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Top 6: On-person Everyday Carry (EDC)
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Time to read 24 min
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Time to read 24 min
Design and Build Quality :
Versatility and Functionality :
Performance and Practical Applications :
User Experience and Additional Features :
Pros and Cons :
Welcome to our EDC-themed Chronicle, where we've meticulously curated a collection of some of the most essential and practical gear available today. They say variety is the spice of life, and our selection embraces this philosophy with a diverse array of items, ranging from knives to pens and more. Here, we present six must-have EDC items designed to help you stay prepared for whatever life may throw your way.
everyone's EDC will be different, tailored to their unique needs and preferences. However, to provide some inspiration, our Tier 1: On-Person EDC always includes a carefully chosen array of the following items. While you may end up carrying more than just these, we consider these six to be the absolute essentials that should form the core of your everyday carry kit:
Flashlight: NITECORE EDC27 UHi
Description: This ultra-high-intensity flashlight is compact yet powerful, providing reliable illumination in any situation.
Why It's Essential: A flashlight is crucial for low-light scenarios, emergencies, or simply finding your way in the dark. The NITECORE EDC27 UHi's powerful beam and durable design make it an excellent choice.
Link: NITECORE EDC27 UHi
Knife: THE JAMES BRAND, INC. The Carter
Description: This sleek and robust knife is perfect for a variety of tasks, from opening packages to outdoor adventures.
Why It's Essential: A reliable knife is a versatile tool that can handle numerous tasks. The Carter knife's sharp blade and ergonomic design make it a go-to item.
Link: The Carter by THE JAMES BRAND, INC.
Water Bottle: STANLEY Legendary Classic Canteen
Description: This classic canteen keeps your beverages at the perfect temperature, whether hot or cold.
Why It's Essential: Staying hydrated is vital, and having a durable, reliable water bottle ensures you always have access to water. The Stanley canteen's rugged construction and excellent insulation make it ideal for daily use.
Link: STANLEY Legendary Classic Canteen
Backpack: KUIU Divide 1200
Description: A versatile and durable backpack designed to carry all your essentials with ease and organization.
Why It's Essential: A good backpack is essential for carrying your gear comfortably and securely. The KUIU Divide 1200 offers ample space, robust construction, and a sleek design.
Link: KUIU Divide 1200
Multitool: SOG PowerAccess Deluxe 21 Tool
Description: A comprehensive multitool featuring 21 different tools to handle a wide range of tasks.
Why It's Essential: A multitool combines several tools in one compact device, making it incredibly versatile and handy for various situations. The SOG PowerAccess Deluxe is robust and highly functional.
Link: SOG PowerAccess Deluxe 21 Tool
Pen & Pad: BIG IDEA DESIGN Titanium Pocket Pro
Description: A high-quality titanium pen with a sleek design paired with a durable pad for notes on the go.
Why It's Essential: A reliable pen and pad are crucial for jotting down notes, ideas, or important information. The Titanium Pocket Pro is both durable and stylish, making it a great addition to your EDC.
The NITECORE EDC27 UHi is a standout in the world of everyday carry (EDC) flashlights. Its blend of power, durability, and compact design makes it an excellent choice for a wide range of users. Here's an in-depth look at what makes this flashlight a top contender for your EDC kit. And it's not come in the typical cylindrical design.
The first thing you'll notice about the NITECORE EDC27 UHi is its sleek and compact design. Constructed from aerospace-grade aluminum alloy, this flashlight is both lightweight and incredibly durable. It features a hard-anodized finish that resists scratches and corrosion, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of daily use.
The flashlight's design includes a dual-button interface that makes it easy to operate with one hand. The buttons are conveniently placed, allowing for quick access to various lighting modes without fumbling in the dark.
The NiteLab UHi-20 LEDs used in the EDC27 UHi are notable for their high intensity and improved beam shape compared to the standard EDC27 model. These LEDs provide a focused and powerful beam, ideal for a variety of uses.
Ergonomics are generally good, though accessing both switches in a reverse grip can be challenging. The clip is designedd for the light to stick out a little, so you can grab it out fast and don't have to stick your hand down a pocket. If you don't like the way the clip is designed, you do have the option of removing it altogether.
