Generally if you want quality as well as a cheapo user, go for Victorinox. Tinker give you a real nice set of tool, and the plastic red are the least intimidating legal carry knives around, which is good if you get stopped by the police or generally while using them. If you want something a bit 'cooler' you can go with the alox series. The Pioneer series also have a bit more robust blade (love that blade), while the cadet is very skin and pretty much disappear in your pocket. ~as for the SD Classic / Executive. Excellent knives, if you find me without my SD Classic I am probably traveling by airplane or something. However, would not recommend to use them on cable ties.
if you want something really sturdy you can go with Svord Peasant (and just file away 1mm making it sub 3") or just get the mini version (2,5"). These are one of the few folding knives (locking blades included) that I trust to put thru heavier tasks. They are also very cheap. On the downside, the grind can be a bit uneven and sometimes they come without a tip. they are made from high carbon steel that rusts if not cared for properly. Some also say the tang going into the grip while open makes it not carry legal... It have not been proven in court, and tbh, I would not want to be the one that get tired for it. Spyderco! Many swear by the UKPK... I dont. I think the spring is ridiculously weak making it pretty much useless. however mine is sent to repair, so will let Sal and they guys at Spyderco decide if it a lemon or not. other than that, I have never held another knife that achieved the perfection in design that UKPK has, locking or non locking. Native LTW is the only one that even comes near, but it lacks the deep carry wire clip. as for the Grasshopper, it's an excellent knife, very pleasant blade shape also, feels nice to use. Kiwi seems really nice as well, thou it's been reports on spring failure. Can always go for a non locking Leatherman. bit heavy and bulky but hey. Enzo PK70 are suppose to be really good knives and they sure looks amazing!
Oh and the Boker Plus subcom 42 comes in a non locking version. Only ever owned the locking version. but it feels like you're holding a much bigger knife. A little masterpiece, no wonder it is so popular Wouldn't touch Gerber Bear Grylls with a stick, but that's just me. and in all fairness, one of the most amazing knives I've had is a Gerber (thou it's damn ugly and a tad bit heavy). oh, I see the Spyderco PITS folder have been released... better have a ton of money thou! Edit: Did not see the no swiss army knife part... thou I do not agree with your reasoning. even if you do not use the tools, the knife part beats most other knives on the market. in either case... considered Victorinox pocket pal or solo?