I use a spyderco with the sheepsfoot blade for riding. Your main concern is getting in a wreck ( on or off ) and having to cut a tie rope, girth/cinch, or reins free without stabbing yourself or the horse. J.Adams, who make the current MOD4 in G.B. also makes a small emergency fixed blade with a blunt tip and sharp edge that would work. Big sheath knives are a hazard riding. Your more likely to suffer blunt force trauma to a kidney falling against one than use it . Ever see the huge western Trophy buckles that rival hubcaps? I saw a girl lacerate her liver colliding with a cow :O( For sailing I used the superb Myerchin. The sheepsfoot blade is a social artifact from 19th century English and American ship's captains with violent crews. They could stitch a slashwound with a sail needle, but stabs were usually fatal. It became the practice to snap off the tips with a new crew. This led to the sheepsfoot. I realised I would more likely need a point than avoid a knife fight. My knife is a small S/S fixed blade with a lanyard made by Brusletto of Norway with an added marlinespike. If you are primarily sailing the myerchin is still a superb knife.