EDC

Everyday Carry, or EDC, generally refers to small items or gadgets worn, carried, or made available in pockets, holsters, or bags on a daily basis to manage common tasks or for use in unexpected situations or emergencies. In a broader sense, it is a lifestyle, discipline, or philosophy of preparedness.

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Catching Elephant is a theme by Andy Taylor

 

submitted by lillesiim Hi. Here’s my first EDC photo. Fuji X10 with Gordys strap iPhone 4 Moleskine notebook Shkira horween wallet Sterile submariner homage Fenix LD01 Leatherman Style CS Kingston SE9 usb stick Uniball Signo Keys, lighter etc Editor’s Note: Hey there! You’ve got a pretty sleek carry that looks great for urban use. I noticed your keychain setup could probably benefit from a few small tweaks here and there, especially considering that’s where you’ve designated your light and tools. Consider swapping out that dinky carabiner and consolidate some of your split rings (i.e. one ring for tools, one for keys) to reduce bulk, noise and the risk of rings/clips failing. You can still keep your chain modular but without most of the bulk. Alternatively, you can try suspending and tucking your keys into your pocket, while leaving your tools riding on a belt clip of some sort for quicker access if you need your light or knife in a pinch. I recommend the Lucky Line 40401, here’s an example of how I did it. Otherwise, everything looks great! I hope this helps, and thanks so much for sharing.

submitted by lillesiim

Hi. Here’s my first EDC photo.

  • Fuji X10 with Gordys strap
  • iPhone 4
  • Moleskine notebook
  • Shkira horween wallet
  • Sterile submariner homage
  • Fenix LD01
  • Leatherman Style CS
  • Kingston SE9 usb stick
  • Uniball Signo
  • Keys, lighter etc
Editor’s Note: Hey there! You’ve got a pretty sleek carry that looks great for urban use. I noticed your keychain setup could probably benefit from a few small tweaks here and there, especially considering that’s where you’ve designated your light and tools. Consider swapping out that dinky carabiner and consolidate some of your split rings (i.e. one ring for tools, one for keys) to reduce bulk, noise and the risk of rings/clips failing. You can still keep your chain modular but without most of the bulk. Alternatively, you can try suspending and tucking your keys into your pocket, while leaving your tools riding on a belt clip of some sort for quicker access if you need your light or knife in a pinch. I recommend the Lucky Line 40401, here’s an example of how I did it. Otherwise, everything looks great! I hope this helps, and thanks so much for sharing.
submitted by matt h Great site you have here. I can’t tell you how much interesting kit I have discovered browsing through the photos. Thought I would finally post my own. There are many things a person owns, but the most valuable and useful is what we carry daily. The design of these items is important. They must not only perform, but in my opinion be unified in form and aesthetic. These are the items I depend on, be them in my pocket or the glove box (other than maybe the German Chocolate.) I don’t go anywhere without it this stuff: Leuchiturm 1917 Gridded Notebook Lamy 2000 Fine Nib Fountain Pen (black ink) OBSTRUCTURES// Plate Wallet prototype Iphone with Magpul Case Fenix E15 with sandblasted clip Swedish Military Cigarette Case for odds and ends Laco WUS-LE Handwind watch Military earplugs Scho-Ka-Kola energy chocolate OBSTRUCTURES// Pry-Open Tool & Stainless cable ring Titanium toothpick case Emerson A100 Knife A good watch is critical; especially one I can find joy in winding even in a dull meeting or boring moment. Toothpicks are a vice of mine, and on Ebay there are many compact toothpick containers that were most likely designed for pills or matches. This one was flat bead-blasted titanium and just the right size. A knife is always useful and the Emerson A100 is a simply designed indestructible piece, but I ended up making my own pry-open tool to save it from the torture I usually attempt to put it through. The wallet is also a design I am working on in response to some of the other plate wallets out there that are either way too expensive or do not have flexibility in terms of the amount one would like to carry, or user serviceable bands- nothing like a black rubber o-ring that you can order for a buck. As an architect, I have to wait a long time to build a building. It is inherently a slow process. Critically considering the problems of design concerning the everyday tools of life fills the time and always gives me an excuse to constantly refine them and experiment with design and fabrication. Since I do so much designing, the right notebook and pen is imperative. The Leuchiturm’s kill the Moleskines. They are thinner, cheaper and have a subtle grid of dots instead of course lines. For extra ink, sd-cards and other bits live in the Swedish Military Cigarette case: it’s aluminum and incredibly thin. I wish I could find more of these. Editor’s Note: Hi Matt, thanks for the thorough, detailed explanation of your EDC and what you use it for! The context lets us appreciate your carry that much more. I agree with much of your thoughts on EDC gear and design. I personally try to choose gear with a good balance of design and performance, and form that improves function is often the case. I can see your love of design reflects in your carry — from the notebook and pen to your custom made tools, well done! I like how your carry has some less common gear choices but together, they’re cohesive and make sense for your job (earplugs for construction sites, and so on). I haven’t used one myself but Emerson has a reputation of making some well-built knives, and it’s nice to see that ruggedness translate to a more minimalist design in the A100. Good job on adding that clip to the light and bead/lanyard to your knife for better retrieval and some spare cordage, too. Thanks for sharing!

submitted by matt h

Great site you have here. I can’t tell you how much interesting kit I have discovered browsing through the photos. Thought I would finally post my own. There are many things a person owns, but the most valuable and useful is what we carry daily. The design of these items is important. They must not only perform, but in my opinion be unified in form and aesthetic.

