EDC blues

Posted by: joblot

EDC blues - 02/12/04 05:06 PM

With regards to EDC.
I have tried to carry the equipment that is recomended by members of this forum, and have encountered a number of problems.

1/ In addition to my own house keys, the abrasive qualities of carrying a minitool, pocket knife, mini torch and nailclippers on my keyring has worn holes in the pockets of nearly every pair of trousers I own, not to mention the weight, which drags my trousers downwards.
When I include the off-keyring items such as mobile phone, wallet, hankerchief, pens, loose change and the general debris that accumlulates over time, such as old receipts, fluff, shopping lists etc, the problem just get worse.

I might be abnormal here, but in general I have 4 pockets on my trousers (2 front, 2 back) and maybe a top pocket on my shirt. My jacket I take off as its uncomfortable to work in. I would always carry my keyring and wallet, and anything else of value on me for security reasons

2/ My pockets are so full of gear, it makes it hard to add any day to day items I may wish to carry on me, which begs the questions:
Where does everyone find room for these things? Doesn't it feel phsically uncomfortable?

3/ I feel like Inspector Gadget with a housekeeping problem. Something, some where is going to give, and I have a feeling its going to be my trousers first, followed quickly by my dignity. <img src="images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

By EDC I assume that means it is what you carry ON you, not just WITH you.
Any suggestions, especially from those who work indoors
Martin
Posted by: M_a_x

Re: EDC blues - 02/12/04 05:49 PM

I use leather ammo pouches on my belt. The folding knife and multitool are in their sheathes on my belt. That way I donīt have an abrasion problem. My coworkers donīt know about the original purpose of the pouches so the pouches are no problem either.
My trousers have at least 5 pockets which are free for additional items. I always have a shirt with two pockets. Those are occupied with my PDA, cell phone, pen and a mobile disk device. There is still room for my GPS receiver and a small radio.
It feels kind of weird when I canīt carry those items. I use a good wide belt that will not give in too easily.
Feeling like Inspector Gadget would be a real nightmare. Iīd hate to be underequipped <img src="images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />.
Posted by: JOEGREEN

Re: EDC blues - 02/12/04 06:31 PM

Martin,
I've run into that same problem. I've got my keys in one front pocket, another key ring with a Pulsar 2, Mini Fox 40 whistle, Leatherman Squirt, 36" tape measure, and 12 ft of braided paracord in the other front pocket, my regular wallet in one back pocket, and a Maglite Solitaire and my PSK in a zippered wallet in the other back pocket. The PSK is packed tightly, and unzipping it causes several items to fall out immediately. I don't think I would want to add anymore to my EDC, either. Hopefully I've got everything covered.
Posted by: X-ray Dave

Re: EDC blues - 02/12/04 08:51 PM

I've been looking around for the "perfect" waist/fanny pack to solve my EDC issues. I found one called the Proteus by Maxpedition. www.maxpedition.com Someone else mentioned them recently on another thread about pouches. They also have smaller belt pouches that might work for EDC carry.
Posted by: Paul810

Re: EDC blues - 02/12/04 08:54 PM

Left front pocket:
Keys (Fox 40 and Hot Spark on ring also)
If I am wearing my Leatherman Sideclip it goes clipped in that pocket.

Right front:
Wallet (with fresnel lense, info sheet, Swiss card light, laminated tinder)
Bage wallet (with lock picks)
Benchmade 921-BLK clipped in pocket
Lighter in the mini-pocket.

Right back: Bandannas
Belt Left side: Innova X5
Belt Right side: Cell (camera) phone
Leatherman Juice Pro or Wave (instead of Sideclip)

If I an going into the woods or on a trip I have a small belt case with my Altoids PSK, a black garbage bag, and extra batteries for the X5.

I find it doesn't weight me down too much as long as I am wearing good fitting pants.
Posted by: hillbilly

Re: EDC blues - 02/12/04 11:35 PM

Joblot,
I don't carry enough stuff with me, cellphone, pocketknife, multi tool, and about 50 keys. I carry a couple flashlights, whistle, canopener etc. in my jacket; I wear my jacket all the time except in the middle of the summer,
However, when I wear certain pants I have to wear a pair of suspenders to hold up my pants.
Posted by: Chris Kavanaugh

Re: EDC blues - 02/12/04 11:58 PM

Scotland had a perfect system ; kilt, sporran and skan dhub in the sock. See what happens when guys in pants move in ? <img src="images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" /> You might try adding a waistcoat, aka vest over here. Aside from additional pockets, the extra warmth when free arm movement is required is an added bonus.
Posted by: Eugene