The NITECORE EDC27 UHi boasts a maximum output of 3100 lumens on turbo mode, which is impressive for a flashlight of its size. This level of brightness is sufficient for a wide range of tasks, from illuminating dark paths to providing emergency lighting. The flashlight uses high-performance NiteLab UHi-20 LEDs, known for their intensity and improved beam shape compared to the standard EDC27 model.
One of the standout features of the EDC27 UHi is its five brightness levels, which allow you to adjust the light output according to your needs. Whether you need a low-intensity light for reading or a high-intensity beam for searching, this flashlight has you covered.
Battery life is a crucial factor for any EDC flashlight, and the NITECORE EDC27 UHi does not disappoint. It is powered by a built-in 1700mAh LiPo battery that provides up to 55 hours of runtime on the lowest setting. This ensures that you won't be left in the dark when you need the flashlight the most.
Thanks to its USB-C charging port, charging the EDC27 UHi is straightforward. This modern charging interface allows for fast and efficient recharging, ensuring your flashlight is ready to go when you are, but it is not user-replaceable, which may be a downside for some. USB-C charging is efficient, and the light functions while charging, except in Turbo and Strobe modes.
USER INTERFACE
State | Switch | Action | Result |
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Off | Power | Full-Press | On |
Off | Power | Half-press | Turn on display |
Off | Power | Half-Press and hold | Momentary “Ultra-low” |
Display only | Power | Half-press | Change mode while off |
Any (except full lockout) | Mode | Half-Press and hold | Momentary Turbo |
Any (except full lockout) | Mode | Full-Press and hold | Momentary Strobe |
On | Power | Half-Press | Cycle mode (“Ultralow”-Low-Med-High) |
On | Power | Half-press-and-hold until the display shows “semi-lock” | Half-lockout |
On | Power |
Half-press-and-hold until the display shows a lock with a 2 inside it |
Full-lockout |
Lockout | Power | Full-press then half-press-and-hold until the light turns on | Unlock |
The NITECORE EDC27 UHi comes equipped with several additional features that enhance its functionality:
The versatility of the NITECORE EDC27 UHi makes it suitable for a variety of applications:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
High maximum output of 3100 lumens | Higher price point compared to others |
Compact and lightweight design | Built-in battery cannot be replaced |
Durable, aerospace-grade aluminum body | USB-C charging might not suit everyone |
Multiple brightness levels | Half-Lockout Mode: Seems unnecessary and adds complexity. |
USB-C fast charging | |
IPX8 waterproof and impact-resistant | |
Strobe and Turbo modes for emergencies | |
Battery level indicator | |
Long runtime (up to 55 hours on low mode) | |
OLED display for easy monitoring |
The Carter by THE JAMES BRAND, INC. is a premium everyday carry (EDC) knife that combines functionality, durability, and aesthetics. Here’s an in-depth review of this exceptional knife, highlighting its features, performance, and practical applications.
The Carter stands out with its sleek and minimalist design, a hallmark of THE JAMES BRAND, INC. Constructed with high-quality materials, this knife features a black stainless serrated blade that is both robust and reliable. The handle is crafted from G10, a durable composite material that provides a secure grip and enhances the knife's overall resilience.
The knife’s design is both modern and functional, making it an attractive addition to any EDC kit. It’s built to withstand daily use while maintaining its sharpness and structural integrity.
The Carter is equipped with a stainless steel blade that offers excellent cutting performance. The serrated edge is particularly useful for tasks that require sawing or slicing through tougher materials, such as rope or fabric. The blade's sharpness and edge retention are impressive, ensuring it remains effective over prolonged use.
One of the key features of The Carter is its ambidextrous thumb disc, which allows for easy one-handed opening. This makes it convenient to use in various situations, whether you need to quickly deploy the knife or make precise cuts.
The Carter uses a sturdy frame lock mechanism that secures the blade in place during use. This locking system is reliable and easy to operate, providing confidence that the blade will not accidentally close during use. The frame lock also contributes to the knife’s slim profile, making it comfortable to carry in your pocket.