These are the items I depend on, be them in my pocket or the glove box (other than maybe the German Chocolate.) I don’t go anywhere without it this stuff:

  • Leuchiturm 1917 Gridded Notebook
  • Lamy 2000 Fine Nib Fountain Pen (black ink)
  • OBSTRUCTURES// Plate Wallet prototype
  • Iphone with Magpul Case
  • Fenix E15 with sandblasted clip
  • Swedish Military Cigarette Case for odds and ends
  • Laco WUS-LE Handwind watch
  • Military earplugs
  • Scho-Ka-Kola energy chocolate
  • OBSTRUCTURES// Pry-Open Tool & Stainless cable ring
  • Titanium toothpick case
  • Emerson A100 Knife

A good watch is critical; especially one I can find joy in winding even in a dull meeting or boring moment. Toothpicks are a vice of mine, and on Ebay there are many compact toothpick containers that were most likely designed for pills or matches. This one was flat bead-blasted titanium and just the right size.

A knife is always useful and the Emerson A100 is a simply designed indestructible piece, but I ended up making my own pry-open tool to save it from the torture I usually attempt to put it through. The wallet is also a design I am working on in response to some of the other plate wallets out there that are either way too expensive or do not have flexibility in terms of the amount one would like to carry, or user serviceable bands- nothing like a black rubber o-ring that you can order for a buck. As an architect, I have to wait a long time to build a building. It is inherently a slow process. Critically considering the problems of design concerning the everyday tools of life fills the time and always gives me an excuse to constantly refine them and experiment with design and fabrication.

Since I do so much designing, the right notebook and pen is imperative. The Leuchiturm’s kill the Moleskines. They are thinner, cheaper and have a subtle grid of dots instead of course lines. For extra ink, sd-cards and other bits live in the Swedish Military Cigarette case: it’s aluminum and incredibly thin. I wish I could find more of these.

Editor’s Note: Hi Matt, thanks for the thorough, detailed explanation of your EDC and what you use it for! The context lets us appreciate your carry that much more. I agree with much of your thoughts on EDC gear and design. I personally try to choose gear with a good balance of design and performance, and form that improves function is often the case. I can see your love of design reflects in your carry — from the notebook and pen to your custom made tools, well done! I like how your carry has some less common gear choices but together, they’re cohesive and make sense for your job (earplugs for construction sites, and so on). I haven’t used one myself but Emerson has a reputation of making some well-built knives, and it’s nice to see that ruggedness translate to a more minimalist design in the A100. Good job on adding that clip to the light and bead/lanyard to your knife for better retrieval and some spare cordage, too. Thanks for sharing!

submitted by noahshark Taxi driving loadout. From left to right (roughly): Shuron Ronsir Revelation polarized clip Seiko Professional Diver’s 200m on NATO Driving gloves Custom monogrammed leather card holder by my buddy Paul Benchmade Sequel 707 Tiffany&Co. money clip Fenix PD20 R5 iPhone 3G These are the items I carry on my actual person while working. Not pictured are the backup tools I always have handy in my satchel under the seat: Leatherman Juice XE6 (pliers, utility blades, screwdrivers, etc.) Petzl Zipka Plus-2 Headlamp (three brightness modes +strobe, auxiliary red LED) Moleskin notebook and Uniball Vision red and blue pens Extra batteries, chapstick, glasses cleaner, etc. This kit has served me well, although I’m always refining my loadout. Follow my taxi adventures on Twitter @noahcab. Editor’s Note: Hi Noah, very nice kit! You say you’re always refining your loadout and it definitely reflects in your carry. I like how your gear has elements of quality, style, cohesiveness, personalization and practicality for your occupation, so well done. I’d also say your extended kit does a good job of complementing your on-person carry too. One thing I’m curious to see is how you manage your keys, being a cab driver and all, but for all I know there might be restrictions on that. But anyway very nice carry, thanks for sharing.

submitted by noahshark

Taxi driving loadout. From left to right (roughly):

  • Shuron Ronsir Revelation polarized clip
  • Seiko Professional Diver’s 200m on NATO
  • Driving gloves
  • Custom monogrammed leather card holder by my buddy Paul
  • Benchmade Sequel 707
  • Tiffany&Co. money clip
  • Fenix PD20 R5
  • iPhone 3G

These are the items I carry on my actual person while working. Not pictured are the backup tools I always have handy in my satchel under the seat:

  • Leatherman Juice XE6 (pliers, utility blades, screwdrivers, etc.)
  • Petzl Zipka Plus-2 Headlamp (three brightness modes +strobe, auxiliary red LED)
  • Moleskin notebook and Uniball Vision red and blue pens
  • Extra batteries, chapstick, glasses cleaner, etc.

This kit has served me well, although I’m always refining my loadout. Follow my taxi adventures on Twitter @noahcab.

Editor’s Note: Hi Noah, very nice kit! You say you’re always refining your loadout and it definitely reflects in your carry. I like how your gear has elements of quality, style, cohesiveness, personalization and practicality for your occupation, so well done. I’d also say your extended kit does a good job of complementing your on-person carry too. One thing I’m curious to see is how you manage your keys, being a cab driver and all, but for all I know there might be restrictions on that. But anyway very nice carry, thanks for sharing.

submitted by crankafreak My EDC: Fallkniven F1 Custom Kydex Gerber Covert F.A.S.T 3 Gerber Multi-Plier 600 + bits0 Ultrafire WF-501B BIC Lighter Pendrive BIC pens Editor’s Note: I always like to see how people decide to set up their pocket organizers. Yours actually looks less “stuffed” compared to other setups I’ve seen, however. In accordance with the rest of your carry, I think adding a weatherproof notebook in one of the larger pockets, some paracord, a capsule lighter, and some small first aid essentials would help round out your carry as it seems you have sort of a survivalist theme going. Otherwise your carry looks good and very cohesive! If your Ultrafire ever bites the dust or doesn’t work out for you, I think a Zebralight or similar right angle/headlamp light might synergize well with your carry too. Thanks for sharing!

submitted by crankafreak

My EDC:

