Raven Utility Knife
We wouldn’t call utility knives versatile. They’re typically relegated to box cutting and DIY jobs. That all changes with the totally rethought Raven utility knife that can manage far more. First of all, no tools…
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.
Photos courtesy of Victorinox
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.
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.
G.R.A.D. MB16F Bayonet-Revolver
Be careful using this everyday carry — it can, and will kill. It’s G.R.A.D.’s MB16F Bayonet-Revolver, and as the name suggests, it’s a sleekly sinister knife and revolver hybrid.
Name a more formidable match-up, we dare you. Can’t think of one? Well, that’s because there’s probably none as battlefield-proof as this one. Sure, it doesn’t seem all that useful and practical for everyday use. This is really better suited for wartime applications, to be honest. But that doesn’t mean you can admire the craftsmanship behind this bad boy.
Its M16/AR15-compatible construction is enough to keep mouths ajar. There’s a workhorse blade measuring over 5.6 inches long. And the main event is a .22 LR six-shot revolver hidden within the handle. It’s completely functional via a low-profile trigger. You access that via an unlocking mechanism built into the hilt.
The model featured above remains unfired, though. Global Research And Development doesn’t produce this anymore, sad to say. So, this might be your only chance to own one of the most unique firearms we’ve ever come across. And should you win the auction, you must get a BATF approval, too.
The MB16F Bayonet-Revolver is expected to go for between $1,500 to $2,000. If you think that’s too pricey, you’re welcome to balk. But if for you that’s a small price to pay for a brutalist’s dream knife, bid away. There’s 22 days on the clock left, and the bid as of writing is $750. Your move.
Photos courtesy of Morphy Auctions
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.
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.
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.
Photos courtesy of The James Brand
ThruNite Neutron 2C Gets Third Version
Third time’s the charm for ThruNite. You’re looking at version three of the ultra-portable and ultra-functional EDC flashlight, called the ThruNite Neutron 2C.
No Earth-shattering improvements here, to be honest. But that’s more because past iterations were already so good — it was probably difficult to find which else should be buffed up. But alas, version three still comes with plenty of smart upgrades.
The exterior remains largely unchanged from the previous release. It’s still boasting an IPX8-rated black anodized aluminum tube with a raised collar and an anti-roll design. Underneath is a metal slide switch and a liberal dollop of knurling on the bottom half.
This bottom part houses a key feature. The segmented portion unscrews into two separate parts to let you shorten the entire light. This makes the flashlight compatible to a lot of batteries, including 18650, 18350, CR123A, 16340, and 16340. Best of all, it’s got a built-in micro USB port so you can recharge it basically anywhere there’s a USB slot.
Accessories include a pre-attached clip, a 3,400 mAh 18650 battery, a holster, a lanyard, and its own micro USB cable. You’d likely want to purchase other knick knacks for this thing, but this is a pretty sufficient starting kit already.
The ThruNite Neutron 2C uses a Cree XP-L V6 LED light available in both cool and neutral configurations. It tops up at 1,100 lumens and boasts a maximum runtime of 49 days on its 0.5-lumen Firefly setting. It’s powerful, versatile, and extremely portable. There’s so much to like here, and we can’t wait for the fourth version.
Cold Steel Chaos Bowie Knife
Blade makers are wont to boast about how their knives carry a history of combat use, but Cold Steel is a rarity in that it went to town on that department. Thus comes the Bowie Knife, which, despite its violent past, has become one of the most remarkable outdoor fixed blades available.
Made for combat and now repurposed for your everyday carry woes, the Cold Steel Chaos Bowie features a 10.5-inch clip-point. It’s an SK-5 high-carbon steel blade, mind you, that’s finished in a sleek coat of black. Attached is a 6061 aluminum handle that comes with its own finger guard and glass breaker hilt.
One look at this knife makes it clear that Cold Steel took inspiration from the trench knives of the Second World War. But the shop doesn’t care much for nostalgia. After all, that past comes rife with tragedy and is best left alone.