Re: EDC blues - 02/12/04 11:58 PM

I've been there. Had some pants with holes in them. Lets see:
First off, not all pants are the same. Some have thicker pockets than others. I started testing them in the store (went to a higher class store where their used to picky odd people) and found a brand I liked and bought a few of those and gave my old ones to a charity.
Second search some backpacking, hiking, and lightweight/featherweight backpacking for ideas to eliminate anything unnecessary.
From my own experience I moved the nail clippers to the truck bob. In a pinch the blade/scissors/file of a leatherman will work.
1/ Do you need a minitool and a knife, can you consolidate both to one tool? I also found things on keyrings don't lay very flat and rub each other too much. I found a small leather key case (rare, not too many use them anymore) and my keys and gear in it lay flat and are held tight by it and it prevents them from rubbing my pockets. I went and bought a new mobile phone and paid a bit more for a slim light one without color screen and camera to help keep the size down. Bought a 4 in 1 pen to consolidate down there (two colors, stylus and pencil). Small leather change purse to keep change under control and don't let receipts collect in the wallet, empty then out each time you remove the wallet when you get home. I made a place to put them before scanning and when the box gets full they go on the scanner.
2/ can be helped with better pockets, lightening and consolidating the gear.
3/ I've been called that before. On top of my EDC gear I have carried an old windows CD pda and handheld scanner (hp capshare) in my pockets before.
Posted by: bmisf

Re: EDC blues - 02/13/04 02:46 AM

Hah - everything I carry now goes into a briefcase, backpack or hip pack, other than a small SAK on my keychain, and a super-thin wallet.

Not ideal, but beats the bulging pockets.
Posted by: AyersTG

Re: EDC blues - 02/13/04 03:34 AM

Martin,

Eh, I think I may have more junk, er, things on me than that EXCEPT: the keys. And the keys have for sure been the culprit in the past for me - I had the same problem with worn pockets etc that you describe. I simply do not carry all those keys on my person anymore. One set of keys to my personal vehicle in one pocket and one set of keys to my work vehicle in the other pocket and that's it. I also dispensed with all manner of fobs and simply have a small split ring to keep each set together (although the remote for my personal vehicle adds bulk, it is lightweight and has a pocket-friendly contour).

I have a large set of house keys, including for parents houses, keys to city hall, keys to Scout buildings and lockers, keys to various locked containers at work "with" me, but I do not carry them on my person.

Since ditching the keys, I have completely eliminated the worn pockets problem. Ergo, the number of keys I carried were the culprit.

If stripping down your pocket keys doesn't help, then I have one last word for you: suspenders <grin>.

Tom
Posted by: Hutch66

Re: EDC blues - 02/13/04 06:09 AM

Getting a small pouch and some smaller/lighter gear helped me out a lot with the problem that you're describing. I keep this pouch in my back left pocket, along with a PT Attitude. It contains:

Fisher Stowaway Pen
Leatherman Squirt P4
P-38 Canopener
Compass
Small glue stick
Duct tape
6feet of cord
Sewing kit in mini ziplock bag
--2 Large safety pins --1 Large button
--2 Medium safety pins --1 Medium button
--1 Small safety pin --1 Small button
--2 Medium Needles --1 Large needle
--Lightweight thread --Heavyweight thread


WIth so many of my toys in this pouch, I don't have much in my other pockets. My key chain has only a fox 40 whistle, PT Pulsar light, and two keys. These and my Benchmade Mini-Griptilian are all that go in my front right pocket. My Left front pocket has only my Zippo and a hankerchief, and my wallet, including fresnel lens, goes in my back right pocket.

This is my Sub/Urban EDC. If I'm planning to be in the woods, than it obviously changes.

Hope that helps,

Chris.
Posted by: joblot

Re: EDC blues - 02/13/04 02:02 PM

Thanks for the insights.
I think the nailclippers and the pocket knife are for the bottom drawer. I'll look into stronger trousers and different key fobs.
I think organisation is the key (no pun intended), making better use of my wallet, and placement of objects around my person.
As for the suspenders, I have a feeling something might have been lost in the translation. <img src="images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> On this side of the pond suspenders hold up stockings on the fairer sex, not multitools!
I think you mean "braces" that hold up trousers on us men....all due respect to crossdressers though <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />
As for Skian Dubh's, well we were on the multitool business during the crimean war (1854 - 1856):
http://tinyurl.com/3fgfr
Kilts and sporrans....I'll leave to the brave and the hardy, waistcoats however might be an answer...
Time to empty my pockets...
Martin
Posted by: KG2V

Re: EDC blues - 02/13/04 06:47 PM

suspenders = braces
kerosene = paraphin
Drill Rod = Silver Steel
Flashlight = torch
BandAid = plaster
Cold Rolled Steel = BSM

should I go on?
Posted by: SheetBend

Re: EDC blues - 02/13/04 06:49 PM

I tried to slim down. I usually wear dress Levis with good pockets. This is what I have now:

Left front pocket:
Burns mission wallet with ETS left-handed small Sebenza, Arc AAA-P flashlight, P-51 (larger brother of P-38 can opener), coins
Fisher Bi-fold wallet with Fisher Space Pen-stylus, frenzel lens, Band-Aids, bills, credit cards and ID

Right front pocket:
Handkerchief wrapped around key ring with keys, Swiss-Tech Utili-key, Photon Micro-light II
Windmill polycarbonate lighter
Fox 40 mini-whistle, ETS modified, white glow-in-the-dark
Vital of Nitroglycerin and aspirin

Back pockets:
Both empty so not to cut off circulation in my legs.