  • Fallkniven F1 Custom Kydex
  • Gerber Covert F.A.S.T 3
  • Gerber Multi-Plier 600 + bits0
  • Ultrafire WF-501B
  • BIC Lighter
  • Pendrive
  • BIC pens

Editor’s Note: I always like to see how people decide to set up their pocket organizers. Yours actually looks less “stuffed” compared to other setups I’ve seen, however. In accordance with the rest of your carry, I think adding a weatherproof notebook in one of the larger pockets, some paracord, a capsule lighter, and some small first aid essentials would help round out your carry as it seems you have sort of a survivalist theme going. Otherwise your carry looks good and very cohesive! If your Ultrafire ever bites the dust or doesn’t work out for you, I think a Zebralight or similar right angle/headlamp light might synergize well with your carry too. Thanks for sharing!

submitted by gary Great website.. I’ve learned from looking at others posts. I only carry 1 of each item, but decided to show alternates/backups.  Leather iPhone 4 case and wallet. 4Sevens quark MiNi AA squared R5.  Seiko Dive Watch (SKA413).  Seiko Diver Watch (SRP043K2) Victorinox Pioneer (black alox scales). Editor’s Note: Thanks for the kind words, Gary. I’m glad you’ve learned a thing or two from the site. It’s interesting to see the “two is one, one is none” adage taken quite literally here, but I do agree it’s worth investing in backups especially if the gear is affordable and works really well for you, like these items here. I’ve always been a fan of the Quark MiNi paired with some kind of Swiss Army Knife for an affordable, versatile and minimalist EDC option, and I think Seiko makes some great affordable watches for EDC as well, so I’m glad to see those in your rotation. Despite owning backups for your core EDC I find it interesting that you don’t carry backup tools on your keychain for added redundancy, but that also contributes to streamline your carry overall (as does the wallet/phone case combination). Thanks for sharing!

submitted by gary

Great website.. I’ve learned from looking at others posts. I only carry 1 of each item, but decided to show alternates/backups. 

  • Leather iPhone 4 case and wallet.
  • 4Sevens quark MiNi AA squared R5. 
  • Seiko Dive Watch (SKA413). 
  • Seiko Diver Watch (SRP043K2)
  • Victorinox Pioneer (black alox scales).

Editor’s Note: Thanks for the kind words, Gary. I’m glad you’ve learned a thing or two from the site. It’s interesting to see the “two is one, one is none” adage taken quite literally here, but I do agree it’s worth investing in backups especially if the gear is affordable and works really well for you, like these items here. I’ve always been a fan of the Quark MiNi paired with some kind of Swiss Army Knife for an affordable, versatile and minimalist EDC option, and I think Seiko makes some great affordable watches for EDC as well, so I’m glad to see those in your rotation. Despite owning backups for your core EDC I find it interesting that you don’t carry backup tools on your keychain for added redundancy, but that also contributes to streamline your carry overall (as does the wallet/phone case combination). Thanks for sharing!

submitted by pjdunn I primarily work from home, so EDC is a little different for me.  I keep it pretty simple (and cheap).  Would like to upgrade the pen.  Suggestions? iPhone 4 Panerai “homage” with tan croc strap Jfold wallet Zebra clicker with 0.7mm gel Car, house keys, leatherman multi On night walks with the pooch, I will take my sog knife with me JIC. Editor’s Note: Hey there! Your carry seems to be off to a good start if you prefer simple and cheap. As for your pen situation, you’ve already got one of the best budget pens for EDC. You could look into a very similar pen, the Zebra F-701, which features more stainless steel in its construction. Pilot pens are also a popular alternative (G2, Hi-Tec, etc) and could probably handle home office wear and tear. I personally really like the Uniball Power Tank line too. If you’re willing to splurge, keep your eyes peeled on kickstarter campaigns, there are usually some really nice pens in the works there. Lastly, for your nightly dog walks I’d maybe recommend keeping a flashlight on you as well! Thanks for sharing.

submitted by pjdunn

I primarily work from home, so EDC is a little different for me.  I keep it pretty simple (and cheap).  Would like to upgrade the pen.  Suggestions?

  • iPhone 4
  • Panerai “homage” with tan croc strap
  • Jfold wallet
  • Zebra clicker with 0.7mm gel
  • Car, house keys, leatherman multi

On night walks with the pooch, I will take my sog knife with me JIC.

Editor’s Note: Hey there! Your carry seems to be off to a good start if you prefer simple and cheap. As for your pen situation, you’ve already got one of the best budget pens for EDC. You could look into a very similar pen, the Zebra F-701, which features more stainless steel in its construction. Pilot pens are also a popular alternative (G2, Hi-Tec, etc) and could probably handle home office wear and tear. I personally really like the Uniball Power Tank line too. If you’re willing to splurge, keep your eyes peeled on kickstarter campaigns, there are usually some really nice pens in the works there. Lastly, for your nightly dog walks I’d maybe recommend keeping a flashlight on you as well! Thanks for sharing.

submitted by shelt Love your blog!  Here’s my EDC, after many generations… Bladeart Mission Wallet containing: - Spyderco Dragonfly2- Swisscard Pen- Swisstech 4-in-1 screwdriver- cards & cash  iPhone 4s in Ikonic Edge case (with eBay folding reading glasses)Lummi Raw NS 250/40 Lumen with green tritiumRolex Submarinersmall keyring with house and car key - not shown  Editor’s Note: Thanks for the love! Your carry looks to be well organized — good use of those multipurpose pouches for your gear. It’s always interesting to see those urban wallets and how people set theirs up. I also wanted to highlight that awesome Lummi light and how the Dfly is a good EDC blade. I see you want to keep your pen as barebones as possible (as do I), but for something a little sturdier and more comfortable (but still very compact) take a look at the Pilot Birdy Mini SS. I reviewed it here. Otherwise nice setup, thanks for sharing!

submitted by shelt

Love your blog!  Here’s my EDC, after many generations…

Bladeart Mission Wallet containing:

