No digital camera so no pics. My EDC is CS XL Voyager, SAK, whistle, Photon II (red), mini Bic and in my wallet; P38, fresnel lens magnifier & a few bandaids.
gino <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

Pics and descriptions located here:
http://www.roblester.com/rob/edc.htm

Leatherman Supertool, ASP Defender, PSK (in kobuton in keychain), Spaceblanket (in belt), CS X2 Voyager, SAK, Worry Stone, Cell Phone, Wallet

The following I carry 24/7 - even when I´m taking a shower

on ringfinger:
- wedding band

on wrist:
- watch, automatic

around neck:
- neck knife "La-Griffe-Style" (exept during flights)
- mini capsual with compass, photo of my wife, some cash, some puritabs ...
- flint rod in shrinktube (exept during flights)
- flashlight micro lenser in waterproof mini-capsual


These items I carry whenever I leave my home.

in pant pockets:
- keys
- mojo
- bandana
- some coins
- BIC-lighter

on belt or stuffed in other pockets (depends on clothing)
- PDA with cellphone + GPS + radio
- otterbox 1000 with the usual contends (exept during flights)
- sunglasses
- mulittool (exept during flights)
- leather gloves
- space blanket

greets
Molf

My EDC varies from time to time, but currently here's my list;

Benchmade 806D2
Leatherman Charge XTi w/Bit Kit
Leatherman Micra
Surefire E2E
Bandanna
cell phone

in wallet;
DMT Diasharp card(fine)

on keychain;

white Arc AAA
Photon II (red)
SAK-Signature II
green GlowRing

I also usually carry a small PSK in an Altoids tin, which I wish that I had had with me last night after getting a NASTY cut from my Leatherman last night while at WalMart. <img src="/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" />

CRK Large Classic Sebenza
Timex Expedition Compass/Watch
LG 1300 GSM/Analog Cell Phone
9 Katadyn MP-1 Tabs
3' Duct Tape
Reynolds Oven Bag
Mini Bic Lighter
White Photon II

Wallet
Keys

Cell phone
Leatherman Wave
12' Paracord
P-38 can opener
Mini-Bic lighter
Photon 3
Metal Match
Emergency cash stash


Regards, Vince

I'm curious ... will the P-38 can opener draw sparks from your metal match?

"...will the P-38 can opener draw sparks from your metal match?"

Just barely. The best thing I have found besides a hacksaw blade is the back edge of the saw on my Wave. For some reason that outsparks just about everything else--including, oddly enough, the saw teeth and the file.

Regards, Vince

Been there, done that. Now, I carry a couple of bandaids, folded in half, in my wallet. It's
obviously not a complete first aid solution, but they have kept me from getting blood
everywhere on more than one occasion. :-)

For me, a bandaid is more than just a way to keep dirt out and blood in. It also prevents
the little flap of skin you get with shallow angle cuts from catching on everything.
I *hate* that. A cut that's not serious can still be annoying and distracting.

I'm sure most of you saw the thread in "around the campfire" about the popular EDC thread having been lost in a move. <img src="/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" /> Let's all start posting our EDCs here.

Link to Bladeforums EDC thread.

Here's my EDC:

wallet w/ cash, credit cards, phone card, IDs, etc.
keys
Victorinox Midnite MiniChamp
Victorinox Voyager
Al Mar SERE 2000

That's about it for EDC, pretty simple. Sorry, no pics, I don't have a digital camera.


Robert

Doesn't show the PSK

I work in an airport and I need to pass through some detectors and x-ray etc. to get to my office. So I am fairly limited on my work time carry:

In a Nite-Ize rigid cell phone holster:

Leatherman Micra
UK AAA flashlight
Nokia 5140 GSM phone (It has a compass, LED light and a radio in it. Also a shell is on the way for the phone which contains a GPS unit)

In pockets:

Wallet
Bandana
Earphone for the phone
Petzl Zipka headlight
Rothenberger Pocket torch lighter (huge tank)
A pair of latex gloves stuffed in to a 14 oz after coffee mints tin box.
A Storm whistle on key ring and carabine LED flashlight.
A wool watch cap

All these go into the pockets of my +7000 mts Gore-tex lined Polar windbreaker. It was made for a Turkish team that climbed Everest. Only a few were produced I managed to get one <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />) I usually do not need anything else as the outer layer for the winter.

I keep a very detailed FAK, camping kit and a SAR kit (including axes, shovels, saws, pry bars etc.) in my vehicle (a 1976 Range Rover - not stock for sure <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />)

If I am not going to work, I add a Leatherman Wave and a pair of La Sportiva Amphibio Boots.

I live in the city and my chances of legal blade carry is low. I keep my SOGs, Fiskars and Mora in my field kits. My kits are sort of layers and I decide depending on where I am going and what I will be doing. My heaviest kit ends up in a Vaude Terkum 90+10 back pack and it is designed for remote area disaster work.

Burak

What kind of kobuton is it that you can fit a PSK inside?

EDC
· Leatherman Wave
· Benchmade 556 Mini-Griptilian in D2
· Inova X5T-HA LED Flashlight
· Windmill Butane Lighter
· Mini Fox40 Whistle
· Photon II LED Light (White)
· Red Bandana
· Fisher Space Pen
· Timex Ironman Digital Watch
· Cellular Phone
Wallet & Keys

"A pair of latex gloves stuffed in to a 14 oz after coffee mints tin box." will be corrected as "A pair of latex gloves stuffed in to a 14 grams after coffee mints tin box." I think 14 oz should be a big box:)

Burak

Is that an electronic compass in the watch? Do you trust it? Is it bulky?

I quite fancy one as I like gadgets, but I have reservations (partly through experience with a car-based digital compass).

This is not my exact model (mine is a stainless band and a few other asthetic differences) but this is another in the Timex Expedition line of products which shows the compass.



The blue/red needle is the compass and although it appears to be analog it is in fact a digital compass. I also own another Timex (a Helix) with a built in digital compass and they are great. Although nothing beats a high quality traditional compass like a Silva Ranger CL or a Suunto MC-2G Navigator, I have tested these Timex digital watch compasses very throughly by using a high quality Silva Ranger as the benchmark and I am extremely pleased with them. No <20mm button compass I have seen even comes close, including the very nice little SAS button compass I bought from Tadgear for $33.

Here's what my EDC looks like. I have very recently reconsidered carrying water purification tabs and an oven bag as I have done up until this point. The two knives in the pic are not both carried together every day. The Sebenza is carried daily everywhere I go and when venturing off of the pavement (which I do once a week on average) my EDC is supplimented by the Shadow III and the contents of it's hollow handle. I used to actually EDC the CRK Shadow III until I got the Sebenza. However I will be starting a new job soon where more professional dress will be required and concealing the Shadow III (although it is perfectly legal for me to carry) comfortabley and effectively will simply not be practical. This was a big part of my motivation ofr purchasing this nifty little ambi Sebenza.



