The Bug Out Bag Guide | (0/10)

The Bug Out Bag Guide
Every Day Carry
Quick Start Guide
made with
Table of Contents
1. Making Your
First Every Day
Carry Kit
2. 5 Quick Tips
To Make A
Better EDC Kit
3. How To Build
a TSA-Approved
EDC Kit
4. Finding The
Best Tactical Pen
For Your Kit
5. How To Pick
The Best EDC
Flashlight
6. How To
Choose The Best
EDC Bag
7. How To
Choose The Best
EDC Knife
8. Want More?
Making Your First Every Day
Carry Kit
by Chris Ruiz
So, you've made your Bug Out Plan and have your Bug Out Bag Essentials packed
and up to date. Awesome, you are now better prepared than the overwhelming
majority of the populace. But what survival tools should you have on your every
day carry list?
Here we will look at what a survival minded person could have on their every day
carry list that would make them prepared to deal with dynamic situations that may
arise in every day life.
What is an Every Day Carry List?
An every day carry list is a set of items that you have with you under most
scenarios (at all times if possible) that helps you be prepared at a moment's notice
to survive. These items may be designed to aid your survival on their own or they
may be there to help you get to a safe location or back home. It can be made up of
a wide variety of items and should be tailored to your lifestyle, locality, and
probable threats.
Ideally, the items on an every day carry list will be small both in number and size
and will be possible to carry on your person without an extra bag or container to
lug around. There are some people however that do choose to carry the items on
their every day carry list in a specific EDC bag and others who prefer to
consolidate this kit into fewer, more flexible items such as those covered in our 10
Best Multi Purpose Survival Tools post.
Types of Items on an Every Day Carry List
1. Things You Carry With You Already
This is important to review for a couple of reasons. Firstly, they probably reveal
some basic needs that you have which gives us insight into what your greater every
day carry (EDC) needs may be. Secondly, if you are already carrying an item with
you, you would not need to replicate its uses or functions elsewhere. Or perhaps
you can modify one of these items to make it a better EDC tool without adding
another piece into your EDC kit. Keeping an every day carry list simple and light is
key.
2. Things That Would Help With Frequently Encountered
Problems
Do you have problems that you face repeatedly? Is there a potential problem that
has a high probability of occurring in your normal day or commute? Is there
something that you use frequently that has the potential to break? Having an EDC
item that could assist in these situations would make your life easier generally and
be of great help when the high potential risks become reality.
3. Things That Would Help With Rare and High
Consequence Problems
This is a category of items that needs to be risk assessed versus threats in your
area. They are meant to cover potential problems that are low probability to occur
but if they did, would have a severe consequence. We will go over performing a
risk assessment below but a brief example would be if you ride in a vehicle to work
every day. For this activity there is a very low probability of needing to escape the
train, bus, or car but if there was a crash and you needed to exit quickly, there
would be severe consequences of not being able to do so. In this case having a
glass breaking Tactical Pen or a seatbelt cutter would make a huge difference
towards improving your chances of survival. Tools of this nature are what make up
this category.
How To Assess Risk
Rating the relative risks of threats in your locality is a good way to judge whether
an item is worth including in you every day carry list or even your bug out bag
contents.
The basic process for this is to judge each threat on two
criteria:
1. Probability - What are the chances of the threat occurring? Is it something that
is highly probable (like slipping and falling on ice), which you see once a week or
several times per month? Is it low probability (like an earthquake), which you would
expect to see maybe once per year or every several years? Is it somewhere in
between such as a car accident? Rate the probability of threats occurring
realistically from your own experience and what has occurred historically in your
locality.
2. Potential Impact - What would the impact be if the threat actually happened?
Would it be mild and easy to overcome? Would it send people to the hospital?
Does it have the potential to be deadly?
We have created this Threat Assessment Matrix to help you visualize this concept:
This chart is a great tool for determining whether or not to add an item to your
every day carry list. Keep it in mind and refer to it when building yours.
What should go on YOUR Every Day Carry List?
Now that we know what types of items go into an EDC kit and how to decide
whether or not an individual threat is worth carrying gear for, let's take a look at
some items that are good to include. I will use myself as an example and show you
how I determined my every day carry list.
1. Things You Carry With You Already
Wallet - I need ID and cash daily, can't leave home without this. I will however
be improving it as an EDC device by adding a wallet multitool to it. There are a
lot of options out there for this from the cheap and basic to the more complex. I
like the Tool Logic Credit Card Companion as it has a lot of useful features that
the other models have including a can opener, compass, and tweezers but also
comes with a small serrated blade that pulls out.
Keys - Can't leave home without these unless I want to climb through the
window to get back in! I am going to add a "Grenade" Survival Kit Key Fob to
my keyring, which comes with more paracord and a fire starting kit.
Phone - I always have my phone on me to contact loved ones or the authorities
in the event of an emergency. To improve this I am going to load PDFs onto it
with critical documents and a map of my local area in case I need to access
these while the phone network is unavailable. I am also going to slip a razor
blade and a laminated hard copy of that same map in the space between the
case and the back of the phone as backups. If you do this don't forget to remove
the blade before going through a security checkpoint at an airport!
Watch - A friend once told me "Never trust someone who doesn't have a
watch." It is an item that many of us carry every day. Some ways we can
supercharge this into an EDC survival tool is to add a compass or use a
paracord woven watch band
2. Things That Would Help With Frequently Encountered
Problems
Folding knife - I have to frequently cut cardboard and plastic at work but this
would also be good if I was in a more office based role where I would be dealing
with staples or opening letters. I have a CRKT M21 folding knife that I have
used for years and it still is razor sharp and opens one handed with a quick flick
that will get added to my every day carry list. Check out our in-depth article on
How To Pick The Best EDC Knife .
Flashlight - I am in a dark parking lot daily that this will help out with. It will also
be useful in case of blackout or a fire. A good LED flashlight (check out our
article here on picking the best EDC flashlight ) is also powerful enough to signal
for help and small enough to fit in a pocket.
3. Things That Would Help With Rare and High
Consequence Problems
Tactical Pen - A Tactical Pen is a high grade metal pen that can double as a self
defense tool and glass breaking aid. I constantly need a pen at work so carrying
this with me will not be adding an unnecessary item that I will rarely use. This is
more of an upgrade to meet a daily need with the capability to address the rare
but high consequence situation of surviving a personal attack. The Gerber
Impromptu is an excellent choice for this although we cover several great
Tactical Pen options in our article here .
Glass breaker and Seatbelt Cutter - I drive daily, having this will help me escape
in the event of an accident as well as extract my son from the backseat and get
him to safety. The LifeResQ 6-In-1 Car Escape Tool is an excellent combination
of these to tools as well as a backup flashlight.
Pry tool - This will help me open doors and containers in the event of a car
accident or a problem in my workplace or home. There are many options out
there for this, the best one I found is the Boker Minibar Blade which excels in
function, having both a pry tip and lever tool, but is a bit rough on the wallet. A
cheaper option would be the Key Chain Pry Tool by Schrade.
More Paracord - Paracord is awesome as it is light, strong and will not rot. It has
nearly as many uses as duct tape . I would not be looking to carry around
enough to make a rope ladder or anything as complicated as that but having
some at my disposal if I need to splint a broken bone or tie an emergency
shelter down would be handy. There are a lot of options for paracord bracelets
and other wearable items, I prefer this one by The Friendly Swede as it comes
with a metal clasp that doubles as an emergency fire starter.
As you are aware from our 10 Best Multi Purpose Survival Tools post , I am a big
fan of multi use items. Try applying this philosophy to your every day carry list to
reduce weight and complexity if you find you have too many items ask yourself
what combo items you can consolidate to such as a Leatherman Sidekick Multitool.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are some easy steps you can take to assess your every day
carry needs and determine what is appropriate to be put on your every day carry
list. Stick to the principles of addressing realistic, probable threats and keeping your
items multi purpose and small to be most effective. Remember when planning your
every day carry list, chance favors the well prepared
Want Even MORE Info On Building Your EDC
Kit?