Belt:
Cell phone in pouch
Victorinox Super Timer (Champ + analog watch) in pouch with sharpening steel
-- or --
Leatherman 20th Anniversary Signature Wave in pouch with Arc LSHF-P AA flashlight

Hope this helps.
Posted by: bountyhunter

Re: EDC blues-ditty bag - 02/13/04 07:53 PM

It has been about 2 years now that I have started carrying a ditty bag. My first one was a multi-pocketed, multi-zippered gift from one of the Native-American gambling casinos here in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It was green in color and very handy for my everyday stuff. The one I currently have is an Eddie Bauer shoulder bag, brown in color with twice the room, half the pockets and zippers. It is very well made and does not draw the "womens purse" comments my friends used to throw my way when I had the other ditty bag.

On my belt I carry a key holder like the kind popular with the local police which I bought at a law enforcement supply store here for $10.00. The holder has a snap ring for attaching your keys and most importantly, it has a larger leather buffer between the pants and the keys so that the swinging keys do not rub through the pants. For security, I tuck the buffer & keys in my pocket and do not have to worry about wearing a hole in the pocket as they do not reach to the bottom.

Except for the most formal of occasions, I always carry this slung over my head on the left shoulder with the bag hanging on my right side. Convenient as all get-out and not at all feminine looking.

I do however carry my identification and a spare set of car keys in a thin plastic ID case in my right rear pocket.

Bountyhunter
Posted by: frenchy

Re: EDC blues - 02/14/04 08:17 AM

Quote:
As for Skian Dubh's

Hey, this dubh (by the way, how do you pronounce that word ???? <img src="images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" />)
seems to be exactly what I'm looking for !!
A short blade, a screwdriver and a corckscrew : all the essential functions in one package ! <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />


Alain


Posted by: frenchy

Re: EDC blues - 02/14/04 10:58 AM

I used to keep my wallet in my jacket, but in an office environment, that means you have to keep the jacket on you ! If you leave it on the back of you seat or on a peg, you are not sure to find your wallet again at the end of the day <img src="images/graemlins/mad.gif" alt="" />
I tried to use a fanny pack, but the I would leave it in a desk drawer, with the same uncertainty ... and when you need it, you don't have it ...
So I am now using a waist pouch, which stays on my belt.

I'm not yet satisfied with my present urban EDC (mainly office/computer work) and will have to change/add a few things, but here is what I carry during working days :



1) The Thiers knife in its sheath goes on my belt (right side) only when I know an office party will take place (then I will be assigned to cut the slicing sausage <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />).

2) The Eichhorn PRT (Pocket Rescue Knife) goes in my right rear pant pocket.

3) The waist pack goes on my belt, left side.

It contains the following items :



- 1 white and 1 red Photon3s are hanging from the pouch (with quick remove devices)
- FAK (red box)
- PSK (blue box)
- Surefire 6P
- "space" blanket
- a few feet of "paracord" (or something similar)
- Leatherman Juice C2 (only because there is a corckscrew - see the "office party" bit above ... <img src="images/graemlins/cool.gif" alt="" /> )
- ballpen
- flat plastic whistle with laniard
- money (coins and notes)
- various cards (credit, ID card, metro tickets, aso...)
- various papers (driver licence,phone numbers, ...)
- various keys (car, gun case, appartment door main key...)
(all other keys (appartment, cellar, parking lot ....) stay in the glove box, in my car, or my rucksack when cycling ; I only keep car and main house key on myself, just in case some jerk breaks in my car : without the main key, he won't be able to do much damage)

FAK



This box, I open it several times every week, for my own use or for co-workers.
Not a "true" FAK ; it is designed more as an every day useful medicine cupboard :
- paracetamol
- plasters (band aid) in various designs
- condoms (remember ? "urban survival" ..... <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />)
- disinfectant
- healing ointment
- lips protector (also very useful as healing ointment ; I use it on each and every small
cut I can get ; prevents dirt entering and hastens the healing)
- eye lotion
- mint candies (useful when I get an -little bit- upsetted stomac)

PSK



This kit is never (or rarely) opened ;
- small Bic lighter
- Sylva (Brunto in the US ?) wrist compass
- survival mirror
- some safety pins
- sewing kit
- piece of blank paper sheet
- ball pen lead
- small help sheet, with knots, morse code, etc...
- small fishing kit (from a Victorinox SAK pouch I had several years ago)
- Euro notes
- plastic (Ziplock) bag
- spare cells, for the Photon 3 and the Surefire 6P
- magic candle
- bits of drinking straw, stuffed with cottonwool and vaseline
- sparklite
- fresnel lens
- water purifier pills
- some layers of yellow duct tape are on the outside of the PSK container

Now that I have open it, I will move the sewing kit and some safety pins to the FAK (there is still some place available in the red box), as it may be useful on an every day basis.

