Everyday Carry Gear Breakdown | What I Carry In My EDC
I have talked at length about what to put into your EDC and how to pick the best items. Today I thought I would dive deep with specific examples of all the basic EDC necessities. I often write details Breakdown Lists Of My EDC over in the gallery section, but I thought I would make this into more of an article here. All the items below I own and can attest to their dependability.
Everyday carry (EDC) items are essential tools and accessories that we carry with us every day to help us in our daily lives. From pocket knives to flashlights to multi-tools, EDC items come in many different shapes and sizes and can be tailored to fit each individual’s specific needs and preferences.
As someone who appreciates the value of practical and functional items, I have compiled a list of some of my favorite EDC items I carry with me wherever I go. These items have proven to be reliable and versatile tools that have helped me in various situations, making them an integral part of my daily routine. In this blog post, I will introduce you to some of my favorite EDC items and share with you what makes them so unique.
Spyderco Shaman
The Spyderco Shaman is a popular folding pocketknife with a unique design. It is a larger knife, measuring 7.1 inches when opened and 4.2 inches when closed, with a blade length of 3.6 inches. The blade is made of premium CPM S30V steel, which is known for its excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. It was designed as a heavy-duty folder.
One of the standout features of the Shaman is its ergonomic handle, which is designed to fit comfortably in hand and provide a secure grip during use. The handle is made of durable G-10 material and features a textured pattern for added grip. The knife also has a sturdy back lock mechanism, which ensures that the blade stays securely in place when open.
In addition to its excellent build quality and ergonomic design, the Spyderco Shaman also boasts a versatile blade shape. The blade has a full flat grind, which makes it well-suited for a wide range of cutting tasks, from slicing to piercing. The knife also has a large thumb hole, allowing easy one-handed opening.
Overall, the Spyderco Shaman is a high-quality, versatile pocketknife well-suited for a wide range of outdoor and everyday carry tasks. I waited a long time to buy one because I thought it was an ugly-looking knife. I wish I had picked up one sooner; it’s definitely a beast!
Seiko Save The Ocean Turtle
The Seiko Save The Ocean Turtle is a special edition dive watch that was created in partnership with the non-profit organization Fabien Cousteau Ocean Learning Center to raise awareness and funds for marine conservation efforts. This watch is part of Seiko’s Prospex line of watches designed specifically for use in demanding outdoor environments.
The Save The Ocean Turtle is based on the Seiko Turtle model, which has become popular among divers and watch enthusiasts for its rugged build and classic design. The watch features a 45mm stainless steel case with a unidirectional rotating bezel and a screw-down crown to ensure water resistance to a depth of 200 meters.
The dial of the Save The Ocean Turtle features a striking blue gradient design, which is meant to represent the beauty and depth of the ocean. The hour markers and hands are coated in Lumibrite, a unique material that glows brightly in the dark for improved visibility underwater.
One of the standout features of the Save The Ocean Turtle is its movement, which is a reliable and accurate Seiko 4R36 automatic movement with a 41-hour power reserve. The watch also has a day-date complication, which is displayed at the 3 o’clock position on the dial.
As a special edition watch, the Save The Ocean Turtle also features unique branding, including the Fabien Cousteau Ocean Learning Center logo on the case-back and a unique “Save The Ocean” engraving on the strap.
Overall, the Seiko Save The Ocean Turtle is a high-quality and stylish dive watch that combines rugged functionality with a good cause, making it a great choice for those passionate about marine conservation who appreciate a well-made timepiece.
Cold Steel Kobun
The Cold Steel Kobun is a fixed-blade knife that was designed with tactical and self-defense purposes in mind. The knife has a sleek and simple design, with a 5.5-inch blade made from AUS-8A steel, a popular choice for high-quality knives due to its durability and edge retention. It’s also more of a budget-friendly steel. The blade of the Kobun features a tanto-style point, which is known for its strength and piercing ability.
The handle of the Kobun is made from durable Kraton material, which provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet or slippery conditions. The handle has a simple but effective design, with a textured surface and a small guard at the base of the blade to prevent the user’s hand from slipping onto the blade.
One of the standout features of the Kobun is its lightweight and compact design, which makes it easy to carry and maneuver. The knife comes with a secure and durable Secure-Ex sheath, which can be worn on the belt or attached to a backpack or tactical vest for easy access.