If you are looking for even more information on how to build your ultimate EDC kit
you can check out my book, The Every Day Carry Guide. It is a comprehensive
manual that will teach you:
How to be prepared at all times - no matter where you are
How to build your first EDC kit from scratch
How to refine an existing kit to make it more effective
How to pick the best gear to realistically make you more prepared
How to assess threats and risks in your every day life
Click here to check it out: The Every Day Carry Guide.
5 Quick Tips To Make A
Better EDC Kit
by Chris Ruiz
Today I am going to share with you 5 Easy Tips to increase your day-to-day
preparedness by building a better EDC Kit. These 5 tips will help you:
1. Identify the threats and challenges you are most likely to face in your daily life
2. Pick the EDC gear YOU need to help overcome them
3. Improve your EDC kit to make it more effective
Lets get started!
What is an EDC Kit?
An EDC (Every Day Carry) kit is the set of items that you carry with you
everywhere. If you haven't given any thought to what is in your EDC kit you
probably have the basic items everyone takes with them when they leave their
house such as your keys, phone, and wallet. However with some simple
consideration you can add to this short list to help yourself be better prepared and
generally make your life easier. Common purposes of the gear in an EDC kit
include:
Keeping survival or "get home" gear on your person at all times
Making your life easier
Solving common problems that you face regularly
Protecting yourself from threats
Giving you peace of mind
A basic EDC kit
So, what should be in your EDC kit? Well, it can be pretty much anything you can
imagine. Some people just stick to the basics and others carry purpose made gear
to solve specific problems they expect to face. No matter what you currently carry
these 5 Quick Tips will help you make an objective assessment of your needs and
improve your kit to best meet your specific challenges:
Quick Tip 1: What Threats or Challenges Are You Likely To
Face?
Making a realistic assessment of what problems you are likely to face is the first
step towards identifying what is most useful for you to have in your EDC kit. Just
because every kit you see online seems to have a notepad or particular gadget
doesn't mean yours needs to have this as well. Tailor your ideal kit to YOUR
specific needs.
This is done by looking at the threats that are present in your local environment
(earthquake, terrorism, mugging, etc) as well as problems you are likely to face
frequently (walking in a dark parking lot, needing to open packages/boxes at work).
Make a realistic assessment of both the probability of these challenges occurring
and the potential impact they will have on you. Make your ideal list based on this
assessment. My "How To Make An EDC List" article covers this in greater detail,
click here to read it for more detailed information.
Quick Tip 2: What Do You Carry Already?
Everyone already has some items that they carry with them that are essential to
their day-to-day. This may be the basics of wallet, keys, and phone that I
mentioned above or a full blown get home bag, depending on how much thought
you have put into it at this point. Take a good look at what you are already carrying
with you and think of what you can remove or upgrade to better address the
challenges you identified in Quick Tip #1. For example:
I carried keys around on my keychain to apartments I no longer lived in for
YEARS until I actually took a look at what I had on there. Many people do the
same with rewards card to stores without even considering it. Do you have
similar useless junk in your EDC kit that you can get rid of?
Do you have an old bottle opener that you carry around that is beat up and
worn out? Why not upgrade to something like a mini-multitool so you can open
those bottles plus have the ability to pry, screw, cut, and torque as you need?
Don't be afraid to remove anything you haven't used in a while or that does not
meet the challenges you identified above, you can always add it back in if your
threats change again in the future.
Upgrade items to multi use tools such as this mini multitool from Boker
Quick Tip 3: What can you add to better address these
challenges?
When people start seriously thinking about what to add to their EDC kit the most
common items that they add are:
A quality, reliable knife (see my EDC Knife Guide here)
A bright, compact flashlight with good battery life (see my EDC Flashlight Guide
here)
A tactical pen (for more info on Tactical Pens see my article here)
The reason why these are popular is that they are all compact, light weight, and can
be used across a HUGE variety of situations.
When you are thinking about what to add to your EDC kit look back to your initial
assessment in Quick Tip #1 to see what you need to address those challenges.
Some other items that are commonly added to EDC kits are:
First Aid Kit
Camera
Rain Gear
Water Bottle
Fire starting kit
Survival Whistle
Compass
Notepad
Paracord
Quick Tip 4: How to Carry Your EDC Kit
So, you have removed things you don't need from your EDC kit and added some
useful tools as well. If you have done this based on the threats and challenges you
identified in Quick Tip #1 you should have a lean kit that is optimized to meet your
individual needs. Awesome!
Now consider how you are going to carry it. Remember, this is an EVERY DAY
Carry Kit. So you will have it with you whenever you step out your front door. If
your kit is awkward to carry around you will want to leave it behind and it will then
be USELESS when you need it!
A small kit it should be able to fit in your pockets or purse
A medium sized kit can be carried and organized in a shoulder bag or pouch
Many people carry larger kits in small backpacks
If you do decide to carry your kit in an EDC bag make sure you choose one that
allows you to organize your gear in a way that makes it easy to find. For detailed
info on types of EDC bags and how to choose one that fits YOUR kit check out my
article here. Or, if you are ready to shop for an EDC bag check out my store
here.Quick Tip 5: Periodically review your kit
Once you have chosen your EDC kit and are carrying it around for a while it is wise
to review it periodically. You will want to review what you are carrying and make
sure every item is still relevant to your needs. In the modern day world threats
change rapidly:
If you are facing a new challenge you may want to add gear to help overcome it
If a threat has changed you may want to remove gear to lighten up your kit
This is a long term tip but if you want to set it into action RIGHT NOW you can set
a recurring reminder on your phone or calendar to remind yourself to review your
EDC Kit in a couple months. I like to review mine quarterly (every 3 months) but
pick a schedule that works best for you.
Want Even MORE Info On Building Your EDC
Kit?
If you are looking for even more information on how to build your ultimate EDC kit
you can check out my book, The Every Day Carry Guide. It is a comprehensive
manual that will teach you:
How to be prepared at all times - no matter where you are
How to build your first EDC kit from scratch
How to refine an existing kit to make it more effective
How to pick the best gear to realistically make you more prepared
How to assess threats and risks in your every day life
Click here to check it out: The Every Day Carry Guide.
Conclusion
Following these 5 Quick Tips will put you well on your way to making yourself
better prepared to face whatever challenges the world is likely to throw at you.
Remember to keep your kit lean and specific for the threats you've identified.
How To Build a TSAApproved EDC Kit
by Chris Ruiz
Whether you're heading off on vacation with the family or attending to business in
some other part of the world, traveling by plane presents unique challenges for
packing your EDC kit due to the rules set out by the Transportation Security
Administration (TSA) regarding what can and cannot be brought on planes.
What is permitted for checked baggage differs from what is permitted for carry-on
and to add to the confusion, regulations are constantly changing. Before packing
for your trip, make sure you're current with what is and isn't permissible by
checking the TSA Prohibited Items list for travelers.
Preparing Your EDC Kit for Traveling
When preparing your EDC kit for travel, evaluate the items you typically carry with
you and pare down to only those you will need during your trip. Think about what
new threats or challenges you are likely to encounter traveling by plane, in the area
you are headed, as well as during activities you plan on engaging in at your
destination.
After careful analysis, consider what you already carry that may address those
challenges and what additional items need to be brought along. For necessary
items that aren't permitted by the TSA, there are modifications that can be made or
alternatives that will ensure your EDC kit is compliant with federal law.
TSA Restriction Highlights
When dealing with TSA restrictions, if you have any doubts, it is best to leave
questionable items at home or packed correctly in your checked bags. Carrying any
item classified as a 'weapon' by the TSA on your person can result in a civil penalty.
Alternatives and Modifications for Typical EDC
Kit Items
Sometimes, there are items you just can't do without - restrictions or not. In this
article, we've evaluated alternatives and modifications for twelve of the most
common EDC items that may run afoul of TSA regulations.
Wallet
A must-have for carrying ID and currencies, but resist the temptation to conceal
credit card sized knifes or utility tools in your wallet as they are likely to be
confiscated by the TSA. It is best to leave these types of tools at home, but if it is a
necessity for you, pack them into your checked luggage to avoid any needless
hassles.