Instead, Cold Steel chose to contextualize the blade for this new generation. It infused it modern materials but decided to let the classic styling cues remain. That combination makes for an excellent survival blade, ready to wield in any outdoor pickle you might find yourself in.
The Chaos Bowie also features a Secure-Ex sheath that’s super durable. Not only that, but it’s also incredibly light, and plus, it’s MOLLE-compatible. That’s basically your brute certification right there. Attach it to your tactical pack or belt loops, the choice is yours. Either way, you’ll know you have a hardcore knife on your person at all times. The best part? It’s just $120.
Elko Titanium Pocket Knife
Last year, The James Brand introduced Elko, an ultra-compact keychain folding knife that quickly became one of the most essential pieces of everyday carry accessories you could own.
The Elko hasn’t gone away ever since. That’s a good thing because it truly is one of the finest and well-crafted pocket knives we’ve ever seen. Now comes the Elko Titanium.
It’s basically a titanium version of the original Elko blade, so that means it still has the features that made that original model such a trailblazer in the everyday carry community. Several useful things are included here. Like the excellent Sandvik 12C27 stainless steel blade. Plus the 416 stainless steel hardware coupled with phosphor bronze washers. There’s also a key ring attachment that doubles as a bottle opener, screwdriver, and pry bar.
The biggest change this iteration ushers in, of course, is the 6AL4V titanium handle scales. This is apparently both harder and lighter than steel. All in all, the pocket knife measures just 4.33 inches. That makes this a perfect keychain accessory for you to lug around everyday.
The James Brand has made a name for itself as a luxurious EDC brand, but through the Elko line, the company is able to expands its portfolio to include functional and utilitarian tools that aren’t necessarily super expensive.
It’s often hard to get into the EDC game because most of the prices involved would put the tools out of everyday people’s reach, but as The James Brand proves with the Elko Titanium, you don’t need to burst a hole through your pocket to get an EDC essential that’s both beautiful and robust.
ElevenD Hook Multi-Tool
Designer Kevin Michael Sayers has created an everyday carry essential that’s not only multi-functional, but will also satisfy the germaphobe in you.
The ElevenD Hook, now funded five times past its original goal on Kickstarter at the time of writing, is a lightweight and extremely strong EDC folding hook multi-tool that enables a person to access, pull, and press hooks, handles, or buttons without actually touching them.
You can also it carry heavy loads like grocery bags thanks to its built-in hook. The tool can also keep your bag suspended in mid-air if you lay it down the edge of a table. Plus, it can serve as a hex bit driver and perform all sorts of other neat tricks. It’s all in the name, in fact. Actually, “ElevenD” refers to humans already having 10 fingers or “digits,” and thus this tool is the eleventh.
You won’t be disappointed when it comes to the construction. The ElevenD Hook Multi-Tool has a CNC machined Aluminum or Brass handle that houses a folding Stainless Steel hook. Each stainless steel laser cut hook is acid etched. Then they’re ceramic media tumbled until achieving a smoothed stonewashed appearance and feel.
Then, each brass handle is finish-machined with light cuts to provide an almost mirror like surface. The real stunner here is the pivot mechanism, though. It’s a zinc plated steel that provides the strength for the hinge. The hinge is nearly impossible to break under normal use, and the stainless steel laser cut hook is designed to resist bending and twisting as well.
The result is a tiny but extremely robust EDC essential that could very well be the single EDC you’ll ever need.
Photos courtesy of ElevenD
Olight S1R II Baton
The Olight S1R II Baton is a rechargeable 1,000 lumen everyday-carry flashlight that features a TIR optic lens to produce a powerful and clear beam with a balanced hotspot. Boasting five levels of brightness plus a Strobe mode for emergencies, this is one EDC essential you’ll want to have on hand at all times.
An upgrade over the still-incredible S1R, the S1R II uses the same Cree XM-L2 LED as its predecessor. However, it also boasts a CR123A lithium primary and can now run off its included IMR 16340 rechargeable battery. You lose a bit of runtime, to be sure. But the successor will lend you a maximum lumen rating of 1,000 on Turbo.
