As a woman (and mom) who's used to carrying lots of stuff, I am finding the EDC culture to be absolutely fascinating. I do think that what you carry should be useful, and not because of "peer pressure" on social media. Loved the critique of this video. Thank you.
Hey now, i feel a weird responsibility to show a female in this space the door- if I could carry a purse I wouldn't NEED pocket edc, I could fit a tactical kit, trauma first aid and 3 days of rations in the coach satchels you ladies carry 😂
It's not peer pressure, it's guys thinking they're Rambo or the world is going to end on their daily commute. My EDC is a firearm and a knife, that's it. Sure, I have all the tools and a variety of survival/bushcraft in my truck or truck's toolbox, but Marine X is right about this stuff being stupid for most people to carry on them. Men, usually with no real working knowledge of survival, have these grandiose visions in their head of what they'd do if SHTF.
@@Swearengen1980 Well it is peer pressuring because it's becoming normalized to carry a bunch of garbage you don't need or use as pocket jewelry, people new to the space will look at many of these EDC channels and see that in almost every video they are displaying $120 pocket hanks, and $300 brass coins. But none of it actually serves towards the actual purpose of this community which is practical EDC. Things like a Phone, knife, pen, for some a firearm, first aid or booboo kits, etc.
I love how MarineX is legit the grumpy old man of the EDC community. His videos are becoming less and less about what is good and what you should carry, and more and more what he’s against and what you shouldn’t carry. Legit love his videos though. Thanks for all your work X!
Superglue is great for putting in your EDC kit, having it burst and gluing all your EDC tools into an unusable blob, that's probably also glued to the inside of your kit bag. I especially love that.
Hey man! I think you fired shots towards a large part of EDC community 😅 And I think that it is needed. There is a lot of peer pressure into getting tons of extremely expensive stuff just to achieve this absurd sense of belonging. It happens with pretty much every collectables. But it is always good to have some voice of reason. Keep up doing what you do!
It’s funny how much of the EDC world went from carrying stuff to make day to day easier and some preparedness to carrying ridiculously overpriced useless junk or too fancy to use items. I bought a pair of Knipex 5 inch wrench pliers. They may go in my backpack sometimes but I’ve never used them outside my house 😂.
Fr man😂. And I’m an HVAC tech. All I carry in my pockets are my phone wallet and knife lmao. I have all my tools in a tool bag. Why tf do I need knipex in my pocket or a leather man if I have my channel locks and pliers in my bag 😂
Hey Marine X! I understand where you are coming from on the knipex. I have commented on this before and hope to see you address this in future videos but those pliers are exceptional for people with arthritic hands. Not all of us have a dexterity issue but for those who do, that EDC is the difference between getting a bottle of water open or not.
THANK YOU!! I agree with you on all points! I'm a knife guy but could never understand this whole community of collecting overpriced trinkets. Like that one TH-cam EDC guy that brags about his multi thousand-dollar half-a-weed grinder like you mentioned in the video. It seems that guy likes things only because they cost a lot of money so he devoted a channel to brag about how much he spent on knives and stuff. To me all of that stuff is just created for people who have too much money to spend. Never would I buy the $200 timascus bit driver when you can get a decent one off AliExpress for three bucks. Thanks again for calling all of this shit out!
I 3d printed a pocket bit driver. Handy for times I know I'm not supposed to need a bit driver but have a hunch I might. But its shown me a) it definite not an edc and b) pocket bit drivers are way overpriced
@@HFHoss75 good job! plus if you're going to carry around a bit driver with you everyday then you need to carry the bits also. Better to wait until you get home to the real screwdrivers
Agree with all excepy lanyards and pry's. Unless you use or carry both FOR AN EXTENDED TIME, not just a week or two, you'll be surprised how they contribute to a well rounded EDC.
I've found a majority of tasks that I would use the small pry bar for can be done with my knife because most of the tasks I've found the pry bar useful for don't require enough force that would break a knife, and I can usually position it so I don't dull the edge. I'm curious to know what you've found the tiny pry bar useful for. I like how lanyards look, but every time I've had one it got in the way and was more of an annoyance than it was helpful. Unless you use your lanyard for secondary purposes like keeping your knife for falling out of your hand, or some other thing I haven't found them to be worth it. What do you use your lanyard for? Do you have a small knife where it extends your grip, is it just for decoration, or do you use it for something else?
To me every day carry means what I have in my center console storage compartment. I can’t imagine carrying edc tools on my person as I am walking the dog or going to the grocery. My only 2 literal edc items for me r my keys and phone. I have a ccw, but I rarely carry, too bulky.
A few of these items have been on my to buy list and you have just reiterated that tiny voice in the back of my head saying I don’t need them. My wallet thanks you
I have muscular atrophy, my muscle are weak. My limb coordination is crap and I cn't grip with the tip of my fingers, only with my full fist. The Knipex Cobra Mini XS was a life changer for me. I can open twist-open bottles with it, my morning carton of milk, pinch tiny stuff, gab and hold onto things with the full power of my fist. All this while being tiny and light. I also need and made a lanyard for my knife for easier pull out of my pouch on my wheelchair bag.
I’ve always been an EDC guy but I was never part of the community until recently and I almost bought into the hype of some of this stuff and I’m glad I watched this video because I know what I need and I know I DONT need a lot of what others may need or want. Thanks again for the video.
Randomly got this recommended and it was definitely a breath of fresh air. There’s power in simplicity and unless you use those tools everyday, most of it just becomes impulsive consumerism.
I carry only what I actually use: multi-tool, quick-opening clip-on pocket knife, LED clip-on pocket flashlight, tactical pen. I use at least one of these on a daily basis. Peer pressure only affects pu$$ies.
I agree with everything on the list if you just use them for pocket candy. I use a pry bar and bits for my job. Also, If I carry something, I want it to have a purpose, not just to take up space in my pockets.
I think everyone should have one nicer-than-necessary EDC item that puts a smile on their face and isn't 100% about practicality. There's a real value in that little positivity boost. For me, that's the pocket knife. I have more than I need on rotation and they cost more than they need to. For other people, it may be a $30 knipex, a $300 timascus driver paired with wiha, a watch handcrafted by ancient swiss monks, a flashlight with the lumens of a small sun -- whatever floats their boat.
My mini widgy prybar gets used damn near daily, if not then at least once a week. I have it on my key ring. I work in a soil analyzing lab and use it to open panels on instruments, use it for random prying tasks that happen way more often than I expected. Sure I could walk across the building to the tool chest and get a flathead screwdriver but its faster and easier to have the pry bar on me. Other things that get a lot of use on my key ring are the ultra thin fingernail clippers and a pair of tweezers. Both offer great options for the intended use but the clippers Ive used to clip small plastic tubing that I change out on instruments daily and tweezers get more use than I thought they would. I do have the knipex pliers but they are in a tool pouch I keep in my car or travel bag. That pouch has some tools that make my daily job easier that my job doesnt have or provide but I rarely need it for work. Its more for when Im at a friends house and they need help with xyz and dont have tools.
Good stuff. I carry a very lightweight whistle on my keychain. I've never used it but I saw how a guy used it to get attention when he was trapped in his car in a ravine.
This video was spot on. I have been guilty, like many in the EDC community, of FOMO. I have acquired so many pieces of gear that are basically useless in day to day operations or my pockets are so full I cant sit down. I'm down to a knife and flashlight in my pocket.
I find that the classic write slice light combo covers almost everything I need. I switched out my Fox Bean for a Gerber Prybrid X because of the pry capabilities, have yet to use that though
I've reduced my EDC to just what I use on a daily. Use to carry a lot of that stuff but found out that it just weighed me down. I just carry my Leatherman Wave, a fisher space pen & a small flashlight. Fits in a belt holster from Tale of Knives for quick access and I just don't like things in my pockets. Great video BTW. Pound Sand!
