Why I ALWAYS Have These 4 Items in My Pockets

I've built quite an elaborate everyday carry (EDC) pockets-only kit over the years. In this video I look at these 4 items which are based on a specific 'augmentation' philosophy.
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#edc

[@BenVallack]

Part 2 of this series here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rZ7ZoYZnrLpmibssi=5rT4T1-CAO-tVmFt

[@bmcc12]

I’m over seventy five years old, and I have not yet had to quickdraw anything from my pocket yet. I must live a charmed life!

[@thejunkyardnecromancer]

It's interesting that the UK doesn't allow locking knives. Here in the USA it's considered a safety thing so the blade doesn't fold back on your hand. Excellent video!

[@maxsparks5183]

In the UK, safety is not a consideration. Controlling the subjects trumps all. 😖

[@thejunkyardnecromancer]

@@maxsparks5183 that is unfortunate. :/

[@mikeappleget482]

@@thejunkyardnecromancerThey get free healthcare but they don’t get to carry a Ka-Bar. Such a sad existence to live in.

[@jamesbranston5098]

Just to add a little complexity to the uk knife law thing, our laws state that we are not allowed to carry a knife with a blade that isn't immediately foldable (non locking) and no longer than 3 inches without good reason. This does mean however that if we have a good reason (as determined by the police etc if we're ever found with a knife) we can carry any knife we need.

[@MegaRiffraff]

@@mikeappleget482 they also get to wait 6 months to see a doctor , up to 1 year for a procedure 😀 also get to pay up to %45 personal taxes 🤑

[@ernestsmith3581]

Pen, paper, butane lighter, and cheap reading glasses are the essentials for this 70+ yo. If I weren't bad about losing them, a multi tool or knife would be next, so I just keep them in the vehicles and in known locations around the house. Good video. Thanks.

[@ernestsmith3581]

Oh, and single led mini keychain light!

[@ourkeving]

​@@ernestsmith3581a light is so helpful in finding things. Changing the way it's lit or change in shadow, and "it" suddenly appears. I'm really good at hiding things from myself.

[@joshcarter-com]

As I get older my main challenge is seeing things clearly, so eyeglasses and light are critical. Around the house, LED headlamps have proven great when working on anything with small parts. LED panels on stands (like photographers use) have proven great for my workbench.

[@lacanian_lifter]

As I told a skeptical friend, it’s not that most people *need* a robust EDC-it’s that it’s useful if you want to be useful. Great video.

[@Storebrand_]

The thing about most EDC is people think they don't need a certain tool until they carry it and realize how many opportunities there are. Most have just coped with not having the tools, but the fact remains that many situations could be resolved quicker had they carried a few basic tools. I carry a Milwaukee penlight with a laser and a Leatherman Micra, they cover almost every mundane task.

[@darryllspalding9680]

so youre a secretary looking for keyholes at night?

[@dlighted8861]

How is that Milwaukee penlight?

[@Storebrand_]

@@dlighted8861 It's actually my first flashlight so I can't compare it, but i like it. The natural light is awesome. I work as a handyman and i paint ocasionally, the light color reall comes in handy for spotting lacking paint when the old and new paint are very similar in color. Cool colored lights actually make touchups invisible. It only has two brightness settings but i think they're set apart enough in brightness so they both have their uses. Only real downside is the laser button sits proud of the body and is getting worn down from sliding in and out of my pocket. The laser button was small to begin with and only getting smaller and harder to press with time. Haven't used the light for its full battery life but it's lasted longer than I've needed it.

[@TheScience69]

I carry my wallet. Tends to solve most problems.

[@Storebrand_]

@@darryllspalding9680 I'm a handyman and the truck carry's all the tools. I carry a hip bag in my backpack with my most frequently used tools so I don't have to dig through boxes. Maybe if you're not doing real work sure you can carry everything you need, but I've never seen a hard working man carry all his tools in his pockets. Usually it's a big truck with a service bed.

[@zickzack7986]

I loved your in pocket edc video. It made me set up a small tool kit around a ratchet bit driver, knipex pliers and a SAK in a leather organizer, which i carried for months before getting tired of the bulge just recently. Now I already missed my tools on several occasions. You are publishing this video right on time for me and it is so concise. It‘s such a relief to have you kind of round up all my random thoughts about what did not fit in the past and turn it into a kind of actionable list of what to look for in my edc items. Thanks a lot!

[@Errcyco]

That's a great setup. The coolest part of EDC is you can spend like $2,000 or $100. I carry: Kizer Squidward - $34 on amazon sale Olight i5t - $21 Leather magazine holder (as a wallet) - $30 Clipper torch lighter - $6 like $80 and I really love it all.

[@ronammologist16]

Add a 100% cotton handkerchief to your list. invaluable from time to time for a whole list of needs, and super comfortable to cary.

[@rawpraisehorn5716]

Have thought about that. Instead I carry a couple of folded up paper towels. The cotton cloth would have more uses than the paper towels . I think I will try that for a while .