The flashlight weighs less than two ounces and is small enough to fit inside any pocket or bag. It comes with a dual-direction pocket clip to secure the flashlight during travel or for hands-free operations. It now also features a side button with a LED indicator. That means you can always be aware of the battery level.
In terms of battery, it’s now more convenient to charge this bad boy up. That’s because it uses Olight’s new Magnetic Charging Cable II standard, or MCCII. This effectively makes the flashlight compatible with Olight’s chargers and cables for their other magnetically rechargeable flashlights. You’ll get a MCCII cable with every purchase, in addition to a soft pouch, a lanyard, and a handy battery case to hold and carry everything together.
The S1R II Baton is proof that Olight knows how to make the smallest and most convenient EDC tools without sacrificing quality. While it’s not a terribly innovative flashlight by any stretch of the imagination, you’ll surely want it as part of your EDC kit.
Gerber Flatiron Pocket Knife
It’s hard to spot a pocket knife design that’s more interesting than the rest of the pack, but Gerber manages to do that with its Flatiron.
This cleaver-style knife blade begs to be your next everyday carry essential. To be clear, the specs won’t shock you even one bit. What you’re getting is pretty much standard fare: There are G-10 composite or anodized aluminum handle options, increased grip capability, and all those whole-nine-yards stuff, but wait till you use the thumb hole to expose the blade with a one-handed flick — you’ll come to the conclusion that there’s something really special about this one.
That and the Gerber Flatiron also sports a pretty unusual silhouette, although for Gerber that’s pretty conventional. We’re talking a 3CrMoV steel blade and the aforementioned Desert Tan G-10 handle scale, plus a tip-up pocket clip and a sturdy frame lock to keep the blade in place during use.
At only 8.5 inches (the blade by itself is 3.8 inches), this is one of the smaller EDC pocket knife options out there, but don’t let the size fool you. This is as sharp and durable as those other guys, and yet they don’t have the unique cleaver-style design the Gerber Flatiron wields so effortlessly. It’s functional, it’s utilitarian, it’s compact, and it’s sporting a bold design — there’s so much to praise here. From slicing steak to carving wood, the Gerber Flatiron has you covered and will never disappoint. You can get one now for just under $37.
Tekto Takt Mini Urban Camo Sliding Knife
Knives are some of the best everyday carry tools you can own. If you want a particularly sturdy and compact daily knife option, you might want to consider the Takt Mini Urban Camo Sliding Knife from none other than Tekto Gear.
The Takt Mini Urban Camo is a robust and durable everyday carry essential with a serrated blade that’s 2.75 inches long, which means it’ll fit in pretty much anything. And you don’t have to worry about this loadout’s performance — Tekto Gear says it’s equipped with the latest spring technology. Built from aluminum alloy and 440 Stainless Steel, this is one of the most durable options out there. And if that alone hasn’t impressed you yet, that stylish camo handle just might win you over.
Most everyday carry fans often have to choose whether they should go for the tactical or the stylish. But Tekto Gear says screw it and combined both to make one of the most cool-looking knives we’ve ever seen. Especially one that doesn’t skimp on performance. It’s beauty and brute all in one package, and Tekto Gear made sure to manufacture it under high standards, both in terms of quality of materials and overall functionality.
At $129, the Takt Mini Urban Camo Sliding Knife is a steal. It’s rugged but not too bulky. Sophisticated but not too fancy. Stylish but in a way that will blend with any type of user. Best of all, it doesn’t forget that it’s still a knife at the end of the day. Seriously, there’s so much to merit here, and if you’re on the market for a definitive carry-on knife, you shouldn’t think twice.
Photos courtesy of Tekto Gear
MecArmy EK3R Slipjoint
Here’s another everyday-carry essential you shouldn’t miss: The MecArmy EK3R. It’s a full-sized compact knife option with a non-locking slip joint mechanism that has a stylish yet low-profile design that essentially makes it one of the best EDC tools for most situations.
Most EDC knife options today oscillate between the extreme ends of the spectrum: either too short or too long, but we’d argue the EK3R has just the right amount of length — it’s compact without being too teensy, and large enough yet not bulky or a chore to wield. It falls in the sweet spot between keychain knife and full-sized folder, which is exactly what you want in an EDC.
