I have never found a gut hook much of a benefit. Most are to small and either plug up often or don't get in deep enough to open up the animal...well at least here were they tend to be on the fat side!I have no problems unzipping an animal with my regular knife andfound I was actually faster without the gut hook. Like anything it depends on how you were taught and what works for you best.

I personally prefer to carry a folding drop point style 3.5" knifewith anon skid decent sized handle that fits my hand. A number of years ago afterthe loss of my favorite and pricey knife. I made the decision to use less expensive models.I triedvarious common knives (buck, schrade, etc) but settled in with a Gerber Gator(can't recall the model but the one that uses the better steel - not low end but middle of the road in price). Having to replace it last year I opted for the Buck Alpha Hunter(black handle)...so far 2 elk, 2 Moose and 4 deer...I like! Bit heavier than the Gerber but I like the handle better. Steel seems good & easy to get a nice clean edge. I touch mine up after each FD so as far as keeping it I will say itshowed well onthe moose and anybody who has field dressed these animals know they make short work of a sharp edge..so I consider it to be a good measure that the knife hung in withcomparisonto past experiences.

Much like a rifle, lots of good choices that will do the job just need to find the one that meets your criteria and feels right to you!

Good luck