Keys
Wallet w/ usual stuff
LGC1300 Cell Phone
CRK Large Classic Sebenza
Photon II
SS Timex Expedition Compass/Watch
Mini Bic Lighter

CRK Shadow III
In handle:
-Green fishing bobber LED
-Red fishing bobber LED
-1" Ferrocerium Rod
-1.25" MFS
-2 Tinderquik Tabs
-10mm Button Compass
-1" Diamond Rod Sharpening Hone

Craig
It’s a hollow one made of aluminum about 5.5” long that I picked up at a gun show. The inside is large enough to carry 4 strike anywhere matches, a fishing kit (20’of 10lb spider wire, 3 BB size sinkers 3 small hooks and 2 dry flies), 60 feet of 50lb spider wire, 12 aquapotable tabs, a small chemical light stick, a spark stick, some pre ground magnesium, cotton soaked in Vaseline, $20 bill, 4” of duct tape and a piece of paper with important numbers on it. The individual items are sealed in sections of drinking straws. The duct tape is placed on a piece of label backing and wrapped around the sections of straws. It took a lot of trial and error but it all fits.

Ian

My usual EDC:

- Chris Reeve Sebenza or Benchmade RSK Mk1
- Victorinox Swiss Tool
- Motorola V551 Quad-band International Phone
- Windmill Lighter
- Photon II (white) & modified mini Fox 40
- Keyring with Leatherman S4 and Photon II (red)
- County Comm Titanium Money Clip
- Leather Wallet with Credit Cards, Identification etc.
- Bandanna




I usually have my sunglasses and a 32 ounce (1000 ml) Nalgene with Gookinaid Hydralyte:




Sebenza and Benchmade RSK Mk1:




I supplement my gear as needed with:

- FAK
- Surefire 6P
- PSK
- etc, etc.




And I also keep handy, a Maxpedition Thermite Versipack that contains:

- Tacoma Mountain Rescue Storm Shelter
- Adventure Medical Kits Pocket Survival Pak
- Storm Emergency Whistle
- Cammenga Tritium Compass
- Four Seasons Survival Spark-Lite Kit
- Doan USGI Firestarter
- NATO Lifeboat Matches
- Potable Aqua tablets
- DMT Diamond Mini-Sharp sharpener
- Surefire 6P
- Conney Safety Products First Aid Kit (modified)
- Sawyer Extractor Kit

This is my first reply. Seeing this post made me sign up. I am a 37 year old former US Marine. I walk everywhere, and I mean everywhere. I have never had a license and will never get one. My everyday carry is quite extensive. I have a Randall Airman #15, a Kershaw Leek knife, Buck 110, a PSK in an Altoids tin(that is way too extensive too list right now), Lansky Crock Stick sharpener, several lighters, 100 waterproof matches, juice pouches X 4, headlamp, mini maglight, longjohns, grip-ons(for ice), heat packs, bandana, extra socks, underwear, boot laces, Altoids tin filled with bandages, leatherman PST II, 100' paracord, cellular phone, phonecard, $10 in quarters and $100 in bills in a Witz Box, Headache meds, Valium, poncho for the rain, 2 garbage bags, signal mirror, leather gloves. Basically I carry a 72 hour kit everywhere.

Hey welcome aboard!! You’re the only other one I can remember reading about on this board that carries ice-walking equipment. I'm using Yaktraxs for my winter mobility. Guess something that good is bound to get out sooner or later.

I wore out two sets of Yak in a couple of months so I went with Grab-ons.

I have a set of Yaks too, I tend to keep them in my truck though.

Gee, not much I guess! I carry a SAK Rambler tiny knife, a cell phone, Zippo, Omega Seamaster. wallet with money and various cards, keys, a P-38, a comb, a Fisher Space Pen, Astronaut model, and a chapstick. Clothes suitable for the weather. It is a big city and I have only been stuck on the road once and wished for some cold water! I now carry water in the car during the commutes. That is it folks.

Yea I did not think that they would wear like “iron” but we get only a moderate amount of snow and ice here. I got the heavy duty ones in hopes that they would wear a little better than the regular ones. I used them the end of last year and all of this year so far but since we have had a light winter (until this week any way) I’ve probably put only 20 miles or so on them. They are compact and fairly light to carry so they work for me at least so far.

My truck stays at home since we have nice walking trails and bad parking here. This area was not designed with a truck this size in mind (If you don’t like the way I drive stay off the sidewalks) so the Yaks stay in my pack and even though this country boy got dragged into town for a little while I still get to walk through the woods every day even though it must be without my rifle while I’m here.

Although I am an avid backpacker and hunter, I just really got into the notion of EDC..so I am a bit limited and the quality may not be up to the standard that others have recommended, but I am working on it and Rome wasn't built in a day.

Cell phone
Buck Rush - slim since I have to wear slacks..Banker
10' Paracord - Bracelet, I'm sure some of you have seen my first post regarding this
Leatherman Mini
Inova Light
P-38 Can opener

The briefcase carries a few other things..trashbag, first-aid, gloves, extra knife, water bottle, power bar..you get the idea.

This is an awesome forum..I have learned alot.

EDC:

Wallet
Keys w/ Arc AAA & Victorinox Rambler clipped to keyring
Cell phone
Surefire L4 with two stage switch
Either a F?llkniven U2, Leatherman Charge Ti or Benchmade RSK Mk1


Additionally, when I carry my Fatboy:

Benchmade RSK Mk1 *(see above)
Leatherman Charge Ti *(see above)
Pocket Wrench II
Space blanket
Poncho
FAK & meds
Pepper spray
Inova 24/7
Photon II clone
Spare CR123A batteries in Surefire SC3
Zeiss MiniQuick
Apple iPod
Rite in the Rain Notebook
BIC lighter & pen


I don't EDC my PSK or fixed knives in the city, that is another list. <img src="/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

I now have a picture of my EDC. I have also added a notebook and Fisher bullet pen.




Robert

Wow I did not realize what a pile of stuff I carry everyday. This is the stuff I find useful to me and has evolved for many years changing slightly as my situation changes.
Wallet with normal cards, Band-Aids, Fresnel lens, Eze Lap Fine #201 Diamond card
Citizen Automatic water resistant watch (Set to Fort Collins CO several times a month)
Victorinox Soldier
Slim Brass Zippo with extra flints under felt and topped off once a week
Lip balm
Bandana
Non-GPS cell phone
Cold Steel Voyager Tanto 4 inch
Princeton Tec Impact II
Mora #1 or #1260 as a neck knife
If I carry keys I also have a modified Fox 40 and LED light on both sets and a Leatherman micro on the set I carry most often.