I would prefer to get a nice leather belt pouch, for the Surefire 6P and an original Leatherman PT.
That would lighten the waist pack.

I replaced my previous Emerson mini-CQC7B with an Eichhorn PRT, thinking it would be a less "offending" sight for co-workers, when I use it for everyday tasks. But I still get some "curious" looks ...
so I guess I will (maybe ..) get a simple SAK for every day use and keep the PRT or CQC7 hidden.
Not sure ... a one hand opening knife is so useful ...

Oh ... I forget to say that I don't carry anything in my pants pockets (except for the knife in the back right pocket) : no bulges, no holes ....
In my jacket pockets, there are only disposable tissues and gloves (in this season)
Ooopss... I forget the (hated ...) portable phone ... yeah ... this one goes in a pocket when I have to ... sure, I could buy a belt pouch for it, but I don't want it on my belt ... well, maybe I will have to ...

The only problem with the waist pack is when I go to the cinema : the seats are a bit narrow .... so, I just shift it a bit, in front of me and it's OK


Alain
Posted by: joblot

Re: Skain Dubh - 02/14/04 11:26 AM

Skain means Knife or dagger in English and Dubh means black.
I pronounce it "skee doo" or prehaps "skeen doo".
To be quite honest the Gaelic language is beyond me, so unless you speak the language you'll probably lose some of the more subtle nuances of the pronounciation. Its also mean't to be a very hard language to learn.
The people I have known who spoke it, always mixed in English, as English has a larger vocabulary, and is easier to get your tongue around!
Not really surprising only 5% of the population speaks it, and most of those people are from the Western Isles of Scotland .
I digress, I should be talking about preparedness!
Martin
Posted by: frenchy

Re: Skain Dubh - 02/14/04 12:08 PM

Thanks !!!


Alain
Posted by: AyersTG

Re: EDC blues - 02/14/04 04:20 PM

Alain,

Thanks for the informative post. Although I could scale the pouch dimensions from some of the known-size items in your images, would you mind measuring your pouch and posting the height x width x depth? SI units of measure are fine.

I do something similar to what you describe with the vast array of keys we seem to be burdened with. Keys do great damage to pockets, are heavy, and sets become bulky. Some keys can be duplicated in an aluminum alloy, but that merely addresses the weight issue.

EDC has become a journey rather than a destination for me.

After a lifetime in the military, where voluminous pockets, sundry pouches, bags, packs, etc. were the norm, I find EDC at work and around town to be perplexing. On a given day, in the space of a couple hours or so, I may find myself in randomly sequenced circumstances ranging from a suit to a muddy & busy construction site to a still-hot, filthy, dripping, stinking, dangerous, burnt up building to a normal office or meeting and other peculiar environments I choose not to describe. Nothing save what I can discreetly carry in my "core" pockets is suitable/acceptable in all of my "normal" daily environments.

A day at work has no set hours, other than the traditional core business hours, as I am on-call 24/7 for many matters that I either may not or choose not to delegate to one of my subordinates. This means that certain items that I might otherwise simply stow in my work vehicle (a sedan) must be duplicated (at my expense) in my personal vehicle (a larger, much more versitile vehicle) AND means that whenever I go somewhere in a personal vehicle, I choose to take my large vehicle instead of one of the more economical family choices in my driveway.

Extremely comfortable afield in nearly any environment or circumstance, I find the daily non-routines frustrating in terms of readiness. I carry and rely on the smallest useful PDA (Palm T), yet risk it because wrapping it in any protection vastly increases its bulk. My issued cell 'phone is a critical 24/7 item that is only turned off when I am in church, and while fairly compact as those things go, it is not a chic and sleek business executive micro 'phone. (Normally the sole item on my belt - it can go into a pocket, but it feels bulky there and interferes with reaching anything else in a pocket.)

The good thing is that I enjoy my job and the people I work with - it is very interesting and satisfying to me. But the randomly diverse environments, circumstances, and socially acceptable attire make EDC a continuous challenge. Everytime someone posts specific information, such as your post, I pick up at least one tidbit that either merits adoption to my circumstances or triggers me to think of a new or revised element to what and how I stay equipped. Urban EDC is a challenge!

Regards,

Tom
Posted by: Anonymous

Re: EDC blues - 02/14/04 04:29 PM

Back in the '70s some friends of mine got into Scottish 18th-C reenacting. That's the only aspect that ever tempted me- they got away with wearing sgain dubh, dirk, and sometimes even flintlock pistols and basket-hilted broadswords just about anywhere. Only once did I see it questioned back then, in a bar by an off-duty FBI agent. My friend said "it's part of my ETHNIC costume. Do you want to hassle me for wearing my ETHNIC costume?". He backed off. My friend was croatian by descent.