The versatility of The Carter makes it suitable for a variety of applications:
Pros |
Cons |
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High-quality, durable materials |
Higher price point compared to others |
Sleek, minimalist design |
Serrated edge may not suit all users |
Ambidextrous thumb disc for easy opening |
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Reliable frame lock mechanism |
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Deep carry pocket clip for discreet carry |
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Smooth deployment with ceramic bearings |
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Versatile for various applications |
Specification |
Details |
---|---|
Blade Length |
2.8 inches |
Blade Material |
VG-10 stainless steel |
Blade Style |
Drop point with serrated edge |
Handle Material |
G10 composite |
Overall Length |
6.5 inches |
Closed Length |
3.7 inches |
Weight |
3.8 ounces |
Locking Mechanism |
Frame lock |
Opening Mechanism |
Ambidextrous thumb disc, ceramic ball bearings |
Pocket Clip |
Deep carry, reversible |
Additional Features |
Lanyard hole, smooth deployment |
Made In |
USA |
These specifications highlight The Carter’s blend of functionality, durability, and sleek design, making it a top choice for EDC enthusiasts.
The Carter by THE JAMES BRAND, INC. is a high-performance EDC knife that excels in design, functionality, and durability. Its sleek and minimalist aesthetics, combined with practical features like the ambidextrous thumb disc and deep carry pocket clip, make it an essential tool for everyday use and outdoor adventures. While it comes at a higher price point, the quality and reliability of The Carter make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a premium EDC knife.
The STANLEY Legendary Classic Canteen is a robust and reliable water bottle designed to withstand the rigors of everyday use and outdoor adventures. Here’s an in-depth review of this iconic canteen, highlighting its features, performance, and practical applications.
The STANLEY Legendary Classic Canteen is built with a classic design that has stood the test of time. Constructed from 18/8 stainless steel, it is both durable and rust-proof. The canteen’s double-wall vacuum insulation ensures that beverages stay hot or cold for extended periods, making it ideal for various activities.
The exterior features a hammertone powder coat finish, which adds to its durability and provides a non-slip grip. The canteen is designed with a wide mouth for easy filling, pouring, and cleaning.
One of the standout features of the STANLEY Legendary Classic Canteen is its superior insulation. The double-wall vacuum insulation keeps beverages hot for up to 32 hours and cold for up to 48 hours. This impressive performance ensures that your drinks remain at the desired temperature throughout the day.
The insulation is effective even in extreme conditions, making this canteen a reliable companion for outdoor adventures, long trips, or daily commutes.
The STANLEY Legendary Classic Canteen comes in various capacities, but the most common size is the 1.4-quart (1.3-liter) version. This size strikes a balance between ample capacity and portability, making it convenient to carry without being overly bulky.
The canteen includes a robust, foldable handle that makes it easy to carry and pour. Additionally, it comes with a leak-proof lid that ensures your beverages stay secure during transport.
The versatility of the STANLEY Legendary Classic Canteen makes it suitable for a variety of applications:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Superior insulation for hot and cold | Slightly heavier due to durable build |
Durable 18/8 stainless steel construction | Larger size might be bulky for some |
Leak-proof lid | |
Wide mouth for easy filling and cleaning | |
Foldable handle for easy carrying | |
Classic and timeless design |
Specification | Details |
---|---|
Material | 18/8 Stainless Steel |
Capacity | 1.4 Quarts (1.3 Liters) |
Insulation | Double-wall vacuum insulation |
Dimensions | 11.3 x 4.5 x 3.6 inches |
Weight | 2.1 pounds |
Temperature Retention | Hot for 32 hours, cold for 48 hours |
Lid Type | Leak-proof |
Handle | Foldable, sturdy |
Color Options | Hammertone green, matte black |
Warranty | Lifetime |
The STANLEY Legendary Classic Canteen is a high-performance, durable water bottle that excels in both design and functionality. Its superior insulation, robust construction, and practical features make it an essential addition to any EDC kit or outdoor gear collection. Whether you’re heading to work, embarking on an outdoor adventure, or traveling, this canteen ensures your beverages stay at the perfect temperature.
The KUIU Divide 1200 backpack is a versatile and durable bag designed to meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts and everyday users alike. Here’s an in-depth review of this exceptional backpack, highlighting its features, performance, and practical applications.
The KUIU Divide 1200 is crafted from high-quality materials that ensure durability and longevity. The main fabric used is a robust 420D nylon, which provides excellent resistance to abrasion and wear. The pack features a sleek and functional design, with thoughtful compartmentalization to keep your gear organized.
The backpack’s ergonomic design includes adjustable shoulder straps, a padded back panel, and a hip belt for added comfort during extended use. The design is both practical and aesthetically pleasing, making it suitable for a variety of uses from day hikes to urban commutes.