A TSA Agent's view of your bag
Key Ring
Keep your key ring stripped down to items you will need for traveling from your
home to the airport, such as your house and car keys. If you have any self-defense
tools like kubatons or knives, make sure to remove these as they will not be
permitted. If they will serve some utility at your destination, pack them carefully
into your checked luggage.
Phone
Phones are allowed as carry-on, as are back-up battery packs. If you have any
credit card sized utility tools or knives concealed in your phone case, make sure
they are removed.
Watch
A watch is a safe, compact way to carry survival items such as a compass and
paracord, as all items are safe for carry-on.
With full body scanners there really is no where to hide prohibited items. Play it
safe and travel smart.
Folding Knife
Folding knives are not permitted in carry-on. To choose a suitable alternative that
is TSA-approved, consider the ways in which you typically use your knife and what
other items could provide similar utility.
A great, travel-safe alternative is the Wenger 16912 Air Traveler Swiss Army Knife,
which doesn't have a knife but contains several other tools that serve a similar
purpose such as 1.8 inch scissors, a nail file with an unsharpened pointed end,
tweezers, and a mini screwdriver.
Flashlight
While some flashlights are permitted, remember when choosing your flashlight that
it is considered a tool and therefore must be less than 7 inches in length. Also, be
sure to avoid any aggressive-looking tactical flashlights to dodge any additional
scrutiny. To see our detailed guide for picking the best EDC flashlight, CLICK HERE.
Be sure to remove the batteries to avoid unintentionally draining them and keep
them in a Ziploc bag, similar to how you would store your liquids. The TSA agent
may want to try out your flashlight to see that it works, so having batteries packed
close by is advantageous.
Tactical Pen
This is a tricky one as it may raise suspicion in the security line and will be up to
the discretion of the TSA agent whether it is permitted or not. If a tactical pen is a
must-have item for you, pack it in your checked luggage, especially if it has features
that could be categorized as weapons. Check out our comprehensive Tactical Pen
guide HERE.
Glass Breaker and Pry Tool
These types of tools are not permitted, but you can replace them with similar items
that are less than 7 inches in length such as a wrench or screwdriver.
Our personal choice is the Boker Mini Blade, which is 4.5 inch minibar tool made
of high tensile resilient steel and has a fine edge perfect for prying into tight
spaces.
Paracord
In reasonable quantities, paracord is a generally accepted item to bring on
airplanes. There are several wearable options that save space and raise little
suspicion such as bracelets, necklaces, belts, and watch wristbands.
A low-profile paracord belt is a great way to carry 70 feet of 550 pound
commercial grade paracord, however it will need to be removed and scanned at the
TSA checkpoint. If you're looking for a good option, check out the Bison Designs
Double Cobra Paracord Survival Belt.
Make sure you know the rules for wherever you are traveling. Different countries
have differing requirements.
Multitool
Typically, most multitools contain a blade and are not permitted by the TSA. Similar
to a folding knife, determine the features you are most likely to use and find travelsafe alternatives that can accommodate your needs.
For a utilitarian multitool that is also travel-safe, we recommend the Leatherman
831488 Style PS Multitool, which boasts a host of useful tools and is permitted as
carry-on.
Firestarting Kit
TSA regulations allow one book of safety matches as well as one TSA-approved
cigarette lighter. Additionally, you can carry up to two additional lighters in your
checked baggage as long as they are in TSA-approved containers, such as the
Colibri Tranzpack TSA and DOT Approved Airline Lighter Case.
Back-up flammable items or fuel are not permitted even in checked baggage so if
you are headed to a situation where you'll need these items, make sure you can
pick them up when you land.
For more information on permissible and banned firestarting items, check out this
quick reference guide from the Federal Aviation Association (FAA).
Survival Whistle
Whistles are allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage, however check yours
first to make sure it doesn't contain any fire-making items. Strike-anywhere
matches are not permitted in any luggage so you will need to ensure these items
are left at home.
Checking Your Bug-Out-Bag When Traveling
If you feel that the nature or length of your trip necessitates having your bug-outbag on hand, you'll be happy to know that many of the objectionable items for
carry-on are perfectly acceptable in checked luggage as long as they are packed
properly. For a FREE Bug Out Bag Planning Tool CLICK HERE
However, while most items can be checked, under no circumstances can you bring
any flammable liquids, torches, strike-anywhere matches, flares, gun lighters, or gun
powder. If you'll need any of these items once you reach your destination, such as
fuel for camping stoves, make preparations to buy them once you land.
On the plus side, if you intend to bring any tools, blades or firearms, these items are
permitted in checked luggage as long as they're properly packed. For tools and
blades, ensure they are sheathed or the sharp edges well-wrapped to avoid any
injury to baggage handlers.
For firearms - including ammunition, bb guns, compressed air guns, firearms, flare
guns, parts of guns, pellet guns, realistic replicas, and starter pistols - make sure
they are unloaded, packed in a hard-sided container, and declared at check-in.
Want Even MORE Info On Building Your EDC
Kit?
If you are looking for even more information on how to build your ultimate EDC kit
you can check out my book, The Every Day Carry Guide. It is a comprehensive
manual that will teach you:
How to be prepared at all times - no matter where you are
How to build your first EDC kit from scratch
How to refine an existing kit to make it more effective
How to pick the best gear to realistically make you more prepared
How to assess threats and risks in your every day life
Click here to check it out: The Every Day Carry Guide.
Conclusion
You don't need to abandon your EDC kit when traveling by airplane, there easy
ways to modify your kit that will retain its usefulness while complying with TSA
regulations.
The regulations are not static and frequently change, so make sure you check out
the TSA guidelines at least a week prior to any air travel. TSA agents also have the
authority to confiscate items at their discretion that raise any alarms.
If you have any doubts, there is a handy Can I Bring… tool and TSA app that can
both be found here. If you're still unsure, your best bet is to leave the item at
home. If the item is a must-have for your journey, look for travel-safe alternatives
or places you can purchase one once you reach your destination.
Finding The Best Tactical Pen
For Your Kit
by Chris Ruiz
A tactical pen can be a good option for a self defense tool in an emergency. They
make great every day carry companions due to their small size, light weight,
concealability, and dual purpose functionality. In this article we will show you how
to choose the best tactical pen for your EDC kit or Bug Out Bag by taking a look at
some of the leaders in the field.
What Is A Tactical Pen?
At its most basic a tactical pen is a writing implement that is also designed to be
used as a defensive weapon. Tactical pens are typically made of metal or a very
strong plastic. Aircraft grade aluminum and titanium are frequently employed to
make strong, lightweight tactical pens. One or both ends of a tactical pen is
typically tapered to a point to allow for it to be used as a thrusting self defense
tool. Whereas a normal pen would bend or break if used in a defensive scenario a
tactical pen is designed for tough use.
Why Carry A Tactical Pen?
People carry tactical pens for many reasons. Some may just want a high quality pen
that looks good and matches other gear they may have like a folding knife or other
tactical equipment. The primary reason however is that they want a reliable self
defense tool that can be hidden in plain sight. While a knife or firearm will draw
most anyone's attention if spotted while being carried, a tactical pen is more of a
"grey man" option. Most of the best tactical pens will pass a security or TSA
inspection and can therefore be carried almost anywhere. With some basic training
this enables tactical pen users to protect themselves wherever they go.
Another reason is that many tactical pens are designed to be non-lethal and come
with a blunt end that is intended to apply painful force to pressure points, sensitive
areas, and other vulnerable locations on an attacker's body. This can be an
appealing non-lethal self defense option for those not wanting to cause mortal
damage to an attacker.
Others may just be looking to lighten their kit by combining their self-defense tool
with their writing implement into one small multipurpose item. A tactical pen is
perfect for this.
Having a powerful self defense option in a low profile, compact package is what
has many people searching for the best tactical pen they can find.
Our Pick For Best Overall Tactical Pen
Gerber Impromptu Tactical Pen
The Gerber Impromptu Tactical Pen doesn't attempt to do absolutely everything its
competitors try for but instead chooses to execute the basic functions of a tactical
pen with authority. It comes out of the box with a Rite In The Rain ink cartridge so
you will be able to confidently take notes, mark maps, and more in any conditions.