[@ronammologist16]

@@rawpraisehorn5716 a quick story. Back in 1961 I was 7 years old. My dad and I were crossing a street and a little old lady was steping off the curb to cross in the opposite direction. She fell in the street. Bleeding badly from mourh or nose! My dad helped her up and sat her on the curb. He produced the clean hanky he always carried and usd it to help stop the blood. There was a pop-corn vender just inside the Sears store and he got ice water there. Before long we had her across the street and on her way taking dads hanky with her. I remember asking about it, and he told me to ALLWAYS cary a clean hanky, you never know who may need it! Now Im 70. I have a clean hanky In my pocket right now.

[@Cale_Davison]

Traditional: hankie in right rear pocket. 😊

[@mguerramd]

@@rawpraisehorn5716I also carry two folded paper towels.

[@robertbarnum7541]

Great video, because you refer to what a person can do daily. During my working life I always carried a Bic lighter, a smallish thin folding knife, and a pair of nail clippers (splinters, etc). In every job I had.

[@susseratal]

I've been really thinking about my EDC recently. Whenever I go out I've always got my phone, wallet, keys, lip-balm, handkerchief, pocket notebook, a pen & pencil. Unfortunately I'm still finding that I'm coming up short in a number of different random scenarios. I've been making notes of the things I find myself needing the most, and I'm trying to work out what the best solution for me is, whether it's a multi-tool or a set of individual tools or what. Always interesting to hear your thoughts on a topic like this, and I will definitely be factoring this into my research. Excellent video as always Ben!

[@BenVallack]

Many thanks for your comment. Yeah it’s hard coming up with a good EDC. This video shows one part of what I carry - the rest will be in other videos. I do think grouping first and foremost by the things you need instant access to vs the stuff you can afford a bit more time to get at is a good place to start though.

[@markrichter2053]

After my door keys, it’s handkerchief and lip balm for me too. Those are my 3 essentials. Since a kid I’ve never gone anywhere without a hanky and as I have to breath through my mouth a lot I can’t go far without lip balm. I only just learnt recently that lip balm makes a great survival tool because, smeared on cotton wool it makes a fire lighter

[@MrkwlCS]

Man I love the way your brain works. It’s always bringing a new perspective of EDC for me.

[@gameworkerty]

I dream of carrying absolutely nothing in my pockets, maybe one day.

[@BenVallack]

Yeah I like the idea, but then I need a tool!

[@jaspervanestelfeen2173]

I wonder what prevents someone to have nothing in his pocket

[@gameworkerty]

@@jaspervanestelfeen2173 last time I tried it I couldn't get into my house or my car and I couldn't call anyone for help so I ran crying down the street, eventually I ran out of tears but I had no money to buy water, I'm still out there to this day.

[@magicbeetle2292]

Grow your finger nails out, get eye shine implants from eastern Europe , hone your mental abilities to remember and track events , trane hand strength, and learn friction fire making techniques. Become a physical god

[@zebanon5]

Better start conditioning those hands. A little bit of time and effort, and you'll be pounding nails and crushing walnuts barehanded! You got this, bud.

[@jbull1178]

I carry a very similar setup. I have a solis but carry my Gslip more often and I was carrying the Olight Baton 3 everyday until a couple days ago when I got the 4. Its nice to find another EDC person from the UK!

[@mikeclare5907]

Thanks for the content and its good to have a Brit sounding voice chatting about the virtues of EDC in its most basic form. Good to know there is someone else on the same page :) Best wishes Mike in County Durham

[@stevanoutdoor]

It's always interesting to see peoples idea's on pocket EDC. Of course it's always personal and depending on the environment and laws of the country, state or even city you live in. Where I do have a small pry bar it's on my key chain. It does have the bottle opener part so in case of an emergency I can use a shoelace and this pry bar as a tourniquet and lock it it place hooking the cordage into the bottle opener part. I do also carry a small metal flash drive (USB stick) in my jeans coin pocket. My key chain also has a loud whistle and a tick remover.

[@lewis9888]

I'm retired and live on my farm, so I carry a full size crowbar in my van. I carry a small flashlight, pocket knife and a Bic lighter in my pocket. I don't go very far from my van so I am not worried about not having a mini crowbar in my pocket. When I am cutting wood, my van is near. When I am camping in the back woods or in a State Park, my van is near. Be prepared and be safe my friends.

[@johnbooth3073]

I have a brass Zippo from 1982 I don’t use it because it’s smelly and evaporates, so the turbo flame insert is perfect. Great idea. I haven’t decided which UK friendly to go for yet.

[@NotTheWheel]

Insightful video I'll check out more of this content later. Always interesting to see what tools are most handy.