- Spyderco Dragonfly2
- Swisscard Pen
- Swisstech 4-in-1 screwdriver
- cards & cash 

iPhone 4s in Ikonic Edge case (with eBay folding reading glasses)
Lummi Raw NS 250/40 Lumen with green tritium
Rolex Submariner
small keyring with house and car key - not shown 

Editor’s Note: Thanks for the love! Your carry looks to be well organized — good use of those multipurpose pouches for your gear. It’s always interesting to see those urban wallets and how people set theirs up. I also wanted to highlight that awesome Lummi light and how the Dfly is a good EDC blade. I see you want to keep your pen as barebones as possible (as do I), but for something a little sturdier and more comfortable (but still very compact) take a look at the Pilot Birdy Mini SS. I reviewed it here. Otherwise nice setup, thanks for sharing!

submitted by 1samurai Did a bag dump for Strawfoot Handmade. No tools or anything, as I don’t really feel like a need any. Might get a knife eventually but right now this is all I need to have a good day. From left: Blistex(I’m addicted) IFA(liquorice pastille) LV Wallet Keys + Bank thing iPhone iPod Monster Turbine In-ear plugs Nintendo DSi XL A Good book(1Q84 right now) Moscot Lemtosh sunglasses Dog(Basset Artesien Normand) tries to fit in the bag Cheers, Marius Editor’s Note: I think you’re right, seeing that dog was all I needed to have a good day too. Thanks for sharing.

submitted by 1samurai

Did a bag dump for Strawfoot Handmade. No tools or anything, as I don’t really feel like a need any. Might get a knife eventually but right now this is all I need to have a good day.

From left:

  • Blistex(I’m addicted)
  • IFA(liquorice pastille)
  • LV Wallet
  • Keys + Bank thing
  • iPhone
  • iPod
  • Monster Turbine In-ear plugs
  • Nintendo DSi XL
  • A Good book(1Q84 right now)
  • Moscot Lemtosh sunglasses
  • Dog(Basset Artesien Normand) tries to fit in the bag

Cheers, Marius

Editor’s Note: I think you’re right, seeing that dog was all I needed to have a good day too. Thanks for sharing.

submitted by rick Fossil trifold wallet with moleskine volant hidden inside.   Maui Jim Stingray Sunglasses.  Sanrenmu 704 with black blade.  Fixed snap shackle/county comm cable keeping essentials together.   mini maglight, Alox Rambler and County Comm delrin $20.00 keeper.  Classic Zebra 701 and Rotring Trio Essential multi pen with stylus.   Iphone 3gs cased in Mophie Juice Air.  Editor’s Note: Hey Rick, you have some good ideas in this carry here… It’s good to pair your pens with a moleskine, but also clever to tuck it away in your wallet (I’d just advise against sitting on it with that added thickness!). Good looks on opting for an inexpensive and practical snap shackle as your keychain, and I like that you separated the tools from the keys in a modular way. I have had some issues with cable rings carrying heavier kits, so beware of that. Lastly I wanted to highlight that SRM 704. It’s not the highest quality but it is still a really good value for under $10 or so as a beater EDC knife. My only issue with it is how quickly it gets dull… Thanks for sharing and carry on!

submitted by rick

  • Fossil trifold wallet with moleskine volant hidden inside.  
  • Maui Jim Stingray Sunglasses. 
  • Sanrenmu 704 with black blade. 
  • Fixed snap shackle/county comm cable keeping essentials together.  
  • mini maglight, Alox Rambler and County Comm delrin $20.00 keeper. 
  • Classic Zebra 701 and Rotring Trio Essential multi pen with stylus.  
  • Iphone 3gs cased in Mophie Juice Air. 

Editor’s Note: Hey Rick, you have some good ideas in this carry here… It’s good to pair your pens with a moleskine, but also clever to tuck it away in your wallet (I’d just advise against sitting on it with that added thickness!). Good looks on opting for an inexpensive and practical snap shackle as your keychain, and I like that you separated the tools from the keys in a modular way. I have had some issues with cable rings carrying heavier kits, so beware of that. Lastly I wanted to highlight that SRM 704. It’s not the highest quality but it is still a really good value for under $10 or so as a beater EDC knife. My only issue with it is how quickly it gets dull… Thanks for sharing and carry on!

submitted by cosplayshots I organized and changed up my EDC stuff today and thought it’d be cool to share. I’ve always struggled with not having enough pocket space for the stuff I want to carry, and I finally found the right small bag to clip onto my belt, at a Japanese bookstore, of all places. I use two #3 S-Biners, attached to D-rings on the back, to hang it from two belt loops over my front right pocket, which actually looks pretty decent despite how dorky it sounds in concept. So here’s the true pocket stuff: -Dosh Wallet-iPhone 4-Citizen Watch (Special edition based on the Navitach)-Spyderco Ladybug Salt-8GB Sony Flash Drive-Leatherman Micra-County Comm LED-County Comm Split Pea lighter-Car/house keys And then in the pouch: -Canon S90 w/ CameraLeather.com griptac kit-Leatherman Monarch 300-Lenspen MiniPro II I think the cheap pen, battery, etc are pretty obvious. I also keep my phone in the pouch when I’m carrying it. I’d really like to get a different light. I’m thinking Maratac AAA. I’d also consider a different main knife since the Spyderco is pretty small, I’d be interested to hear suggestions on a relatively affordable (not much more than $50) knife, which ideally would be one-handed openable, but wouldn’t have the kind of “tactical” look that freaks people out. I’ll also probably buy a short Space Pen and a very small notebook.  Oh, and I’ll see how the S-biner on the keys does. I’m not too worried since I carry in the pocket. Editor’s Note: Hey there! Your carry looks to be pretty thorough and it covers most functions you’d need as a cosplay photographer. Good job keeping it all organized in that pouch too (I have a similar one for my SD780 that I got at a bookstore inside a Mitsuwa as well). I like that grip mod on the S90. As for any upgrades to the carry, the Maratac should do fine and will keep your carry fairly light, but I think the newest models have done away with the ‘mid’ output mode and kept it high/low (but with better output). If you find your Ladybug too small, there’s always the H1 Dragonfly 2 which is slightly bigger but otherwise very similar to your current knife. Hope that helps, thanks for sharing!

submitted by cosplayshots

I organized and changed up my EDC stuff today and thought it’d be cool to share. I’ve always struggled with not having enough pocket space for the stuff I want to carry, and I finally found the right small bag to clip onto my belt, at a Japanese bookstore, of all places. I use two #3 S-Biners, attached to D-rings on the back, to hang it from two belt loops over my front right pocket, which actually looks pretty decent despite how dorky it sounds in concept.

