It’s hard to know what is and is not a no-name brand if you’re new to knives. There’s no discernible difference (on the surface) between a pop-up vendor who just re-brands cheap knives and a true manufacturer. One of the best ways to start figuring this out is to not shop on Amazon. A dedicated and trusted knife store like: BladeHQ, KnifeCenter, WhiteMountainKnives, KnifeJoy, KnivesShipFree, and a few others, will give you the best info. You will find better ways to filter and budget options that are much better choices. But it’s still overwhelming.

If you have a specific style of knife you’re looking for, and you’re not sure if it’s a good or bad brand, I’d start by asking here (or over in pocketknife@lemmy.world

As other’s have said, there are some good budget brands out there for well under $50.

Made in the USA with a gate opening of 0.63 inches so probably one of the smaller ones out there. https://www.stageriggingwarehouse.com/430-62085-smc-force-tac-d-aluminum-carabiner-screw-locking-tactical-black.html

from the page: “1,000 lb. load-bearing buckle” and “PROUDLY HAND-CRAFTED IN THE USA” This is likely the closest thing you’re going to get to meeting your stated criteria.

https://defybags.com/products/tactical-austrialpin-cobra-keychain

You did the scales? Those look nice.

A button lock knife is very popular. Many are well under $100. I’d recommend the CJRB Pyrite Alt for a blade shape more similar to a razor. if you want even smaller the Mini Pyrite Alt is a great 5th pocket carry. https://www.knifecenter.com/kc_new/store_store.html?steel=AR-RPM9&style=Wharncliffe&usrsearch=pyrite&sortType=priceAs

My only real complaint is:

1. They don’t have a “build your own” program which I think would be amazing (but probably not worth the cost on their part)
2. In the age of modern steels, they haven’t changed their formula. Now, look, I’m not asking for a Magnacut blade or anything like that, but something with a bit more edge retention? How about 14C28N? And yes, I can buy the MKM Campo with M390 steel which pretty much meets my needs except it’s $160. I feel like, with their buying power, Victorinox could put out something with better steel for only slightly more money.

Anyway, these are pie-in-the-sky thoughts. the SAK is a standard by which others look to emulate for good reasons.

I have a Farmer X in green ALOX, a Camper in black ALOX, and the classic Hiker in red ABS and I’m happy with all 3. My Hiker is now my go-to for gathering fatwood in the nearby forest. That saw is perfect for the branches I’m looking for.