[@milo.t_]

You and I seems have similar things in our pocket but mine are a little different. I used to carry lighter but it get very little use and got me into trouble a bit at some check points. I also used to carry small safety cutter but since 2020 some air ports doesn't allow any kind of razor blade onboard so after they took 3 of those tiny safety cutters from me, I now carry a tiny 1 inch folding knife which actually allowed. I don't carry any pry bars but I do have a bottle opener as my key chain so I can either use the opener or the keys for that. I also carry a tiny SIM ejector because sometimes paper clip isn't small enough to poke into some holes or push something out of tight spots. I also always have tiny bottle of petroleum jelly or shea butter for my lips, skin, or to put on fresh cuts. Another thing I like to have in my pocket is the paper measure tapes that they giveaway for free at Ikea. I like to have one or two of those to measure things and I can also note on them. It's better than steel measuring tapes I used to carry.

[@ZacchaeusNifong]

I dropped my Leatherman that I had been carrying for almost 20 years for a new setup. Pocket knife (I like Spyderco, but you could use a Benchmade) + Gerber Shard + OLIGHT flashlight. I use the Shard for prying and opening boxes etc. The real brute force tool. And the knife for everything else you mentioned. Really cool video brother. Enjoy.

[@danielchapter70128]

That little Olight Pmini is the shizzzz. I love mine. It really shines when you mate it with the Velcro patch it comes with as an optional accessory, attached to a bag/jacket/hat. Instant hands free light!

[@BenVallack]

Yeah such a brilliant thing!!

[@tokiomitohsaka7770]

I have never carried any of these before, but that flashlight looks super useful, especially with how early the sun sets in the winter.

[@donaldstrader7241]

I always carry a flashlight, often one like that, in neutral white, and use it everyday, multiple times. The new version which is also mentioned, is the Olight Perun Mini 2 is a little better for EDC (unless one has a lot of velcro on their clothes/hat to use the original one with a velcro patch). It has a bit of a hot spot, which may not be quite as good for even illumination as the original, but gives more throw for EDC aspects. The clip can be left on and used with the headband. The original went a different direction and the clip hooked into a rotating tube. Having red or flashing red for emergencies is also useful. Another EDC factor is that the new one has a battery lever indicator. Now the Perun or Perun 2 will also fit in the new Baton 4 charging case which makes a nice kit as you always have a light, the case can be charged with a standard USB C cord, and it can be used as a powerbank. It pisses me off a bit that when Olight has a sale they have been leaving the NW Perun 2 at full price, so that has kept me from recommending the package as many times. I can live with the CW Baton 4 for its brightness and efficiency, but headlamps should always be neutral white for better perception and to avoid disrupting one's circadian rhythms.

[@christianwilliams1690]

My current carry solution is a Victorinox Bantam Alox, which comes with a well-sized pry, a good blade, a bottle opener and the ability to turn screws in a pinch, a Zippo lighter with a standard kerosene insert, and a pair of Knipex pliers. Also on my keyring I have one of those tiny torches. This is how I've done things for the last couple months (prior to that it was the same minus the knipex) and I'm really happy. My setup is super minimal, but that allows me to add and remove stuff as needed. If I'm doing work around the house I can easily add a full size screwdriver and fixed blade knife and still have access to all my other gear. Keeping things stripped back also allows me to get to everything while wearing gloves, which I often do due to work. I've had my eye on the Perun Mini for a while now. I like the right-angle layout. My main complaint is needing yet another charger.

[@OutlawCaliber13]

I've had a couple folding knives close on me while being used. I have a high distrust of them. I only carry fixed blade belt knives.

[@HappyOrwell]

Excellent taste in gear and very watchable vid. I highly recommend the Gondek EDC, fullsize, Executive pry bar, it’s a very minimal prybar, easy to clean, and I’ve been carrying it daily for 2 and a half years and I like how streamlined it is

[@BenVallack]

Thanks very much. Will check this out!

[@BloodGrooveKnives]

What have you discovered yourself using the pry bar for? I truly can’t imagine a need for one in my daily life. What am I overlooking as far as its usefulness?

[@st2rseeker]

Great video! One suggestion: dual flame (torch and regular) insert for the Zippo. Sometimes keeping the torch activated is not comfortable, so having an open flame is handy.

[@ObservantPiratePlus]

Amazon has various butane inserts, including dual torch flame, single torch flame, yellow flame (the one I bought), and electric arc.

[@peterweller8583]

Hey thanks for taking the time to tell us what it has in it's pockets. I carry a sheep's foot locking knife a sharpie an I-Phone &ear buds and a Zippo. I did like your pry bar and would like to pick that up.