It also has a low profile glass breaker integrated into the tip to assist in emergency
evacuations from vehicles of buildings. Additionally it is one of the few "click" pens
you see in the tactical pen format, which I see as an advantage - no cap to unscrew
every time and one less thing to lose.
Overall the machined steel body is extremely strong and will hold up to the
roughest applications. Its various ridges and indentations ensure a positive grip
should it be required to discourage aggressive behavior. These features have all
been well done and added thoughtfully. There is no excess on this tactical pen and
it strives to meet your daily needs at every turn. Coming in around the $40 price
point the Gerber Impromptu Tactical Pen exceeds expectations and will be a
reliable companion for years to come.
Our Pick For Best Mid Range Tactical Pen
Schrade Survival Tactical Pen
The Schrade Survival Tactical Pen gets our pick for best mid-range tactical pen for
several reasons. For one it has a ton of useful survival gear packed into its compact
package including:
Survival Whistle
Glass Breaker
Magnesium Firestarter
These items alone justify the $25 price tag. As a tactical pen if both writes well and
is strong enough to be a functional self defense item. The narrow taper at the
writing end serves well as a force multiplier if you ever needed to deter an attacker
with it. Looks wise it has a rather inconspicuous profile to it, unlike some other
pens that look obviously weaponized. This will help it pass any scrutiny from
security checkpoints, ensuring that you will be able to defend yourself pretty much
anywhere. This is a solid tactical pen that will not disappoint.
Our Pick for Best Budget Tactical Pen
Uzi Defender Tactical Pen
Cracking the $20 price range the Uzi Defender is an outstanding value for
someone looking to test out the tactical pen field. You get a lot of pen for that
minimal investment which includes both a hidden metal handcuff key and glass
breaker. Picking it up you can feel the heft of the Uzi Defender and the knurling
meshes perfectly with the palm of your hand for a comfortable grip. The Uzi
Defender Tactical Pen accepts standard Parker and Fisher Space Pen refills to
ensure comfortable and versatile writing options. The combination of this with the
reliability and durability of one of the best tactical pen body designs out there and
you have a great entry level option.
How Do I Choose The Best Tactical Pen For My
Kit?
Best Tactical Pen: Pen Quality
When looking for the best tactical pen a good place to start is to choose one that
writes well. This is the basic function of a tactical pen and is what you will use it for
99% of the time. The best tactical pens out there accept ink refills from quality
producers like Parker and Hauser, Fischer Space Pen (image below, click on it to
see it on Amazon), and Rite in the Rain.
Best Tactical Pen: Self Defense Options
Once you have a good writing tool it is time to look at the defensive features to
find the best tactical pen for your personal protection. First decide how you would
want to use your tactical pen as a defensive tool. A smaller woman for example will
struggle to inflict damage with one of the blunt ended tactical pens and may want
one with a pointier finish. A larger person would probably be more able to strike
with enough force to ward off an attacker with either of these options so will have
a wider variety of tactical pens to choose from.
Best Tactical Pen: Grip
In addition to being comfortable in the hand for writing, having a good grip is key
to using the pen as a defensive tool. If you are swinging it with any velocity you
will want to make sure the tactical pen stays put in your hand upon impact. The
best tactical pen you can choose will have ridges or grooves for your fingers to sit
in and knurling to aid grip retention. Make sure the tactical pen you choose fits well
in your hand and does not slip when pressure is applied to one end.
Best Tactical Pen: Attachment
It is typical that the best tactical pens on the market will have a robust pocket clip
for attaching the pen to a pocket, bag, or belt. Many pens also have additional
attachment options for keyrings, carabiners, and paracord. Make sure the best
tactical pen you choose has an attachment option that fits well with the way you
intend to carry it.
Best Tactical Pen: Features
A common point of differentiation to look for when finding the best tactical pen for
your kit is what special features are offered with the tool. Many tactical pen
makers work to make their products stand out by incorporating additional features
into their tools such as:
Hidden Handcuff Key
Magnesium Firestarter
Window/Glass Breaker
DNA Catching Scoops (for identifying an attacker to law enforcement)
Some of these additional features may be highly useful based on your environment
and likely deployment of your tactical pen. Keep an eye out for special features
such as these and more when finding the best tactical pen for you.
How Do I Use My Tactical Pen?
There are many schools of thought of the best way to deploy a tactical pen for self
defense. If you are going to carry one it is essential to train in how to use it
effectively. Once you have learned proper technique it is as important to
PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE. You want this to be muscle memory when you
are in the moment, an automatic reaction. Targets are typically:
Pressure Points:
Armpit
Neck
Inner arm
Inner thigh
Sensitive Areas:
Throat
Eyes
Ears
Groin
Ribs
Solar Plexus
Nose
Best Tactical Pen Conclusion
As you can see there are a lot of great options out there for carrying a reliable,
multipurpose tactical pen. Finding the BEST tactical pen for your needs can be a
challenge but hopefully the suggestions we have made will help you along your
preparedness journey.
UPDATE: A reader has sent this article to show that some of the more aggressive
style pens DO get taken at airport checkpoints, consider this when choosing your
pen if you plan on travelling with it
Want Even MORE Info On Building Your EDC
Kit?
If you are looking for even more information on how to build your ultimate EDC kit
you can check out my book, The Every Day Carry Guide. It is a comprehensive
How To Pick The Best EDC
Flashlight
by Chris Ruiz
After essential basics such as a wallet, keys, phone and EDC knife, finding the best
EDC flashlight is an important element of developing your every day carry kit .
Having a good flashlight can improve survivability in many situations in addition to
it being highly useful in normal everyday circumstances. There are a lot of EDC
lights on the market and it can be confusing to find the best EDC flashlight for your
personal needs. Here we will help your search by showing our Top 10 and give our
picks for the best overall, entry level, and mid level EDC flashlights. We will also
discuss what qualities to look for when finding the best EDC flashlight for your
needs including features, lumens, beam types, switch variations, and more. Note: If
you are new to the idea of EDC (Every Day Carry), you may want to check out my
article here, which explains the concept and helps you make your first EDC kit.
EDC Flashlight Basics
Whatever EDC flashlights you consider you should be aware of these basic
qualities when determining which one is best.
How Many Lumens Does your EDC Flashlight Need?
Most flashlights will describe how many lumens the light produces in their
packaging or product descriptions. It is important to know what this means as it is a
great way to perform an apples-to-apples comparison of the most basic function of
an EDC light which is providing illumination. A lumen is the unit of measure of the
total amount of visible light produced by a source. Basically, how bright the
flashlight is. The more lumens it can produce the brighter the beam will be.
Basic flashlights are 10 lumens and high end search and rescue lights can be in
excess of 18,000 lumens. A typical EDC flashlight will be in the 50-100 lumen
range but focus on what you are likely to use your light for when deciding how
many lumens you actually need.
What is the best type of lamp for your EDC flashlight?
Since the invention of the flashlight incandescent globes have been shedding light
into the dark corners of our lives. However in recent years LED (Light Emitting
Diode) flashlights have begun to take over this role. LED lights are particularly
favored for every day carry kits because they offer greater efficiency, better
battery consumption, greater brightness, and far better impact resistance than oldfashioned incandescent light bulbs.
What is the best battery type for an EDC flashlight?
Most commercially available flashlights use either a AA or CR123 battery. While
the AA is the tried and true old guard the CR123 is a more recently available
challenger.
AA Batteries for your EDC Flashlight
AA batteries have been around for many years and have been a reliable source of
power for a great many gadgets. AA batteries are based on an Alkaline cell
technology that is tried and true. AA's are typically cheaper and more widely
available than newer batteries as well as being a smaller diameter and longer in
size.
