All posts in “EDC”

The James Brand Midland Minimal Titanium Key Hook

Whether you’re talking about pocket knives, chef’s knives, rulers or other EDC capsule pieces, there are few brands doing it as well at The James Brand. Case in point, The Midland EDC key hook you…

The post The James Brand Midland Minimal Titanium Key Hook first appeared on Cool Material.

KeySmart Max Key Organizer

When it comes to the organization of the everyday carry–particularly the keys we need to have on our person at all times–KeySmart has always been one of favorite organizers because the dual stud system accommodates…

Bolt Action Titanium Permanent Marker

If you’re anything like us, you use permanent markers almost as much as any other writing tool. They’re great for marking, labeling, drawing, writing and just generally leaving indelible impressions on things. The Marksmith Bolt…

The MiniSwitch Pen Transforms from Pinkie-size to Full-Size in Seconds

If you’ve spent any amount of time reading Cool Material, you know how much we love a good notebook and accompanying pen for our EDC. There’s just something about physically writing things down with pen…

Cold Steel American Lawman S35VN

This one’s trending lately, and it’s not hard to see why. The Cold Steel American Lawman S35VN is an extremely robust knives. But that’s not especially unique considering knives Cold Steel makes are always extremely robust. What makes this noteworthy is its steel, which is apparently one of the best in the business.

The American Lawman S35VN features a 3.5-inch high-quality steel, fully drop point in shape. That means it’s a facile option for any cutting task, in the kitchen or elsewhere. Apart from its topnotch steel, the blade comes coated in diamond-like material for added endurance. As a result, it’s also corrosion resistant. Again, though, that’s not really special considering Cold Steel is a master at excellent blades.

Another highlight is the Tri-Ad lock, which the company says it has put through a hostile and rigorous torture test to ensure optimum safety. You can fold the knife when not in use, and it features expertly designed G-10 handles. That means it’s got excellent grip during both grip and retrieval. It’s also got a reversible clip.

In our opinion, this is the perfect Everyday Carry option if you’re in the middle of cobbling together a starting kit. It’s by no means the best choice, to be sure. But for what it’s for and what it does, you can’t go wrong with the American Lawman S35VN. This is a high-performance blade that’s no-fuss, no-nonsense, and ready as soon as you are. Hit the link below to see pricing and other details.

BUY IT HERE

FOGO GPS Receiver And Walkie Talkie

It’s never a good idea to brave the backcountry without some form of navigational device on-hand. Which is this Fogo GPS Receiver and Walkie Talkie is a godsend. It’s the only gadget, as FOGO Outdoors claims, that combines GPS, Bluetooth, and voice and text messaging in one package.

Also here is a USB backup battery in case you run out of juice. To top it all off, there’s an inbuilt LED flashlight that’s perfect for emergency situations. It is, in essence, a “peace of mind” kind of gadget — the kind you take along a trip to breathe a sigh of relief.

FOGO also lets you automatically send a text message to friends if you’re in a pickle. It also controls the flashlight with the GPS to help you navigate better. Take it along if you’re going fishing, hiking, traveling, or just plain camping. FOGO might just be your ticket out of a sticky situation.

Though we err on the side of skepticism in terms of FOGO Outdoors calling this a “digital Swiss Army Knife,” it’s quite difficult to argue against that. Though a lofty description, it’s technically correct. This is, after all, bundled with so many potentially life-saving essentials that it’s practically a must-have. Especially if you frequent the outdoors.

The Walkie Talkie is optional, just to note. It’s called the SmartCap, a modular accessory. And since it’s removable, you can pull it out and use other accessories with different functions. For example, FOGO Outdoors plans to make modular plugs that add a satellite modem, avalanche beacon, or a laser range finder to the device.

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Victorinox Ranger Of The Lost Art

Victorinox is launching this cinematic EDC as part of its National Parks Swiss Army Knives collection, aptly called Ranger of the Lost Art. What sets these EDCs apart from their siblings is that they each feature iconic ‘30s and ‘40s silkscreen posters. These, if you must know, promote America’s national parks.

