And to think most New Yorkers still walk around without so much as a Photon II, even after last summer's blackout. I just don't know. What do you have to do other than blackout a city to get people's attention? A microlight and a tiny folding knife can be carried inobtrusivley, but they simply don't bother.

I have ceased referring to my EDC as a survival kit. The word "survival" has become threatening and somehow means you have a bowie knife stashed on your person. I use the phrase "convenience kit" or "comfort kit."

If you say "survival," someone is apt to become frightened and say, you mean you've got a KNIFE on you?

If you say "convenience," and mention your first aid kit, floss, and flashlight, no one feels threatened and no one says anything.