CR123 Batteries for Your EDC Flashlight
CR123 batteries are based on Lithium cell technologies and are able to provide
greater energy storage and output allowing for a brighter, longer lasting flashlight
in most cases. CR123 batteries are however more expensive and less readily
available than AA's and although they are shorter in length they are a wider
diameter. Because of this flashlights using CR123 batteries are typically more
compact but fatter than ones using AA's. CR123 batteries are also typically lighter
(.6oz for CR123 vs .9oz for AA) which can result in a lighter flashlight overall.
Lithium cell batteries also provide higher performance at cold temperatures.
Which battery is best?
This depends on what you are looking for. If you want a light that uses a battery
that is easily scavengable in a survival scenario AA is probably best for you. If
performance and weight reduction are paramount to you CR123 is the way to go.
What is the best EDC flashlight size?
As with most EDC gear smaller is better. No one wants to carry anything heavy or
bulky with them as part of their every day carry kit. The best EDC flashlights can
typically provide a high amount of illumination while staying under 4" long. The
tradeoff for having a tiny EDC light is that you will have less space inside to fit a
battery so you can lose some power in finding the smallest possible flashlight. This
is an important tradeoff to consider and you will have to strike a balance when
finding the best EDC flashlight for you.
Tough as nails
If you are carrying this light with you every day it will get its fair share of bumps
and drops as time passes. Because of this it is important to find a well-made light
that can stand up to real life use. Buying a cheap light that looks fancy may impress
some people but having a reliable workhorse will pay off when the time comes to
use it in a survival scenario.
Best EDC Flashlight: Overall Pick
Fenix PD35
With a scorching 850 lumen output this light is practically a lightsaber. That level
of illumination is effective for tactical usage and any basic task that you could
throw at it. This lumen output is even more impressive given the flashlight's sub$100 price tag. The Fenix PD35 has 6 output options for outstanding versatility
and weighs in at a paltry 3oz. If having a reliable, extremely bright light is essential
to your EDC kit, this is the one for you.
Best EDC Flashlight: Mid-Range Pick
Olight S10
The Olight S10 is a compact powerhouse. It's tiny size (2.7x1.9 inches) and
miniscule weight (2.4 oz) make it ideal for a lightweight EDC kit. The Olight S10
packs 320 lumens into this tiny package and can cycle through its 5 preprogrammed modes of high, medium, low, moonlight, and strobe. All that versatility
stuffed in a tiny package makes this flashlight an easy choice at the $50 price point
that it generally retails for.
Best EDC Flashlight: Entry Level Pick
Fenix E11
The Fenix E11 is a gem in the entry level EDC flashlight field. It is reasonably priced
in the sub-$35 range and produces 115 lumens in a compact package that makes it
perfect for a keychain light. Add the versatility of being able to accept AA batteries
and you have a real winner in a basic light.
Best EDC Flashlight Features To Look For
Waterproof
You never know what conditions you will need to use your EDC flashlight in.
However if it comes to needing illumination in driving rain or during a flood having
a light that is not waterproof is about as useful as not having one at all. Most
quality lights will be rated as waterproof or at minimum water resistant. This is
typically rated using a IPX code which identifies water resistance testing and
capabilities (see the chart below). The bottom line is if you are looking at a
flashlight for EDC purposes and it is not listed as being waterproof, move on to
another option.
Metal body
A metal body flashlight will be tougher and be able to take more abuse than a
plastic one. This is important as your flashlight will likely receive some knocks,
drops, and bumps as you carry it from day to day. Selecting a metal flashlight will
result in a longer lasting tool that is functional when you need it.
Lightweight
As with any item on your EDC list you want something that provides the greatest
utility at the lowest weight. No one wants to be carrying around an anchor in their
pocket, purse or EDC bag. When selecting the best EDC flashlight for your kit you
can keep weight down by selecting a small light or one made of lightweight
materials such as aluminum or titanium. Choosing a flashlight with a CR123 type
battery is also a smart way to save weight. Look for a light that weighs less than 5
oz to keep your pockets light.
LED Light Source
As we mentioned above incandescent light bulbs are a thing of the past. LED lights
offer a great many advantages including:
Longer life
Greater efficiency
Greater brightness
Impact resistance
The best EDC flashlights on the market all use LED technology. This is the
direction the industry has been moving in for years and prices have come down
significantly since the introduction of LED lights. Choosing an LED based light for
your EDC flashlight is a no-brainer at this point.
Battery type
We reviewed the 2 main types of batteries used in EDC flashlights but there are a
few more specialized options out there as well. My choice for my EDC light is to go
with CR123. The advantages as listed above are just too many not choose this one.
I do however suggest stocking an alkaline (A or D sized) powered battery in a bug
out bag. The reason for this is that I anticipate using an EDC flashlight for short
term emergencies or get-home purposes. For longer term scenarios such as having
to survive on what you can hunt, gather, and scavenge for days/weeks/months a
consumable battery that is easier to find than the CR123. Alkaline batteries meet
this test.
Best EDC Flashlight Battery Type Verdict:
EDC flashlight - CR123 battery
Bug Out Bag Flashlight - AA or D batteries
Adjustable beam
Having an adjustable beam greatly increases the versatility of your EDC flashlight.
Being able to choose to illuminate a wide area when conducting a search and then
changing to a narrow beam for signaling or tactical scenarios will make sure your
EDC light meets any need you may have.
Flashing/Signaling
Some flashlights come with multiple modes available beyond the ability to shine a
plain beam. While this is not a requirement when picking the best EDC flashlight
for you it is a highly useful feature to have. Common flashing programs are an SOS
pattern and strobe. Both are invaluable when trying to signal teammates or a
search party.
Attachment options
Just about any quality EDC flashlight will have SOME attachment options. This
may be a pocket clip, lanyard loop, carabiner clip, or keyring. Make sure whatever
option the EDC light you choose is compatible for how you intend to carry it. Even
the best EDC flashlight will bring frustration if you can't carry it that way you want.
Switch option
Like an attachment option make sure the switch your EDC flashlight uses is
compatible with the way you intend to carry it. Most importantly make sure that
the switch, twist collar, button, etc is reliable and will not turn on while in your
pocket or bag. Nothing is worse than opening up your bag and seeing the weak
yellow glow of a dying battery right when you need to use your flashlight.
Best EDC Flashlight Features To Avoid
Short battery life
This comes down to the lamp used being appropriate to the power source. While it
is awesome for a light to shine brighter than the sun when you turn it on this
appeal can easily be killed if the battery dies after 10 minutes. High quality EDC
flashlights will list their typical run time in their product descriptions. Longer is
better, choose wisely.
Plastic body
While there are some good plastics out there they are simply never going to be as
robust as a metal flashlight. If you are going to be carrying this light with you
EVERY DAY be sure to pick one that is constructed of materials that are tough
enough to survive the day to day wear and tear so it is functional when you need
it.
Incandescent light
We have spoken above about the advantages of choosing an LED light over an
incandescent. At this point LEDs are widely available enough that an incandescent
light shouldn't be on anyone's radar for an EDC light. They are generally dimmer
and cannot survive a bang or fall as well. LED all the way.
Parting Advice: How To Pick The Best EDC
Flashlight For Your Needs
As you can see there are a lot of options out there when trying to find the best
EDC flashlight for you. When conducting your search it it best to determine first
what situations are you most likely to use your EDC light in? Do you frequently
walk at night either outside or in parking garages? Does your profession cause you
How To Choose The Best
EDC Bag
to encounter many low or no light scenarios? Are you just looking for a light for the
just in case scenario in the back of your mind?
Figuring these questions out will help you narrow down the options. Remember
the basics of finding a reliable light that is comfortable to carry around with you on
by
Chris Ruizbasis. Don't skimp on quality and look for features and carry options
an everyday
that fit with your specific needs.
Choosing the best EDC bag to hold your every day carry items is an important part
of your day to day preparedness. There are many brands, styles, features, and sizes
of bags out there, in this article we will help you identify what of these to look for
as well as what to avoid when finding the best EDC bag for you.
Step 1: Picking your EDC List of Items
Whether you are new to the idea of Every Day Carry or someone who has been
carrying a kit around for years take this as an opportunity to assess your EDC
needs and what the minimum items are that you need to address these. We cover
this in depth in our How To Make An EDC List Article but we will recap here for
your reference. We will do this by performing a EDC List Review by stepping
through the following questions.
