The Ultimate EDC Guide: Everyday Carry Essentials That Work

Feb 21

Original video: Top EDC Gifts 2024

When it comes to everyday carry (EDC), I’m all about practical gear that actually gets used. Whether I’m at work, walking the dogs, or handling projects around the house, I always have a few essential tools in my pockets or backpack.

Today, I’m breaking down some of my favorite EDC items—from budget-friendly picks to premium options—so you can find what works best for you.

Multitools: Compact Tools for Any Situation

A multitool is a must-have, and I’ve got two great options at different price points.

🔹 Budget Pick: SOG PowerPint

Small and lightweight
Packed with tools: saw, bottle opener, scissors, screwdrivers, knife blade, and more
Features gear-driven pliers for extra leverage
Includes a pocket clip for easy carry

This thing is compact but surprisingly capable. I carry it daily for quick fixes, tightening screws, and cutting small wires.

🔹 Premium Pick: Leatherman Signal

Full-size multitool with fire starter, saw, and wire cutters
Features a hammer, bottle opener, and carabiner
Includes Leatherman’s bit driver system for interchangeable screwdriver heads
Comes with a ceramic sharpener to keep your knife blade in top shape

The Signal lives in my backpack, and I probably use it weekly. It’s perfect for bigger jobs that require stronger pliers and a more robust toolset.

Flashlights: Don’t Get Caught in the Dark

A good flashlight is an essential part of EDC. Here are two solid choices:

🔦 Budget Pick: Olight Baton 3

Small but powerful
Magnetic USB charging
Pocket clip that doubles as a hat clip for hands-free use

🔦 Premium Pick: Olight Arkfeld Ultra

Flashlight + laser + black light (great for checking pet accidents 🤢)
Super tough anodized finish
Flat body for comfortable pocket carry
Rechargeable with a long battery life

I use a flashlight multiple times a day, whether it’s finding things in a dark space, walking the dog at night, or working on projects. The Arkfeld Ultra’s extra features (laser and black light) make it even more useful.

Pens: Writing Tools for Every Occasion

Whether it’s signing documents, taking notes, or sketching ideas, I always carry a pen—sometimes two.

🖊️ Budget Pick: Fisher Space Pen

Writes upside down, underwater, and in zero gravity
Compact and reliable
A great option when you need a no-mess, dependable writing tool

🖊️ Premium Pick: Tactile Turn Bolt Action Pen

High-quality machined metal construction
Bolt-action mechanism prevents accidental ink deployment in your pocket
Uses Pilot G2 refills for a smooth writing experience

If you prefer fountain pens, I also recommend:
✒️ Budget Fountain Pen: Lamy Safari – Affordable, durable, and easy to use
✒️ Premium Fountain Pen: Lamy 2000 – A classic 14k gold nib pen that’s built to last

Cutting Tools: Utility Knives & Pocket Knives

You never realize how often you need a knife until you start carrying one.

🔪 Budget Utility Knife: Gerber Prybrid X

Replaceable X-Acto blade
Pry bar, bottle opener, and screwdriver in one
Inexpensive but extremely useful

🔪 Premium Utility Knife: Big Idea Designs TPT Slide

Titanium construction
Uses standard razor blades
Built-in pry tool and wrench

For pocket knives, these are my two go-to options:

🔥 Budget Pocket Knife: CJRB Pyrite

Button lock for easy one-handed use
Available in different blade shapes
Sharp out of the box and stays that way

🔥 Premium Pocket Knife: Hogue Deka (MagnaCut Blade)

Lightweight but super strong
American-made with high-quality materials
A great alternative to the Benchmade Bugout

The Hogue Deka is my top recommendation if you want one high-quality EDC knife that does it all.

Leather Goods & Organizers

👜 Pocket Organizer: Leather EDC Pouch

Holds a pen and a small pocket knife
Keeps things organized in your pocket

👜 Galen Leather EDC Wallet

Holds a pen, a knife, a multitool, cash, and cards
Zippered for security

📒 Galen Leather Planner Cover + Hobonichi Techo Planner

My daily planner setup
Keeps all my notes, tasks, and schedules in one place

If you’re serious about organization, these leather goods will keep your gear neat and accessible.

Final Thoughts: What’s In Your Pockets?

This isn’t just random gear—these are tools I actually use every day. Whether you’re looking for affordable EDC items or premium upgrades, there’s something here for everyone.

✔️ Multitool? Check.
✔️ Flashlight? Check.
✔️ Knife? Absolutely.
✔️ Pen? Always.

I’ll leave links to all of these below. If you use the links, it helps the channel (and it doesn’t cost you extra). Let me know in the comments:

💬 What’s in your EDC setup?

Thanks for hanging out! Don’t forget to like and subscribe for more gear reviews and EDC breakdowns. 🚀

Leslie McKerchie