Now all I need is a kitchen sink and a grill and I?ll be set!!... Oh wait that?s already in my PSK. <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

“What have I got in my pocket?” (Bilbo Baggins in J.R.R. TOLKIEN’s "THE HOBBIT")



The things I carry every day are:
- a wallet,
- some keys,
- pepper spray - I carry this since an Asian man (definitely a drug junky or something like this) attacked me a few years ago with an 8 inch kitchen knife at the front door of my apartment. I got a scar at my forehead from this but it wasn’t a severe injury.
- a Fisher Space Pen, Type: “Bullet”
- my Nokia mobile
- a Victorinox Picknicker - I’ve got some other SAK’s with more functions but I like this one the most.
- and a Swiss Tool Spirit in a leather pouch.

Here is what I carry.

Nalgene Bottle and Oakley Sunglasses
Blistex
Fox 40 whistle and Photon 2 (white)
256 MB Memory Stick
small lighter
Cell Phone
Either my Spyderco Military or Native III
and finally, my swisstool RS

I know I am a little late on this, but I am just figuring out how to get pics hosted!

Garrett
Give this link a click to see my pic.

http://tinypic.com/view.html?pic=231e13

All you folks that carry 15 knives plus a multi-tool on a daily basis amaze me. <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> I bet you need both belt and suspenders to keep those pants up.

Brain:

That is easily solved by sharpening Alice clips and running them thru your clothes and skin at the same time.

OUCH!!

Bountyhunter

No man, its either or. I carry the Milie or the Native and the Swisstool. Most of the time, I rarely carry the swisstool as it draws alot of attention for some reason. More so than either of my knives.

Garrett

Hey zwoblum - welcome to the forum!

I noticed you have one of the new Victorinox Swiss Tool Spirit multitools - how do you like it? I haven't seen much mention of them yet, but noticed on the Victorinox website that they are almost one third lighter (205g vs. 285g) than the original Swiss Tool - does this compromise the beefy solidness of the original? Also, are they better ergonomically?

Thanx in advance....

Hi Milestand,

I have an original SwissTool too and the Spirit seems to me as solid as the big one. The scissors are even more solid than the old ones. The new SwissTool is now about the size of a Leatherman Wave, so I could really carry it in my pocket without noticing it all the time. The original one was just a little bit too heavy and just a little bit too big for me to carry it every day, so most of the time it lays on my desk. I also bought a Wave on ebay (before they published the Spirit) to get a lightweight every-day tool but I sold it the next week. The leather punch stinks (it really smells bad), the Wave is not nearly as solid a Victorinox tool and the Wave isn’t as easy to clean. (There are some parts you even can’t reach.) Only thing I miss at the Spirit is the one hand opening blade.

Every multitool is a compromise, but the Spirit is the best fitting compromise for me.
(...until the next great looking multitool comes around ;-) I hope equipped.org will test the Spirit in relation to other tool like they did with the original SwissTool. I am looking forward to it.

Greetings from Germany,
Zwoblum

Heh, I always wear hoodies and jackets so my belt is always concealed and I dont draw stares. If you are very uncomfortable with people checking out your gear all the time, I might reccomend checking for a cellphone type sheath and clip that to your belt. Of course, it can be hard to find one that both fits and is reliably secure.

Hello to all. I am new to the forums and enjoyed reading what everyone carries. I was sitting here at work and thought about my EDC. Here is my list.

On my person:
Lip balm
Handkerchief
Wallet with usual cards and a "polished aluminum" Formica sample
Spyderco 93mm Rescue
Nokia cell phone
I always have an insulated cup and my radio (Alinco dj-596 dual band, ham radio transceiver)

Clothing I always wear:
A very poor work uniform (private security)
Work issue water resistant boots (They are supposed to be water proof…NOT)
Baseball style hat
Marmot shell and liner (when needed)

My lunchbox:
Meds: aspirin, Tylenol, asthma inhaler, Rolaids
Tea, hot cocoa, Cup-of-soup
Antibacterial hand gel
Dental floss
Assorted band aids
Business cards (not mine)

Although I do not carry my lunchbox, normally, on my days off, I have used the items when I have had it with me.

Thanks for that. I have the original Swiss Tool, and I agree it's a bit too big. Mine doesn't have the scissors, nor does it have a corkscrew or a very small eye-glass screwdriver. I could live without the corkscrew, but 3 tools is rather a lot to be missing. Also, it does have the problem of rounded screwdriver blades.

The Spirit is smaller and adds the scissors, but do the other problems remain? I'm not sure it's worth upgrading. My current carry is a Leatherman Juice Cs4 which has the tools I want, but they don't lock and the build quality isn't so high as the Swiss Tool.

Storm advisor,
I like the way you put lip balm at the top of your list <img src="/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> anyway welcome on board.

Who was it on this board that said "with Victorinox you always know the quality you're getting. With Lman it's a gamble"? or something along those lines.

ALWAYS:

In a Nite-Ize Pock-ITS

• Leatherman Wave
  
• Innova X-5
  
• 6" Crecent Wrench (Sometime I used this more than the Leatherman)
  
• Angled EMT Shears
  
• Industrial Sharpie
  
• Bic Lighter
  
• Small Ceramic Knife Sharpener
  
• 2X CR 123 Battery
  

In my pockets somewhere:

Non-Latex Gloves (in film canister or small nylon pouch

Also..
Cell Phone
Fire Pager

My normal work day EDC :

These are always on my person :



# 1 belt pouch (about the same size a Maxpedition M1 pouch) with a white Photon 3 and a red Freedom microlights.
The pouch contains, inside the small outer pocket, some band-aids, etc.. and in the other compartments the following items :
# 3 different sets of ? papers ? (ID, driving licence, credit cards, a.s. o.
# 6 spare batteries for 6P and Photons, sewing kit and small Bic lighter
# 7 large garbage bag + (on top) fresnel lens
# 8 gentleman folder
# 9 small pen
# 10 flat whistle + lanyard
# 11 money purse
(not shown) car + house keys

In pant back pocket
# 2 Doug?s RSK,

On my belt
# 4 Surefire 6P
# 5 Leatherman PST
# 12 cell phone

When traveling by car or train, I add a Fred Perrin's "griffe" around my neck.

Never far away :
during normal workdays, I carry a Maxpedition Condor backpack, with papers, portable computer, small set of tools, cables, CDs etc...
+ large garbage bag + Doug's PSK + emergency poncho + small FM radio + Inova 24/7

Sometimes, when an office's party/lunch is planned, I take a nice looking folder along (a custom "Thiers" knife).

That should do it !
( I guess I don't need to mention shoes, pant, shirt, underwear a.s.o. .... <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />)

Since I am constantly talking I get dried out quick. I can't go a day without it.

Something in a recent post got me thinking about your EDC. To you really carry all of this stuff *on your body, all day, every day*?