These posters were actually headed to the dump at one point. However, and rather fortunately, Park Ranger Doug Leen decided they looked too good just to chuck in the garbage bin. Through laborious research, Leen has recovered 12 of the 14 original designs, and now they cover Vioctorinox’s latest line of robust knives.

The Ranger of the Lost Art series depicts several of those posters. Moreover, this collaboration between the EDC company and Leen seeks to continue the original mission of the posters. Those had aimed to promote art, health, and travel to America’s park hotspots.

Nine of those designs, at $22 apiece, pay homage to some of the country’s largest parks like Yosemite, Glacier, the Grand Canyon, and more. Each Swiss Army Knife boasts the usual suspects: a small blade, scissors, a nail file, a screwdriver, and a toothpick. There’s even some tweezers and a key ring if you need those.

Needless to say this EDC essential has every tool you need to brave the backcountry, which is no surprise. This is, after all, handiwork from Victorinox, whose prowess in this category remains unquestioned. Each knife comes with a lifetime warranty, too, but there’s never been that many cases of them breaking, just so you know. Hit the link below to find out more.

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Photos courtesy of Victorinox

Civilware Pointer II Friction Folder

At this point you’ve read so many features on everyday carry options here that it’s become tiring to decide whether you should actually purchase stuff. As such, The Civilware Pointer II Friction Folder may not be your cup of tea. But it’s worth a look if you’re on the prowl for a high-quality blade.

It’s lightweight, first and foremost, which already grants it a lot of points in the EDC department. It’s non-locking, unfortunately, but uses friction to keep the thing closed. Then to keep it open in your hand, it utilizes an extended tang. Clearly, it’s not as sophisticated as other options out there. But this coupling of lightweight design and smart mechanism allows it to be carried and used in most locations.

And you don’t just get the knife. There’s also an in-built bottle opener here for popping fresh cold ones. And a flat-head screwdriver, to boot. It comes in a leather pouch to match the beautifully rugged design. Both sides are titanium — heat-treated 416 stainless steel hardware, to be exact. You’ll be holding the G10 handle scales, which features better grip. The blade is a SV35N corrosion-resistant variant, which should hold up well in any activity. The whole thing measure just 3-inch with the handle included. The blade is 2.5 inches. It weighs a total of 2.3 oz.

You can get it in two colors: Black or OD Green. A bit pricey at $115, if we’re being honest. But it’s a solid option if you want a no-frills, no-nonsense EDC blade.

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Horizon Knives LYRA EDC Folding Knife

The first time we’ve seen the Horizon Knives LYRA it immediately called out to the geek in us. Well, one look at the one-of-a-kind folding mechanism it offers reminded us of the gun blade from Final Fantasy XIII. Not to be confused with the iconic weapon from Final Fantasy VIII, which sported a different design. The way it unfolds bears an uncanny resemblance to how Lightning’s weapon transforms from a sword to a gun. Anyway, other than how it looks, this EDC knife is an outstanding piece of work.

Folding it in leaves you with a very compact 2-inch tool that can fit inside the palm of your hand. However, once open, it offers ample space for an ergonomic four-finger grip. This feature is quite a rare find among EDCs of this size. The unique way that it closes also ensures that the blade is safely out of harm’s way. A special channel keeps whatever is inside your pocket or anything that it might bump into away from the edge.

Durability is the key when it comes to a good EDC tool and the Horizon Knives LYRA knows it. That’s why its sporting 6AL-4V grade 5 titanium linkages and handles. Meanwhile, the Wharncliffe blade uses D2 steel rated at 61 HRC for superior resistance against outdoor and indoor abuse. Another thing that makes the overall grip is the smooth thumb rest on top of the blade. This gives the user absolute control over the knife. We almost forgot to point that you can even use it as a bottle opener, which is so cool.