I find carrying seperate pliers with a swiss army knife is funny when they could just get the delux tinker. Sure the pliers on the delux is small but still formidable. I am guilty of having a pry bar and now may discontinue carrying it cuz i can just carry a victorinox tinker alone that covers my needs. People should consider chapstick for minor cuts, it gives a good seal so long as the cut is not deep and large.
Look man. I have a pocket organizer made by Recycled Fighter that I put a Leather Free T2 & the 4” Knipex cobra pliers along with a pen. My side gig is making chest rigs and you would not believe how useful those pliers are. They are essentially a second pair of fingers for me so I am not rubbing my fingerprints off on a daily basis sewing 1000D nylon. Yeah I can see why some might night like them, but for me, they are essential.
Hey great video! As a contractor pliers and pry bars are useful to me. But I've really wondered why they are so popular because it seems most people wouldn't need to EDC them. I've thought about buying the K-nipex because I've broken a handful of multi-tool pliers, and it usually go with a cheap key ring prying device because I can't justify spending $100 on the nice titanium one I want. On a personal note about the pocket trash: I'm on the autistic spectrum and having fidget items is extremely helpful for me. Something to keep my hands busy keeps me calm, and the people around me appreciate it if I'm doing something quiet instead of rapid fire clicking a ballpoint pen like it's a failure test :D
You might find some utility in carrying a ball-bearing in your pocket. It can give you a general sense of how level/planar a surface is (akin to a bullseye level). I don't know where I am on the spectrum but I've found myself fiddling with it unnecessarily. They're also cheap.
LOVE IT!!! I am new to all this EDC talk, and I went from putting together an essential motorcycle tool kit to buying a 19-tool Leatherman Wave clone. It hit the door yesterday, and I think: "I am gonna carry this brick around in my pocket every day? NOT!" Thanks for injecting some sanity into what I was already thinking. Minimal tool kits for my motorcycle or Jeep, YES. 19 tools in my pocket (when I already have a real folding knife) --- a guy that works from home LOL! --- I don't need it.
The small form factor with the large bite of the Knipex Cobra XS means adequate grip when it’s needed. I get far more use out of these than I ever did with the needle nose pliers on my Leatherman. I do agree with most of your other points though.
Pound Sand…Bravo!!! 🤣 From a female perspective I do use a neck knife when I’m not wearing jeans with full size pockets (believe it or not our Levi’s for some reason don’t all have full size pockets 🤦♀️) or a dress etc. But basically head on nail X!
I never understood the no real pocket thing in women's pants. Must've been male clothing designers assuming women just use your purses to carry your stuff that continues on today. One of my daughters told me about the pocket thing as she was impressed by getting some pants that had real pockets. One of those things men don't know about.
@@jimhewettjr3730 well it’s true and it sucks. Around the farm I usually wear men’s Levi’s! I’m really loving the @Data Crew What-A-Slider for sticking in my bra when pockets aren’t available. Waiting on the new @Data Crew What-A-Jr arriving Monday to see how that can fit into my EDC! It’s not always easy being me 🤣🤣🤣
Most of these items I do own, but they are not in my EDC kit. I agree that most of these things don't belong in my EDC kit. What others do for their EDC (or other kits) is up to them and their personal needs every day, like you said.
Awesome video and definitely made me rethink some of my EDC. I appreciate your opinion and thoughts. Absolutely NO! disrespect with the following, but I have MY opinion on these items as well as followed. #1: Knipex pliers I use almost every day in my line of work, I carried regular pliers before I found Knipex(pliers are my favorite tool). #2: Knucks are a very important self-defense item in a lot of places, legal or not, very easy to conceal and never need to be used unless in a bad situation and definitely will give you an advantage against any physical attacker. I say that with no experience from actual use (I wear rings and have a heavy fist/confidence). #3: I literally do not know what the curator is other than to grind substances with; but I carry a shredder card for that sooo.... #4: my neck knife is used quite a bit, BUT! it is only 3-3/8" long, so it is smaller/lighter than most necklaces and I definitely think that a big Ol utility pocketknife hanging from your neck is ALOT. #5: I carry an very expensive folding knife that I use for CUTTING (everyday), not prying and not scraping, my pry bar is for that. Everyday truckers/customers are bringing in dirty parts, I need to scrape and pry on parts to get to part numbers or to check quality/wear. my pry bar is there every day for that. #6 I do not use super glue every day but between me my colleagues and every time I have absolutely needed it, it has been there. especially when I had to dress a few wounds instead of stiches (doesn't matter how clean, it will work if you use enough). #7: I ride a motorcycle and drive a vintage truck; my bit driver is one of my best friends from adjusting light angles to tightening of the shakes/rattles and switching bulbs its a very important tool that i suggest to always have around. #8: hanks. Like you said, kind of pointless I have microfiber clothes for my glasses/electronics, and I carry gators/bandanas for bike/wiping other stuff. #9: Pocket art... by the pictures fidget toys/tools can be important. but c'mon a part of your EDC? ehhh... FINALLY, EDC should be curated to the individual, it should be personal to the carrier, not others opinions. Like I said NO disrespect, I really appreciate you/video and will continue to subscribe/watch/like. not meant to get under anyone's skin/feelings... just my opinion. thank you so much for your content, Live well/Die fast!
I agree 100%....I carry... Keys Wallet Multi-tool - (Leatherman Charge TTi) flashlight - Nitecore TUP Folding knife - Spyderco mannix 2 (Carbon fiber - Titanium - cpm m4) and that feels like 2 much, anything else goes in a 5.11 Rush MOAB 6 and i usually leave it in the car! GREAT VIDEO, I subscribed!
Nah, you nailed it for the most part. I'm a minimalist and I think people's carry needs to be what they actually use although I've been sucked in over the years and bought things I didn't need. I carry the Knipex because it gets used multiple times a week, usually daily for something and my prybar clips my keys onto my belt and opens boxes. Those are relevant to me because I'm not opening and closing a knife when I can just drag my prybar across the box. But we're never going to agree on lanyards, I find them completely necessary and not using on the proper items to be stupid. Lanyard beads are another story. One of my mentors Mors is famous for saying, "the more you know, the less you carry" and I think the gear industry is trying to drive that the other way.
I love your attitude. That's what I don't like about knife culture. Most people buy a 250€ knife to never be used, not to scratch the finish. A tool must be fit for the job and sturdy enough to withstand use and abuse on a daily basis. None of my knives looks new. I often break them, have to reshape and resharpen but they do what they were made for.
Pound Sand, I agree with most I do carry the neck knife, use it daily along with my folding knife. I also carry a pry bar but I work on my truck a lot and it comes in handy. The last one is the hank/hanky, my grandfather taught me to carry one, but it was not for me. He taught me to carry one for the women in my life, they are emotional creatures and if they start to cry it is a gentlmens place to carry one to offer to them. Old fashioned I know, but it is something he instilled in me.
Zac in the Wild was the first person I saw EDCing the Knipex pliers, and I think he has almost a cult like following as far as influencing the EDC/preparation community on what is new or cool alternatives to carry.
I used to carry a pry bar when I did car detailing. It was great for getting candy that was in cracks that you could not hit with the steam cleaner and regular solvents could not really get into it. Use it to get that gunk out then the solvenets/cleaners can do their job.
I carry superglue inside my bag, but not on-body. It has become useful in some situatoons in the past, like a shoe that suddenly parted ways with its sole. As for the other items on your list, I agree with you.
I have two bags. My BugOut bag and my Get Home bag. Both are in my truck. If I plan to go hiking, swimming, or just be away from my truck for a few hours, I take my Get Home bag. In that bag, which is actually the lower part of my BugOut bag that is like a fanny pack on steroids. I can sustain life for two adults for three days and have shelter, fire,water, and food. I will confess that I have four very well stocked medical bags, and two of them are a Trama Kit. So that is the reason I don't carry a pocket full of stuff when my truck is no farther than a brisk hike.