[@mcsequoia5107]

Although everyone has different needs from their EDC, a big one for me is that whatever EDC items I carry in my pockets they're inexpensive, small & light. For example, I'd carry a disposable Bic lighter over a Zippo, a pen style battery operated flashlight and a box cutter. I cringe every time someone pulls out a knife to open a package, cut cardboard, etc. Also, if you lose, break or have any of these items stolen, they''re quickly, cheaply & easily replaced. I also have no problem with letting anyone use them and maybe even keep them if they're really in need. The last thing I'd suggest is a carpenter's pencil for writing & marking. They're cheap, flat, light & easy to sharpen on the go. Tons of options out there and maybe this is the old, grumpy man coming out, but I feel like EDC has become kind of a penis measuring, socioeconomic flex, cool/hip one-up pocket sport more than just being practical and being able to engage with the world as you're moving through it.

[@RSLtreecare]

Hi Ben, I looked a littel deeper, I found the links. They all look very helpful. Thanks.

[@rubenmyburgh4012]

Love this idea, My setup is a SAK Compact (prybar/ scissors), skeletool (knife openable with one hand), Olight i5R. This is a kit where the sum is greater than the parts

[@macekreislahomes1690]

Knife, prybar, flashlight/ mini flashlight mulitool, Zippo Lighter and mini firestarter kit, keys and wallet with multi tools that can be carried in wallet or on keychain, handkerchiefs and mini first aid/personal hygiene kit.

[@twalk6164]

Grreat approach: augmentation, sikmple, fast,efficient. Well done.

[@dragonwisard]

Not sure if it's legal where you live, but I carry the Leatherman Skeletool. It comes in a variety of blade styles, or there are some third party replacements depending on your preferences or requirements. The knife can be opened and closed one handed as it's on the outside of the tool. Unlike some multitools they aren't trying to cram in every tool under the sun. It's an easy access knife, pliers, a driver with replaceable bits, and a clip that doubles as a bottle opener. The bits for the driver are double-sided, and it stores one extra bit in the handle. I usually keep a flat head that I can use as a prybar or scraper, along with whatever other bit I expect to need. Most days that's the standard Phillips bit, but sometimes it's a #3 for my snowboard bindings or a hex bit for my camera gear. The extra bit kit that Leatherman sells is also pocketable, but at that point I'll typically bring a pair of Fix-It-Sticks. Personally, I find having a good screwdriver and pliers come in handy enough to justify the multitool. Also, the carabiner clip has been handy more often than you might expect. If I anticipate needing a more specific knife I'll just carry another knife on my belt. I also carry an Olight, but opted for the pocket friendly Arkfeld with a laser for my cat.

[@davebaconusa1062]

“Augmentation” and “manipulating the world around you” are such great ways to explain the need for these tools.

[@MattM-ce3qe]

I do same thing. I have a zippo, a torch, a pen and knife. Always in the pocket of my coat. Haven't thought of a prybar before. Good video.

[@theeddorian]

EDC is interesting. Many of us have a common number of items we carry, but they aren't the same items. I carry a three-blade, stockman style, pocket knife which sees use nearly every day. It takes two hands to open, but, I don't think I've ever _needed_ to open a knife one-handed. It's more convenient, but so far, not essential. I also carry a loupe (10X), and a nail clippers. The clippers are the kind that has a small file that swings out to use. They are something I consider essential to first aid, as is the longer blade on my knife. I keep it sharp enough to remove splinters. In addition, I have my keys.

[@sir5it777]

Great EDC, mine has become almost the same four items plus a pen, tweezers (sliver grippers) and fingernail clippers (victorinox). Very handy

[@markrichter2053]

My favourite edc knife at the moment is also the Real Steel Solace Lite. It’s super slicey, slim and ultra light, with a real thin behind the edge easy to strop up to shaving sharp. I love the blade shape for opening packages and boxes and food tasks as well as little DIY jobs. But because it’s less than £30 I don’t feel precious about it. I totally love my Heinnie Haynes/Real Steel Barlow, which ticks all the same boxes except that at £75 I do feel rather precious about it which somewhat inhibits the ways I use it. Although it’s my favourite knife and it is way up there for me in usefulness. I carry a small torch in a belt pouch and I often carry my Alox Pioneer because I use the large screwdriver so much as a pry-bar and I use the spike a lot, especially as a bradawl. I love the butane insert for the zippo

[@jayhershey7525]

I liked your video, especially the part about the pry-bar. Very interesting.

[@Maxtcc]

you can reshape and sharpen that prybar to any useful form that you find necessary, eg hook, or can opener . relatively easy to do

[@Jakoshdw]

I "in pocket" carry my EDC for work as a bag isn't currently viable. However, I utilize several pocket organizer pouches which still allow me to access individual items. It allows me to carry the much larger array of items I need and still keep them effectively instantly available by holding them in a specific orientation. (This includes a custom Victorinox Yeoman and Olight Arkfeld Pro on the outside of the pouch that serves as my wallet... as well as a Pen, Marker, Prybar, and worksharp pocket sharpener/bit driver in another 4 slot organizer.) I can access any of these items by feel except the sharpener as its a tight fit in it's pouch. As I wear cargo pants... these organizers free up my standard pockets for my phone, keys, pocket knife... and I don't rattle and clink with each step like some weird version of a one man percussion section.