So here’s the true pocket stuff:

-Dosh Wallet
-iPhone 4
-Citizen Watch (Special edition based on the Navitach)
-Spyderco Ladybug Salt
-8GB Sony Flash Drive
-Leatherman Micra
-County Comm LED
-County Comm Split Pea lighter
-Car/house keys

And then in the pouch:

-Canon S90 w/ CameraLeather.com griptac kit
-Leatherman Monarch 300
-Lenspen MiniPro II

I think the cheap pen, battery, etc are pretty obvious. I also keep my phone in the pouch when I’m carrying it.

I’d really like to get a different light. I’m thinking Maratac AAA. I’d also consider a different main knife since the Spyderco is pretty small, I’d be interested to hear suggestions on a relatively affordable (not much more than $50) knife, which ideally would be one-handed openable, but wouldn’t have the kind of “tactical” look that freaks people out. I’ll also probably buy a short Space Pen and a very small notebook. 

Oh, and I’ll see how the S-biner on the keys does. I’m not too worried since I carry in the pocket.

Editor’s Note: Hey there! Your carry looks to be pretty thorough and it covers most functions you’d need as a cosplay photographer. Good job keeping it all organized in that pouch too (I have a similar one for my SD780 that I got at a bookstore inside a Mitsuwa as well). I like that grip mod on the S90. As for any upgrades to the carry, the Maratac should do fine and will keep your carry fairly light, but I think the newest models have done away with the ‘mid’ output mode and kept it high/low (but with better output). If you find your Ladybug too small, there’s always the H1 Dragonfly 2 which is slightly bigger but otherwise very similar to your current knife. Hope that helps, thanks for sharing!

submitted by jamesmattison My everyday carry: Fifth&Brannan pocket square Marlboro Lights Vintage Dunhill lighter (eBay) Montblanc wallet with money clip (personalised by my three-year old daughter) Kaweco AL Sport fountain pen Car park gate pass Work entry card House key 2 x Lacie USB iamakeys Volkswagen Golf GTI key iPhone 4 Usually no knife or torch, but I have two Victorinox swiss army knifes; in my desk drawer at work and next to my bed at home. Love the site and now definitely thinking of investing in an Al Mar pocket knife Editor’s Note: Hi James, thanks for the support! You’ve got a good carry going with some great pieces — love the Speedy, vintage lighter and Kaweco. I see you have to deal with carrying those bulky key cards, I wish I knew of a better solution to slim that down. Otherwise, your carry is pretty streamlined albeit lacking a primary blade or multitool as you mentioned. Your phone should do okay as a torch in a pinch, but it couldn’t hurt to invest in a small 1xAAA light to throw onto your keys. Lastly, if you’re looking at Al Mar, I say go for it! I think they would fit into your carry quite nicely, functionally and aesthetically speaking. Thanks for sharing!

submitted by jamesmattison

My everyday carry:

Usually no knife or torch, but I have two Victorinox swiss army knifes; in my desk drawer at work and next to my bed at home.

Love the site and now definitely thinking of investing in an Al Mar pocket knife

Editor’s Note: Hi James, thanks for the support! You’ve got a good carry going with some great pieces — love the Speedy, vintage lighter and Kaweco. I see you have to deal with carrying those bulky key cards, I wish I knew of a better solution to slim that down. Otherwise, your carry is pretty streamlined albeit lacking a primary blade or multitool as you mentioned. Your phone should do okay as a torch in a pinch, but it couldn’t hurt to invest in a small 1xAAA light to throw onto your keys. Lastly, if you’re looking at Al Mar, I say go for it! I think they would fit into your carry quite nicely, functionally and aesthetically speaking. Thanks for sharing!

submitted by derwal Damn, looking at all that EDC pics, I bet Sherlock Holmes could read it all. Seems like some guys are pretty knive-obsessed, I really wonder why no one seriously carries a straight razor… This is the EDC of a german Industrial Designer/Photographer/Musician: Ray Ban Clubmaster - classic eyebrow glasses Zippo lighter - great beer bottle opener for a Gentleman Moleskine Sketchbook - quite essential for a creative dude, I use it heavily during my daily commute for doodling all types of thoughts Lamy 408 pen - contains 3 colors; I love sketching w/ a ball pen, because you can start doodling very light and get bolder lines by pushing the pen harder ring - boy I left that one at someone’s house recently and was dogged by bad luck ‘til I got the ring back… Carhartt wallet - threw away the original chain and replaced it w/ this anchor chain I bought at some biker store 15 years ago Seiko SKX007K - apologies for the NATO strap. Change it to a shark mesh bracelet from time to time tough. Never been happier w/ a watch. AKG In-ears - ‘cause that Apple headset is pure crap… Leatherman Micra - not enough knife for a proper picnic, but just perfect for my EDC; love the scissors LiteXpress Mini Palm 101 light - 21 Lumen of awesomeness, uses standard batteries bike and house keys - all w/ light ‘n Leatherman it’s barely suitable to carry in your pant pocket without looking like a pusher… Fuji X100 camera - I taped the cam black, so it looks crappy and less like a show off Editor’s Note: Derwal, knives are incredibly useful tools for many contributors here (although for others, their admiration and passion for knife collecting might outweigh the actual practical need for a knife, but no problem with that). I know you’re joking, but carrying a straight razor is illegal pretty much everywhere and one wouldn’t be practical for EDC use (lack of a hard lock, weird grip ergonomics for cutting like a knife, blunted tip, etc). I don’t mean to knock SRs though, I will admit I’m personally a fan of gourmet wet shaving! It’s just not suitable for EDC. Anyway, onto your carry — the loadout is very coherent and appropriate for your line of work, so good job for putting all that thought into it. I like the notebook and the multipen, especially for creative work. Nice keychain setup too, but if you find yourself struggling to tame your pocket bulge, consider a P7 suspension clip. It lets you hang your keychain, suspended in your pocket, so it doesn’t bunch up at the bottom of your pocket and carries a little slimmer and more comfortably. Lastly, nice touches on the X100 with the gaffer tape and the black strap on the watch. Makes for a more subdued look! Thanks for sharing.