I feel attacked by this list, I carry a Knipex Cobra XS, Pry Bar and a Bit Driver set lol. I actually do make use of them and they have come in clutch a lot. All in my carry is lighter than a Leatherman Wave and it is illegal for me to carry a locking blade in the UK, so the Leatherman's are ruled out. I see your point though and ultimately the whole point of EDC is to carry what you use, not what looks good.
I often carry thew Knipex instead of a multitool in my pouch (which is in my backback or work bag), this pouch also holds bij Böker Bitpen (combi driver and pen). These two tools get used but not often so they are not on my body. The lanyard I disagree with, I use those as in pocket fidget and since I carry knives deep pocket in a leather organizer it helps me extract them. But I do see your points... my normal EDC is a watch, wallet, one or two phones (work and private), linnen hankerchief (because hayfever), a leather organizer hoolding a pen, knife and light. Pound Sand
The Mighty Bar is small, 2.9". I use it for things that we are tempted to use our keys for, but shouldn't -- scraping, driving a flat head screw, bottle opening (a little tricky), and opening packages (and not risking injury), Also, it's great for adding more torque to certain screwdrivers {fitting the screwdriver shaft (only a hex shaft will work) into the Mighty Bar's Eye}.
The only one I disagree with is the Knipex pliers. I bought the 4 inch Cobra pliers. I've found myself using them more then my Leatherman G10 Earth pliers The fit perfectly well in the bit kit pocket of the Leatherman pouch. They're also very light so it doesn't really feel like any weight has been added. I do agree though that most I see posted online don't seem to have any use. But that can be said of most EDC items that cost over $30.
Kinda makes you feel like people turned it into more of a instagram lifestyle cause hey they gotta announce to the world with their pristine tools that they swear they use their gear and that its not pocket jewelry.
I agree with you on everything except the neck knife. Maybe you want to carry concealed or have a backup for your pocket folder. That being said, I don't wear mine nearly as much as I thought I would... Pound Sand!
I agree 100% with this video, I’ve done my research on superglue and I’ve literally used it eight times so far this month repairing shoes and clothes lol
Superb video. All great points that I've been ranting about for ages. I'm sick to death of seeing people taking photos of a knife, a box opener, a hank, a fidget, a pry, pliers, glue, lip balm, a multi tool, a SAK, a bolt action pen, a 'field notes' book, a field sharpener, a Ridge wallet, a 'challenge' coin and god knows what else. Who are these people walking around with 50 things in their pockets before they've even grabbed their phone and keys? Grown men acting like children. Guaranteed they work in offices and use none of it.
I gotta admit I'm guilty of carrying some of this unnecessary fodder. I'll definitely be ditchin ones I don't need. Make my EDC more streamlined. Thanks Marine X! Pound Sand!
I carry my Spyderco knife, Olight, Rustic Heirloom leather wallet, g shock watch everyday.. i have a kit that I bring when I go camping and my knipex pliers, Gerber multi tool, and pry bar live in that. When I camp, I switch out my knife to my Ontario Rat 2. I love edc channels but I do notice a lot of influencers promoting expensive items I’d probably be more reluctant to use or beat up. I’m all about functionality when I buy.
This video made me sub lol. I use my 5 inch cobras on the daily at work. Never understood the reason for carrying a little prybar. And I had no idea people carried glue with them. All in all, Im just glad Im not the only one who thought functionless pocket items were a waste. Enjoying the content! Pound sand # sand
I'm a K.I.S.S. kind of guy, and I like to travel light. I think price is a key factor in a lot of these things. If you pay $90 for a prybar how likely are you going to use it? but at the same time I have been in situations that I need a little pry action, but I don't want to break my pocketknife (Openal No 6). Its a learning journey, you carry stuff and then find out you don't use it as much as you thought, then you come across situations thinking, "I wish I had a...........". Constantly adding, subtracting, changing and swapping out one thing for another. Keep up the great work pound sand!
I pretty much agree except for the Knipex lol, they do pair well with a SAK and I’ve stopped carrying a Leatherman ever since I got mine since that combo is lighter. I’ve used them so much at work (warehouse) removing stubborn staples from some boxes, tightening nuts on our chairs or glass racks, amongst other things. But I only carry that for work and they stay in my backpack. On me is just a flashlight and either my work knife or a regular pocket knife on the weekends.
@nprwikeepa6082 I used to think they were dumb until I carried one. I hardly use my Leatherman G10 Earth pliers anymore. I also carry on their Surge sheath. With their extra bit kit pocket. I keep I in the extra slot. Fits right in I can't feel a weight difference.
@@spacepope87 I use a Gerber and it's heavy as hell before I add my own bit set and extender. You might be on to something! Maybe I can swap in a lightweight bit driver and save weight and form factor. Thanks!
Pound sand. 😂 I used my pry tool to fix a light today. Could I have used my knife? Yes, but I saved the blade from potential damage. And... And! Lanyards are not dumb haha! 😂 Great video!
Haha - ouch! While I don't carry any of the items mentioned on my person, I certainly have a few in my mini tool kit in my bag (Only the tools, I won't defend knucks, lanyards, & pocket art). For most people, I agree - carrying a prybar and water pump pliers doesn't make sense, especially weighing down their pockets. I think it comes down to what you actually use. For me, I am always building, fixing and restoring things, often in my spare time. The kit I carry see a decent amount of use (Knipex, prybar, driver, etc.) but I still keep it in my tier 2 EDC, not on me directly. I will say, I found superglue in these tiny single use mini tubes that have been real handy in a pinch. They don't take up much space and you don't have to worry about closing them right. I think more people should have a basic tool kit in the trunk of their car instead of focusing on the cool factor or pocket bling. It is too easy to be seduced by the EDC tech and toys.
Got me on the bit drivers. I carry one and have never used it. Matter of fact, I have one that has a pry bar and have never used either one. I’m also having to chase the bits down constantly because they won’t stay secured in the holder that’s provided. I am now working on convincing my self that all I need for cigar EDC carry is a lighter and a cutter. Great and practical advise. It is to easy to get caught up in all of the shiner things and forget practicality.
Concur, for the most part. I do, however, EDC a Gerber Armbar Slim. I had screwdrivers stashed all over, cars, all around the house and office, because I was always looking for one; not any more. The Armbar blade is redundant, but doesn’t add much bulk or weight. And super glue, because I have room in my EDC pouch and have had need to repair things with super glue in the past. As the always prepared Grandpa, carry over from infantry days, I’m always repairing things away from my home and tools/supplies.
Pound sand. 😂 Seriously though I have to agree with you. I don't have most of those items, and the ones I do have I don't carry everyday. When I do decide to carry them I honestly don't use them. If I were to only carry what I actually use all the time it would be my phone, a flashlight, and a pen. Sadly, even a knife and/or multitool would would be out of my pockets as well because in my job I barely ever need them.
i enjoyed this video - your opinion on edc gear and pocket trash are credible and appreciated. thank you for bringing to light that some (maybe even most) of our gear are obtained simply for the gram and/or clout.
I agree with ALMOST everything. I HAVE had jobs where the Knipex, the bit driver, and the prybar would have been wonderful to have. Constant equipment repairs. Knucks? If I want that I will happily carry full on brass knuckles and not care about legality. Super glue is a weird one. I use a lot when I'm making things on the lathe, and I'd NEVER carry it on my person because it's GONNA leak at some point and it's gonna suck dead animal balls. The only thing I break away on is the lanyard. I make my own lanyard beads so I have to use them. They serve a purpose, I carry my blades at work in my waistband and they make it WAAAAY easier to pull when I need to use them. I carry a full size 6 inch blade Luzon in that waistband comfortably and that lanyard makes it way easier to draw. I do like the pocket bling as a side effect. But yeah, if you're a concrete cowboy you really don't need any of that shit.
