My problem is different. Instead of buying expensive stuff and trying to keep it pristine, I just keep adding to the pile. I tell myself that is how to build up a good store.

A few $10 Mora or $50 (or less) KaBar knives are ideal. I'll have much less remorse or worry about damaging such a knife, if and when there comes a time to pound on the blade mercilessly while trying to use it to split a log for a fire or when I decide to use it as a shovel, hammer, chisel or whatever. When I use it more, I become more comfortable using that tool. When it a time comes to rely on it, I'll know what it can do and what I can do with it.