Check out its Kickstarter page here

Images courtesy of Horizon Knives

The James Brand The Ellis EDC Knife

Among the best EDC products that you can have in your pocket is a Swiss Army knife. This gadget is a practical tool that can help when you’re in a pinch. Think of it a pocket knife that has been over-engineered to another level and has been the go-to accessory for many adventurers. Two of the most popular brands are Victorinox and Wenger, but another player is entering the arena. The James Brand The Ellis takes the beloved multi-tool and upgrading some of its features.

Conventional models from the two aforementioned brands normally use cellulose acetate butyrate (CAB) for its scales. Also known as Tenex, Cellidor, or Tenite, this material can come in different colors. However, the iconic Swiss Army knife is normally associated with its striking red colorway. On the other hand, The James Brand is upping the ante by using anodized aluminum instead of the durable plastic of the original models.

The James Brand The Ellis holds all of the important stuff that you might need. You have a knife, bottle opener/flat-head screwdriver, and scraper/pry tool. The company is forging each of these out of Sandvik 12C27 steel for exceptional durability. Moreover, unlike the original locking mechanism on a Victorinox or Wenger Swiss Army knife, it uses a lockback system to keep everything securely in place. The handle measures 3.5 inches and extends up to 6.1 inches with the drop point blade out. Lastly, it’s available in three colors: Black, Electric Moss, and Silver. Get this high-quality EDC for $99.

Get it here

Images courtesy of The James Brand

CRKT Provoke Knife

Stay off the fancy gear when you’re merely dipping your toes in the Everyday Carry waters, they say. And they’d be right — there’s nothing like higher-tier blades to overwhelm the EDC neophyte and scare them off going further.

Except the CRKT Provoke Knife is too tempting to simply pass on. It’s not exactly holy grail EDC by any stretch of the imagination, but it’s a bit on the heavy side of things. But beginners who don’t mind burning a hole through their pocket can prance ahead.

The CRKT Provoke Knife draws from the karambit design, which itself is based on a tiger’s claw. It’s a classic template that’s both useful and very, very lethal. This knife here not only makes good use of its aesthetic underpinnings but evolves it. Here, you’ll find a Kinematic system that allows it to open just by pushing it with your thumb — without adjusting your grip.

As for the blade, we’re talking D2 steel, which needless to say guarantees its durability. It’s also wrapped in black titanium nitride for optimum corrosion resistance. The handle features anodized aluminum material. It’s also got an integrated pocket clip that sits nearly flush and raises via pressure on the outer edge.

At 2.41 inches, the blade is long enough to handle most objects you’ll be snipping. When closed, the entire thing is just 4.96 inches. Overall length, on the other hand, is a hair shy of 7 and a half inches, which is rightfully within the accepted range for an EDC.

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Spyderco Para 3 Lightweight

The Spyderco Para 3 Lightweight is the lower-priced version of Spyderco’s famous Para 3, a highly recommended EDC companion with a decent blade and compact size. This time around, you get its stubby sibling, but don’t let that dishearten you.

First and foremost, this model is just $91, a full $42 cheaper than a standard G-10 model. The knife itself features a different handle scale material and blade steel. The locking mechanism, too, might be different as well.

This trusty EDC features fiberglass reinforced nylon handle scales, and a streamlined version of Spyderco’s Compression Lock mechanism. We’d leave it up to you to figure out what that means — the company isn’t telling. But perhaps it’s safe to assume they’re the same at least in terms of function and strength.

The Spyderco Para 3 Lightweight is nearly 30 percent lighter than its G10 siblings, which obviously lends it a much more different feel. Not worse, not better. Just decent, easily wielded, and requires no special level of dexterity to operate. If you’re used to the mainline Para 3, this will feel a bit clunky. But if it’s your first mini-knife, the size and shape won’t be a big deal, probably.

The thing’s got a CTS BD1N blade with full-flat grind. For the uninitiated, CTS BD1N is a nitrogen-enriched high-carbon chromium steel. It strikes a balance between high hardness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance. Pretty neat extras if you ask us, especially for a blade this short and small.

Hit the link below to buy one.