FWIW: My own EDC annoyance is adding specific bottle-opening capability to anything. I've always found it easier to use a lighter, a folded knife, another bottle, a piece of wood, just about anything other than fumbling for a purpose-built bottle opener. I agree with just about everything you said... unless you're a tradesperson. Then the Knipex and 1/4" bit driver are pretty convenient and get a lot of use.
Marine X bringing the honest truth yet again! I bought a super cheap pry bar months ago. Used it once to scratch off lottery tickets. That's it. Gone. Relegated to secondary carry. I do keep and use a hank for cleaning my glasses, phone screen, and bike computer screen. I'll admit I've got a handful of them, but they get used. Why buy stuff if you're not actually using it? Pound sand.
I carry a tiny pry bar on my key chain for popping lids off barrels at work and a Big Idea designs EDS in my pocket for the only 4 non philips/Flat bits I need regularly. Anything I don't regularly need access to jus stays in the tool pouch in my bag.
I agree with all of these except maybe the Knipex Plyers, I think being able to grip something well is a good thing to have every day. I still don't understand the need for pry bars though, especially ones that are like $200
I agree with you on the Knipex pliers, I use them at least once a day. I have a minimal pry bar, a stainless Mighty Bar wedge, at 2.9" -- no blingy hunk of titanium or artsy paint job. I use it more than my Knipex pliers.
@bobbelttari1437 what do you use your prybar for? I'm genuinely curious cause I just don't see a reason to own one of those small ones. I would get one if I would use it.
I work in construction, concrete mostly, and I use my pry bar as much if not more than my knife for scraping concrete off of boards to make a pen mark, or make space for my claw hammer or pliers to get into. I totally agree with the basis of your video, if you don't use it, don't carry it. My pockets used to be full of stupid stuff, now I'm down to a knife, pry bar and pen. My pants are so light now! Pound sand!
Most of the two-sided hanks are microfiber on one side which is nice to have if you wear glasses or sunglasses often. I do quite like my Mighty Hanks. I think the prices are fair and I use them all the time. I’ve carried a lot of traditional hanks for the eventual nose wipe for myself or my kid but that pretty much never happens. I’m never that far from a bit of toilet paper or paper towel so it feels dumb to soil my Hank. Which is funny because that’s why I carry it in the first place
I keep two tubes of name brand single use super glue in my EDC kit for a completely different reason than what I think you had in mind. I know some people use it for medical purposes but hell, I just use it for what it's meant to do. From fixing my wife's cheap sandals or reattaching a frayed bag zipper, I've used them for a number of little repairs out and about and it takes up almost no space or weight in my kit.
Great video! I also lean toward utility over the "you gotta have one of these" crowd. EDC has turned into some lifestyle choice over function, just like a lot of other things. Then, after the heat has died down, people lose interest in those things and don't even bother EDCing the stuff they really need. That extra shit just makes my bag too heavy! That's my 2 cents, hahaha.
You aren’t the hero we asked for, you are the hero we need! The gram and the forums is filled with absurd edc items. It always bugged me. The only thing I would disagree on is the pry bar. I find myself wishing I had a small pry bar frequently, don’t want to pry with my PM2 and risk snapping the blade. Other than that, amen brother!
Mannn, I laugh at this subject everyday while watching these EDC videos. Very informative and humbling!!! Thanks X the community needed this tongue lashing Lol pound sand
I started carrying a multi tool because I foud it usefull in my work as a product photographer. Then a flash light and that is all I carry in my pockets. After that I got a pouch and put there an item that I needed but did not have, then if I did not use that thing for 2-3 months I get rid of it. Now I have all sorts of things but nothing is out of place or not needed. And I go through a surprising amount of superglue in my day to day.
Pound sand! Agree with everything. I still carry man of them because I enjoy being part of a community and collecting them. But I’ll be the first to agree they don’t have utility. The one exception is “pocket trash” or “worry coins”. These do help with anxiety and the tactile / haptic / fidget factor helps me focus. I do this with knives at home, but that’s not as socially acceptable in the office place.
Pry bars: I use the flat head screwdriver on the Victorinox FarmerX I carry. I used it on Tuesday this week to pry open the steel door on an industrial unit, in the past I’ve pried open iron manhole covers. The Victorinox Alox 93mm screwdrivers are a bit meatier than those on the 91 mm ranges, so maybe the screwdriver on a Spartan/climber/Huntsman/Champ or Tinker might not be able to fill that role.
I've cut down what I keep in my pockets to only what I use more than twice a week, and have developed a cross body bag that has the more situational stuff. I really just keep a box cutter, flashlight, mini pliers by Swiss, and a pry bar (I use my often)
I wear glasses 80% of my day so carrying a Hank in my back pocket is a must for me. Glasses need constant cleaning and wiping so thats what I use it for.
Yes. I have. Tying something down on my motorcycle that I bought while I was out and discovered that I had foolishly left my straps at home. However, I just use a fast rope key fob rather than a bracelet. Partly because I just don't like wearing things on my wrist, and partly because the key fob serves triple duty. I have different colored paracord for different keys, making them easy-peasy to identify. The key fob, well, does that "easy to grab" key fob thing. And then having some cordage. It's not 550 paracord though, I use 325 for the fobs. 550 would be a FAT fob. 325 also makes for great little monkey fist zipper pulls, because black factory zipper pulls on a black bag are a PITA.
The voice of reason, at last! I agree on all accounts EXCEPT a prybar. I started to carry mine out of necessity (the place where I work have a lockers with electronic locks, but batteries didn't get changed as often as they should and locks tend to "die" suddenly; there was quite a few times when I got to broke into my own locker). But I made my own prybar myself, so I didn't wasted any money on it. And mine is significantly longer than those on sale, so it have a much better leverage and actually can pry something.😁
JRW Curator is a 21st century Pog. A very expensive Pog. A lot of EDC items are carried "just in case". I didn't carry a prybar in my formerly used EDC pouch (Maxpedition Fatty, IIRC), but that's because I haven't found one that meets MY definition of "good prybar" that would fit. I wouldn't carry a truly functional one in pocket, not a fan of being stabbed. I do carry one in my EDC bag. It's a 5" steel Vaughn, Stanley makes one similar, as do some other companies. Costs a whopping $4 when I bought it. I have run into multiple situations when having it was real handy, and as many when not having it was a bother. As a glasses wearer, the two sided hanks are actually REALLY good. Why? Because you can fold it so that the microfiber side is completely covered. This significantly reduces the pocket nasty that gets embedded in it, and then scratches/screws up your glasses. Being two sided means I can't mix up the "clean side" from the "not clean side". Glasses are why I carry one. My cellphone screen? I can clean that on my shirt. I mostly agree with you on the lanyard beads, they are essentially jewelry. Fortunately for me, the unfathomable obsession with skulls that afflicts that market means that 90% of them are immediately punted from consideration. I think $10 or less for a small piece of jewelry isn't unreasonable. But it IS jewelry, and I think that between the two knives I've put lanyards on I spent less than $10. Actually the only part of my EDC that doesn't meet a functional requirement. Superglue? Sometimes you just need to glue something back together. I know that once one of those little tubes is opened it's done for, so I don't look at that as being a shortcoming. I don't think I would pocket carry it unless I KNEW I would be using some, maybe put it in an EDC pouch, definitely have some in my EDC bag. (the bag is about 3L in size.) Dedicated bit driver? Bag only. Primarily because using a Leatherman for more than a couple of screws is a very annoying undertaking. It CAN be done, but it's a PITA compared to a proper driver. Mind you, I think a proper driver for the bag is an actual ratcheting driver from a company that makes tools for the trades and/or mechanics, not one just in the EDC space. The nifty drivers you showed are bench bling in my mind. Neck knife? Perfectly reasonable choice in some use cases as you covered. Very rarely use one myself. Nucks & Pocket Art? Not for me, but some of it's pretty cool to look at. There are worse things someone can spend their money on.
