I've never used that or any other Kershaw, but have you looked at the Becker Crewman ? The blade is 5" and the spine is smooth. I've not recieved mine yet, but a friend brought his on a weekend hike we took a couple weeks ago and I loved it. The only drawback I can see is that the handle might be a little thick for some people, though it fit me quite nicely.

FWIW.
Chris.