I was dismayed to find out that now the PC emasculation of our culture has gone so far as to condemn the dirk and create little one piece non-sgian dubhs with imitation sheaths where their blades should be. Reminds me of pictures I saw of Old West reenactors in Germany, dressed as cowboys and indians, but unable to have any weapons. Very sad.

Posted by: frenchy

Re: EDC blues - 02/14/04 08:28 PM

here you are .....
Approx. pouch dimensions :
18cm x 12cm x 9 or 10cm

I'm considering another approch : transfering the contents of the blue box (hopefully rarely used PSK) in a neck pouch (something like that or perhaps a waterproof model ) ; this one I would keep it under my shirt, not visible.
Maybe a good winter idea ... but not so easy in summertime .... with light summer shirts ...


Alain


Posted by: Chris Kavanaugh

Re: Skain Dubh - 02/15/04 06:07 AM

Speaking the gaelic is best learned by drinking large quantities of single malt whisky before settling into a SNUGPAK next to a rural pig farm under your hooch or basha for the evening. When your speech becomes one with the beasties and mutually intelligable it's a native speaker you are. At least thats what the Vicar,father Murphy told me after I swore in irish on the football field, lovely orangeman that he was <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />
Posted by: frenchy

Re: Skain Dubh - 02/15/04 02:57 PM

Here is the one I have ; it's a modern version and has been made by a french knifemaker.



Now, I need to buy kilt, sporran, socks, aso.....
<img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />



Posted by: cliff

Re: EDC blues - 02/15/04 05:31 PM

OK, here's my $.02:

It is VERY easy to become a pants hamster with your EDC, or end up with your belt looking like something Batman would wear. I try to keep my pockets, and my key-ring, on a very slim diet (with one glaring exception - see below).

My solution: my Daytimer. It goes with me EVERYWHERE. (For those unfamiliar, imagine what a Palm Pilot would be if it was only paper, and was kept in a cloth zippered case) The case I got was from Eagle Creek - the "Travel Organizer", I think. It has been discontinued, replaced by the "E-Ticket Organizer". In an office setting, it goes without notice. In that goes my journal/sketchbook/datebook, address list, calculator, and all of the other sundries of 21st century office life. Also (and here is the FUN part) a lighter, Juice Kf4, compass, my PSK, two trash bags, two Ziploc bags, 12 feet of parachord, bandana, magnifying glass, and a small face towel (sorry, it's the Ford Prefect in me...).

My cell phone usually rides on my belt when not in my hand or in my jacket pocket.

That leaves in my pockets free for only (drum roll please...) my keychain (keys, Squirt S4, P-38 and an LED flashlight), and my wallet (ID, two credit cards, and whatever money my wife and Uncle Sam allow me to keep). I often keep a business card wallet in my jacket pocket, too, when I'm working.

Around my neck I have my ID tags from the service (one ID, one medical alert) with a wide elastic around them to keep them together. Sandwiched between the tags is a $20 bill. A small metal tube whistle is also attached.

Now, for the one glaring exception I mentioned earlier. The LED light I carry on my key-ring is an Infinity 'Ultra'. It's large, heavy, and takes some getting used to in your pocket. ("Is that a flashlight in your pocket, or are you just happy to see me?". "Oh. It's a flashlight.....") I made this decision because 1) it's darn indestructible; 2) it's bright; 3) it runs on AA batteries; and 4) my wife would shoot me if I bought an Arc AAA-PE ("ANOTHER L.E.D. FLASHLIGHT!?! Where's the Ruger?.....")

I still like the sporran idea best, though. It's the Scots genes in my ancestry. They manifest themselves in strange ways. Several times a year I have this unexplainable urge to put on a wool skirt, paint myself blue, and chuck spears at the English. <img src="images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" />

.....CLIFF
Providing more information than you really wanted to know since 2001.
Posted by: joblot

Re: EDC blues - 02/15/04 08:38 PM

Hi
First in response to Chris K....Okay i admit it I'm fluid, or do I mean fluent...Hic <img src="images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" />

Hi SheetBend,
Afew comment and questions on your EDC.
"Handkerchief wrapped around key ring with keys..."
With all due respect it is precisely the above I would be looking to minimize. As soon as you reach for your hankerchief your keys end up on the floor - maybe counter-productive?
"Vital of Nitroglycerin..."!!!???? I thought that was explosive!
In your left front pocket you have two wallets. Whats a "burns mission wallet"? Wouldn't keeping one wallet in a back pocket balance the weight? Just some thoughts.
The sheer quantity of gear you guys carry round is impressive both in quantity and quality, many thanks for the input.
Martin
Posted by: Craig

Re: EDC blues-ditty bag - 02/17/04 09:47 PM

Quote:
The one I currently have is an Eddie Bauer shoulder bag, brown in color with twice the room, half the pockets and zippers.