Doesn't the TSA ever ask you what you need those leather gloves for? I carry them myself every day.

-- Craig

The reason I'm asking is becasue I'm pretty minimalistic on EDC these days. Basically carrying the following...


...and sometimes, like when engaged in swimming or other watersports at the lake, river or gulf of mexico, I even narrow that down to nothing more than a knife and a lighter (or ferrocerium rod) which I always have with me as a minimum.

Anyway, I was considering going back to a more robust EDC (for when I'm on dry land) by adding a multi-tool, a bandanna, a bigger, better flashlight and a small PSK/FAK combo. Just wondering if you and some of the other guys here that listed larger EDCs are actually, truely carrying that stuff all day, every day and if so then how you keep from growing tired of carrying it.

Thanks

Yep!

Well, I try to anyway... there are a few exceptions. I don't carry it around the house, but if I'm going to the store down the street, I will.

A couple more examples-
When the zippo isn't charged, sometimes I don't carry it for a few days until I can get around to refilling it, but I always have a lighter on me (usually the mini bic, sometimes both the mini bic and the zippo)

The first aid kit is currently under repair; my OC decontamination wipes leaked all over everything <img src="/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" /> I should have that back up in a day or two

And finally, I do sometimes slip up some days and leave without an item, but like you, I always carry a knife and a source of fire as a minimum

Since I attend a university and carry a backpack, some of the load can be transferred to it. Mostly the multi-tool, first aid kit, and sometimes the flashlight. Because of theft issues in general ($300+ worth of textbooks in there too) I always have the backpack within arms reach, even if just getting up for a minute to go across the room or down the hall.

When I'm not at the university (weekends, evenings) I just transfer the stuff mentioned above to a belt.

It's pretty evenly distributed, not too bulky, although it looks like it would be. I find that I generally look for carpenters pants or cargo pants now, because the one or two extra pockets really do help. Notice I'm not carrying a PSK. That's one of the reasons I carry so much EDC is that I decided to try a decentralized approach and carry equivilent PSK items about my person. Each item is easier to access individually and most of the stuff will find some use during a week. I do carry a PSK in my backpack, in my car, and if I know I'm going hiking or something I do carry it on my person.

I started carrying the other wallet because I was listing 20 degrees starboard when I sat down when I only had one <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> I suppose it also has a use as a travellers wallet if I ever get mugged. I was wondering what to put in it. I ended up putting in some basic boo-boo stuff (band aids, hand sanitizer wipes, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, duct tape) and I also have 4 gerber babymilk bags (laying where paper money usually goes in a wallet) and 4 micropur tabs. Of course, the micropur would have to be cut down since the bags don't hold a liter of water, but it shouldn't be too big a problem. The first aid pouch holds field dressings, gloves, medicine (tylenol, etc), squishy things like antibiotic ointments, and (up until recently) decontamination wipes for the OC spray.

The handkerchief I started carrying after dons article about the hunter who had to use his underwear to signal for help. It goes with the spare wallet in my right back pocket. The wallet also keeps the OC spray standing upright so it can be accessed quickly. My regular wallet goes in the other back pocket. The multitool and first aid kit go on my belt. The meerkat goes inside the waist band at 4 oclock (it's got it's own belt clip). The mirror, mini bic, and small keychain with P38, LED, and spyderco ladybug go in my watch/coin pocket. The flashlight usually goes in the leg pocket of carpenters pants. The 550 cord goes around my ankle, and the rest of the items go in my two front pockets.

I'm about to have more stuff to carry once I get my concealed carry permit <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> then I'll be really bulky!

Heavier too. You're going to need suspenders and a belt. <img src="/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

Seriously though, thanks for the detailed explanation of how you carry when not equipped with backpack. That is very helpful.

lets see some more pictures!

Wallet:

• Diamond coated knife sharpener (looks like a credit card)
• Bandaids, various sizes (I've cut myself with my knife. Messy)
• A couple of Tinder Quick tabs folded up in Write in Rain paper (The green paper below the bandaid)
• P-38 can opener

Keychain 1:

• Arc AAA LED light
• Miltary fire steel
• Fox 40 whistle

Keychain 2: Leatherman Squirt

Chris Reeve Sebenza (knife)
HDS Systems EDC Ultimate 60 (large flashlight) with paracord lanyard

This is always on me. Except at home, when I just carry the Ultimate 60 and the Sebenza. I have more stuff in a Maxpedition bag in the car, and in a backpack, but this is my EDC.

As I mentioned in a previous post, this isn't all I'd like to have, but I've found it's all I'm willing to carry.

After browsing ETS site every now and then I got inspired to add a little plastic survival bag in a steel cigarette case which I use as a sort of a wallet.

So here's my everyday carry from now on:

• Nokia N-Gage (Loaded with mini-GPS Base station Tracker & SSH client)
  
• UK 2xAAA flashlight / Keyring + Keys
  

Cigarette case containing:

• Credit Card
  
• Driver's License
  
• Gym Access Card
  
• Currency
  
• Public Transit Keycard
  
• Credit card size multitool (love it)
  
• --- An old anti-static bag with:
  
• A single band aid
  
• Prophylactic
  
• Ketoprofen pill (painkiller,anti-inflammation drug)
  
• 6 matches (flat wooden variety)
  
• Striking surface
  
• 3 meters of nylon thread
  
• Metal saw blade
  
• Stanley blade
  
• Safety pin
  
• 5 cm of steel wire
  
• Wrigley's Eclipse Flash (breath freshener)
  
• Steel needle
  
• All attached to the bag with electricians tape
  

I also have a miniature compass attached to my backpack.. I think I'll get a smaller one and put it in the cigarette case. If I had had water treatment pills I would have included one as well.

Any comments?

Hi,
Here is a photo, dont know if this is going to work. I EDC my:
wallet-reticulated python (gift from my wife)
knife-BladeTech Pro Hunter in S30V w/ G10 handles
Inova X1 light
Jetscream whistle
Leatherman Micra
BSA Hotspark
Sears Pocket screwdriver
Lighter

[img]http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/fordwillman/detail?.dir=737b&.dnm=88f3.jpg&.src=ph[/img]

Your picture didn't show up. You need to edit it down to the following code to get the link to work:

http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/fordwillman/detail?.dir=737b&.dnm=88f3.jpg

Groo,

Do you think the HDS is worth the money? Is it all it's cracked up to be? Thanks.

YES! <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

First, it's definitely small enough for EDC. It's much, much brighter than, say, an Arc AAA or Photon. In my opinion, the killer feature is the variable brightness. It allows you to trade brightness for runtime. Not all tasks require the brightest setting. By just using the amount of light you need, your batteries last longer.