How To Choose The Best
EDC Knife
What items do you NEED to carry with you to accomplish your basic daily
routine?
These are the basic items that you can't leave your house without. It would
minimally
include a wallet, keys, and phone. You may require more than this based
by
Chris Ruiz
on where you live or what you do professionally. Keep this list as minimal as
possible, it will be the core of your EDC kit and we will add on from here.
What are the threats, risks, and common problems that you are likely to face on
Thea idea
of day
Every
Day Carry or EDC has been on the rise lately with many EDCers
day to
basis?
contributing photos, information, and opinions to the community through forums,
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what
knife. potentially negative events are most likely to occur. Part of knowing this is to
understand what has happened historically in your area as well as keeping apprised
of evolving risks around you. Once you have a list of medium to high probability
risks add to this commonly occurring problems in your daily life. Do you need to
frequently open boxes or packages? Would carrying a knife help you in this? Is it
common for you to be in dark areas or to be out late at night? Maybe it would be a
good idea to start carrying an EDC flashlight (Check out our article here on EDC
Flashlights). What we are looking to address here are items that address common
problems and high probability risks. Think critically about these two elements and
be shrewd about what you plan on packing.
What could you carry that would be universally useful across many situations?
This follows the methodology of multipurpose survival items we covered here .
What items could you carry that have many uses? Items like duct tape, paracord,
and a multitool fit perfectly into this niche. Is there anything that you can add to
your every day carry bag that fits this profile?
What items do you want to carry to assist with a low probability/high impact
situation you may have to face?
These items are ones that are nice to have but not things that you hope to have to
use except in extreme circumstances. They may include egress tools such as a
What is EDC?
seatbelt cutter/window breaker for escaping vehicles, a spare handcuff key, or a
EDC
or Every
Day Carry
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a
their daily
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tool.needs to keep them prepared for an unexpected situation. What EDC
gear some one chooses to carry can vary greatly as it is typically tailored to suit
their specific daily habits and risks they are likely to face. They may carry basic EDC
items in their pockets or purse or may upgrade to an EDC bag if their kit warrants
Choosing
your EDC Items
it. The most commonly chosen items for EDC are:
Carefully consider the questions above when crafting your EDC list. Keep in mind
Knife
that you are not striving to solve every problem or cover every possibility with
Flashlight
your EDC kit, for that you will want a full Bug Out Bag. Keep your EDC kit as
Wallet
streamlined as possible. If your intention is to carry these items with you EVERY
Keys
DAY you do not want a bloated list of gear that you carry around and never use.
Tactical Pen
Note Pad
Step
2: How Big Should Your Best EDC Bag Be?
Watch
Multitool
After
determining your ideal every day carry list figuring out the best EDC bag size
to contain it is relatively straight forward. I suggest finding the smallest bag you can
This list is variable for every person and they may add or subtract items to meet
that can fit all your items. Start with measuring the largest item. Its size will be the
their individual needs. We discuss how to assess your individual EDC needs in this
minimum dimensions of your EDC bag. Also consider if you will be adding any
article. The quality of items also varies greatly for each person's environment, one
items on a occasional basis to your EDC kit such as rain gear, water bottles, food,
person may want a high quality flashlight (see our article here on picking the best
documents, or anything else you will be carrying as the need arises. You will want
EDC flashlight) or reliable Tactical Pen (article here) but use a cheaper watch for
extra space or the option of modular additions through a MOLLE system or other
example. The one item that people consistently seek out is the best EDC knife
method to fit these occasional items. EDC bags come in many styles and sizes,
available. A knife is one of those tools that meets many needs. It can be used to
from a small organizer pouch that can fit into a cargo pocket up to 30 liter
open many things, slice food or cordage, to defend oneself, to sharpen tems for
backpacks. Anything larger than this is moving into Get Home or Bug Out Bag
many uses, to skin game and filet fish, and accomplish many, many other tasks.
territory. If you require a bag larger than 30L, you either have some BIG EDC items
Having a good EDC knife will make many everyday tasks easier and be an
to carry or may want to re-examine your EDC list.
advantage in nearly any survival situation.
Step 3: What is the Best EDC Bag Style for You?
There are many types of bags used for Every Day Carry purposes. The most
common EDC bag styles are:
EDC Organizer Pouch
The Original EDC Knife
Our Picks for Best EDC Knife
Best Overall EDC Knife: Emerson Mini CQC-15
Our Compact EDC Organizer Pouch is excellent for storing a small EDC Kit. Click
the image for more info.
An EDC Organizer Pouch is the smallest style of EDC bag. This is for people who
have too many items to simply carry in their pants pockets but not enough to
require a pack. EDC organizer pouches typically:
This is a fantastic knife made for daily hard use. It is extremely well made and
Are 1 liter or less in volume
designed with military service, police force, and firefighters in mind. The blade is
Have many interior pockets, hooks, and webbing for organizing EDC gear
extremely sharp out of the box and in a variety of blade styles with excellent edge
Have Molle attachment points for integration into larger kits
retention qualities. The edge is intentional ground on only one side to make reFit in a cargo pocket or are worn on a belt
sharpening while in the field even easier. The addition of the Emerson Wave
opening
makes
deployment
bladeorganizer
automatic
out of
the pocket and in
Commonsystem
EDC items
that
are stored of
in the
an EDC
pouch
include:
the fastest mechanism we have seen. This is a fantastic knife that will serve its
Folding
Knifeyears to come. If high quality is the most important aspect you are
owner
for many
Compass
looking
for in an EDC knife, the Emerson Mini CQC-15 is the one to go with. For
Tactical
Pen check out our detailed review of the Emerson Mini CQC-15 here.
more
information
Waterproof Notebook
FirstMid
Aid Items
Best
Level EDC
Glasses
Phone
Keys
Multitool
Lighter
Credit Cards
Cash
Survival Whistle
EDC Lumbar Pack
Knife: CRKT M-16
The Maxpedition Proteus Versipack is compact and has a well thought out layout.
Click the image above for more info.
EDC Lumbar Packs are larger than organizer pouches but smaller than a sling bag
or backpack. This is useful if you plan on carrying larger items or a greater quantity
of smaller items. Because this style of pack does not strap around the shoulders
and
it may
be knife
the best
option
forhand.
someone
who needs
full range
of
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in the
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motion.
EDCcomes
Lumbar
typically:
the box and
in Packs
full ground
or partial serration with a wide variety of blade
styles. The Carson Flipper opening mechanism works extremely well for
Are 5-10 liters in volume
ambidextrous, one-handed opening. I have personally carried the M-16's sister
Are worn around the waist but also have a carry handle if you need to carry
knife, the M-18 for years and am still amazed with how well it performs. I have had
them by hand
people walk across the job site to borrow it from me even though they had another
Have Molle webbing both to attach them to larger bags or to attach smaller
knife option closer at hand. For someone looking for a good compromise between
pouches to the lumbar pack
cost and quality, the CRKT M-16 is a great option.
Have multiple compartments which will each contain various webbings,
pouches, hooks, etc for organizing your EDC gear
Best Entry Level EDC Knife: Wartech 8" Assisted Open
Tactical
Folder
Items typically
carried in an EDC Lumbar Pack include anything that is mentioned
above as being carried in an EDC Organizer Pouch plus:
Fixed Blade Knife
First Aid Kit
Handgun
EDC Flashlight
Tablet
E-Reader
Lockpick Set
Camera
Full Sized Notepad
Rain Gear
Rations
Water Bottle
Gloves
EDC Sling Bag
We recently published an in-depth review of this knife and were impressed with
This Tactical Hip Bag is awesome for medium sized EDC Kits. Click on the image
what it offers at the sub-$25 price point. It has a smooth assisted opening action
for more info.
for its sharp blade and many features that you generally see on pricier knives such
as
integrated
LED
flashlight,
glass
and seatbelt
cutter.