BUY IT HERE

Leatherman Crunch Multi-Tool

If you’re looking for buy-it-for-life pliers, don’t sleep on this. This is exactly what you should be set with. Named the Leatherman Crunch, this ultra-utilitarian multi-tool earns its name gloriously. By bundling a set of useful secondary tools, it becomes the ultimate Vise-Grip-style locking pliers, and then some.

And compared to all the other locking pliers multi-tools, the Leatherman Crunch is easily the most compact and portable when folded up. It’s hard to believe something so small can pack this much punch. The Crunch is smaller and narrower than the Leatherman Wave, but don’t mistake that as a flaw even for one second. It simply means that alongside being a great all-around multi-tool, it’s also an excellent EDC companion.

We should note that this a highly specialized tool. Which means you might some of its additions a bit frivolous, if not downright useless. In any case, there’s a serrated blade, a few screwdrivers, a bottle opener, and a file. You should think twice about shelling out for this one if you’re not big on anything that involves pliers. If, however, your line of work demands it, then the Leatherman Crunch is a worthwhile and excellent bang for your buck.

It’s also one of the only few pliers in the world in which the pliers actually look. Some others claim to be able to do exactly that, but usually fall short. This one passes with flying colors, making it one of, if not the best pliers out there.

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Benchmade 380 Aller

Often when an EDC is called compact, that means it’s so tiny it’s barely functional. Not the Benchmade 380 Aller. It’s compact but also highly functional, and that should perhaps come as no surprise. Seeing as this is Benchmade, it’s no wonder the 380 Aller is another refined, robust, and excellent addition to your EDC roster.

The Benchmade Aller 380 carries six essential functions, packed with a knife, a screwdriver and pry tool, bit driver, and bottle opener. When closed, it’s just 3.3-inch small. Apply pressure to its exposed tang, however, and out pokes a 1.6-inch CPM S30V wharncliffe blade.

This premium steel balances toughness, wear, and corrosion resistance in a package barely larger than your palm. The result is a staggeringly versatile EDC that comes in handy when the going gets tough.

The compact length and non-locking design might turn off some EDC heads who prefer something with more brute. But this also means it follows knife laws in many parts of the world. It’s also a perfect companion if you’re always traveling, especially in rough terrains. The Benchmade 380 Aller’s blade and tools extend from textured G-10 handles. That makes for a familiar resilient grip, plus a reversible pocket clip and lanyard hole.

If you’re a newcomer in the EDC world and are looking to expand your toolset, this is a great beginner’s option. Even if you’re far from your neophyte days, this is still a great one to have on-hand. The Benchmade 380 Aller, so versatile, is designed for daily use. It might just be your ticket out of a sticky situation.

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Fix MFG Beer Bike Keychain

At just three inches long, FIX MFG’s Beer Bike Keychain certainly skews on the smaller side of the Everyday Carry spectrum. But make no mistake — this delivers a lot of functionality despite its size.

With 4mm and 5mm hex tools, a flathead screwdriver, and bottle opener, this could come in handy for any person venturing the outdoors, but most especially cyclists. But even if you’re in public commute, it wouldn’t hurt to bring one alone. If you’re on a backcountry expedition, meanwhile, this is all the more a must-have.

Beyond the tools, there’s a ergonomic leather loop where the multitude of tools are stored. Not only does this look sleek, it also ensures that you don’t accidentally stab yourself while it’s in your pocket. The tools are made of steel alloy, and they’re perfect for quick tune-ups when you’re going around town and your bike hiccups. If you need a cold one, pop open one using the Beer Bike Keychain’s built-in bottle opener.

Although this was made for the city commuter, it’s still a robust and multi-functional EDC to have on hand. With tough steel construction and genuine leather designed to take a beating for years, you can’t go wrong with this purchase. And it’s an absolute steal at $15. Only available in brown, though, which is a bummer.

This isn’t a holy grail-level EDC, surely. But it’s a great starter kit for those just beginning to enter this world of hand-carry tools. Hit the link below to find out more.

BUY FROM HUCKBERRY

EAGTAC D3A Titanium Flashlight

The EAGTAC D3A flashlight is one of the most notable everyday carry accessories we’ve come across, with its sleek titanium shell, top class tint, and best of all, its ability to take on various sources of power. It will help you in the lighting department, and with plenty of panache care of its gorgeous titanium casing.