For example, the lowest setting on the 60 will just let you see your wrist watch in a dark room without disturbing those around you (movie theater), the brightest setting easily lights up the shadowed areas on the house across the street. The lowest setting would last for 100's of hours, the brightest setting only lasts 20 minutes. HDS Systems Runtime Chart

I bought the Ultimate 60 just because. Really, the Basic 42 would be fine. The biggest difference is that you can't change the factory presets, but this shouldn't be a problem. I've changed the brightness of my "primary" and "secondary" settings a few times, just playing around. Didn't really need to, though.

If you have any specific questions, let me know.

My urban environment EDC is my tri-fold leather wallet, a Motorola V400, keys and car remote on a keyring with a Leatherman Micra attached to it. The thing I use the most on the Micra are the scissors and the Philips screwdriver. I've recently added two medium-size Band-aids to my wallet.

I don't believe in carrying flashlights, large knives and other gimmicks on a day-to-day basis. The annoyances of carrying them largely outweigh the benefits, IMHO. I don't think not carrying a flashlight is "unsafe", in an urban environment that is.


Bee

I've been in an interior room of a large building during a couple of power failures. The first time, I didn't have a light. No fun. On subsequent outtages, I simply turned on the light and walked out. A tiny little light can make a HUGE difference in capability in the right situation.

You might enjoy some of the stories in this thread from candlepowerforums.com about the use of small LED flashlights during the New York black out a few years back (an urban environment).

I'm with you, groo.

Not only have my Photon II's been handy to have, they have bailed me out of more than a few situations that would have been much worse had I not had them with me.

It doesn't make much sense to not have something about the size of a quarter attached to your keyring - in any setting.

I agree, my little peak led flashlight has come in handy when a woman at work lost the expensive back to one of her earrings under her desk, and when the power has gone off more than once during severe spring storms and to find the lock to my front door this past winter, when the whole neighborhood went dark because someone hit a power pole. I think I use that more than anything--wouldn't be without it.

LOL I was just reading through this thread and saw my own post from a while back where I showed the following pic of my EDC...


.... and I realized that my EDC has come full circle since then. Admittedly I am known to change my EDC more often than my wife changes her purse, and thats a lot. Anyway I noticed that since this post It have...

... traded in my Shadow III for a Shadow IV then gone back to the Shadow III
... traded in my Large Classic Sebenza and tried several different knives and multitools and am now about to go back to a Sebenza (large regular this time)
... tried a couple different micro lights and am looking to go back to a photon (except going to a photon III this time instead of a photon II)
... switched from that great little lightweight LG digital analog phone to a completely worthless digital-only Blackberry and am eagerly awaiting my new job at the end of august so I can get rid of the blackberry and go back to my LG.

A few things have remained the same though...

... still carrying the same watch
... still carrying a minibic lighter (though I have considered switching this also many times to just a ferro rod for the summer)
... still struggling with whether or not it is really worth it to carry water pruification tabs and an oven bag every day (this is not in the pic but i mentioned in the original post that i was debating the usefulness of it)

--------------------------------------

Okay so if you read this you may be thinking "why did I waste my time reading his babble" but for me the rebirth of this thread has taught me several important things. First, it has shown me that the gear that hasnt changed throughout all the recent "evolutions" of my EDC is probably the gear that is without a doubt right for me. Second, it has shown me that the gear that I have ditched and then gone back to the exact same thing or something just slightly upgraded is also probably spot-on right for me. Third, it has shown me that I may never decide if it's worth it to carry water purification on a daily basis. <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

---------------------------------------

So I guess I may debate the usefullness of water purification and a multitool in my EDC forever but other than those two indecisions I should probably come to the realization that I have already found the rest of the "right gear" for me.

** Watch - Timex Stainless Steel Expedition ECompass Watch
** Knife - Shadow III (rural) / Large Regular Sebenza (urban) / Spyderco Salt (water) <-- I spend lots of time in the water during the warm half of the year.
** Fire - MiniBic (winter) / Ferrocerium Rod (summer) <-- yes in Texas we only have two seasons, just ask anyone whos ever lived here <img src="/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />
** Light - Photon III

Oh and I am still keeping my RSK. To me it's like a less durable Sebenza that I am not constantly terrified of losing. <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

The keyring LED flashlights can be very small. Much smaller than the micra or the car remote. I think light is probably more important in an urban environment than the country, because you are more likely to be inside a building with no windows.

That said, if the Motorola has a decent back-light it might be enough to see you out, especially when your eyes are dark adapted.

"still struggling with whether or not it is really worth it to carry water pruification tabs and an oven bag every day"

That's funny. After our recent conversation I've been thinking about adding water purification. I ordered some tablets last night.

A 1 quart zip lock and $4.95 of h2o tabs in a jacket pocket and you're good to go.

Well it depends.

Do you work in a large building, particularly an older one whose emergency lighting might not be entirely up to speed?

Do you ride the subway?

If so a flashlight is absolutely indispensable. It's one of the single most important items you can carry.

I carry a Pelican M6, and I never leave home without it.

My EDC: (I almost always wear cargo pants, and if I don't I carry a fanny pack or some other pack for gear)

Leatherman Wave plus Tool Adapter

Leatherman MIcra - more PHRASECENSOREDPOSTERSHOULDKNOWBETTER. friendly than the Wave

Cell phone w/ extra battery and important phone numbers on a piece of paper in my wallet

Yaesu VX-7R quad-band transceiver with broadband receive: AM/FM broadcast, TV audio, SW band, public safety bands, air band, NOAA weather radio, with local police/fire/EMS and NOAA frequencies and local amateur repeaters programmed in). Plus I carry at least one relatively high-gain antenna; on my belt I use a 1.75" stubby antenna so it doesn't poke me in the side.

Two wallets - one with important cash, credit/ATM cards, ID, and so on, and another to hand over to a mugger if necessary. (I'd prefer to fight, and in reality I probably would, but this is an alternative of lesser force). The other wallet contains some expired credit cards, old club membership cards, and about 6' of duct tape folded over a piece of paper.

Notable wallet stuff: A copy of the Bill of Rights stamped on an aluminum card: http://www.securityedition.com One of my favorite pieces of EDC gear! Credit-card size transit information cards and subway map. Emergency contact card. Amateur radio license. Spare (old) Metrocard, in addition to the primary one (carried in a separate pocket), for the bus and subway.

A small change wallet with a couple silver dollars, about $5 in quarters, and about $50 in folded cash for emergencies.

On keychain: bottle opener, JetScream whistle, nail clipper with file.

Cigarette Lighter

Pelican M6 flashlight

Spare pair of glasses / sunglasses

micro AM/FM radio with earbuds (Sangean SR-2Y)

2-AA Minimag with Opalec LED conversion kit

about 25' of Paracord

A few pens, a red sharpie and a red laser pointer.