submitted by derwal

Damn, looking at all that EDC pics, I bet Sherlock Holmes could read it all.

Seems like some guys are pretty knive-obsessed, I really wonder why no one seriously carries a straight razor…

This is the EDC of a german Industrial Designer/Photographer/Musician:

  • Ray Ban Clubmaster - classic eyebrow glasses
  • Zippo lighter - great beer bottle opener for a Gentleman
  • Moleskine Sketchbook - quite essential for a creative dude, I use it heavily during my daily commute for doodling all types of thoughts
  • Lamy 408 pen - contains 3 colors; I love sketching w/ a ball pen, because you can start doodling very light and get bolder lines by pushing the pen harder
  • ring - boy I left that one at someone’s house recently and was dogged by bad luck ‘til I got the ring back…
  • Carhartt wallet - threw away the original chain and replaced it w/ this anchor chain I bought at some biker store 15 years ago
  • Seiko SKX007K - apologies for the NATO strap. Change it to a shark mesh bracelet from time to time tough. Never been happier w/ a watch.
  • AKG In-ears - ‘cause that Apple headset is pure crap…
  • Leatherman Micra - not enough knife for a proper picnic, but just perfect for my EDC; love the scissors
  • LiteXpress Mini Palm 101 light - 21 Lumen of awesomeness, uses standard batteries
  • bike and house keys - all w/ light ‘n Leatherman it’s barely suitable to carry in your pant pocket without looking like a pusher…
  • Fuji X100 camera - I taped the cam black, so it looks crappy and less like a show off

Editor’s Note: Derwal, knives are incredibly useful tools for many contributors here (although for others, their admiration and passion for knife collecting might outweigh the actual practical need for a knife, but no problem with that). I know you’re joking, but carrying a straight razor is illegal pretty much everywhere and one wouldn’t be practical for EDC use (lack of a hard lock, weird grip ergonomics for cutting like a knife, blunted tip, etc). I don’t mean to knock SRs though, I will admit I’m personally a fan of gourmet wet shaving! It’s just not suitable for EDC.

Anyway, onto your carry — the loadout is very coherent and appropriate for your line of work, so good job for putting all that thought into it. I like the notebook and the multipen, especially for creative work. Nice keychain setup too, but if you find yourself struggling to tame your pocket bulge, consider a P7 suspension clip. It lets you hang your keychain, suspended in your pocket, so it doesn’t bunch up at the bottom of your pocket and carries a little slimmer and more comfortably. Lastly, nice touches on the X100 with the gaffer tape and the black strap on the watch. Makes for a more subdued look! Thanks for sharing.

submitted by Matt542 First off, really like the site. Perhaps similar to others, I have a slight pre-occupation with little gadgets, and an awareness of the objects I carry with me on a daily basis. I found your site while looking to replace the LED Lenser K3 on my keys, and have since then lost a substantial amount of time trawling through previous submissions.  Anyway, I finally decided to photograph my EDC, but have also included those objects I carry on my person on a daily basis while at work (UK Paramedic). Thanks for the site, and keep up the good work. The lower row is my ‘true’ daily carry, from left to right: iPhone4 with slim black hi-gloss rubber case (micro-fibre cloth carried between case and back of phone). Freecom 16GB USB databar Papermate ComfortMate Ultra 1.0M black Moleskine diary Old Solo watch I found in an antiques market Keys, with 4sevens Quark MiniX 123, Gerber Shard, and Leatherman Style Leather Wallet, which I’d like to replace, but can’t find anything I truly like. Upper Row is my additional carry when at work. Left to right: TuffCut Shears with lanyard on handle - to secure safely in pocket (looped over earpieces of stethoscope) as I’ve lost countless pairs. Casio F-91W. This replaces my wristwatch and sits on my belt (“naked” from elbow down policy at work). It’s bum-basic, easy to disinfect and cheap to replace. Peli VersaBrite 3. Clips onto loops on my shirt/fleece – really useful for leaving my hands free for completing paperwork/or not falling down steps at night with poor lighting and hands full. Leather belt radio clip. iPhone FM radio transmitter. Allows me to play my iPod via the ambulance radio. Pen torch (for pupillary responses)…as no one likes 100 lumens in the face. Fenix LD10 R5. Love it, although have contemplated replacing with a CR123 battery powered torch, but AA’s are supplied free at work. SAK Spartan, endlessly useful. Littmann Classic II SE stethoscope. Editor’s Note: Hi Matt, thanks for the kind words, and for sharing a carry unique to you profession for us to enjoy. Your “true” EDC is set up just fine — Fairly minimal, good utility on your keychain and you managed to do it despite the more strict UK knife laws. Your work carry is especially interesting and refreshing to see! The retrieval cordage on your shears is very clever and looks like it would work great to quickly let you get to work, which is important in your profession as a paramedic. The LD10 should stay in your carry if you love it and batteries are free, in my opinion. Some CR123 lights are much brighter but these days you can even get away with something like the EagleTac D25A clicky, which is very compact and bright for a 1xAA light. Otherwise, everything looks great. The one thing that struck me was that you didn’t include a ‘rescue tool,’ with a glass breaker, seatbelt cutter and so on, but if those aren’t necessary in your line of work, forgive me. Thanks for sharing!