I think carrying super glue in your pocket is dumb, but it is super useful for cuts on your hands. I’m a firefighter/medic that does mechanic work on the side, I use it a ton for cuts on my hands along with electrical tape to keep them closed. But I’m not keeping it in my pocket.
I have a pair of the Knipex soft jaw pliers in the kit on my bike; they are a life saver on the road and save me the trouble of needing box wrenches at all. Huge rec for those for a bike bag.
I agree with you X on most of the things you mentioned are just for showcase and never get used. My coworker bought a Leatherman tool and never used it because he didn’t wanted to scuff it or bend the implements. Waste of money in my opinion. One thing I carry with me all the time, that I never hear anyone mention, is baby wipes. I don’t carry an entire package but few in a ziplock baggie. They come handy if you have kids, specifically since they seem to attract dirt like nothing else on the face of the Earth. I use them to wipe sh!t like tables or benches at a public place, clean my glasses, and other sh!t I come in contact with on a daily and of course, for what they are meant to be used, your a$$. I try to avoid using public bathrooms as much as possible but sometimes you gotta go. More than once I went to use the toilet to find out the paper was out. Thank god I have wipes in my sling bag 😂😂.
Hmm. instantly in love with this video. I'm a smaller EDC adjacent content creator and the fact of the matter is i thought i was mostly alone in a lot of these thoughts, i even make a stress/fidget out of zipties that's infinitely more fun to fidget with than that pocket trash "art" That being said, Pound sand
I use a pocket clip on a lanyard in place of the knife mounted clip. Seems easier to get your hand past it in the pocket. I carry as little as possible. If it’s not used regularly I don’t carry it. Smallish knife and small flashlight is about it, besides keys and wallet.
i do a neck knife in the woods as an on body backup fixed blade, my prybar is a prybrid utility knife bottle opener and gets used daily at work lifting scales at work for resets or cracking open customers keyfobs, my knuck is admittedly a just for fun carry with a bottle opener cut out but i could be cracking bottles another way but it also scrapes lotto tickets lol
I agree 100%. If I'm going to lug it around all day, it had better serve a purpose. And none of my EDC is particularly expensive. If I'm worried about scratching something up, then it belongs in a display case, not in my pocket.
Pound Sand 😂 Personally I really like the decorative 2 sided hanks. While I have numerous plain microfiber cloths I don’t like them. An 8 inch hank I can rap a pair of reading glasses in for the always need cleaning. And I use them on my Ray-Bans, knives and also electronic screens throughout the day. A Plumbers Pal 6 foot Metal Tape measure is probably the best fidget item that’s functional. Pry Bars & Pliers are useful items, not always EDC cause I don’t use my Leatherman everyday. Like a few others in the comments I work with tools daily, functionality and need is everything.
As a woman (and mom) who's used to carrying lots of stuff, I am finding the EDC culture to be absolutely fascinating. I do think that what you carry should be useful, and not because of "peer pressure" on social media. Loved the critique of this video. Thank you.
Hey now, i feel a weird responsibility to show a female in this space the door- if I could carry a purse I wouldn't NEED pocket edc, I could fit a tactical kit, trauma first aid and 3 days of rations in the coach satchels you ladies carry 😂
@@xxArsen1xx-OnPsn If you could carry a purse--isn't that what an EDC bag is? 😉
Your tools should reflect your interaction and improvement in the world. Maintenance is a mastery and problem solvers love challenges
It's not peer pressure, it's guys thinking they're Rambo or the world is going to end on their daily commute. My EDC is a firearm and a knife, that's it. Sure, I have all the tools and a variety of survival/bushcraft in my truck or truck's toolbox, but Marine X is right about this stuff being stupid for most people to carry on them. Men, usually with no real working knowledge of survival, have these grandiose visions in their head of what they'd do if SHTF.
@@Swearengen1980 Well it is peer pressuring because it's becoming normalized to carry a bunch of garbage you don't need or use as pocket jewelry, people new to the space will look at many of these EDC channels and see that in almost every video they are displaying $120 pocket hanks, and $300 brass coins. But none of it actually serves towards the actual purpose of this community which is practical EDC. Things like a Phone, knife, pen, for some a firearm, first aid or booboo kits, etc.
This video was like an old fashioned tent revival. I found myself standing up screaming “Amen brother!”
I love how MarineX is legit the grumpy old man of the EDC community. His videos are becoming less and less about what is good and what you should carry, and more and more what he’s against and what you shouldn’t carry. Legit love his videos though. Thanks for all your work X!
I have to respect the Marine X contrarian stance on products. It probably doesn't bode well for finding sponsors, but it serves his subscribers well.
Superglue is great for putting in your EDC kit, having it burst and gluing all your EDC tools into an unusable blob, that's probably also glued to the inside of your kit bag. I especially love that.
Hey man! I think you fired shots towards a large part of EDC community 😅 And I think that it is needed. There is a lot of peer pressure into getting tons of extremely expensive stuff just to achieve this absurd sense of belonging. It happens with pretty much every collectables. But it is always good to have some voice of reason. Keep up doing what you do!
It’s funny how much of the EDC world went from carrying stuff to make day to day easier and some preparedness to carrying ridiculously overpriced useless junk or too fancy to use items.
I bought a pair of Knipex 5 inch wrench pliers. They may go in my backpack sometimes but I’ve never used them outside my house 😂.
Yeah, non of them think of carrying toilet paper.
Fr man😂. And I’m an HVAC tech. All I carry in my pockets are my phone wallet and knife lmao. I have all my tools in a tool bag. Why tf do I need knipex in my pocket or a leather man if I have my channel locks and pliers in my bag 😂
Hey Marine X! I understand where you are coming from on the knipex. I have commented on this before and hope to see you address this in future videos but those pliers are exceptional for people with arthritic hands. Not all of us have a dexterity issue but for those who do, that EDC is the difference between getting a bottle of water open or not.
THANK YOU!! I agree with you on all points! I'm a knife guy but could never understand this whole community of collecting overpriced trinkets. Like that one TH-cam EDC guy that brags about his multi thousand-dollar half-a-weed grinder like you mentioned in the video. It seems that guy likes things only because they cost a lot of money so he devoted a channel to brag about how much he spent on knives and stuff. To me all of that stuff is just created for people who have too much money to spend. Never would I buy the $200 timascus bit driver when you can get a decent one off AliExpress for three bucks. Thanks again for calling all of this shit out!
I 3d printed a pocket bit driver. Handy for times I know I'm not supposed to need a bit driver but have a hunch I might. But its shown me a) it definite not an edc and b) pocket bit drivers are way overpriced
@@HFHoss75 good job! plus if you're going to carry around a bit driver with you everyday then you need to carry the bits also. Better to wait until you get home to the real screwdrivers
Agree with all excepy lanyards and pry's. Unless you use or carry both FOR AN EXTENDED TIME, not just a week or two, you'll be surprised how they contribute to a well rounded EDC.
I've found a majority of tasks that I would use the small pry bar for can be done with my knife because most of the tasks I've found the pry bar useful for don't require enough force that would break a knife, and I can usually position it so I don't dull the edge. I'm curious to know what you've found the tiny pry bar useful for.
I like how lanyards look, but every time I've had one it got in the way and was more of an annoyance than it was helpful. Unless you use your lanyard for secondary purposes like keeping your knife for falling out of your hand, or some other thing I haven't found them to be worth it. What do you use your lanyard for? Do you have a small knife where it extends your grip, is it just for decoration, or do you use it for something else?
