Did you know that the average person makes over 35,000 decisions every day? For those of us who prioritize personal safety and preparedness, one of the most critical decisions we make is what to include in our everyday carry (EDC). Whether you’re a seasoned concealed carrier or new to the concept, having the right gear can be the difference between being prepared for any situation and being caught off guard.
In this article, I’ll break down my personal EDC essentials, refined over years of practical experience and real-world testing. From the precision of the Citizen Nighthawk EcoDrive watch to the reliability of the Glock 17, each piece of gear has been selected for its ability to offer practicality, durability, and peace of mind. You’ll discover why these specific items make the cut, how they perform under pressure, and tips for incorporating them into your daily routine.
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My Everyday Carry Pocket Dump at a Glance
By the end of this guide, you’ll understand the importance of a well-thought-out EDC setup and how to choose gear that aligns with your lifestyle, ensuring you’re always prepared. Whether you’re navigating the urban jungle or spending time outdoors, mastering your EDC is a crucial step toward being ready for whatever life throws your way.
Why the Spyderco Delica 4 is My Go-To Everyday Carry Knife
The Spyderco Delica 4 has earned its place as my everyday carry (EDC) knife due to its unbeatable quality, functionality, and affordability. With a price tag of around $85 on Amazon, it offers exceptional value without compromising performance. With its VG-10 stainless steel blade and ergonomic design, this knife is a reliable companion whether in the city or out in the wilderness.
One of the Delica 4’s standout features is its versatility. It’s lightweight and compact, making it perfect for daily urban carry. Yet, it truly shines in outdoor settings as well. I’ve used it countless times in the woods for carving, prepping kindling, and even striking a Ferro rod to start a fire. Its robust design ensures that it can handle these tasks with ease.
This knife also proved its durability during a week-long beach trip, where it was regularly submerged in saltwater. After returning home, a quick disassembly and a light coating of oil were all it took to keep it in perfect condition. The Delica 4’s ability to withstand such harsh conditions speaks volumes about its build quality.
When I go for runs in the spring and summer, the Delica 4 is clipped to my waistband. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry, and it performs reliably, rain or shine. The Delica 4 has never let me down, proving that with proper care, this knife is ready for anything. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or someone looking for a reliable EDC knife, the Spyderco Delica 4 is one of the better choices.
The Streamlight ProTac 1L-1AA has become my go-to flashlight for everyday carry. It offers the perfect balance of size, power, and versatility. Small enough to fit comfortably in my pocket, it features a serrated bezel that can also serve as a personal protection tool, making it ideal for various situations.
Before discovering the ProTac 1L-1AA, I alternated between carrying the ProTac 2L and the ProTac 1AA. The 1AA’s advantage was its reliance on the universally available AA battery, making it convenient for everyday use. However, its light output was less impressive than the 2L, which uses two CR123 batteries for brighter performance. This left me switching between the two models based on my plans for the day or night—until the ProTac 1L-1AA came along.
The ProTac 1L-1AA combines the best features of both predecessors. It can be powered by a single AA or a CR123 battery, offering flexibility based on what I have on hand and the desired light output. For daily use, I typically opt for the CR123 battery for its brighter output, but I appreciate having the option to use a readily available AA battery when needed. This dual-fuel capability is particularly handy when traveling; I start with a fresh CR123 battery and know I can easily replace it with a AA battery from any local store.
With its versatile power options, compact size, and dual-purpose bezel, the Streamlight ProTac 1L-1AA is a reliable and practical addition to my everyday carry essentials, ready to adapt to any situation.
The Citizen Nighthawk EcoDrive is my go-to everyday carry watch. It offers reliability, durability, and style. Its EcoDrive technology ensures the watch remains accurate without needing battery replacements; it charges from any light source, providing peace of mind wherever I go.
Built from solid stainless steel with a screw-down crown and sapphire crystal, the Nighthawk withstands rough handling and is water-resistant up to 200 meters. These features suit various environments, from business meetings to outdoor adventures. The watch’s clear, luminous hands and markers allow for easy readability in all lighting conditions, a crucial factor for any reliable timepiece.
Another key reason for my choice is affordability. Priced under $300, the Nighthawk delivers exceptional value without the risk associated with high-end luxury watches. Its sleek design seamlessly transitions from casual to formal settings, making it a versatile addition to my wardrobe.
From the moment I put the Nighthawk around my wrist, its dial, lume, and sturdy build impressed me. The five-year warranty only adds to its appeal, demonstrating Citizen’s commitment to quality. The Nighthawk isn’t just a watch; it’s a dependable company that meets all my needs—accurate, low-maintenance, and stylish.
For anyone seeking a watch that effortlessly blends practicality with elegance, the Citizen Nighthawk EcoDrive stands out as the ultimate choice.
Why the Ridge Wallet is My Everyday Carry Choice
The Ridge Wallet has revolutionized my approach to carrying cash and cards. Sleek, compact, and designed for the modern minimalist, it’s a far cry from the bulky leather wallets of the past. My titanium version has a satisfying heft—solid but not heavy—giving it an immediate quality feel.