Overall, the Cold Steel Kobun is a high-quality and reliable tactical knife that is well-suited for self-defense, outdoor activities, and other demanding situations. Its durable construction, sharp blade, and lightweight design make it popular among law enforcement personnel, military personnel, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Read The Full Review: Cold Steel Knives: Kobun
Gerber Armbar Drive
The Gerber ArmBar is a compact multi-tool designed for everyday carry and light-duty tasks. It is available in several configurations, each with its own tools and features.
One of the standout features of the ArmBar is its sleek and compact design. The tool measures just 3.6 inches when closed, making it easy to carry in a pocket or on a keychain. The tool features a durable aluminum handle with a textured surface for added grip.
The ArmBar is available with a variety of different tools, including a blade, scissors, a pry bar, a bottle opener, and more. The blade is made from high-quality 420HC steel, which is known for its corrosion resistance and edge retention. The blade features a partially serrated edge for added versatility.
Another standout feature of the ArmBar is its one-hand opening mechanism, which allows the user to quickly and easily access the tools they need. The tool also features a liner lock mechanism, which ensures that the blade stays securely in place during use.
In addition to its versatile toolset and compact design, the ArmBar also comes with a pocket clip and a lanyard hole, giving users multiple options for carrying the tool.
Overall, the Gerber ArmBar is a versatile and reliable multi-tool that is well-suited for everyday carry and light-duty tasks. Its compact size, durable construction, and versatile tool set make it a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts, DIYers, and anyone who always needs a reliable and versatile tool on hand.
Read The Full Review: Gerber Armbar Drive
Retro51 Tornado Dr. Gray Pen
The Retro 51 Tornado Rollerball Pen – Dr. Gray is a high-quality writing instrument that features a sleek and stylish design. It is part of the Retro 51 Tornado series, which is known for its high-quality materials, smooth writing experience, and retro-inspired aesthetic.
The pen features a durable metal construction with a polished silver finish and black accents. The barrel of the pen is engraved with a medical-themed design, including an electrocardiogram pattern and the silhouette of a human skull.
The pen uses a smooth and reliable rollerball ink system, which produces clean and consistent lines with every stroke. The ink dries quickly and resists smudging, making it ideal for everyday use.
One of the standout features of the Dr. Gray pen is its retractable design, which features a twist mechanism to extend and retract the pen tip. This design helps to protect the pen tip when not in use and also makes it easy to store the pen in a pocket or pen case.
The Dr. Gray pen comes packaged in a retro-style tube, which makes it an excellent gift for medical professionals, students, or anyone who appreciates a high-quality writing instrument.
Read Why You Should Always Carry A Pen Here
Victorinox Alox Cadet
The Victorinox Alox Cadet in Silver is a popular and versatile pocket knife that is designed for everyday carry. It is part of Victorinox’s Alox series, which features knives with durable and lightweight aluminum scales.
The Cadet model is a slim and compact knife that measures just 3.3 inches when closed, making it easy to carry in a pocket or on a keychain. The knife features a silver Alox handle, which is known for its durability and resistance to corrosion.
The blade of the Cadet is made from high-quality stainless steel, which is known for its edge retention and corrosion resistance. The blade measures 2.5 inches and features a sharp, straight edge that is well-suited for a variety of cutting tasks.
In addition to the blade, the Cadet also features a variety of other tools, including a can opener, a bottle opener, a screwdriver, and a wire stripper. The tools are made from high-quality materials and are designed to be easy to use.
One of the standout features of the Cadet is its lightweight and compact design, which makes it easy to carry and use on a daily basis. The knife also comes with a pocket clip, which can be attached to the handle for easy and secure storage.
Overall, the Victorinox Alox Cadet in Silver is a versatile and reliable pocket knife that is well-suited for everyday carry. Its durable construction, lightweight design, and versatile tool set make it a popular choice among knife enthusiasts, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who always needs a reliable and versatile tool on hand.
Read The Detailed Review Here: Victorinox Alox Cadet
Lumintop EDC AA
The Lumintop EDC AA is a compact, powerful flashlight designed for everyday carry. It is part of Lumintop’s EDC series, which features flashlights that are designed for use in a variety of outdoor and indoor settings.
The EDC AA flashlight measures just 3.54 inches in length and weighs only 0.85 ounces, making it easy to carry in a pocket or on a keychain. The flashlight’s body is made from durable aluminum and is available in several different color options.
The EDC AA is powered by a single AA battery, which provides up to 110 lumens of bright white light. The flashlight features several modes, including a high mode for maximum brightness, a low mode for longer battery life, and a strobe mode for emergencies.