A small first aid kit, distributed in two Altoids tins and a small plastic bag, containing: A few assorted band-aids, and two 4"x4" gauze pads. A few antiseptic towelettes. Insect sting relief pads. A piece of Dr. Scholl's pad. Cuticle scissor. Tweezer. Assorted Exacto blades and small handle. P-38 can opener. A folded up plastic shopping bag. A few assorted small fishing hooks and a few feet of fishing line. A few feet of dental floss. A few short (4") Ty-Wraps. An eyeglass screwdriver. A small cocktail straw. Mini tube of Krazy Glue. Mini bubble level. Tick remover. Short length of solder. Small book of paper matches, wrapped in plastic. About 6 feet of copper magnet wire - can be used in a pinch as snare wire or for binding. Small tube of Bacitracin. Pills: 50 water purification tabs (Potable Aqua), assorted aspirin/ibuprofen, Immodium A/D, Bendryl, Vivarin, DayQuil, few pills of Rx antibiiotics. Small sewing kit containing a few needles and lengths of assorted thread.

In months other than the peak of summer, I also wear a vest/jacket, which also contains:

Storm Whistle

Small torch lighter (useful for soldering)

FIrst Aid Tape

Additional gauze pads and band-aids

Another 25' length of paracord

small loupe for magnifying

Spare battery and earphone mic for VX-7R and hands-free headset for cell phone

Altoids tin containing extra batteries: AAA, AA, CR123.

small VX-7R instruction manual and printed list of area repeaters

A few folded shopping bags, and one lightweight black garbage bag

in the rear "game" pocket: a 5'x7' space blanket, a folded heavyweight black garbage bag, orange reflective vest.

Area and regional maps and printed transit schedules

Long (8") Ty-Wraps

Additional VX-7R high-gain antenna

That's my usual EDC.

Wow, my first post on this site <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

Right now my EDC is a Victorinox Mini Champ SAK and a Photon Freedom LED on my keychain. I also keep a couple of Band Aids in my wallet as well as a couple of Aspirin.

I can't tell you how often I use the Mini Champ. From opening boxes, to trimming loose strings from clothing, to filing a rough fingernail, the Mini Champ has never let me down. Great little knife and by far the best keychain I have ever had.

The Photon Freedom LED is a new addition to my keyring. I picked it up a few weeks ago and am very impressed in this little light. I actually went back and picked up another one to put into my PSK. The amount of light that it puts out for its size is very impressive. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a keychain LED.

wow! can you get up out of a chair with all that? <img src="/images/graemlins/cool.gif" alt="" />
By the way, I really like that Bill of Rights card

'Scuse me Mr. Security Man, Is the Bill of Rights allowed inside?

No, you say? Well, it's been real man, catch ya on the flip side.

*sound of door slamming*

The cards were designed by actor Dean Cameron, who you might know if you watch late night HBO movies and so on - http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0131541/

In summer I don't wear a jacket. And in any case, any part of my EDC has to justify itself and I'm still not sure water treatment does, in my environment.

Didn't realize I had all this stuff until I dumped it all out on the counter after work today.

EDC on person:

Nokia cellular;
Bic mini;
Keys with Gerber Ridge Runner folder;
Chapstick;
Sharpie fine point;
Paper-Mate ball point;
Sotec flash disk;
Eagle Creek zippered wallet with ID, credit card, global telephone card, band-aids and cash.

EDC brief case:

Camillus utility folder with Micro Photon (white) and a ferrocerium rod:
16oz bottle;
3M N95 particle mask;
MRE crackers and peanut butter;
Granola Bar;
Heavy duty space blanket, international orange;
16” expandable baton.

http://www.hunt101.com/img/295288.JPG

I looked for a Pelican M6 lithium but I kind of find it expensive, almost $100 (Canadian dollars) with taxes for a flashlight... Is it worth it?

Frankie

If you are looking at the LED version, you can probably get a lot of bang for your buck with something like this (review: decent brightness, very inexpensive, good runtime), or some of these others.

If you are looking at the incandecent version, look at the Surefire G2. The new ones come with a lock out tailcap which is desirable.

-john

In my messenger bag, which is pretty much with me 24/7, I have my wallet in one of the pockets (my SOS card, my DL, credit cards, other important info, no money), a first aid kit in another pocket. Inside the main compartment I have 10p nails, electrical tape, duct tape, 110 lb test dacron line, wire ties, matches, a zippo lighter, a 10 minute candle, salt, tabasco packets, glasses cleaning pads, firestarting kit, water purification tablets, a $20 pressurized ball point pen, a mechanical pencil, a sharpie pen, a space blanket, a water filter straw, some aluminum foil, two ziplocs, some MRE toilet paper packets, some candy, some beef jerky, a sewing kit, reading glasses, carmex lip balm, a few paper clips, an LED flashlight. On my person I keep my cell phone, my leatherman wave, money, keys, packaged food from the chow hall, sunglasses, and a boonie hat for summer wear. Usually I have candy in one or more pockets. I also have a deluxe badge holder around my neck that holds the various IDs I need here in country, as well as my passport, my VPN card, my driver's authorization form, a few pieces of blank paper, and an emergency contact list. Occasionally I will have a Cold Steel SRK on my belt or my ankle. If I were home, I would also have a Taurus Millenium in 40 S&W. Something else that goes wherever I go here, about 40 lbs of body armor, which I will wear or tote, depending on the current alert status.

Back pocket: I carry a normal wallet, credit cards, sams club card, sometimes some case, spare keys.
Front pcket: a second wallet with key holders, house key, wife's car key, stash of cash, toolbox keys, bandages and small compass.
Arc AAA on keychain with my truck key
Cell phone and leatherman and work pager on my belt
Other front pocket: spare battery for cell phone, change purse, 2 AAA Maglite, spare pager battery (crappy work pager eats bateries)
Other back pocket, comb and handercheif.
If I wear cargo pants I will add a pen or pencil and post it notes to write on and will take a couple things out of the other pockets and move them into the cargo pockets.

Wow how do you strap that thing to your ankle? Ever tried to run with it on your ankle?

My EDC is:
- Leatherman Charge Xi in pouch on belt
- Keyring with keys and Photon II, mini Mag, mini fox 40, 3 feet of 400 lbs cord
- Samsung E720
- Bic Lighter
- Tri fold wallet with some band-aids and asprin
- Document case with ID's

I am gonna ad a surefire that is orded.

When travelling out of the city I also carry the following
- Haglofs backpack
- Petzl tacticca with spare batteries
- Small FAK
- Work gloves
- 1litre Nalage bottle
- depending on the weather: millet fleece jacket or eider gore tex jacket
- Some pens/pencils/sharpies
- extra Bic Lighter
- some form of music.

