I'm not real familiar with what is out there. I've been carrying a little $14 pocketknife for the last 15 years or so, so I tend to lean towards the lower spectrum of pricing.
Any thing out there in the $50-75 range like what I describe?

thanks, Matt

 

[Bradsknives]

I have an Ontario 498 USMC combat knife. It is pretty much what I want but just a bit too big. I'm thinking something with essentially the same blade shape but maybe only about an inch wide and 1-2" shorter. The handle on my 498 is good enough but a bit nicer in this area won't hurt. Also want a fitted leather sheath for it.
I'm not really much of a "knife guy" so I'm not real familiar with what is out there. I've been carrying a little $14 pocketknife for the last 15 years or so, so I tend to lean towards the lower spectrum of pricing.
Any thing out there in the $50-75 range like what I describe?

thanks, Matt

Staying with your Ontario 498 style, you might want to look at the Ka-Bar Short models. Your Ontario is roughly 12" overall with a 7" blade. The Ka-Bar short models are 9 1/4" overall with a 5 1/4" blade. The only drawback I see from what you are asking/looking for is, you will be getting a narrower blade and smaller handle area by going to a shorter blade length.

Link to Ka-Bar short model: KA-BAR Knives, Inc. - Knives > All Categories > Short Black KA-BAR - Hardcore Lives. Hardcore Knives.

 

[Notalentbum]

That sounds exactly like what I'm after. I'll start looking for someone local that has one in stock.

Thanks, Matt

 

[Bradsknives]

That sounds exactly like what I'm after. I'll start looking for someone local that has one in stock.

Thanks, Matt

Knife Lady has the KA1256 in stock. You can PM her for info and pricing.