submitted by Matt542

First off, really like the site. Perhaps similar to others, I have a slight pre-occupation with little gadgets, and an awareness of the objects I carry with me on a daily basis. I found your site while looking to replace the LED Lenser K3 on my keys, and have since then lost a substantial amount of time trawling through previous submissions.  Anyway, I finally decided to photograph my EDC, but have also included those objects I carry on my person on a daily basis while at work (UK Paramedic). Thanks for the site, and keep up the good work.

The lower row is my ‘true’ daily carry, from left to right:

  • iPhone4 with slim black hi-gloss rubber case (micro-fibre cloth carried between case and back of phone).
  • Freecom 16GB USB databar
  • Papermate ComfortMate Ultra 1.0M black
  • Moleskine diary
  • Old Solo watch I found in an antiques market
  • Keys, with 4sevens Quark MiniX 123, Gerber Shard, and Leatherman Style
  • Leather Wallet, which I’d like to replace, but can’t find anything I truly like.

Upper Row is my additional carry when at work. Left to right:

  • TuffCut Shears with lanyard on handle - to secure safely in pocket (looped over earpieces of stethoscope) as I’ve lost countless pairs.
  • Casio F-91W. This replaces my wristwatch and sits on my belt (“naked” from elbow down policy at work). It’s bum-basic, easy to disinfect and cheap to replace.
  • Peli VersaBrite 3. Clips onto loops on my shirt/fleece – really useful for leaving my hands free for completing paperwork/or not falling down steps at night with poor lighting and hands full.
  • Leather belt radio clip.
  • iPhone FM radio transmitter. Allows me to play my iPod via the ambulance radio.
  • Pen torch (for pupillary responses)…as no one likes 100 lumens in the face.
  • Fenix LD10 R5. Love it, although have contemplated replacing with a CR123 battery powered torch, but AA’s are supplied free at work.
  • SAK Spartan, endlessly useful.
  • Littmann Classic II SE stethoscope.

Editor’s Note: Hi Matt, thanks for the kind words, and for sharing a carry unique to you profession for us to enjoy. Your “true” EDC is set up just fine — Fairly minimal, good utility on your keychain and you managed to do it despite the more strict UK knife laws. Your work carry is especially interesting and refreshing to see! The retrieval cordage on your shears is very clever and looks like it would work great to quickly let you get to work, which is important in your profession as a paramedic. The LD10 should stay in your carry if you love it and batteries are free, in my opinion. Some CR123 lights are much brighter but these days you can even get away with something like the EagleTac D25A clicky, which is very compact and bright for a 1xAA light. Otherwise, everything looks great. The one thing that struck me was that you didn’t include a ‘rescue tool,’ with a glass breaker, seatbelt cutter and so on, but if those aren’t necessary in your line of work, forgive me. Thanks for sharing!

submitted by vikingmidgets I really enjoy reading your blog and getting to see how diverse everyones load out is.  So here is currently what I usually have on me. -Dan - 32oz Nalgene bottle(I drink at least one every day)- Keys w/gerber shard(would love an atwood and toying with the idea of a second light on the keys)- Citizen BM6400 on NATO strap (cheap durable and easy to read)- Slimmy Wallet- iPhone 4- Spyderco Sage 2 Titanium- 4sevens Preon 2- Shure e2c IEMs (I intend to replace these with custom molded IEMs soon) Editor’s Note: Hey Dan, I appreciate your support. Let’s take a look at your EDC… It’s good to see that you keep a bottle, hydration is really important for daily health, and having water could save your life one day, actually. I just wonder how you carry something like that. As for your keychain, some Atwoods would definitely add different functionalities but also keep an eye out on Leatherman, word on the street is that they acquired PocketToolX and should have some more affordable keychain one piece multitool offerings to consider. A second light is not a bad idea either, considering your main light is a little long — a small twisty light should complement it well (if you like 4sevens, maybe a Mini CR2 if you can manage the bulk). But in its current configuration, your keychain seems lightweight enough to handle everything on that non-locking carabiner, assuming you pocket tuck it. Good choice of watch, you bring up a good point about it being easy to read. Arabic numerals would help out with that considering the small case diameter. Your knife is a great EDC, not too large with a nice blade shape, excellent materials and lock. And yes, e2cs are a little dated but I see you’re in the market to upgrade. Nice carry over all and thanks for sharing.

submitted by vikingmidgets

I really enjoy reading your blog and getting to see how diverse everyones load out is.  So here is currently what I usually have on me. -Dan

- 32oz Nalgene bottle(I drink at least one every day)
- Keys w/gerber shard(would love an atwood and toying with the idea of a second light on the keys)
- Citizen BM6400 on NATO strap (cheap durable and easy to read)
- Slimmy Wallet
- iPhone 4
- Spyderco Sage 2 Titanium
- 4sevens Preon 2
- Shure e2c IEMs (I intend to replace these with custom molded IEMs soon)