With a capacity of 1200 cubic inches (approximately 20 liters), the KUIU Divide 1200 offers ample space for your essential gear. The main compartment is spacious and features a hydration sleeve that can accommodate a water bladder. The pack also includes multiple external pockets and attachment points for added storage and organization.
Key storage features include:
The KUIU Divide 1200 is designed with user comfort in mind. The backpack features padded shoulder straps that are adjustable to fit different body types. The back panel is padded and ventilated to ensure comfort during long hikes or daily commutes. The hip belt helps distribute the load evenly, reducing strain on your shoulders and back.
Durability is a key feature of the KUIU Divide 1200. The 420D nylon fabric is highly resistant to tears and abrasions, making it suitable for rugged outdoor use. The zippers and buckles are also of high quality, ensuring they can withstand regular use and harsh conditions.
The backpack’s performance is further enhanced by its weather-resistant design. While not fully waterproof, the KUIU Divide 1200 offers good protection against light rain and moisture, keeping your gear safe and dry.
The versatility of the KUIU Divide 1200 makes it suitable for a variety of applications:
Pros |
Cons |
---|---|
Durable 420D nylon construction |
Not fully waterproof |
Comfortable, ergonomic design |
20-liter capacity might be small for some |
Ample storage and organization options |
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Hydration system compatible |
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Weather-resistant design |
Specification |
Details |
---|---|
Material |
420D Nylon |
Capacity |
1200 cubic inches (approximately 20 liters) |
Dimensions |
20 x 12 x 8 inches |
Weight |
1.8 pounds |
Hydration Compatible |
Yes |
Color Options |
Ash, Verde, Vias |
Warranty |
Limited Lifetime Warranty |
The KUIU Divide 1200 is a high-performance, versatile backpack that excels in both design and functionality. Its durable construction, comfortable ergonomics, and practical storage features make it an essential addition to any outdoor gear collection. Whether you’re heading out for a day hike, commuting to work, or embarking on an outdoor adventure, this backpack is designed to meet your needs.
The SOG PowerAccess Deluxe 21 Tool is a versatile and robust multitool designed to handle a wide range of tasks. Here’s an in-depth review of this exceptional multitool, highlighting its features, performance, and practical applications.
The SOG PowerAccess Deluxe is crafted from high-quality stainless steel, ensuring durability and longevity. Its sleek, silver finish gives it a professional and robust appearance. The tool's design includes compound leverage gears, which provide enhanced grip and cutting power, making it easier to use for heavy-duty tasks.
The multitool features a comfortable grip, with smooth edges that prevent discomfort during prolonged use. The overall build quality is impressive, reflecting SOG's commitment to producing reliable and durable tools.
The SOG PowerAccess Deluxe boasts 21 different tools, making it one of the most versatile multitools on the market. Here’s a list of the included tools:
Each tool is designed to be easily accessible and functional, providing a wide range of uses from everyday tasks to more specialized applications.
The PowerAccess Deluxe features SOG's compound leverage mechanism, which increases the force applied to the pliers, making it easier to cut and grip objects. The multitool also includes a locking mechanism that ensures each tool stays securely in place during use, enhancing safety and usability.
The multitool’s compact design makes it easy to carry, whether in a pocket, backpack or with the included nylon sheath. The tools can be deployed with one hand, adding to the convenience, especially in situations where you might need to hold an object with your other hand.
Durability is a key feature of the SOG PowerAccess Deluxe. The stainless steel construction ensures that the tool can withstand heavy use without showing signs of wear and tear. The blades and cutters maintain their sharpness over time, providing reliable performance for various tasks.
The multitool’s performance is enhanced by its precision engineering, which ensures that each tool operates smoothly and effectively. Whether you’re cutting, sawing, or tightening screws, the PowerAccess Deluxe delivers consistent and dependable performance.
The versatility of the SOG PowerAccess Deluxe makes it suitable for a variety of applications:
Pros |
Cons |
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21 versatile tools |
Slightly bulkier than some multitools |
Durable stainless steel construction |
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Compound leverage for increased power |
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One-handed tool deployment |
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Secure locking mechanism |
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Includes nylon sheath for easy carrying |
Specification |
Details |
---|---|
Material |
Stainless Steel |
Number of Tools |
21 |
Weight |
8.2 ounces |
Closed Length |
4.6 inches |
Open Length |
6.8 inches |
Sheath |
Nylon |
Color |
Silver |
Warranty |
Limited Lifetime Warranty |
The SOG PowerAccess Deluxe 21 Tool is a high-performance, versatile multitool that excels in both design and functionality. Its durable construction, wide range of tools, and practical features make it an essential addition to any EDC kit or outdoor gear collection. Whether you’re tackling everyday tasks, outdoor adventures, or emergency situations, this multitool is designed to meet your needs with reliability and efficiency.
