Splicing is predominantly (but not exclusively) used for creating very strong and durable knotless loops at the ends of rope.
Google "splicing with a marlin spike" for plenty of info.
There is even a marlin spike knot, for temporarily securing the marlin spike to guard against loss when you need your hands to be doing other things.
A metal marlin spike is actually for working with wire rope while, traditionally, a wooden tool called a Fid (looks like a large sewing needle) is used for working with natural and man-made ropes.
Showing my age a little - I learned that in the scouts as a kid, back when the scouts were allowed to teach you stuff like that
My favourite folder is my Case Canoe. Mine has D2 blades and Cocobolo handle slabs but it looks more or less like this library picture:
I also have a couple of Case Trapper models:
And, like most, I have a Swiss Army knife or two that are always around if needed.
I own and use some really nice custom folders but the above are my mainstay every day carry knives and, to be honest, I could do the vast majority of all my knife work with them.