Rick

hey another dutchie!
mine are:
Small FAK (First Aid Kit, includes water purification tabs and Ziploc bag)
SAK (Swiss army knife) Huntsmen
SAK Swisscard
SAK Wenger executive
ACME tornado whistle
ferrosium rod
LED keychain light
P-38
tissues
duct tape
lighter (don’t smoke, though)
lipsil

and some other stuff that are non-survival related. (mp3 player and stuff) Got a super Xenon flashlight on order, which will become edc too.

I remeber that conversation well. I may still never come to a solid decision about urban water purification carry though I can (obviously) come up with lots of good reasons for it. <img src="/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> If we could get puritabs here in the states I would probably carry water purifaction a lot more often. Those things are tiny. Do bad we can't get them here. <img src="/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />

Which extra antenna did you settle on for your radio?

I carry a Maldol AH510R extendable in my shoulder bag and a Premier RD-98 in my vest. I really like the RD-98.

Glad I'm not the only Dutchie who is prepared.
I forgot to ad on saturday's I also carry a Buck protoge or a CRKT mirage. In my pack rides a SOG goverment for the heavier work.

Rick

I carry my VX7R, too.

I use the SMA 24 and MH209, both pictured here:

http://www.cometantenna.com/products.php?CatID=1&famID=1&childID=4

I like them both better than the stock VX7R antenna, but they are only dual band antennas.

Yep, I've had to run (to the bunkers mostly) with my SRK on my ankle a couple times, no problems. I tuck the tip of the scabbard into the top of my work boot about an inch and a half down, I have a nylon strap threaded through the top of the scabbard with a plastic clasp on the ends that allows me to wrap it around my leg just below the calf muscle. It ain't the most comfortable, but after a while you don't notice it much. I really like the way the knife compression locks into that scabbard. I put another SRK into my BOB, just in case I have to bug late at night after being rudely awakened and can't dress down like I usually do.

Bandana, P-38, fingernail clippers, fishing pliers(small), SAK, FAK, Utility pliers (leatherman style), lighter, cell phone, Compass/watch, Dorcy LED light, polished steel keyfob(signal mirror), paper, pen/pencil, money

I've changed my EDC a bit, and thought I would share it.

keys
wallet
bullet space pen
Vic Midnight Manager
Vic Farmer
Al Mar SERE 2000
Inova LED Microlight
USB drive
"urban" mini-kit

No pictures of the EDC, but I do have pictures of the mini-kit. In the tin:



Contents:



2 MP1 tabs (crushed, and trimmed to fit)
spare house key
Spark-lite firestarter
1 mini-ferocium rod
1 LED bobber light
2 pieces of tinder-quik
1 ft. duct tape
mini button compass

Your thoughts and suggestions, especially about the mini-kit, are more than welcome. Thanks.


Robert

Anyway to add a whistle and something to carry water in? A Gerber or other formula bag, perhaps?

That is pretty slick! Wonderful use of space.

CLOSED

please refer to part two for more everyday carry

Rob, I was looking at the pics you posted of your EDC. I would caution you about showing pics of your keys. To the trained eye, a duplicate could be made. You showed what appeared to be a vehicle key and a house key. The house key showed enough detail to be duplicated. It appears to be a Weiser or Kwikset key, but whatever, keys are numbered to identify the cut. That is, if the key is stamped 44325, that represents the cuts starting at the rear end. To an accomplished burglar, they could make a duplicate in short order. I know, if they want in they will get in but don't make it any easier. Neither should you leave your house key on the ring when leaving the car for service, turning over to a valet, etc. Most people never think of this and would be perplexed if they had a burglary with no signs of forced entry. Just a thought to ponder. <img src="/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />

Boone

Well, I for one have never thought of it and it's a good tip. Thanks for the warning.

Regards, Vince

They arn't always numbered to represent the cut. Often they are coded where one would have to look up the cuts. However, any good locksmith could cut a key based on a good picture anyway, especially for a lock like a Kwickset or Schlage.

After I worked with a locksmith for a while I changed all my locks in my home to Medeco. You would be amazed how easy it is to open the locks people commonly use in their home or get a key made up. (Especially when not installed correctly)

It's scary how fast a pick set will brute force common door locks and deadbolts

Of course, a boot will do it too if being quiet isn't a concern <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

That's why I changed to steel doors and frames and lexan on the lower windows, as well as the locks <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />.

The WalMart key pictured in RBruce's photo above is almost pictured to scale. The picture could be printed, the key cut out of the picture, and a duplicate made in short order. Very risky. Medeco locks are probably as high security as you can buy. I know the government uses them a lot. Some of their keys cannot be duplicated on an ordinary key cutter.
Keypad locks are getting to be more common but I don't know how secure they are. I have always thought you could pry the keypad off the wall and short out the wires to open the lock but I don't know that it would be that easy. At any rate, if I was going to picture a key in my EDC, I would find a key that fit nothing and use it in the photo. You can't be too careful. Reporting a burglay with several hundred dollars loss and no forced entry causes you to be suspect in the eyes of the insurance company and/or the police investigator.

Just my two cents worth. <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Reality Check Time:

What are the odds of anybody actually printing out his key and creating a functional copy? First, somebody that unsavory has to be in our forum. They would have to live relatively close to the owner of the key photo (it would hardly make sense to take a plane flight or drive several hours to burglarize this guys house). The bad guy would have to figure out his address (how?). Unless it is a petty thief, you would want to case the joint a while to be sure it is worth the bother, etc, etc.

My opinion, anyone skilled enough to do this can likely pick your lock in a fraction of the time. If unskilled and they want in bad enough, they'll kick in a door or bust a window.

Not trying to riducule, but I think worrying about a pic of a key on a newsgroup leading to foul play is as likely as winning the lottery. Save your concerns for more critical issues. Worry about the real creeps in your neighborhood, not newsgroup lurking key forgers.

My 2 cents, TR

I agree with Pizzaman on this, someone with the ability to dupe a key from a picture will not need a key to get into your house.

Something that is somewhat more likely, when you get new keys made pay attention to what you say. I can't tell you how many times i have cut keys for someone and as they are handing me the keys they are telling me that the new keys are for their neighbor. As they are going away for a week or two on vacation and then pay with a check. If i was a thief i now have my own set of keys to your house, i know when you will be gone, and i have your address.

Of course my favorite one was a geezer came into the shop some time before Y2K as he writes a check for his purchase he explains that he is very concerned about the effect of Y2K on financial institutions. He goes on to say that he is going to liquidate several hundred thousand dollars worth of investments and bury the cash in his back yard. I did ask him what time he was planning to go to bed on new years eve and if the address on his check was where he was planning on planting a bunch of money. Amazing.

A crook topped cane, following on the heels of a brick, to get into a second story window. It works, and if you can limp realistically, no one will see you. Just the cane and the limp will be in thier memories.