The BIG IDEA DESIGN Titanium Pocket Pro is a premium pen designed to be a reliable companion for everyday carry (EDC) enthusiasts. Here’s an in-depth review of this versatile pen, highlighting its features, performance, and practical applications.
The Titanium Pocket Pro is crafted from high-quality titanium, ensuring a durable and lightweight design. The pen features a sleek, minimalist aesthetic that is both modern and functional. The titanium construction provides excellent resistance to corrosion and wear, making it suitable for daily use and harsh environments.
The pen's design includes a robust pocket clip, which ensures it stays securely in your pocket or bag. The clip is strong enough to prevent accidental loss while being easy to attach and remove.
One of the standout features of the Titanium Pocket Pro is its compatibility with a wide range of refills. The pen is designed to accommodate over 100 different types of ink refills without the need for any modifications. This versatility ensures that you can use your preferred ink type and brand, making it a highly customizable EDC item.
The pen includes a unique adjustable mechanism that allows it to extend or retract to fit various refill sizes. This feature ensures that the pen always writes smoothly and consistently, regardless of the refill used.
The Titanium Pocket Pro is designed with ergonomics in mind. Its balanced weight and smooth surface make it comfortable to hold and write with for extended periods. The pen's diameter is optimized to provide a secure grip without causing fatigue, making it suitable for long writing sessions.
Durability is a key feature of the Titanium Pocket Pro. The titanium body ensures that the pen can withstand drops, impacts, and daily wear and tear. The robust construction guarantees that the pen remains functional and reliable even after prolonged use.
Performance-wise, the pen delivers a smooth and consistent writing experience. The compatibility with various refills allows you to choose the best ink for your writing style, whether you prefer gel, ballpoint, or rollerball ink.
The versatility of the BIG IDEA DESIGN Titanium Pocket Pro makes it suitable for a variety of applications:
Pros | Cons |
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Durable titanium construction | Higher price point compared to other pens |
Compatible with over 100 ink refills | May require adjustments for some refills |
Sleek, minimalist design | |
Robust pocket clip | |
Adjustable mechanism for various refills | |
Comfortable and balanced writing experience |
Specification | Details |
---|---|
Material | Titanium |
Weight | 1.3 ounces |
Length | Adjustable (4.65" - 5.1") |
Diameter | 0.43 inches |
Clip | Titanium, robust |
Refill Compatibility | Over 100 different refills |
Color Options | Stonewashed, DLC Black |
Warranty | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
The BIG IDEA DESIGN Titanium Pocket Pro is a high-quality, versatile pen that excels in both design and functionality. Its durable construction, wide compatibility with various ink refills, and comfortable ergonomics make it an essential addition to any EDC kit. Whether you’re using it for everyday tasks, professional work, or outdoor activities, this pen is designed to meet your needs with reliability and style.
Stand tall and locate the bony bump at the base of your neck (7th cervical vertebra). With a friend's help or a flexible tape measure, trace a line down the curve of your spine to the top of your hip bones (iliac crest). This distance is your torso length, which you can use to reference sizing charts from backpack manufacturers.
Don't underestimate the power of fit adjustments! By customizing your hipbelt position, shoulder straps, load lifters, and sternum strap, you can achieve a more comfortable and balanced carry.
Internal frame backpacks are ideal for hiking due to their stability, weight distribution, and load support. They help transfer the weight to your hips, reducing strain on your shoulders and back.
A ventilation system is crucial for hot weather or strenuous activity. Consider features like top-loading or panel access for organization, and hipbelt pockets for easy access to essentials. Depending on your needs, a removable daypack or a sleeping bag compartment might be valuable additions.
Regular cleaning with mild soap and water keeps your backpack fresh. For deep cleaning, remove the frame (if possible) and soak the backpack. Store your backpack in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and loosen the straps before storage to maintain their elasticity. By addressing minor wear and tear with repair tape or seeking professional repairs for larger damage, you can extend the lifespan of your trusted backpack.