The Ridge Wallet’s design is brilliantly simple: two metal plates held together with elastic bands. This minimalist construction doesn’t just look good; it feels durable and robust. The metal plates are sturdy, and the elastic bands are resilient, offering a secure hold on everything inside.
Transitioning from a traditional wallet to the Ridge was easier than expected. It holds up to 12 cards, and getting them in and out is straightforward, thanks to a handy notch at the bottom. Sliding out my cards and fanning them out takes no effort. The cash strap on the outside is perfect for keeping a few folded bills on hand. While it might not hold a wad of cash, it’s more than adequate for my needs.
The Ridge Wallet is a top choice for those looking to streamline their everyday carry. It starts at around $85 and offers durability, a sleek design, and RFID protection.
When it comes to everyday carry (EDC), the SWAT-T Tourniquet is a non-negotiable item for me. Having a tourniquet on hand is just as critical if you’re carrying a concealed firearm. Simply put, if you’re prepared to make holes, you must be prepared to plug them, too.
Statistically, you’re more likely to use a tourniquet than a concealed firearm. Whether you’re first on the scene of a car accident or responding to a child’s fall, having a tourniquet could be the difference between life and death. With the average EMS response time being around 8 minutes and a person bleeding out from a femoral artery in about 4 minutes, a tourniquet can save valuable time and lives.
The SWAT-T Tourniquet is the perfect choice for my EDC because it’s compact, low-profile, and fits easily into my back pocket. It’s now as routine for me to grab the SWAT-T in the morning as it is to grab my keys. Its design allows for quick and easy application, crucial in emergencies where every second counts.
What sets the SWAT-T apart is its versatility. Beyond its primary function as a tourniquet, it can also serve as a pressure dressing or a splint. Its stretch, wrap, and tuck design can be used on various body parts, making it suitable for children and even K9s. The printed indicators on the tourniquet itself ensure that the right amount of pressure is applied, which can make a significant difference in a high-stress situation.
In a world where being prepared can save a life, carrying the SWAT-T Tourniquet gives me peace of mind. Whether it’s for my safety or the safety of others, this tourniquet is an essential part of my everyday carry.
Why I Choose the Glock 17 for Concealed Carry
Selecting the right firearm for concealed carry involves finding the perfect balance between power and concealability. The Glock 17 strikes that balance with its combination of versatility, reliability, and user-friendly features, making it my top choice for everyday carry.
Since its debut in the 1980s, the Glock 17 has gained a reputation for its reliability and performance. Initially designed for military and law enforcement, it quickly became popular among civilian gun enthusiasts and concealed carriers worldwide. Chambered in 9mm, a 17-round capacity and a 4.49-inch barrel provide a robust platform for various situations, making it a versatile choice for personal defense.
While the Glock 17 is classified as a full-size pistol, it remains a viable option for concealed carry with the right approach. Its overall length of 8.03 inches and weight of 24.87 ounces might seem bulky, but it can be concealed effectively with the correct holster and clothing choices. I use the Tenicor VELO holster, which allows me to carry my Glock 17 comfortably, even in tailored or athletic-fit clothing. The slim design of the holster minimizes visibility, and its innovative features rotate the gun’s grip securely into my body, ensuring a snug and discreet carry.
Carrying the Glock 17 daily is a practical choice for me. Its high capacity and dependable performance provide a sense of security. While some might find its size challenging to conceal, I’ve found that it fits seamlessly into my everyday life with the proper setup. The Glock 17’s ergonomic design, combined with a well-thought-out holster system like the Tenicor VELO, makes it possible to carry a full-size firearm without compromising concealment or comfort.
Conclusion: Be Ready for Anything
Your everyday carry setup is more than just a collection of items; it’s the gear for managing whatever life throws your way. The right gear provides confidence and preparedness, enabling you to handle routine tasks and unexpected emergencies easily. A well-chosen EDC setup ensures you have reliable, versatile, and durable tools, giving you the peace of mind to navigate any situation.
Being prepared isn’t just about carrying gear—it’s about carrying the right gear. Your essentials should offer multi-functional capabilities that fit seamlessly into your daily life. Every item should serve a purpose, from self-defense to emergency medical response. Enhancing your ability to respond effectively when it matters most.
Now is the time to refine your everyday carry. Assess your current setup, identify gaps, and invest in high-quality, dependable items that align with your lifestyle. By thoughtfully curating your EDC, you ensure that you’re always ready, no matter what comes your way. Take the next step in elevating your preparedness. Equip yourself with the tools that provide safety and peace of mind. Your readiness is your greatest asset.
About Scott Witner
Scott Witner is a former Marine Corps Infantryman with 2ndBn/8th Marines. He completed training in desert warfare at the Marine Air Ground Combat Center, Mountain Warfare and survival at the Mountain Warfare Training Center, the South Korean Mountain Warfare School in Pohang, and the Jungle Warfare school in the jungles of Okinawa, Japan. He now enjoys recreational shooting, trail running, hiking, functional fitness, and working on his truck. Scott resides in Northeastern Ohio.
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