One of the standout features of the EDC AA flashlight is its easy-to-use tail switch, which allows users to quickly and easily cycle through the different modes with one hand. The flashlight also features a memory function, which remembers the last mode that was used and automatically returns to that mode when the flashlight is turned on again.
The EDC AA flashlight is also designed to be durable and weather-resistant, with a waterproof rating of IPX-8, meaning it can be submerged in water up to 2 meters deep. The flashlight also comes with a removable pocket clip, making it easy to attach to a belt, bag, or pocket for easy access.
Overall, the Lumintop EDC AA is a versatile and reliable flashlight that is well-suited for everyday carry. Its compact size, powerful output, and durable construction make it a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and anyone who needs a reliable and versatile flashlight for everyday use.
Read The Full Review Here: Lumintop EDC AA Flashlight
Knipex 5: Pilers
You can tell I love these pliers! I started carrying these years ago when I got frustrated with the pliers on a regular Leatherman. Having an actual set of pliers makes more sense in my EDC kit.
The Knipex 5″ pliers are an excellent choice for everyday carry (EDC). Despite their compact size, these pliers are durable and well-constructed, with a comfortable grip that allows for easy handling. They are made from high-quality materials and are designed to last, making them a reliable tool on hand for various tasks.
Whether you need to grip, cut, or bend wires, these pliers will get the job done efficiently and effectively. Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and versatile tool to add to your EDC kit, the Knipex 5″ pliers should be on your EDC shopping list.
Pliers are versatile tools that can be used for a wide range of tasks. They can be used for gripping, cutting, twisting, and bending, making them useful in a variety of situations. Pliers can also be used for everyday tasks, such as opening packages, tightening screws, or cutting wires. They can even be used for personal grooming, such as trimming nails or pulling out splinters.
When choosing pliers for your EDC kit, consider factors such as size, weight, and durability, and make sure to choose a pair that fits comfortably in your hand and is easy to carry.
Read My Full Knipex 5″ Review Right Here
Victorinox Classic SD
I have an Alox Classic on almost every keychain I have and can tell you that this little guy is the perfect small EDC tool to have around. In fact, it’s a must-have, must-carry.
The Victorinox Classic SD 7 Function Pocket Knife is a reliable and practical tool that is perfect for everyday carry. This compact pocket knife features seven essential functions, including a small blade, scissors, nail file, screwdriver, key ring, toothpick, and tweezers. Here’s why I believe the Victorinox Classic SD is the perfect addition to your EDC kit:
Size: The Victorinox Classic SD is a small and lightweight pocket knife that can easily fit into your pocket or attach to your keychain. Its compact size makes it convenient to carry, while still providing essential tools that can be used in a variety of situations.
Scissors: One of the standout features of the Victorinox Classic SD is its scissors. While scissors may seem like a simple tool, they are often overlooked in EDC kits. The scissors on the Classic SD are sharp and precise, making them perfect for cutting everything from paper to thread to bandages.
Functionality: The Classic SD offers seven essential functions that can be used in a variety of situations. The small blade is perfect for cutting, while the nail file can be used to smooth rough edges or clean under your nails. The screwdriver can be used to tighten loose screws, while the toothpick and tweezers can be used for personal grooming or first aid.
Durability: The Victorinox Classic SD is built to last, with a sturdy construction that can withstand everyday wear and tear. The stainless steel blades are sharp and durable, while the plastic handle is lightweight yet sturdy.
Overall, the Victorinox Classic SD 7 Function Pocket Knife is a reliable and practical tool that is perfect for everyday carry. Its small size and essential functions, including the often-overlooked scissors, make it a great addition to any EDC kit. Its durability and versatility ensure that it will be a tool that you can rely on for years to come.
MRF Pry Bar
These pry bars from MRF are really awesome. They strike the right balance of price and durability. In the EDC world, pry bars can get expensive because they are more of a boutique item, but they have real-world advantages besides their cool looks.
Keeping a mini pry bar in your EDC kit can be a game-changer for a number of reasons. First and foremost, it allows you to perform tasks that you might not be able to do with your knives alone, such as opening a stuck door, prying open a stuck lid, or removing a nail or staple. The pry bar’s flat, angled edge can also be used to scrape or pry away stubborn materials, making it a versatile tool for a range of situations.
Another benefit of using a pry bar is that it can help to save your knife from getting dull. Knives are not designed to be used as pry bars, and using them in this way can put unnecessary strain on the blade and dull the cutting edge. By using a pry bar to perform these tasks instead, you can help extend your knife’s life and ensure that it remains sharp and effective for longer.
