The Frost Mora would be on my list of quality gear for a bargain price.

In the pocket knife field, I have always considered Victorinox SAKs to be very good knives for the money. The one in my pocket right now has been carried every day for the past 25 years. There are a few nicks and scratches on the scales and the logo has long ago worn off, but if I don't lose it, I expect it to last longer than I do.

It is easy to overlook some of the lowly gear, but when you think about it, a BIC lighter for about $1 is a real bargain. While I carry a fire steel and waterproof matches, I light most of my fires with a BIC.

Someone already mentioned a P-38 can opener. Real cheap, but does the job.

Wendy's Spoons. Free when you eat at Wendy's. Comes wrapped. Great for eating beans out of a can.