Agreed
Everyone has different Lifestyle and needs but pry's can be useful and lanyards definitely are.
Yeah, I use mine daily and it’s bundled in a leatherman 😉
No matter how you justify it you don’t need that $100+ piece of Ti
To me every day carry means what I have in my center console storage compartment. I can’t imagine carrying edc tools on my person as I am walking the dog or going to the grocery.
My only 2 literal edc items for me r my keys and phone. I have a ccw, but I rarely carry, too bulky.
A few of these items have been on my to buy list and you have just reiterated that tiny voice in the back of my head saying I don’t need them. My wallet thanks you
I have muscular atrophy, my muscle are weak. My limb coordination is crap and I cn't grip with the tip of my fingers, only with my full fist. The Knipex Cobra Mini XS was a life changer for me. I can open twist-open bottles with it, my morning carton of milk, pinch tiny stuff, gab and hold onto things with the full power of my fist. All this while being tiny and light.
I also need and made a lanyard for my knife for easier pull out of my pouch on my wheelchair bag.
I’ve always been an EDC guy but I was never part of the community until recently and I almost bought into the hype of some of this stuff and I’m glad I watched this video because I know what I need and I know I DONT need a lot of what others may need or want. Thanks again for the video.
Randomly got this recommended and it was definitely a breath of fresh air. There’s power in simplicity and unless you use those tools everyday, most of it just becomes impulsive consumerism.
Glad to have you apart of the battalion.
I carry only what I actually use: multi-tool, quick-opening clip-on pocket knife, LED clip-on pocket flashlight, tactical pen. I use at least one of these on a daily basis. Peer pressure only affects pu$$ies.
@@MarineX SEMPER FI
GUNNY
I agree with everything on the list if you just use them for pocket candy. I use a pry bar and bits for my job. Also, If I carry something, I want it to have a purpose, not just to take up space in my pockets.
I think everyone should have one nicer-than-necessary EDC item that puts a smile on their face and isn't 100% about practicality. There's a real value in that little positivity boost. For me, that's the pocket knife. I have more than I need on rotation and they cost more than they need to.
For other people, it may be a $30 knipex, a $300 timascus driver paired with wiha, a watch handcrafted by ancient swiss monks, a flashlight with the lumens of a small sun -- whatever floats their boat.
My mini widgy prybar gets used damn near daily, if not then at least once a week. I have it on my key ring. I work in a soil analyzing lab and use it to open panels on instruments, use it for random prying tasks that happen way more often than I expected. Sure I could walk across the building to the tool chest and get a flathead screwdriver but its faster and easier to have the pry bar on me. Other things that get a lot of use on my key ring are the ultra thin fingernail clippers and a pair of tweezers. Both offer great options for the intended use but the clippers Ive used to clip small plastic tubing that I change out on instruments daily and tweezers get more use than I thought they would. I do have the knipex pliers but they are in a tool pouch I keep in my car or travel bag. That pouch has some tools that make my daily job easier that my job doesnt have or provide but I rarely need it for work. Its more for when Im at a friends house and they need help with xyz and dont have tools.
"they need help with xyz and dont have tools." You need a better class of friends. 😎
Good stuff. I carry a very lightweight whistle on my keychain. I've never used it but I saw how a guy used it to get attention when he was trapped in his car in a ravine.
Bro I'm NGL, I feel attacked LMFAO. Awesome video bro.
OG 😂
This video was spot on. I have been guilty, like many in the EDC community, of FOMO. I have acquired so many pieces of gear that are basically useless in day to day operations or my pockets are so full I cant sit down. I'm down to a knife and flashlight in my pocket.
I find that the classic write slice light combo covers almost everything I need. I switched out my Fox Bean for a Gerber Prybrid X because of the pry capabilities, have yet to use that though
I just keep my keys, a small knife and my phone. If I need to take a note, or use a light, I just pull my phone out.
On a regular day out and about, I carry my concealed firearm, a pocket knife, a bandana, a flashlight and a travel pack of cottonelle wipes.
@@ThorTheGiantI would add "wipe". I am an advocate a cheap hanky to round it all out.
We are no longer friends 😂 POUND SAND thanks for another banger hot take
Come here and give me a hug lol
@@MarineX 🤣🤣 see you at Blade ATL homie
@@MarineX THE KNIPEX PLYERS/WRENCH IS A BETTER ,MORE USEFULL TOOL. FACT
SEMPER FI
GUNNY
Ive carried the Knipex xs and mini pliers sets for years in the belt sheaths
Awesome tools…And Video
Multitool , knife ,lighter and a flashlight are my edc essential 😊
I've reduced my EDC to just what I use on a daily. Use to carry a lot of that stuff but found out that it just weighed me down. I just carry my Leatherman Wave, a fisher space pen & a small flashlight. Fits in a belt holster from Tale of Knives for quick access and I just don't like things in my pockets. Great video BTW. Pound Sand!
I'm similar, but usually have a SAK instead of the Leatherman. I suggest trying a cheap hanky at least in the winter.
I find carrying seperate pliers with a swiss army knife is funny when they could just get the delux tinker. Sure the pliers on the delux is small but still formidable. I am guilty of having a pry bar and now may discontinue carrying it cuz i can just carry a victorinox tinker alone that covers my needs. People should consider chapstick for minor cuts, it gives a good seal so long as the cut is not deep and large.
Look man. I have a pocket organizer made by Recycled Fighter that I put a Leather Free T2 & the 4” Knipex cobra pliers along with a pen.
My side gig is making chest rigs and you would not believe how useful those pliers are. They are essentially a second pair of fingers for me so I am not rubbing my fingerprints off on a daily basis sewing 1000D nylon. Yeah I can see why some might night like them, but for me, they are essential.
Hey great video!
As a contractor pliers and pry bars are useful to me. But I've really wondered why they are so popular because it seems most people wouldn't need to EDC them. I've thought about buying the K-nipex because I've broken a handful of multi-tool pliers, and it usually go with a cheap key ring prying device because I can't justify spending $100 on the nice titanium one I want.
On a personal note about the pocket trash: I'm on the autistic spectrum and having fidget items is extremely helpful for me. Something to keep my hands busy keeps me calm, and the people around me appreciate it if I'm doing something quiet instead of rapid fire clicking a ballpoint pen like it's a failure test :D
You might find some utility in carrying a ball-bearing in your pocket. It can give you a general sense of how level/planar a surface is (akin to a bullseye level). I don't know where I am on the spectrum but I've found myself fiddling with it unnecessarily. They're also cheap.
LOVE IT!!! I am new to all this EDC talk, and I went from putting together an essential motorcycle tool kit to buying a 19-tool Leatherman Wave clone. It hit the door yesterday, and I think: "I am gonna carry this brick around in my pocket every day? NOT!" Thanks for injecting some sanity into what I was already thinking. Minimal tool kits for my motorcycle or Jeep, YES. 19 tools in my pocket (when I already have a real folding knife) --- a guy that works from home LOL! --- I don't need it.
The small form factor with the large bite of the Knipex Cobra XS means adequate grip when it’s needed. I get far more use out of these than I ever did with the needle nose pliers on my Leatherman. I do agree with most of your other points though.
100% true. As our boy Ron Kwok would say, Live With Purpose
Pound Sand…Bravo!!! 🤣 From a female perspective I do use a neck knife when I’m not wearing jeans with full size pockets (believe it or not our Levi’s for some reason don’t all have full size pockets 🤦♀️) or a dress etc. But basically head on nail X!
This makes sense. 😂
I never understood the no real pocket thing in women's pants. Must've been male clothing designers assuming women just use your purses to carry your stuff that continues on today.
One of my daughters told me about the pocket thing as she was impressed by getting some pants that had real pockets. One of those things men don't know about.
