If you're on a budget the regular Benchmade griptilian is a very similar knife to the MK1, but can be commonly found at lower prices. As I recall the only differences are the blade geometry and the blade steel.

Also, FWIW, I was recently informed that the rules of safe scouting have been changed to allow fixed blade knives:

"A sharp pocketknife with a can opener on it is an invaluable backcountry tool... Avoid large sheath knives. They are heavy and awkward to carry, and unnecessary for most camp chores except for cleaning fish...."

Of coarse if your local troop, district, council, etc still strongly discourages fixed blades, then I guess it's a moot point. The full text of the safe scouting rules can be found here: http://www.scouting.org/HealthandSafety/GSS/toc.aspx

Rio