Was at LGS and there were several "turn-in" knives for sale, all about $20 or so.  Not being a knife Expert, I selected the knife that had by far the best-made scabbard.  I figured it was likely that the quality of the leather scabbard would be indicative of the quality of the blade.  Turns out I was right.

Knife bought was a Joker brand "K-9" knife, and AFAIK, brings about $130 retail.  Might be discontinued, IDK.

Having subsequently read a bit about Joker knives, it seems that actual and dependable knife Experts feel they are an excellent value for the MSRP prices--IOW, considerably undervalued compared to their competitors.

ETA: a vid about the Joker "Lynx" knife HERE  Y/T poster is coming from a "woodscrafting" point of view.

Opinions?

I’ve never held one but I’ve read great things about them. I’ve heard they are a super value.

Based on my single example (admittedly bought for a song) I'm thinking some Joker brand knives may well be excellent values.  I have always thought that well-made linen Micarta was a very good choice for grip scales, being very sturdy and user-modifiable, if desired.  I rather like that Joker makes most of their knives with both Micarta scales and "higher-end" exotic wood scales, thus allowing the user a choice.  Steels used are, for the most part, modern "middle-of-the-road" steels.  Likewise a good value IMHO.  All above is my non-Expert opinion, and YMMV.

Disclaimer: No financial interest.