@@jimhewettjr3730 well it’s true and it sucks. Around the farm I usually wear men’s Levi’s! I’m really loving the @Data Crew What-A-Slider for sticking in my bra when pockets aren’t available. Waiting on the new @Data Crew What-A-Jr arriving Monday to see how that can fit into my EDC! It’s not always easy being me 🤣🤣🤣
Loved the video. I'm always up to someone stating the obvious: 90% of EDC is junk we like to carry
Most of these items I do own, but they are not in my EDC kit. I agree that most of these things don't belong in my EDC kit. What others do for their EDC (or other kits) is up to them and their personal needs every day, like you said.
Awesome video and definitely made me rethink some of my EDC. I appreciate your opinion and thoughts. Absolutely NO! disrespect with the following, but I have MY opinion on these items as well as followed. #1: Knipex pliers I use almost every day in my line of work, I carried regular pliers before I found Knipex(pliers are my favorite tool). #2: Knucks are a very important self-defense item in a lot of places, legal or not, very easy to conceal and never need to be used unless in a bad situation and definitely will give you an advantage against any physical attacker. I say that with no experience from actual use (I wear rings and have a heavy fist/confidence). #3: I literally do not know what the curator is other than to grind substances with; but I carry a shredder card for that sooo.... #4: my neck knife is used quite a bit, BUT! it is only 3-3/8" long, so it is smaller/lighter than most necklaces and I definitely think that a big Ol utility pocketknife hanging from your neck is ALOT. #5: I carry an very expensive folding knife that I use for CUTTING (everyday), not prying and not scraping, my pry bar is for that. Everyday truckers/customers are bringing in dirty parts, I need to scrape and pry on parts to get to part numbers or to check quality/wear. my pry bar is there every day for that. #6 I do not use super glue every day but between me my colleagues and every time I have absolutely needed it, it has been there. especially when I had to dress a few wounds instead of stiches (doesn't matter how clean, it will work if you use enough). #7: I ride a motorcycle and drive a vintage truck; my bit driver is one of my best friends from adjusting light angles to tightening of the shakes/rattles and switching bulbs its a very important tool that i suggest to always have around. #8: hanks. Like you said, kind of pointless I have microfiber clothes for my glasses/electronics, and I carry gators/bandanas for bike/wiping other stuff. #9: Pocket art... by the pictures fidget toys/tools can be important. but c'mon a part of your EDC? ehhh... FINALLY, EDC should be curated to the individual, it should be personal to the carrier, not others opinions. Like I said NO disrespect, I really appreciate you/video and will continue to subscribe/watch/like. not meant to get under anyone's skin/feelings... just my opinion. thank you so much for your content, Live well/Die fast!
I agree 100%....I carry...
Keys
Wallet
Multi-tool - (Leatherman Charge TTi)
flashlight - Nitecore TUP
Folding knife - Spyderco mannix 2 (Carbon fiber - Titanium - cpm m4)
and that feels like 2 much, anything else goes in a 5.11 Rush MOAB 6
and i usually leave it in the car!
GREAT VIDEO, I subscribed!
Nah, you nailed it for the most part. I'm a minimalist and I think people's carry needs to be what they actually use although I've been sucked in over the years and bought things I didn't need. I carry the Knipex because it gets used multiple times a week, usually daily for something and my prybar clips my keys onto my belt and opens boxes. Those are relevant to me because I'm not opening and closing a knife when I can just drag my prybar across the box. But we're never going to agree on lanyards, I find them completely necessary and not using on the proper items to be stupid. Lanyard beads are another story. One of my mentors Mors is famous for saying, "the more you know, the less you carry" and I think the gear industry is trying to drive that the other way.
I love your attitude. That's what I don't like about knife culture. Most people buy a 250€ knife to never be used, not to scratch the finish.
A tool must be fit for the job and sturdy enough to withstand use and abuse on a daily basis.
None of my knives looks new. I often break them, have to reshape and resharpen but they do what they were made for.
Pound Sand, I agree with most I do carry the neck knife, use it daily along with my folding knife. I also carry a pry bar but I work on my truck a lot and it comes in handy. The last one is the hank/hanky, my grandfather taught me to carry one, but it was not for me. He taught me to carry one for the women in my life, they are emotional creatures and if they start to cry it is a gentlmens place to carry one to offer to them. Old fashioned I know, but it is something he instilled in me.
Zac in the Wild was the first person I saw EDCing the Knipex pliers, and I think he has almost a cult like following as far as influencing the EDC/preparation community on what is new or cool alternatives to carry.
I fell into the Knipex Cobra trap. I bought a pair last year and I've used them 0 times. Now they're in an EDC graveyard box in my garage.
I think where the Cobra's are actually useful is maybe in an emergency kit in your car. Definitely not needed on your person.
Marine X EDC = functional.
Over 50% of everyone else’s EDC = flex, photos, having expensive taste and showing it via EDC items.
POUND SAND
I used to carry a pry bar when I did car detailing. It was great for getting candy that was in cracks that you could not hit with the steam cleaner and regular solvents could not really get into it. Use it to get that gunk out then the solvenets/cleaners can do their job.
I agree with you 100 % , has over 60 I think we carry too much stuff
I carry superglue inside my bag, but not on-body. It has become useful in some situatoons in the past, like a shoe that suddenly parted ways with its sole.
As for the other items on your list, I agree with you.
I have two bags. My BugOut bag and my Get Home bag. Both are in my truck. If I plan to go hiking, swimming, or just be away from my truck for a few hours, I take my Get Home bag. In that bag, which is actually the lower part of my BugOut bag that is like a fanny pack on steroids. I can sustain life for two adults for three days and have shelter, fire,water, and food.
I will confess that I have four very well stocked medical bags, and two of them are a Trama Kit.
So that is the reason I don't carry a pocket full of stuff when my truck is no farther than a brisk hike.
I use my cobra pliers almost every day. I think there are none better. I use the really small ones that still have huge jaws.
I feel attacked by this list, I carry a Knipex Cobra XS, Pry Bar and a Bit Driver set lol. I actually do make use of them and they have come in clutch a lot. All in my carry is lighter than a Leatherman Wave and it is illegal for me to carry a locking blade in the UK, so the Leatherman's are ruled out. I see your point though and ultimately the whole point of EDC is to carry what you use, not what looks good.
I often carry thew Knipex instead of a multitool in my pouch (which is in my backback or work bag), this pouch also holds bij Böker Bitpen (combi driver and pen). These two tools get used but not often so they are not on my body. The lanyard I disagree with, I use those as in pocket fidget and since I carry knives deep pocket in a leather organizer it helps me extract them.
But I do see your points... my normal EDC is a watch, wallet, one or two phones (work and private), linnen hankerchief (because hayfever), a leather organizer hoolding a pen, knife and light.
Pound Sand
The Mighty Bar is small, 2.9". I use it for things that we are tempted to use our keys for, but shouldn't -- scraping, driving a flat head screw, bottle opening (a little tricky), and opening packages (and not risking injury), Also, it's great for adding more torque to certain screwdrivers {fitting the screwdriver shaft (only a hex shaft will work) into the Mighty Bar's Eye}.
Agreement. Mostly that stuff is EDJ. Every Day Jewelry.
The only one I disagree with is the Knipex pliers.
I bought the 4 inch Cobra pliers. I've found myself using them more then my Leatherman G10 Earth pliers
The fit perfectly well in the bit kit pocket of the Leatherman pouch.
They're also very light so it doesn't really feel like any weight has been added.
I do agree though that most I see posted online don't seem to have any use. But that can be said of most EDC items that cost over $30.
Kinda makes you feel like people turned it into more of a instagram lifestyle cause hey they gotta announce to the world with their pristine tools that they swear they use their gear and that its not pocket jewelry.
I agree with you on everything except the neck knife. Maybe you want to carry concealed or have a backup for your pocket folder.