What model or version is it?
Posted by: SheetBend

Re: EDC blues - 02/17/04 10:29 PM

The Mission wallet is to hold coins, http://www.bladeart.com/mission-tac/mission_wallet/mission_wallet.htm . The Fisher wallet holds dollar bills and ID. The Nitroglycerin is pill form for heart patients and is not explosive. I have not found a good key ‘wallet’ yet and am still looking so that every thing would be containerized and not cause holes in my pockets.
I keep my back pockets empty so I do no pinch the nerve in the back of my legs when I am sitting down, as this causes my legs to tingle and ‘go to sleep’.
Posted by: bountyhunter

Re: EDC blues-ditty bag - 02/18/04 12:34 AM

I wish I knew what model that Eddie Bauer bag is. I have never looked for the model number on it, but will do so considering the requests I have had. I have been on the Eddie Bauer site, and the bag I have is not represented.

I bought the bag at my favorite Goodwill store here in Milwaukee, Wisconsin for $2.99. As you can see from this and some of the other purchases I have posted here (Large external framed Wenger backpack for $3.99 and a medium Alice military assault pack with an L2 frame from one of the regulars for $13.00.), this Goodwill store is the place to shop.

If I learn to use my new digital camera real soon, I will try to post a picture with dimensions.

My house is currently in turmoil with my father in a nursing home, my mother with dementia, and me taking on the responsibility as the son turned parent, so please do not get angry if it takes me awhile to post a picture. The model number if it exists on or in the bag I may have as soon as tomorrow.

Bountyhunter
Posted by: akabu

Re: EDC blues-ditty bag - 02/18/04 12:06 PM

I use an Uncle Mikes Concelment Holster in the spring to fall or when traveling.the neat part is the velcro rear compartment ,stuff you don't use a or don't want to lose is locked away from cell phone, key's ect. the front small pocket hold's small flashligt[CMG Infin. scripto lighter, lip balm,small flat bottle of iodine[reused Bianca mouth freshener : http://www.galls.com/style.html?assort=general_catalog&style=NP157&cat=350 .come's in gray green or black
Posted by: bountyhunter

Re: EDC blues-ditty bag-Mdl. &/or Part No. - 02/18/04 05:10 PM

I found a tag in the bag (Wow! that rhymes, I'm a poet and I know it because my feet are "Longfellows".), and it states the following:

100% Nylon
WPL 9647 CA 00665
Made in Indonesia
023-0092
Vendor 01355

I also sent an email to Eddie Bauer this morning in the hopes they could shed some light on its availability. I'll keep you posted if I get any info back.

With all the information on the tag, you might even find the manufacturer and see if they make this bag for anyone else, or if you can order it directly from them.

The nicest thing about this bag in its brown color is the construction doesn't make me feel like I am carrying a womens purse. It also has a very long strap which allows an over the head opposite shoulder carry allowing the bag to hang down low and comfortably. The strap has an anti-slip pad and is adjustable for those that like to carry the bag close to the armpit, as well as a carry handle at the top.

Good luck, and if you find this bag available at the manufacturing source, or another vendor, please advise with a post.

Good luck!

Bountyhunter
Posted by: bountyhunter

Re: EDC blues-ditty bag-Mdl. &/or Part No. - 02/18/04 09:09 PM

Below is the answer from Eddie Bauer:

From: <customercare@csc.eddiebauer.com> Add Address
Subject: {REF: 1077128595.000} Ask Eddie Email: Shoulder bag
Date: Wed, 18 Feb 2004 14:27:19 -0400

Dear Sir,

Thank you for your e-mail.

Unfortunately this shoulder bag is not available at this time. We are sorry
to disappoint you in this matter.

If you would like assistance in selecting replacement merchandise, please
reply to this e-mail or call our Customer Satisfaction Department at
1-800-426-8020.

Thank you for shopping with us.

Sincerely,

Josh S.
Eddie Bauer Customer Service



> Specific Descriptions/Comments:
> I am trying to determine if you still have a certain shoulder bag
> available for sale. I purchased mine at a local Goodwill store in
> Milwaukeee, Wisconsin, and have been getting requests from other
> individuals who would like to buy one. Its primary selling point is that
> it is a non-feminine looking bag which male friends of mine would be
> comfortable using to keep their pockets free.
>
> The tag in this shoulder bag has the following information:
>
> WPL 9647 CA 00665
> Made in Indonesia
> 023-0092
> Vendor 01355
> 100% Nylon
>
>
> This email is systematically scanned for conditions that may
> present business risks. If this is unsolicited third party
> email, please forward it to stopspam@spgl.com
Posted by: gear_freak