The EAGTAC D3A comes as the latest option in this line of popular EDC lights. EAGTAC flashlights are praised both for their performance and form factor, and this new one isn’t an exception. The D3A is CNC-machined from titanium and brass, polished to a sleek mirror finish. Suffice it to say build quality is one of this EDC’s strongest suits.

You’ll find cooling fins on the head and a diamond knurling pattern on the exterior, giving it a more robust, tactile feel. But as with any flashlight, it’s the inside that matters. Fortunately, the EAGTAC D3A doesn’t skimp on that front. We’re talking a new A750 RC LED driver that’s high-efficiency and offers various modes across the board. It also supports 14,500 rechargeable lithium-ion batteries for optimum, long-lasting illumination.

The driver comes paired with a cutting-edge Nichia 219C emitter with a 92 CRI rating. That’s currently the highest and most accurate renderings you can find on a flashlight. That’s something special considering how tiny this thing is. It can last up to an hour at 353 lumens, or over 150 hours on a 2-lumen setting. There’s also an included clip so you can easily attach it to anything, plus a rigid nylon holster for fast access.

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Victorinox Alox Limited Edition 2019

Do people still read reviews of Victorinox’s products? At this point the iconic Swiss army knife brand is such a household name that it’s the Colgate to toothpaste. Indeed, the Victorinox Swiss Army Knife is one of those few mainstream tools that you’d find owned even by people who don’t know the term Everyday Carry.

Heck, this product might have invented EDCs altogether. This year, Victorinox introduces the 2019 Limited Edition Victorinox Alox, in a gorgeous champagne gold color. There are three models, Pioneer being the largest. It’s still just 3.7-inch long and half an inch thick, perfectly sized for your pockets. It weighs just 2.5 ounces even with all the metal tools and Alox scales.

The classic Swiss army knife packs eight useful tools and congests them in a sturdy, well-crafted, and expertly designed enclosure. You get a can opener, a screwdriver, a reamer, a bottle opener, and who can forget, a 2.5-inch blade that’s super sharp and robust. And as great as these new models looks, they ain’t just for show. The scales are treated with an additional layer of protection against corrosion and wear and tear.

There are smaller options if you the Pioneer is too big for your liking. The Cadet and Classic models might be more apropos to your preferences. Big or small, these all come with the quality and assurance you’ve come to expect from Victorinox. Never venture out without this tool on your person. It might just be your ticket out of a sticky situation.

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The James Brand Upgrades The Chapter With Crucible Steel

No self-respecting everyday carry fan can skip The James Brand in their EDC kit. A trusted and reliable name on ultra-portable and ultra-functional tools, The James Brand is already a household name for many. Its latest, an update on The Chapter, brings a number of measured upgrades to its flagship knife.

You’ll find that the trademark design remains intact. The James Brand certainly didn’t want to reinvent what’s already considered a near-perfect model. So you’re still getting the Titanium frame-lock construction and minimal moving parts for long term low-maintenance care.

Even still, you’ll find some serious under-the-hood refinements here that make the knife an even more airtight EDC essential.

The blade of The Chapter is now features incredible Crucible S35vn stainless steel, for instance. That’s a benchmark-grade, corrosion-resistant knife material that’s easy to care for.

You’ll also find ceramic bearings and a hidden lockface insert. The clip is now boasting 416 stainless steel and you get a 6al4v Titanium spacer, as well. For the handle material, you’re looking at 6al4v Titanium.

The Chapter comes in a variety of blade types and finishes. Colorways include Titanium plus Stainless, Black plus Stonewashed, and a combination of Black plus Titanium plus Stonewashed.

It’s a knife built for heavy-duty use and springs at the ready if you’re ever in a pinch. If you need a solid blade, you’ve found it. The Chapter is $295 a pop. Not good for your pockets, certainly. But perfect if you’re looking for a trusty companion in your adventures.

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Photos courtesy of The James Brand