In addition to being a practical tool, a mini pry bar can also be a helpful self-defense tool in emergency situations. The pry bar’s sturdy construction and pointed end can be used to strike an attacker and fend off an assault, giving you a critical advantage in a dangerous situation.
Overall, keeping a mini pry bar in your EDC kit can provide you with various benefits, from performing practical tasks to protecting yourself in emergencies. So if you want to be prepared for anything, consider adding a mini pry bar to your EDC kit.
Nite Ize S-Biner Dual Carabiners
This is another item that I have in multiple sizes and always keep close at hand. Clips and hooks make life easy.
The Nite Ize S-Biner Dual Carabiner is a versatile and compact tool that is a must-have for any EDC kit. This innovative carabiner design features two gates, allowing you to attach, store, and organize your gear easily. The durable construction and strong stainless steel body make it a reliable tool for a wide range of tasks, from holding your keys and water bottle to securing your gear on a camping trip.
The compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry in your pocket or attach to your bag, ensuring you always have it on hand when needed. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a convenient way to organize your everyday items, the Nite Ize S-Biner Dual Carabiner is a no brainer for your EDC kit.
Axwell Wallet
I’ve been a huge fan of these slim wallets from Axwell for years, even before they changed their name and were known as Armour Supply. It takes a bit of getting used to, but once you make the switch to a slim wallet, I don’t think you’ll ever go back.
The Axwell Wallet is an impressive solution for those seeking a highly secure and durable EDC wallet. Constructed from 6061-T6 aerospace aluminum, it is designed to protect against RFID theft and is highly resistant to scratches and dents, making it an ideal option for those who are tough on their wallets.
The Axwell Wallet is highly functional as well, with ample space for all of your cards and cash. The unique design of the wallet allows for easy access to your cards, and the built-in money clip keeps your cash organized and secure.
One of the standout features of the Axwell Wallet is its compact size. Despite its sturdy construction and ample storage space, it is surprisingly slim and lightweight, making it a convenient and comfortable option for everyday carry.
The Axwell Wallet is an impressive EDC wallet that offers superior security, durability, and functionality over many of its competitors. Its high-quality construction and sleek design make it a standout option for those looking for a wallet that can stand up to the rigors of daily use while keeping their personal information safe from digital theft.
Read My Full Axwell Wallet Review Here
Real-World Use and Experience
These EDC items are more than just tools and accessories – they are essential to my daily life. Each item has been carefully chosen based on its reliability, functionality, and versatility, and it has proven to be a valuable asset in various situations. I rarely leave the house without a pocketknife, watch, and a small multitool.
As someone who has owned and used these items in the real world, I can confidently say that they have exceeded my expectations and have become an integral part of my daily routine. From the sleek and compact Lumintop EDC AA flashlight to the durable and versatile Victorinox Alox Cadet pocket knife, these EDC items have helped me tackle daily challenges easily and efficiently.
I recommend considering these items or similar ones for your own EDC collection, as they will surely be reliable and practical tools that will serve you well in your daily life.
EDC Gear Buying Tips:
When buying everyday carry gear, there are a few important points to keep in mind:
Quality: Look for items made from high-quality materials that are durable and long-lasting. You want your EDC gear to be able to withstand daily use and occasional abuse.
Functionality: Choose items that are functional and can be used in a variety of situations. The best EDC gear is versatile and can be adapted to different needs and scenarios.
Size and weight: Consider the size and weight of the gear you are purchasing. EDC gear should be compact and lightweight enough to carry with you comfortably every day.
Comfort and ease of use: Choose items that are comfortable to use and easy to access when you need them. The best EDC gear is designed to be used quickly and efficiently in any situation.
Price: Consider your budget when purchasing EDC gear, but also remember that quality and functionality should be your primary concerns. Investing in high-quality gear that will last you a long time is better than purchasing something cheap that won’t hold up over time.
By keeping these points in mind, you can ensure that you are purchasing the best everyday carry gear for your needs and budget.
Blair Witkowski is an avid watch nut, loves pocket knives and flashlights, and when he is not trying to be a good dad to his nine kids, you will find him running or posting pics on Instagram. Besides writing articles for Tech Writer EDC he is also the founder of Lowcountry Style & Living. In addition to writing, he is focused on improving his client’s websites for his other passion, Search Engine Optimization. His wife Jennifer and he live in coastal South Carolina.