I’ve found old carvings on trees that were obviously very old trail markers (the trail was overgrown and aside from packed ground hadn’t even been used in a long time)

Where I’m from, it’s normal to carry a pocket knife or even a fixed blade. It’s not only common, but considered a right rite of passage. One is given to you at a very young age, and you learn how to responsibly use one. I’ve never had the urge to use it for defense; and I’ve been in many situations where I could’ve. It’s a tool.

As for the “multi tool” arguments… the more complicated a thing is, the more likely you are to have problems. Have fun carving a wooden spoon with your thick multifaceted “tool”.

Nothing wrong with carrying a blade. It’s ancient. There’s a reason for it.