For someone
Anan
EDC
Sling Bag
is typically
used
to breaker,
carry heavier
items than
a lumbar
pack due to
looking
for
the
best
bargain
EDC
knife,
the
Wartech
folder
is
a
great
choice.
its over the shoulder design. They are made to be comfortably carried further with
a heavier load and can be the best EDC bag choice for someone who has many
How
ToonChoose
EDC
Knife
items to haul
a day to dayThe
basis. Best
EDC Sling
Bags typically:
As with
looking
at ainknife
for any task there are a few basic qualities you should
Are 10-20
liters
volume
lookHave
at when
making
your choice.
Molle
integration
Allow left or right side carry
Are easier to secure tightly to the body than a lumbar pack
Have many pockets and compartments that allow for easy organization of every
Best
EDC Knife: Fixed vs Folding
day carry gear
This is a fundamental decision to make when finding your best EDC knife. Most
In
addition
to the
to knife
be carried
in an
pouch
and
lumbar
pack,
EDCers
choose
toitems
add alisted
folding
to their
kit organizer
as they tend
to be
smaller
and
items
can
be carried
an EDC
Sling
Bagwill
include:
able tothat
fit in
a pocket.
Anyinfixed
blade
knife
have a sheath to cover the blade
and secure the knife so it will have to be worn on a belt or on a cord as a "neck
Extra ammunition
knife". As with many elements of finding a good EDC knife it comes down to
Small Laptop
preference and what environment you typically find yourself in. If you are in an
Mid-sized Medkit
urban environment a folding EDC knife will be a better option as it will be
Prepackaged Meals
unobtrusive and lighter to carry. If you tend to live in a rural location a fixed blade
Paracord
knife is easier to justify as you may find yourself skinning game and cutting rope
Fire Starting Kit
more often. Additionally outside of big cities wearing a fixed blade knife has less of
Pry Tool
a cultural
taboo. Regardless of this even many rural EDCers tend to choose a
folding knife for their EDC kit due to size and weight advantages of this option.
EDC Backpack
Best EDC Knife Size and Weight
A good EDC knife will be able to fit in a pocket and will integrate strong,
lightweight materials such as G10 or Micarta. It is important to recognize the
"Every Day" aspect of an EDC knife when considering size and weight. No one
wants to be carrying around an anchor in their pocket all the time. Choose an EDC
pocket knife that is under 5 ounces (~150 grams) and less than 5 inches (~13 cm) in
length for an easy, comfortable carry.
Best EDC Knife Blade Type
There are many types of blade styles available for folding EDC knives designed to
fit a multitude of needs. The most 3 commonly available are:
Full Ground Edge
This is a blade that has a straight or curved edge. Full ground edge blades are
generally
better
for Backpack
pushing cuts
apple or animal),
This Tactical
Travel
has(shaving,
multiple skinning
organizerancompartments
andscraping,
enough
precision
skewering,
stabbing.
room for awork,
largerpoking,
EDC Kit.
Click on and
the image
for more information.
Full
Serration
An EDC
backpack is perfect for someone who likes to pack lots of "just in case"
gear. It is the obvious choice for anyone who has large sized every day carry items
Serrated blades are generally better at slicing cuts through tough materials such as
or a long EDC list based on their personal needs. EDC backpacks typically:
plastic, wood, rope, leather, or drywall. Serrated knives are generally poor at
stabbing
in a self
defense
context as the serrations tend to get stuck on clothing or
Are 20-30
liters
in volume
bones.
Have Molle integration
Include hydration bladder systems
Partial Serration
Have fewer pockets but more modular customization possibilities for external
Thispouches
is a blade that is serrated on the part nearest the handle and a straight ground
edge nearest the tip. This type of blade seeks to deliver the advantages of both of
In
the items
listed for
the 3inbags
already
covered,
theaddition
types oftoblades
mentioned
above
a single
piece
for the every
user. day carry items
carried in EDC Backpacks include:
Folding Saw or Hatchet
Hydration Bladder
Change of Clothes
Full Sized Laptop
Full Medkit
Mini survival kit
Step 4: Choosing The Best EDC Bag For You
This is a highly personal choice. We suggest carrying the smallest bag that suits
your every day carry needs. Fortunately many of the best EDC bags come with
customization options to add or remove space as you need it via modular Molle
pouches so your EDC bag can evolve with your requirements. Regardless of what
bag style you choose here is a list of features to seek out and avoid when finding
the best EDC bag for your needs:
Essential Features
High quality craftsmanship
If you are planning on carrying the best EDC bag EVERY DAY you do not want
something cheap that is going to fall apart on you. Invest in a quality bag from a
brand that has a good reputation and it will pay dividends.
Molle
integration
Full Ground
Edge Vs Partial Serration
Molle
is aType
valuable
feature
have in any tactical or preparedness bag
Whichintegration
EDC Blade
is best
for to
YOU?
as its widespread use allows for limitless customization options. Having it as a part
What
ofkit,
blade
makes the
bestbag
EDC
you
willyou
depend
onwill
what
you
of yourtype
EDC
regardless
of the
sizeknife
and for
style
that
choose
allow
typicallyadaptation
use the knife
for cutting.
If youevolve.
expect to be slicing tape to open
flexible
as your
EDC needs
packaging, skinning game, or performing precision cuts you will want a full ground
edge to your blade. If you expect to have to saw through lots of tough materials
you should probably consider a serrated blade for your EDC folding knife. If you
Hydration system
are unsure or expect to be making both types of cuts a partial serration will serve
you
Most
goodbags
EDCand
knives
come in Having
a rangeaof
options for
bladebuilt
type,
once
This well.
applies
to sling
backpacks.
hydration
system
into
the
you
decide
what
model
is
best
for
you,
you
can
choose
a
blade
style
that
bag will save space and reduce the need to carry a separate water bottle.
accommodates
your expectations
forcover
use and
performance.
Hydration is essential
if you have to
large
distances with your EDC bag.
Best
EDCfitKnife Opening Mechanism
Adjustable
Knife
have
innovated
in many ways
to create
opening
mechanisms
to suit
As wemakers
all know
every
body is different.
Buying
a bag that
is meant
to fit all people
any
need. There
is a lot ofand
variety
out there
assisted
open
knives
thumb
is
a recipe
for frustration
discomfort.
Forfrom
a bag
to be the
best
EDCto
bag
studs
andit cutouts,
nubsshape
and many,
many
Regardless
what type
possible
needs totofitflipping
your body
securely
andmore.
not restrict
your of
movement.
of opening
mechanism
youadjustment
choose for straps
your EDC
it should
have the
following
This
mean having
multiple
and knife
clips at
the following
points
at
qualities:
minimum:
Reliable
Shoulders
Hips
You want your knife to open on the first try when you need it. If you have to cut
Sternum
Being able
through
a rope
to adjust
to save
theafit
life,
of or
thefight
bagoff
at these
a dangerous
3 pointsanimal,
will ensure
you can't
that call
youahave
"timea
securely
out"
to open
fitting
upbag
your
that
knife.
youMake
can wear
sure all
you
day,
canevery
openday
it instantly
if need be.
EVERY TIME.
Ability to run
Seriously,
reliable
with the bag
We cannot
This
goes hand
overstate
in hand
the
with
importance
having a well-fitted
of this. Make
bag.
sure
Youyou
never
can know
open when
your knife
you on
need to run
demand
withwith
ease.
your bag, you may need to catch a bus or evade detection from
unfriendly people. Either way having a bag that both stays in place and does not
One
handed
jumble
your EDC items around is an important feature to look for when choosing
the best EDC bag for your situation.
You never know what circumstance you may need to open your knife in or if you
will be holding on to something essential in the other. Make sure you EDC knife
Organization pouches within the bag
opening mechanism can be operated one handed.
A good indication that you have a high quality EDC bag instead of a more general
Left
or Right
consumer
styleHand
bag isOpening
that it has well laid out, accessible, and practical organization
features built into the bag. This helps you find your EDC items when you need
Make sure your knife opening mechanism can be utilized with either hand. Some
them and allows you to organize them in the manner that is most logical to your
cheap knives come with a thumb stud only on one side. Great if you have the
EDC needs. Most quality EDC bags come with a variety of webbing, pouches,
option to open your EDC knife with you right hand. Not so great if you are holding
velcro,
zippers, sleeves,
and
compartments
for efficient
storage
your
on to something
essential
with
that hand orthat
if it allow
is injured.
