I wouldn't choose a Leek, even if it fit into your budget, because it is a very skinny, slippery knife, at only .31", with a slick metal handle. (There was a G10 version, but that seems to be discontinued.)
If you need/want a fast knife that doesn't have to be tactical, the
Kershaw/Al Mar AM-3 might be a good choice. It's a slender, attractive assisted opener. A heavier, sturdier choice would be the shorter
Cryo (there are multiple options. I would choose G10 for the grip).
A different, more defense-capable choice would be a
Byrd Meadowlark 2 or larger
Byrd Harrier. These are part of Spyderco's value line, so you get decent but not premium steel, made in China, but Spyderco's excellent quality control and customer service. (The opening hole
is more suited for defensive use, since you don't have to completely reposition your hand to get a good grip after opening.). The back/mid lock is also inherently stronger than the liner-locks used on some of Spyderco's other Chinese-manufactured knives.
John