Re: EDC blues - 02/19/04 07:38 PM

I love this thread. It speaks to a concern I've had ever since being "preparedness-aware." I am a smaller-than-average framed male of 5'6" / 140 lbs (1.65M / 63.5 Kg.) As a result, the pockets and compartments on my clothing are not large, so I'm always tweaking my system to get that magic combination of minimal but effective essential gear. I've thought about a "Day-Timer" type zippered notebook, but I feel more comfortable being hands-free. Perhaps the waist pack is a possibility for me. For now, my current kit is described on the following web page: http://www.roblester.com/rob/edc.htm
Posted by: joblot

Re: EDC blues - 02/19/04 09:24 PM

Hi Rob
I know what you mean, the tweaking almost becomes an obsession. It can become a very expensive habit, so ideally I like to try to get it right first time. My post about my seasonal Bob problem is all linked into the same issue - buying the right gear for you, be it to your size, you experience, your everyday needs, your location, your work etc etc.
One item I do object to carrying around is my mobile phone. I hate the things, and I never have it switched on. I'm afraid its consigned to the bottom of my daysack most of the time, but I sure everyone has there pet hates.
I also feel I'm underprepared in some way...the trouble is we don't really know till "it" happens.
Posted by: Eugene

Re: EDC blues - 02/19/04 11:16 PM

140? Your not bad at all. I'm 5'10" and weight 135lbs _with_ all my gear <img src="images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> I'm always looking for small but quality stuff, reading in the lightweight backpacking forums to see how to lighten and shrink gear, etc.
Posted by: Eugene

Re: EDC blues - 02/19/04 11:22 PM

I don't like having a cell phone either but consider it like a piece of gear you don't want to have to use such as first aid or even a gun. I keep mint on my belt at all times though that way I can leave it on vibrate and not annoy anyone else with the ring, though no one else seems to mind annoying me with their ring <img src="images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />
Posted by: cliff

Re: EDC blues - 02/20/04 12:10 AM

__________________________________

.....I keep mint on my belt at all times.....
__________________________________

Sorry, Eugene, but I couldn't resist........ Typos are so much fun <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

Top 10 reasons to carry mint on your belt

10. It gets crushed in your pocket.
9. You never know when you will have to make that emergency julip.
8. Carrying dill or basil is sooo yesterday.
7. Loads cheaper than Old Spice.
6. Two words: Belt Camouflage.
5. Draws attention away from the parsily growing in shirt pocket.
4. Wards off Wareducks.
3. Shows support for the DoubleMints against the evil Wintergreens.
2. Compliments the cinnamon on tie.

And the number one reason to keep mint on your belt at all times:

1. In case the fig leaf falls off. <img src="images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" />
Posted by: Paul810

Re: EDC blues - 02/20/04 01:20 AM

Quote:
140? Your not bad at all. I'm 5'10" and weight 135lbs _with_ all my gear


Hmm, I've never thought of the possibility of not being able to carry everything on me. Being 6' 2"-3" 270lbs I could carry a machete in my pocket with minimal problems. <img src="images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" /> That is definately something to take into account: Because of physical size it may be difficult for some to carry a lot of "EDC" supplies. So, I guess the smaller a person you are the more you should look for multi-function supplies. (Ex: Instead of carrying a knife, a P-38, a pen screw-driver, and pliers a multi-tool becomes neccisary and prefered)
Posted by: gear_freak

Re: EDC blues - 02/20/04 01:53 AM

Paul, there were some days in school that I would have given my left arm to be 6'3" / 270 lbs.! <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />
Posted by: Eugene

Re: EDC blues - 02/20/04 02:11 AM

So much for my nice spell checker, I'll have to go submit a request for a thought checker.
Posted by: Eugene

Re: EDC blues - 02/20/04 02:13 AM

Exactly. The biggest I carry is a leatherman wave and a small flip cell phone. Anything bigger and I look like someone took a side mirror off a Mack truck and stuck it on a Honda, just sticks out way too far. Even with the small gear I have I still manager to catch it on things.
Posted by: Eugene

Re: EDC blues - 02/20/04 02:14 AM

I befriended the 6'3" / 270 lbs in college who worked part time as a bouncer (had enough patience to teach him how to use an O-scope) so I had the best of both worlds <img src="images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />
Posted by: bountyhunter

Re: EDC blues - 02/20/04 02:30 AM

If you are in shape, height and weight do not matter.

I will never forget a PBS show where this tall strong looking American woman (In what most of us would consider good physical condition.) tried to carry a load of firewood like the native women of the country she was in were doing. She didn't make it on level ground and gave up as they started up a hill. She was in pain for days after that and marveled that the little (in stature) native women did this sort of thing on a daily basis.