Editor’s Note: Hey Dan, I appreciate your support. Let’s take a look at your EDC… It’s good to see that you keep a bottle, hydration is really important for daily health, and having water could save your life one day, actually. I just wonder how you carry something like that. As for your keychain, some Atwoods would definitely add different functionalities but also keep an eye out on Leatherman, word on the street is that they acquired PocketToolX and should have some more affordable keychain one piece multitool offerings to consider. A second light is not a bad idea either, considering your main light is a little long — a small twisty light should complement it well (if you like 4sevens, maybe a Mini CR2 if you can manage the bulk). But in its current configuration, your keychain seems lightweight enough to handle everything on that non-locking carabiner, assuming you pocket tuck it. Good choice of watch, you bring up a good point about it being easy to read. Arabic numerals would help out with that considering the small case diameter. Your knife is a great EDC, not too large with a nice blade shape, excellent materials and lock. And yes, e2cs are a little dated but I see you’re in the market to upgrade. Nice carry over all and thanks for sharing.

submitted by tinycrumb • Rolex 5513 Gilt Explorer dial. My all time favorite timepiece. Typically on my TAD khaki NATO strap.  • Vintage brass money clip. This clip has an unusually nice shape with a very long backside. It was originally pulled from a leather wallet/clip combo. I lost this once on the train and it was impossible to find a perfect replacement. So lucky I got it back.  • JH Audio JH16 Pro. The nicest sounding ear monitors I’ve ever tried. Case is a black snap case originally sold with Jabra JX-10 bluetooth headsets. I fell so head-over-heels for this case that I’ll often buy an old NIB headset on eBay just for the case and throw/give away the headset. It’s double layerd, rough texture on the outside that keeps it from moving around in your pocket and nylon on the inside which keeps it water resistant. I’ve used this one for a few years and it wears in beautifully over time. Snaps open and shut by squeezing the edges.  • Hinderer XM-18 3” Generation II w/ Brown Micarta scale.  • LiteFlux LF2XT modified by Steve Ku with Berillium Copper replacement body, Moddoo clip, neutral XP-G & yellow trit. LiteFlux stopped making lights awhile back and I can’t figure out why. The LF2XT is the nicest EDC light I’ve ever come across. The UI is great, first press turns on moonlight mode with momentary high available by holding the switch down. AAA cells are also plentiful and easy to find.  • iPhone 4S w/ Titanium Raw Armor replacement back from Más Elements & leather slip case from Makr Carry Goods. The leather case protects the phone well against other pocket items and the titanium back is great for just throwing it down anywhere while using it and not worrying about cracking the back.  Now shown: Keys & wedding ring. Editor’s Note: Really awesome carry there, but obviously all of that comes with a price… It’s hard to make a recommendation here as it’s clear you know your gear, so instead I’d rather highlight parts of your carry. I like how you’re able to blend vintage and tech gear but keep it minimal and functionally cohesive. There’s very little overlap, and each piece does its job very well (if not the best in its class) and takes up little pocket space. The JH16 Pros are probably the best portable hi-fi IEM solution, the modded LF2XT offers a fantastic UI as you already mentioned in an elegant, sleek package, Hinderer knives can take tons of abuse, the Rolex is classic, and even your phone is well protected with high quality materials. I also like that IEM case.. it seems like a convenient way to carry, protect and access something that doesn’t generally carry well in a pocket. Overall, a carry like this isn’t necessarily what people should strive for (more expensive doesn’t always mean better, depending on your situation and all), but it’s a good example of how you can invest in your EDC to achieve performance and durability in a completely useable system. I would be very satisfied to carry this exact setup. Thanks for sharing.

submitted by tinycrumb

• Rolex 5513 Gilt Explorer dial. My all time favorite timepiece. Typically on my TAD khaki NATO strap.

 • Vintage brass money clip. This clip has an unusually nice shape with a very long backside. It was originally pulled from a leather wallet/clip combo. I lost this once on the train and it was impossible to find a perfect replacement. So lucky I got it back.

 • JH Audio JH16 Pro. The nicest sounding ear monitors I’ve ever tried. Case is a black snap case originally sold with Jabra JX-10 bluetooth headsets. I fell so head-over-heels for this case that I’ll often buy an old NIB headset on eBay just for the case and throw/give away the headset. It’s double layerd, rough texture on the outside that keeps it from moving around in your pocket and nylon on the inside which keeps it water resistant. I’ve used this one for a few years and it wears in beautifully over time. Snaps open and shut by squeezing the edges.

 • Hinderer XM-18 3” Generation II w/ Brown Micarta scale.

 • LiteFlux LF2XT modified by Steve Ku with Berillium Copper replacement body, Moddoo clip, neutral XP-G & yellow trit. LiteFlux stopped making lights awhile back and I can’t figure out why. The LF2XT is the nicest EDC light I’ve ever come across. The UI is great, first press turns on moonlight mode with momentary high available by holding the switch down. AAA cells are also plentiful and easy to find.

 • iPhone 4S w/ Titanium Raw Armor replacement back from Más Elements & leather slip case from Makr Carry Goods. The leather case protects the phone well against other pocket items and the titanium back is great for just throwing it down anywhere while using it and not worrying about cracking the back.

 Now shown: Keys & wedding ring.

Editor’s Note: Really awesome carry there, but obviously all of that comes with a price… It’s hard to make a recommendation here as it’s clear you know your gear, so instead I’d rather highlight parts of your carry. I like how you’re able to blend vintage and tech gear but keep it minimal and functionally cohesive. There’s very little overlap, and each piece does its job very well (if not the best in its class) and takes up little pocket space. The JH16 Pros are probably the best portable hi-fi IEM solution, the modded LF2XT offers a fantastic UI as you already mentioned in an elegant, sleek package, Hinderer knives can take tons of abuse, the Rolex is classic, and even your phone is well protected with high quality materials. I also like that IEM case.. it seems like a convenient way to carry, protect and access something that doesn’t generally carry well in a pocket. Overall, a carry like this isn’t necessarily what people should strive for (more expensive doesn’t always mean better, depending on your situation and all), but it’s a good example of how you can invest in your EDC to achieve performance and durability in a completely useable system. I would be very satisfied to carry this exact setup. Thanks for sharing.