[@noisycarlos]

Ben has the same pocket size as Guybrush Threepwood! In all seriousness. That was pretty interesting. I'm a pocket minimalist (phone, slim wallet, keys in a keysmart), but lately I've added a pair of noise-cancelling earbuds and it's been amazing. Not only because I can hear my phone in any environment, but for the ability to reduce the volume of noisy environments. Yesterday at a loud Christmas party, I was the only one that could hear other people over the crowd noise 😊

[@grah.n333]

Hey great vid, bought a Greber chonk of the back of it as no vero available. Love the augmented philosophy. Thanks

[@franksullivan1873]

I do the same thing except the knife in my multi-tool serves as one of my needs so that with a lighter and a small flash light equal three as essential.Also wrap you lighter in duct tape.You can peel it off and use as a fire starter.

[@anthonyhitchings1051]

All I carry is a handkerchief - its served me well over 50 years

[@shayes.x]

For a torch I've been carrying the Nicron N7, I'm not sure if it's available in the UK though. But it's relatively slim as it runs on a single AA or 14500 (AA size but higher voltage), and the head can swivel 90 degrees. In any case, I've found that I love having a flashlight with me at all times. Along with my EDC knife, I have all the tools I need perosonally nearly all the time.

[@suede__]

You should add to that a survival frog usb recharchable AA

[@davidgray3294]

Great ideas for edc. The zippo wick worked well if people weaved the wick as Zippo describes. The butane is nice and convenient for sure

[@buckleymordecai9605]

Really helpful, interesting vid.! Thanks!

[@robhead22]

Excellent. Thank you!

[@dynomitejec]

I remember my dad talking about when he was young a zippo was really windproof, he said he could hold the lighter and blow on the flame enough to make it wrap all the way around to the other side of his hand. I would only assume that the fluid was just made differently back then, less eco-friendly more fire. Maybe it was just him.

[@BenVallack]

Maybe he'd just spilt a load on his hand!

[@maxlvledc]

Love seeing you making more edc vids!

[@BenVallack]

Thanks! Great to have you here. Have loads more lined up.

[@BenVallack]

Everyone, check this guy’s channel out if you haven’t already!

[@AandB1998]

I carry a Sog Fielder, I switch traditional pocket knives daily (to include a SAK Woodsman on occasions),a Rovyvon A7, keys on a KeySmart system, my wallet, and my phone. I rarely need much else at 53.

[@WickdPerfekT]

These are my favorite videos on KZbin.

[@15halerobert]

I’ve always carried a Swiss Army knife type pocket knife as well as a bic lighter in my pocket. But I never thought about a small pry the would be much stronger than anything on my knife. That plus a very small flashlight seems like great additions to my pockets

[@AeronPrince]

Not an edc light, but I am a huge fan of the Olight ball lights. The magnet base is so nifty.

[@AllenReinecke]

My EDC kit is a knife, flashlight, whistle and an Rx pill capsule. The knife and flashlight get used everyday. When we lived in Texas, the additional item was my handgun! 😉

[@backwoodstrails]

Nice video. The flashlight has a magnetic charger, a proprietary charger, which, if you travel a lot is not ideal. If you lose your cable, it is much easier to find a USB-C or Micro USB cable pretty much anywhere, even gas stations carry these. This issue has come up for me in the past so I avoid anything with a proprietary cable to charge.

[@BenVallack]

Yeah it’s definitely something to keep in mind. It’s not caught me out yet but I will add a charger to my travel kit and/or car kit soon I think.

[@andiandika8812]

@@BenVallacki just use AAA or AA flashlight.

[@eberts0604]

Or, you could just use the light on your phone.

[@bretts6127]

If you can modify one edge on the prybar to be more of a chisel edge they can be really handy for ripping packages .

[@ken481959]

I stopped carrying a folding knife many years ago when I got a Gerber multi tool, but I have never liked the knife. So, a few years ago I bought the smallest straight knife I liked, which is a Buck with a 4 inch blade. I lives on my belt next to my Gerber tool, and I use one or both of them every day.

[@Yvola]

leatherman signal, leatherman wave and a few others have the blades on the outside of the multi tool, and they are quite easy to open and the lock open

[@kamirostorino9416]

I usually carry following things: Pack of smokes and lighter (electric lighter with flashlight and regular bic one) a phone (never go out without my phone) folding pocket knife and depending on where I go I may have a fixed blade knife or even a sword at my hip (in my area you can open carry fixed blade knives and even swords. however concealed weapons like cane sword are outlawed)

[@MB_EDC]

Great video as always Ben. So have you ditched the other items in your pocket. I tried setting up my own pocket sysem with pouches - but in the end I always fall back to: Gerber shard and olight i3E Eos (on keychain), Victorinox Midnite manager and another knife - varying from Victorinox Pioneer X alox, Bantam alox, Real Steel Luna lite or Boker Barlow - depending on my day ahead. I really like the look of the Solis - especially in black it looks more discrete and less threatening that the Luna which is a bit pointy!!

[@BenVallack]

The other items have seen quite a bit of a change too, more details soon!

[@russellsmith5278]

I used to have a similar pocket light to you, but switched to the "NEBO Slim Mini" - it's flat, and usb-c, and cheap - but also great!

[@BenVallack]

That does look really cool - but quite a drop in brightness. I do love having the 1000 lumens available heh

[@russellsmith5278]

@@BenVallack 100% but the form factor won for me - for most of my use (finding shit I dropped, not tripping on stuff) it's actually usually more than enough! YMMV!

[@rawpraisehorn5716]

I started carrying a small Nebo also. The thing is amazing . Very bright, easy to recharge ,not very expensive, durable . I built a small leather auxiliary pocket which I carry on my belt next to several other black leather “ auxiliary pockets” that have other EDC items in them.

[@chiffonkek2]

Great philosophy! I think I have most bases covered with my kit as well but I'm definitely not as efficient as this haha

[@miken7629]

A nail clipper would get used more and the bar to pinch it down is a pry bar. I carry lighter, knife, watch, & AAA flashlight in my pocket. I have a belt clip that carries Ferro Rod/Striker, Whistle, Compass, 6' Paracord in Cobra Weave

[@tomtucker83]

The only thing I've ever regularly carried for past sixty years is some form of Swiss Army knife, no safety problems using a non-locking blade. Anything larger tends get left in the drawer. Petzl led headtorch for late dog walks in winter. I've spent most of my time as a vehicle technician and to be honest, most of these very expensive tiny pry-bars and multi-tools seem to be a bit of a joke for real work.

[@raven_glass]

Wanted to chime in that the Leatherman P4 and Wave+ multitools have easy one handed knife open. Other Leatherman models do also, but those are the two I am personally familiar with.

[@nurabsol]

Yes! I came to the same conclusions/philosophy. Long ago I tried to carry a multi tool, but 9/10 times I would just go looking for the full-sized version b/c it was less hassle and the bulk was a pain in the ass (sometimes literally). Years later, I decided to just commit to always carrying a light and the thinnest folding knife I could fine--this actually worked great and gave me that instant capability-augmentation I had always wanted. Originally started with a Nitecore MT10C (great, but pretty fat at 26mm diam.) and an SOG Slimjim XL (Great, but difficult to open and too long. The shorter version was too short and wouldn't reliably lock with opening momentum). Now I carry a EagleTac D25A Titanium (17mm diam.) and a CRKT LCK+ (12mm). Light, slim, and high performing (wish the eagtac had a two-way clip, tho). Olight S1R Baton II (two-way clip!) is also great and I carry it sometimes. Kershaw 1776 Link SpeedSafe Assisted Flipper is a great knife and my 2nd most-common EDC.

[@BenVallack]

Awesome!

[@babyscreams6343]

I think the one that will surprise anyone (who has never carried one) the most is the flashlight. I started carrying a flashlight 10 years ago. It was a gift from a friend. I was skeptical and “don’t want to carry a bunch of STUFF all the time”, but I gave it a chance because I trusted my friend. It did not take long before I realized just how frequently it is useful. I think it comes in handy more often than my knife.

[@lynnglidewell7367]

My phone comes with a flashlight so I can alleviate the need for another. The pry bar is an excellent idea. Lighter and multi tool are common sense. Small one hand knife is a good idea as well. I always carry a small foldable pocket knife by Case but its use requires both hands. Here in the U.S. we don't have an abundance of laws regarding knifes like the U.K. does except carrying them into government offices and on planes since 9-11 occurred. Very useful ideas in this video.

[@Backstabbio]

I keep my Knipex 87-100 mini Cobra pliers, a little brass flashlight that's nicely bright, and a knife that Blackie Collins designed for Meyerco, which features an AUS-8 blade from Seki, Japan, and a flip-out pair of needle nose with bit-holder at the opposite end. My other tool is my toaster, in case I need to neutralize a threat.

[@gilalvarado9237]

As a young boy, ever since I first saw the movie "In Like Flint", I have been obsessed with gadgets and multi tools that you can have with you on your person. Still looking for the 85 function cigarette lighter but I guess an iPhone and a few other things will do.

[@mouxou97]

One of the best pry bars ever is a $10 Brake Caliper tool from an auto repair shop. Very tough, very simple. More useful than all the trendy ones advertised on Facebook IMO.

[@Dojibu]

I usually tell my coworkers to carry something to write with, something to cut with, and a source of light. Due to work regulations, I don't emphasize the fire as much but it's still something I carry. Will definitely have to add a pocket prybar to my arsenal.

[@aries6776]

Same here. I never thought about a prybar but then I remember gingerly using my knife as one many times.

[@xrzeropoint7989]

An arms length of duct tape rerolled into a tight bundle is always handy. I don't use it as EDC but I wrap a length of that around each zipper handle of my military sleeping bag system. But one tightly packed one can slip into a pocket. I have six zipper handles that keep clinking and clanking together making constant metal noise so it stops all that racket plus I don't have to carry around a full heavy bulky roll of it when camping.

[@BenVallack]

I do have some in my wallet kzbin.info/www/bejne/rZ7ZoYZnrLpmibs

[@xrzeropoint7989]

@@BenVallack Ah! Very good!

[@sapperjaeger]

Well done!

[@Lostinthesand]

Nice to know about these things.

[@facelesssman]

Excellent info and presentation…. 🙏🏻🇺🇸

[@barrywuthrich8530]

Good ideas. I'm in Texas, so I add a Ruger LCPII 380 in my front pocket and 2 spare magazines on my belt in a multitool holder.

[@UguysRnuts]

The ultimate survival tool.

[@ianwalker1182]

My minimum EDC, after the almost obligatory keys, phone, and cash, is a pre-SD SAK Classic and an Olight i1R2, I have not needed bottle and can openers when out-and-about for a long time, and I have tools at home and work. Sometimes I carry a Swiss Champion and a large torch in pouchies on my belt.

[@BenVallack]

You're describing what I would call the preparedness role items. There augmentation type tools are more for day to day improvements to your physical abilities. Opening a big of coffee in the kitchen, just grab the knife with one hand and cut it open. It's so convenient it's easier that finding the kitchen scissors to do the job. That's what is so interesting about this kit.

[@chevy4x466]

My edc current is built around my keychain tools: Gerber dime has incredible spring loaded pliers paired with a pry tool. The other tools on the dime r garbage. But I have pliers, package opener, low quality scissors ✂️ and a pry tool for about 4 ounces in my pocket all on my keychain.

[@shawnlavigne9069]

I'm a knife and watch guy, so I always have these two items on my person. Plus, I really like the Leatherman Bond.

[@CuriousFocker]

The Olight Perun 2 is a head torch that you can remove the torch element to clip onto something with the pocket clip or magnet.

[@BenVallack]

I would describe more as a normal periscope torch that comes with an optional head band!

[@comlbbeau]

Benchmade Griptilian, Maratac LED flashlight, small Swiss penknife, and spare magazine (not the kind you read). Never leave home without them.

[@blueeyeswhitedragon9839]

Instead of the prybar tool, l carry a Swiss Army knife. The specific SAK depends on the season, pant or jacket pocket carry, and intended use...some variability here due to the need and availability of tools on SAK's. The other items you mentioned are also carried daily, every day as part of my EDC kit. Also, some medications...for diabetes, pain, potential heart attack (ASA), bandages...just in case l spend the night unexpectedly somewhere other than home. And a large garbage bag (for shelter, rain protection, etc.) Other items include :- mini ferro rod, tiny container of petroleum jelly and cotton balls, water/windproof matches, some lightweight cordage, lip balm (a great fire starter, sun protection), and credit cards and CASH...enough to get me through an emergency hotel stay, restaurant meal or store purchases if power outages means that credit/debit cards are useless. Edit:- cell phone !🙂

[@BenVallack]

Nice - yeah I also carry a SAK in my other pocket. The Huntsman at the moment. I don’t consider it part of the augmentation kit though so saved it for another video 😀

[@tonyw8018]

Check out the Rapid PL 1AA flashlight, 4.24" L., submersible up to 2 meters and three settings available at 5.11. Great video.

[@jonlouis2582]

I've now watched a multitude of your edc videos which were very erudite, and well produced, but now I'm more confused than before about what to actually carry. I guess everyone needs to find their own path.

[@BenVallack]

Thanks, yeah it constantly changes too. I think the way to do it might be to pick some of core philosophies that interest you the most and just start running with it.

[@drakocarrion]

My EDC torch of choice is the Rovyvon A8. Much smaller than that Olight

[@matrixlockdown2975]

Carry: Cold Steel Ti-Lite 4", Leatherman Wave + multitool w dual bit kit, Streamlight 053995 (USB rechargeable), brass Zippo. What people don't realize about Zippos is that they don't necessarily need lighter fluid, you can use the same fuels you use in a lantern in a Zippo and it will work fine. Or oil, alcohol, whatever you have really, just nothing explosively combustible (gas).

[@seangreen6456]

Zippos are so cool, I have a brass one from my grandfather that is amongst my most prized possessions. That being said, a Bic is just so much more reliable that it is all I carry.

[@NaMSRi19]

How do you find it switching from the Luna to the Solis? I’m hearing it’s harder to one-hand open it due to the stronger back spring?

[@BenVallack]

Exactly that - took a bit of effort to learn how to one-hand open and I guess it’s still not super easy but it’s doable.

[@Demosophist]

In the US small fixed blades are coming into vogue for pocket carry. As far as folding knives, there are so many better choices... but they're all probably illegal in the UK. The CIVIVI Elementum is my favorite and is pretty inexpensive, but I also like Kershaw knives, like the Leek and the Blur. But those are almost certainly illegal in the UK. Todd Begg designed a friction folder version of the Glimpse that's completely legal in the UK, but it'll cost you around £325.00. Personally, if I lived in the UK I'd save up and buy that. It's beautiful. Just gorgeous. Note, however, that Begg Knives is not the same company as Todd Begg. Begg Knives does make a version of the Mini Glimpse that's quite a bit cheaper, but it's not a friction folder. It's a flipper with a locking blade made in China, and you can't even take it apart to service it. I wouldn't buy one, just because of the bad blood over his brother stealing his company and his designs.

[@eighteenin78]

I have a Zippo identical to the outer casing of yours. I found that as a non-smoker who rarely used it, it was never there for me when I needed it because of evaporation. I didn't know about the inserts for butane. I might look into that. Otherwise it is a Bic lighter or matches.

[@BenVallack]

I love the butane insert - find myself using it all the time. Lighting birthday candled, normal candles, camping cookers, melting paracord etc. Really good that it works upside down without burning your fingers.

[@user-yi3ox8wy4k]

I still prefer a fluid-filled Zippo over gas-insert versions or Clipper lighters. With a bit of adjustment to insert & lid, you can get great seal, so it lasts weeks; it stays lit without having to hold anything down, and generally stays lit better in the wind than non-jet gas lighters; carrying small amounts of refill liquid on your person is easier/more compact than butane cans. Still carry a Clipper too, because they are so reliable over time and can be used more easily at angles etc

[@LEVELGAZANOW]

In my State, in the US, I legally carry a 3.5” Katana Gerber switchblade. Much easier to use than the thumb flick mechanism. I need to look at your pry bar for an EDC tool. I never considered that as an everyday carry. The only thing I have different that I carry in both the US and, when I was stationed in the UK, is my Walther PPK .32. I never go anywhere without a viable “deterrent” to people with misguided ideals. Great video!

[@aries6776]

You were allowed to walk around with a PPK in the UK?

[@LEVELGAZANOW]

@@aries6776 yep, Israel, Italy and France

[@Scummy_shovel]

That pry bar is awesome. I have never seen one of those. For sure need to add that to my edc

[@BenVallack]

It’s nice, super expensive though and I’m a bit disappointed it didn’t manage to open that rock! Someone else noted wisely here that titanium isn’t as strong as steel so I wonder if steel would be the better option for something like this.

[@Scummy_shovel]

@@BenVallack steel probably would. But then you have the weight aspect. I ordered one lastnight. Almost 100$. I guess that’s pretty expensive. But I ruined a 300$ knife once prying on stuff so. I just replaced that knife so it was worth it to me lol

[@1300buckvtx]

​@@BenVallackwhats the name for that prybar . Great video for pockets only carry. Cheers

[@aries6776]

@@BenVallack Titanium is stronger weight for weight but has the tendency to be more brittle so it will break rather than deform like steel.

[@iwantcheesypuffs]

In the US, you can legally have a Conan Broadsword strapped to your back, not in the sheath, and you're good to go. You might get some calls on ya, but it's perfectly legal (at least in my home state). Dual carry machete to the grocery store -- no problem. It's called FREEDOM. Pry bar tool could also be used to break glass from inside the car, or fire alarm, or just a real bear of an ingrown toenail.

[@jsmith6599]

My philosophy is that I should carry on myself only those items which absolutely needs to be at hand and weights as little as possible. Therefore, I have a very tiny multitool and a flashlight on a keyring. Those items are very versatile. The multitool have a small knife, pliers, AND tiny scissors (I found them to work unexpectedly better in cutting fingernails than a large scissors from a full-sized multitool), a SIM pin (it's ridiculous how few even a top tier multitools have that in our day and age!), combined can/bottle opener (don't really need it: most cans nowadays are opened by a key and drinks are sold either in aluminium cans or plastic bottles), flat and phillips screwdrivers. Flashlight is rechargeable, small, flat, have a magnet and a a leg - you can placed on a table, floor or any metal surface. Also, it have a carabiner with which I fasten it to a keyring, also I could wear it on paracord around my neck. The keyring attached to a belt with a safety cord and can be used as an improvised self defence weapon in a pinch. That is all for now, the rest of items can seat in a bag when the need for them would arise. I used to carry a folding knife in a closed holster, but people sometimes noticed it and asked questions what it is and why I carry it. Now I want a knife with a clip that could provide a concealed carry in a pocket.

[@BenVallack]

The pin in my SAK gets used as a SIM tool more than anything else!

[@leifforrest]

A fixed blade knife will always be pulled out for use faster than any folder. A sheath means you don't ever have to set it down and risk losing it. Either use it or put it back in the sheath. A disposable lighter lasts longer and is less likely to leak in your pockets. Zippos ARE cool though.