When closed, the knife is 3.8 inches long, and the stainless steel handles bring the knife’s thickness down to just 0.5 inch overall. The steel blade, a Sandvik 12C27 variant, is 2.65 inches, which gives plenty to work with, even in the most stickiest of situations, and that’s thanks mainly to the knife’s wharncliffe blade shape. There’s a thumb hole that’s larger than what you’ll find on most EDCs, taking the place of a nail nick — this is a good compromise, however, since you’re getting a slip joint mechanism which makes two-handed operation easier; you’ll be able to deploy the blade in a literal snap.
Finally, it should be noted that the EK3R is entirely made of metal, which means it’s one of the most robust, reliable, and durable options available in the market right now. There’s even clip for tip down, deep-pocket carry, which you can remove to conceal the knife in case you need to. You can choose between a plain stonewashed handle or a “curl” or “skull” patterned laser-engraved handle.
Gerber Barbill Wallet
It’s hard not be impressed with Gerber’s track record when it comes to everyday carry equipment. For 75 years, the company has been making robust and well-crafted tools for hunters, soldiers, tradesmen, and even the average person looking for a more dependable set of gear.
The minimalist Barbill Wallet is yet another fine example of Gerber’s dedication to keeping things as simple as possible. But make no mistake, simple doesn’t mean lesser. In fact, this is one of the toughest wallets currently in the market right now.
With its skeletonized heavy-duty stainless steel frame, the Barbill wallet doesn’t look like your run-of-the-mill leather cash stash. That being said, it’s perfect because you’re not a run-of-the-mill man. You’re practical, pragmatic, and averse to tawdry materials. Which is why this cash and card carrier keeps it dead-simple, but is also extremely tough.
The wallet lets you stack up to seven cards in total, held in place with a durable and flexible elastic band. Fold up some cash and throw it in there for good measure, it can take it. Accessing the cards or cash is pretty easy, as is using the built-in bottle opener. And did we mention it’s TSA-friendly?
Without anything stored, the wallet weighs just 1.6 ounces, and measures just 3.5 inches on its longest side, and 2.25 inches on its shortest. This everyday carry essential is a must-have for any modern man seeking for durability and practicality in one package, and at just $20, you really can’t go wrong with Gerber’s offering.
Fenix LD02 V2 Penlight With UV Lighting
Fenix makes excellent lighting gear for the everyday carry crowd, that’s for sure. If not for them we’d still be relying on other below-average Triples As for navigating the dark. Fenix made waves with its 100-lumen LD02 LED flashlight years. Now it’s following that up with a much-improved upgrade.
Enter the Fenix LD02 V2, a redesigned successor with features even meticulous flashlight aficionados will appreciate. It’s still very pocket-friendly at just 3.6 inches long and 24 grams heavy (without a battery). And don’t be afraid to drop it — the main body is enclosed in anodized aluminum and features stainless steel at the business end for impact resistance. There’s also a built-in pocket clip that will allow you to more easily store it in bags, pouches, or even your shirt.
For general usage, the flashlight boasts a 90-CRI warm white CREE XQ-E HI emitter, but also features a 200mW UV light, which should be pretty useful if you have a habit of constantly checking for fake bills. The main emitter has varying lumen levels — 70 on High, 25 on Medium, and just 1 on Low, which lets you squeeze as many as 75 hours off a single alkaline battery. It also has IP68 certification which makes it submersible up to 6.5 feet or 2 meters of water, and on top of that, it’s resistant to dust and other foreign objects.
For just $30, you’ll get the Fenix LD02 V2, plus a single alkaline battery. Fenix says you can also use Ni-MH batteries, but you have to purchase that separately. Nonetheless, this flashlight would be a perfect addition to any everyday carry fan’s haul.
Anywhere Tools are Stackable Everyday Carry Items
A multi-tool is great. We carry one daily. Problem is, sometimes we don’t need all those tools and we’re left carrying a bulky item. Anywhere Tools are an array of everyday carry items—pocket knife, flashlight,…