Well Pizzaman, I am truly sorry that you found my post so far out in left field. I stand by what I said and I am sure there were other readers that gave it some thought. It's difficult to get thru to people like you with a closed mind and a fixed opinion on any given subject. Unfortunately, most people are very careless when it comes to protecting the integrity of their keys. <img src="/images/graemlins/mad.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/images/graemlins/mad.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/images/graemlins/mad.gif" alt="" />

And one final thought. It wouldn't take much to figure out where you live and work just by reading the few posts you have posted. The more you post, the more clues you inadvertently drop relating to your personal life. Something else to keep in mind but you probably have an answer for that too so I won't pursue the subject any further. <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

KYBF,

I didn't state my opinion as an attack or to offend. Just my opinion. Closed minded? Sometimes. Stubborn and analytical? Always. I was merely trying to fit your concern into the big picture of preparedness.

I think it is all too common in this group for folks to confuse "possible" and "probable". We easily get caught up in the 1% when it is the 99% that will bite you in the arse.

I have no doubt there are some clever souls that could do extensive sluething on the web and figure me out. They would also discover I am well prepared to "sort things out" if they decide to relieve me of my PSK or my BOB. I'm not too worried. I have bigger fish to fry.

I think the odds of anyone reading this newsgroup being a problem for my safety and property is virtually nil. It is an inefficient system for burglary opportunity. It is just plain not worth the hassle.

It is the same for anyone trying to cut Rob's keys from a web pic, then trace him down, and act on it. It is too much work. There are much simpler and efficient methods of burglary.

The folks that are going to be the problem are the local goblins. I agree with you that one must be careful with their keys (among other things) on a local level (car repairs, service people, etc). Your concern here is quite valid and should be heeded.

RayW gave some great examples of folks serving up their personal information on a silver platter to local people that may be in a position to act on it. This is where the concern should be placed.

Cheers, TR

Here is mine:

bump

lets see some more pictures, please!

Raven,

My Respect's Raven....your Klingon is excellent!....although I can Curse fluently in it, I have had no one local to practice with! The member's of my Ship, the IKV Melota, here in the Big D, would not only be impressed with your Mastery, but with the Wisdom of your word's!

Krell

lets keep this alive!

I've had numerous instances where a flashlight has been needed in everyday urban carry:

1) The power died in the Puplic complex in which I was attending a hockey game. I had just gotten my drinks and food when it went totally dark. It stayed that way for 40-50 mins. During this time, I took my stuff to my seat and helped a lot of stranded folks get to theirs.

2) I frequently need a light for dimly lit areas of my CPU at work, under my cube, etc.

3) My current job is in a building that has had 1-2 power outages a year...sometimes they include the emergency backup system.

4) Urban carry often requires a light for ummm...investigation...'nuff said.

5) My dome lights and trunk lights don't exactly do a bangup job of lighting all areas of my car.

6) I've been trapped in an elevator without power. Some folks freak in the dark. I can always use the nap! <grin>

7) I've hd to go to places with little or no light as protection against storms, tornadoes and hurricanes. While I don't live on a fault line, there is one a few hundred miles away that the scientific community says is heading for some activity. We had a tremor several years ago that I felt where I live. Predictions are that my area could be greatly affected. I've been slowly warming up to the fact that I need to plan for this. Lights go everywhere.

You didn't mention using an EDC flashlight to avoid land mines while walking through the backyard at night ... gifts from my dear dogs.

Has anyone else here been in a restroom at work or a public place when the power went out? They don't put emergency lighting in restrooms.

Now, out of the gutter and into the parking lot ... have you ever dropped kicked your car keys in a marginally lit parking lot. That's why the EDC light doesn't go on the same keychain as the car keys.

Regarding carrying knives in the city ...

Last night I used my knife for cutting string, slicing open a bag of cotton balls (yeah, helping a bunch of scouts make firestarters), and slicing open pizza boxes tapped shut (special treat at a church lock-in - not a normal scout meal). This morning it was used for opening the plastic bag in a box of pancake mix, cuting the sealwrap off a new bottle of syrup, slicing a baggle for my son, and opening a UPS box. Its all much easier to do with a knife than a key.

That's because we clean up after ours! <grin> We carry lights when we walk them at nigt for that reason as well. If we don't keep it cleaned up, then it won't matter whether we step in it as eventually dogs will and track into the house.

point taken htough...flashlights are handy for urban use

Ok, I'll bite....

I know I carried a lot of crap, but I didn't realize until I laid it all on the bench and took the picture...

I really have two EDC's. First is on me here;



The second is my BOB. Now, the reason I say I have two is because my bag goes everywhere with me. It even comes in to work with me, as well as everything on my first-line EDC. I don't carry it into stores with me, obviously because it's generally frowned upon. But restaurants usually don't care or even look twice most of the time. I get a booth facing the door and put it under my feet.

This is what's in my BOB;




Tac-force 3-day pack
(2) 1qt nalgene bottles
SAK(matches, compass, etc,etc)
3 sets ear plugs
1 set electronic muffs
boonie hat
wool watch cap
wool socks
wool gloves
2 carabineers
(2) pr leather gloves (?)
shemagh
wet-wipes
hand sanitizer
monocular
sun-block stick
sunscreen
lip balm
50' cord
bug spray
large size OC and carrier
spare magazine and ammo
dental floss
meds kit
mouthwash
toothbrush & paste
gps
T.P.
duct tape
lock pick set (I loose my keys..a LOT)
benchmade fixed griptillian
2 clothes pins
(6) heavy-duty zip-ties
foam tape
surefire flashlight
extra 3 volt lithium batteries and spare bulb, in carrier
trauma dressing
leatherman supertool
spare parts for glasses (clear lenses, cleaner)
kitchen sink

Ok, so I haven't figured out how to get the sink in yet...But give me some time. This BOB has been an on-going project for the last 3 years. I really should take each item out, evaluate if I really need it in there and go from there. Could I get rid of a bunch of stuff?? You bet. But the problem is that I use this bag for many different applications, from preparedness, to long day hikes, to overnight trips, hauling things to and from work, geocaching, etc, etc. At one point I was carrying an entire set of extra clothing. That took up WAY too much room. Now it's just socks. Why do I have 2 pr of leather gloves? I have no idea. I guess I know the value of protecting your hands. One set is pretty much on their way out.

Yes, it's a lot. Again, I need to slim it down, do ya think?

DLR

True enough...and with bumping locks the picture isn't needed anyway. For those who don't know what bumping locks is all about, go to youtube or google video and watch several vids on bumping (keywords: bump lock, bumping, etc). Especially look for the TV segment from Denmark (about 1/2 hour). You'll also see little kids doing it. Anyone think their locks make them or their property secure?

My "kitchen sink" is a SAM splint formed into a circle, covered by a trash bag <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Burncycle,
What kind of knife is the one with two blades, one straight and the other serrated. I have been looking for something like that. Can you tell me the model and where you did you get it?