Hedge your
betsofand
go
items.
with an ambidextrous opening mechanism.
Tough,
resistant
zippers
Assistedcorrosion
vs Manual
Opening
The zipper is a weak point in any bag. Being that you will use them thousands of
Deciding whether your best EDC knife should have an assisted or manual open will
times
life of thechoice.
bag it is
that your
bagin
has
strong
zippers
come over
downthe
to personal
It important
is a nice feature
but EDC
is illegal
many
jurisdictions
that
will not
bindaornice
break
on you.
Additionally
is better
to have
and pulls
(Wartech
makes
assisted
open
knife). To itmeet
the needs
of zippers
knife owners,
that
madehave
fromresponded
a strong plastic,
aluminum, or other
rust-free
material.
If you
knifeare
makers
with ever-improving
manual
opening
methods
that
are
carrying
this
bag
every
day
it
will
at
many
times
be
exposed
to
the
elements.
are lightning fast to use such as the CRKT Carson Flipper design or the Emerson
Over time this will cause corrosion and failure in cheap zippers. Zippers are where
Knives "Emerson Wave" feature, which automatically opens your knife when you
cheap manufacturers will look to cut corners. The best EDC bag makers on the
draw it out of your pocket by means of a cleverly placed lever.
market know that a quality zipper can mean the difference between a reliable bag
and a piece of junk.
Features
avoid
Best
EDCto
Knife
Locking Mechanism
As
as the
Essential
Features
include
it is also
No important
matter what
youabove
choosementioned
as the best
EDC folding
knifeare
fortoyour
situation,
they
necessary
tothing
be aware
of features
to avoid locking
when finding
the best
EDC an
bagexcellent
for you.
all
have one
in common:
a rock-solid
mechanism.
Having
lock on your folding knife will make it nearly on par with a fixed blade knife for
One
largeSome
compartment
reliability.
of the better folding knives out there even have a secondary
locking
mechanism,
making
it carefully
virtually impossible
for gear
the blade
to close
on your
If you are
going to carry
your
selected EDC
in a bag
that has
one
hand
while in use. The
most as
common
locking
mechanisms
forsack.
EDCItfolding
large compartment
you3might
well just
tote around
a burlap
will beknives
are:
cheaper and accomplish the same thing - jumbling your gear so you can't find what
youLiner
1.
needLock
in an emergency and making for an uncomfortable carry. Choose a bag
with
2.
Lock
multiple
Back compartments and organizational options within the bag to optimize
accessibility
3.
Lever Lock
of your EDC items and better manage the load.
Elastic straps
Regardless
of which of these options you choose to go with make sure it is reliable
for your knife. Many cheap manufacturers will skimp on this feature, endangering
This is a way that cheap bag makers cut costs. Instead of making strong, padded,
their users and making an unreliable tool. A quality knife will have a quality locking
adjustable straps they will use elastic ones that make the bag a one-size-fits-none.
mechanism, look for and EDC blade with a secondary option for extra safety.
Additionally the elasticity of these will wear out over time making the bag hang
lower
If a bagFolding
uses elastic
straps to attach it to your body avoid it at
Grip than
for desired.
Your EDC
Knife
all costs. Look for robust shoulder and hip straps with adjustable buckles for
The
grip for your
folding
comfortable,
longEDC
lasting
fit. knife can be broken into two categories, style and
materials. The style is how the knife is designed which will ideally allow it to fit well
Huge
in yourbags
hand and allow for a secure grip in adverse conditions (wet, cold, etc). The
materials are what the grip is made of. There are a variety of materials that are
Once again, even the best EDC bag is not intended to cover every possible
commonly used to make the grip of a folding knife, choosing one that suits your
circumstance. This is what your bug out bag is for. Carefully assess your every day
purposes is an important step in deciding what the best EDC knife is for you.
carry needs and try these tips to minimize what gear you will be carrying:
EDC Knife Grip Style
Review your EDC list of items and see what you actually use on a day to day
basis
and what
youwill
canfitcut
out. in your hand. It should have a concavity for your
A well
designed
knife
easily
Utilize
multipurpose
items
to choil
save to
space
weight
hand
to hold
on to, a good
sized
holdand
your
fingers in place and well thought
to find
options
for the
items
that thumb
you do when
carry in
that
include
outTry
jimping
onlightweight
the backside
to provide
grip
for your
use.
materials such as titanium, micarta, carbon fiber, and plastics
If an item comes in multiple sizes choose the smaller version - small medkit
versus full sized or folding knife versus fixed blad
Finding The Best EDC Bag For You
As you can see, the journey of finding the best EDC bag to meet your every day
carry needs is a highly personal choice. You will have to balance the threats you are
likely to face with what you are able and willing to carry with you every step of the
way. Once you have come to a decision of what your EDC kit will be it is best to
find a high quality bag that is comfortable and small enough to not encumber you if
you need to move quickly. Having a smaller, lighter kit with useful, practical items is
more desirable than having a huge bag full of items you are unlikely to ever use.
Plan you kit thoughtfully and choose the best EDC bag you can to meet YOUR
needs. Remember, chance favors the well prepared. If you are ready to start
building your EDC kit check out our related articles on:
EDC Knife Grip Material
How To Choose The Best EDC Knife
There are a vide variety of materials used to make knife grips, here are some of the
Picking an EDC Flashlight
most
Building
common:
Your EDC List
Finding The Best Tactical Pen For Your Kit
G10 - An epoxy and fiberglass resin that is extremely strong and relatively
lightweight
Micarta - A combination of cloth (generally linen or canvas) and resin. Also very
strong and lightweight
Titanium - Extremely strong and lightweight material, nearly impervious to rust.
Carbon Fiber - Very light weight material but also very brittle. Generally more
showy and expensive than the other options.
Zytel - A lightweight and nearly indestructible plastic.
EDC Knife Cost
Knives are one of the many items where you get what you pay for. While there are
many good EDC knives out there that can be picked up for less than $50, the BEST
EDC knives will generally cost more than this. For something you are going to be
carrying with you EVERY DAY, it is worth paying a bit more to choose a high
quality EDC knife that will last the test of time. Additionally, a quality pocket knife
is less likely to bind at the hinge or pivot point or have a lock mechanism failure,
letting you down when you need it most. Once you have decided on what is the
best EDC knife for you shop around to find the best price for it but don't limit your
search before deciding this based on finding a cheap tool. A good knife will take
care of its owner, require less maintenance, and if taken care of becomes a handme-down for future generations, hopefully with a few good stories to go along with
it. Invest in your EDC knife wisely.
Want Even MORE Info On Building Your EDC
Kit?
If you are looking for even more information on how to build your ultimate EDC kit
you can check out my book, The Every Day Carry Guide. It is a comprehensive
manual that will teach you:
How to be prepared at all times - no matter where you are
How to build your first EDC kit from scratch
How to refine an existing kit to make it more effective
How to pick the best gear to realistically make you more prepared
How to assess threats and risks in your every day life
Click here to check it out: The Every Day Carry Guide.
Choosing the Best EDC Knife For YOU
As you can see choosing the best EDC knife to meet your needs is a highly
Want More?
personal choice. The reward is that once you have looked at the points that we
discussed, size, weight, opening mechanism, lock type, grip material and style, and
cost you will be able to make a rational decision on the absolute BEST EDC Knife
Did knives
you find
ebook
useful?
to add to your kit. The EDC
thatthis
we listed
in our
table at the beginning of
this article will all serve their owners well, be sure to check it out again with the
Check out our comprehensive guide on making the BEST
Every Day Kit and adopting the EDC Mindset to your
knife for you. For more information please check out our articles on Picking The
everyday life!
knowledge you have gained from our recommendations on choosing the best EDC
Best EDC Flashlight, How To Make Your EDC List and How To Choose The Best
EDC Bag.
Learn More!
made with