Bountyhunter
Posted by: cliff

Re: EDC blues - 02/20/04 03:42 AM

Thought checker. I got me one of those.
And we've been married 16 years...... <img src="images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

All the best,

.....CLIFF
Posted by: frenchy

Re: EDC blues - 02/20/04 10:01 AM

Excellent ! <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />
at least for those of your puns I understand !
I don't get n° 1 and n° 4 and I'm not sure for n°3 <img src="images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" />
Posted by: Craig

Re: EDC blues - 02/20/04 01:46 PM

Your "pants hamster" comment really got me. It rings true, as well.

I once had my jeans geared up just fine. The sturdy cotton held everything without sagging. Then we had to go to a slightly formal affair, where dressier trousers were called for.

Once I had on my better-looking Dockers, holy cow, talk about sag! Omigod, every pocket bulged, my dress belt bit into my hips, and the Pants Hamster was born. I had to seriously offload things and carry a shoulder bag I have.

You are right on target with the Daytimer idea. I know this because I have read on different forums about how office workers can be prepared without attracting attention. Now I'm casting about for the right one for me.
Posted by: gear_freak

Re: EDC blues - 02/20/04 03:01 PM

Exactly. The zippered notebook looks the most professional, but leaves you without both hands free. With two children, I have to keep both hands free at all times. Talk about preparedness! On the other hand, a waist pack or shoulder bag can carry more, but isn't "acceptable" for a lot of the social situations I find myself in weekly, such as church, board room, customer visit, etc. Hmm. As long as I have my children with me, I can get away with stashing some stuff into the diaper bag without looking strange. Around here, however, a man carrying a shoulder bag would get some strange looks, and the last thing I want to do is call attention to myself. I guess a very low profile, trendy messenger bag might work. Bigger guys can wear waist packs without them even standing out, but on me, it would look like the example above of the Mac Truck side mirror on a Mini Cooper.
Posted by: cliff

Re: EDC blues - 02/20/04 05:34 PM

Frenchy:

I guess I did assume an American point of reference. Apologies to my international colleagues.

The Top 10 reference is to a late night talk show host here, David Letterman, who nightly does rather silly "Top 10" lists.

As to No. 4, I figured that since wolfsbane wards off werewolves, mint had to ward off something; something rather less dangerous. A "Wereduck" seemed amusing, absurd, and all together less threatening.

As to No. 3 refers to two Wrigley's chewing gum brands - Doublemint and Spearmint. When I was a kid, we thought all the cool guys chewed Doublemint, and only losers liked Spearmint or (horrors!) that other Wrigley flavor - Juicy Fruit. (Note: I have amended my thoughts on this as I have aged. I now base such baseless decisions on people and their preferred brands of Scotch...)

As to No.1, I have no idea, either. I would claim artistic license, but mine expired years ago.......

Bon temps, mes ami - and a Happy Mardi Gras!

.....CLIFF

Posted by: M_a_x

Re: EDC blues - 02/20/04 06:09 PM

This forum is international. Thatīs a good opportunity to broaden oneīs horizon. So donīt feel too guilty.
I thought I had figured out number one as mint is not only candy but also a leafy shrub. Considering what used to be covered with the figue leaf it sure makes sense to be prepared if the leaf falls off. I could be wrong though.
Posted by: Craig

Re: EDC blues - 02/20/04 08:57 PM

Agreed.

What I'd love is a Daytimer/zippered notebook-type of thing with an optional shoulder strap.

Good God, two kids? Then you need more than two hands, you also need caffeine and eyes in the back of your head. Grin.
Posted by: cliff

Re: EDC blues - 02/20/04 10:12 PM

Craig:

I added two metal split-rings to the handle, and can now attach it to a shoulder strap.

I can take some images of the setup this weekend, but I do not have a website to host them. If anyone wants to volunteer some excess kilobites and host some images, PM me and let me know.

Thanks,

.....CLIFF
Posted by: frenchy

Re: EDC blues - 02/20/04 10:26 PM

Hey, Max :
Do you use figue leaves in Germany to mask what we cover with grape leaves in France ?? <img src="images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />


Posted by: frenchy

Re: EDC blues - 02/20/04 10:38 PM

1) Thanks for your explanations
2) "wereduck" like in "werewolf" ... hoho <img src="images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> .... I get it, now ...... Thanks again.
3) as Max said, no need to apologyze ; I like to learn something new, every day I visit this forum.
4) BTW, about apologies, I have to offer mine's to all the ETS forumits (or forumnists ??) , for the way I smash up english grammar. Sometimes, re-reading a post, I try to edit it, to correct a misspelled word or a wrongly conjugated verb .... but I guess I leave many uncorrected ones ! <img src="images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" />
Posted by: M_a_x

Re: EDC blues - 02/20/04 10:55 PM

Maybe we do. Itīs used as minimalistic dress mostly in art.
Posted by: frenchy

Re: EDC blues - 02/20/04 10:57 PM

yes, that's what I was thinking about ... but I did know how to say it ....
Nice turn of phrase ... <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />