Recently I spent a lot of time researching and compiling information about Everyday Carry.
“Everyday Carry, or EDC, generally refers to small items or gadgets worn, carried, or made available in pockets, holsters, or bags on a daily basis to manage common tasks or for use in unexpected situations or emergencies. In a broader sense, it is a lifestyle, discipline, or philosophy of preparedness.”
Here’s a photo of some of the items that I include in my EDC (Everyday Carry), and why I chose those specific items.
- Smith and Wesson Body Guard .380 Auto pistol. This little pistol is easy to carry and easy to conceal. It holds 6+1 rounds and has a built in laser sight. I chose this micro pistol because it was the easiest trigger for me, had a built in safety and the slide was easy to rack. Yes I have a Concealed License and I think everyone should consider getting one. Just be familiar with your firearm, know and follow the laws and get good training!
- Paracord Lanyard or Bracelet. When I leave the house I always have a paracord lanyard or bracelet on my person. Lately it’s been the bracelet because I don’t have to worry about keeping up with it in my pockets. Paracord is a very useful cord and will support 550 pounds per strand!
- A ring. This isn’t my wedding ring even though I wear it every day as well. This ring is silver and can easily be bartered for cash or other items I may find myself without. It’s a way of carrying currency with me everywhere I go. Just make sure it isn’t flashy and keep it hidden if you think you may be in a high-risk situation.
- Cell Phone. A cell phone is a great way to communicate in the event of an emergency. I can call my family or friends for them to come help me, and I can be reached easily if something happens at home when I’m not there. The 911 feature will still work if there is no active plan on the phone, and because data can work when the voice feature may not you can always try to “text” for help. A North Texas law enforcement agent was able to text for help when he fell down a well a few months ago! Plus a search and rescue party can possibly triangulate my location from my cellphone signal. Remember to keep it fully charged whenever possible.
- Wallet. I like mine made of high quality leather that is supple and strong. It holds ID, money, cards, emergency info, even a slick card sized survival tool that isn’t pictured above.
- Compact Multi-tool. This Cabela’s multi-tool was a free gift with a purchase. It’s small enough to be in my pocket without agitating me. It has many functions including screwdrivers, pliers and even a small flashlight. There are countless great multi-tools on the market and I plan to upgrade this everyday carry item. It’s just never on my mind when I’m at the sporting goods store.
- Mini-Tin Kit. I like a small tin container like this to keep some small items stored in. Many people use an altoids tin or the like for theirs. In mine I keep some small bandages, toothpicks, floss, allergy and anti-inflammatory pills, and a couple of water treatment tablets.
- Mini lighter. This little lighter is great to start a little fire with, burn the ends of paracord burn off a tick or anything else a lighter comes in handy for. I wrapped it with heavy duty duct tape so that I can always have some duct tape on hand for applying bandages, repairing items or anything else duct tape can do which is just about everything!
- Clothing. Not pictured above but super important to your EDC is how you carry your EDC gear. Some use a small belt pouch while most use their standard pockets. The most important thing to remember is carrying daily. I’ve been switching to tactical clothing (pants and shorts mainly), which are made of rip-stop nylon and has hidden pockets. I stick with clothing that doesn’t look tactical in nature so that I won’t stand out as “prepared” and make myself a target.
Regardless of the items you choose for your own EDC the important point is to choose items that are compact, high quality, serve multiple purposes and help you access what you need to survive.
For example don’t carry MRE’s daily unless it’s a dire necessity. Instead carry tools that will help you access food such as a multi-tool with can opener and lock-picks.
I’ll most likely be going over more about EDC and why it’s important so if you have any advice I’d love to hear about it. Jump below to the comments and let people know what you think. Someone has to start the conversation and it should be you!