That being said, I don't wear mine nearly as much as I thought I would...
Pound Sand!
I agree 100% with this video, I’ve done my research on superglue and I’ve literally used it eight times so far this month repairing shoes and clothes lol
Superb video. All great points that I've been ranting about for ages. I'm sick to death of seeing people taking photos of a knife, a box opener, a hank, a fidget, a pry, pliers, glue, lip balm, a multi tool, a SAK, a bolt action pen, a 'field notes' book, a field sharpener, a Ridge wallet, a 'challenge' coin and god knows what else. Who are these people walking around with 50 things in their pockets before they've even grabbed their phone and keys? Grown men acting like children. Guaranteed they work in offices and use none of it.
I gotta admit I'm guilty of carrying some of this unnecessary fodder. I'll definitely be ditchin ones I don't need. Make my EDC more streamlined. Thanks Marine X! Pound Sand!
I carry my Spyderco knife, Olight, Rustic Heirloom leather wallet, g shock watch everyday.. i have a kit that I bring when I go camping and my knipex pliers, Gerber multi tool, and pry bar live in that. When I camp, I switch out my knife to my Ontario Rat 2. I love edc channels but I do notice a lot of influencers promoting expensive items I’d probably be more reluctant to use or beat up. I’m all about functionality when I buy.
This video made me sub lol. I use my 5 inch cobras on the daily at work. Never understood the reason for carrying a little prybar. And I had no idea people carried glue with them. All in all, Im just glad Im not the only one who thought functionless pocket items were a waste. Enjoying the content!
Pound sand
# sand
I'm a K.I.S.S. kind of guy, and I like to travel light. I think price is a key factor in a lot of these things. If you pay $90 for a prybar how likely are you going to use it? but at the same time I have been in situations that I need a little pry action, but I don't want to break my pocketknife (Openal No 6). Its a learning journey, you carry stuff and then find out you don't use it as much as you thought, then you come across situations thinking, "I wish I had a...........". Constantly adding, subtracting, changing and swapping out one thing for another.
Keep up the great work pound sand!
I pretty much agree except for the Knipex lol, they do pair well with a SAK and I’ve stopped carrying a Leatherman ever since I got mine since that combo is lighter. I’ve used them so much at work (warehouse) removing stubborn staples from some boxes, tightening nuts on our chairs or glass racks, amongst other things. But I only carry that for work and they stay in my backpack. On me is just a flashlight and either my work knife or a regular pocket knife on the weekends.
Finally someone calling out the Knipex cobras!
I already have a 7" in my toolbox I'm really not that desperate to carry a 5" in my edc 😂
Carry a 4 inch then.
Knipex are amazing. I can't keep a toolbox in the SUV due to crackheads. It's good to have some functionality with me.
@@spacepope87 😂😂
@nprwikeepa6082 I used to think they were dumb until I carried one. I hardly use my Leatherman G10 Earth pliers anymore. I also carry on their Surge sheath. With their extra bit kit pocket. I keep I in the extra slot. Fits right in I can't feel a weight difference.
@@spacepope87 I use a Gerber and it's heavy as hell before I add my own bit set and extender. You might be on to something! Maybe I can swap in a lightweight bit driver and save weight and form factor.
Thanks!
Pound sand. 😂 I used my pry tool to fix a light today. Could I have used my knife? Yes, but I saved the blade from potential damage. And... And! Lanyards are not dumb haha! 😂 Great video!
Haha - ouch! While I don't carry any of the items mentioned on my person, I certainly have a few in my mini tool kit in my bag (Only the tools, I won't defend knucks, lanyards, & pocket art).
For most people, I agree - carrying a prybar and water pump pliers doesn't make sense, especially weighing down their pockets. I think it comes down to what you actually use. For me, I am always building, fixing and restoring things, often in my spare time. The kit I carry see a decent amount of use (Knipex, prybar, driver, etc.) but I still keep it in my tier 2 EDC, not on me directly. I will say, I found superglue in these tiny single use mini tubes that have been real handy in a pinch. They don't take up much space and you don't have to worry about closing them right.
I think more people should have a basic tool kit in the trunk of their car instead of focusing on the cool factor or pocket bling. It is too easy to be seduced by the EDC tech and toys.
Got me on the bit drivers. I carry one and have never used it. Matter of fact, I have one that has a pry bar and have never used either one. I’m also having to chase the bits down constantly because they won’t stay secured in the holder that’s provided. I am now working on convincing my self that all I need for cigar EDC carry is a lighter and a cutter. Great and practical advise. It is to easy to get caught up in all of the shiner things and forget practicality.
Agree with 90%. Gotta have a hank. I would add “lighter” to that list. If you’re not smoking something on the daily, probably don’t need it.
Concur, for the most part. I do, however, EDC a Gerber Armbar Slim. I had screwdrivers stashed all over, cars, all around the house and office, because I was always looking for one; not any more. The Armbar blade is redundant, but doesn’t add much bulk or weight. And super glue, because I have room in my EDC pouch and have had need to repair things with super glue in the past. As the always prepared Grandpa, carry over from infantry days, I’m always repairing things away from my home and tools/supplies.
Pound sand. 😂
Seriously though I have to agree with you.
I don't have most of those items, and the ones I do have I don't carry everyday. When I do decide to carry them I honestly don't use them.
If I were to only carry what I actually use all the time it would be my phone, a flashlight, and a pen.
Sadly, even a knife and/or multitool would would be out of my pockets as well because in my job I barely ever need them.
i enjoyed this video - your opinion on edc gear and pocket trash are credible and appreciated. thank you for bringing to light that some (maybe even most) of our gear are obtained simply for the gram and/or clout.
I agree with ALMOST everything. I HAVE had jobs where the Knipex, the bit driver, and the prybar would have been wonderful to have. Constant equipment repairs. Knucks? If I want that I will happily carry full on brass knuckles and not care about legality. Super glue is a weird one. I use a lot when I'm making things on the lathe, and I'd NEVER carry it on my person because it's GONNA leak at some point and it's gonna suck dead animal balls. The only thing I break away on is the lanyard. I make my own lanyard beads so I have to use them. They serve a purpose, I carry my blades at work in my waistband and they make it WAAAAY easier to pull when I need to use them. I carry a full size 6 inch blade Luzon in that waistband comfortably and that lanyard makes it way easier to draw. I do like the pocket bling as a side effect. But yeah, if you're a concrete cowboy you really don't need any of that shit.
The sand has been pounded
FWIW: My own EDC annoyance is adding specific bottle-opening capability to anything. I've always found it easier to use a lighter, a folded knife, another bottle, a piece of wood, just about anything other than fumbling for a purpose-built bottle opener.
I agree with just about everything you said... unless you're a tradesperson. Then the Knipex and 1/4" bit driver are pretty convenient and get a lot of use.
Marine X bringing the honest truth yet again! I bought a super cheap pry bar months ago. Used it once to scratch off lottery tickets. That's it. Gone. Relegated to secondary carry.
I do keep and use a hank for cleaning my glasses, phone screen, and bike computer screen. I'll admit I've got a handful of them, but they get used. Why buy stuff if you're not actually using it?
Pound sand.
My punisher prybar opens my budlight while I let the snowflakes hit me in the forehead..
Sheesh 😂
Pound sand!
😂
I’m an HVAC tech and even I don’t carry Knipex Cobras. Absolutely loved the video and most certainly earned a sub from me! Great video!
I carry a tiny pry bar on my key chain for popping lids off barrels at work and a Big Idea designs EDS in my pocket for the only 4 non philips/Flat bits I need regularly. Anything I don't regularly need access to jus stays in the tool pouch in my bag.
I agree with all of these except maybe the Knipex Plyers, I think being able to grip something well is a good thing to have every day. I still don't understand the need for pry bars though, especially ones that are like $200
I agree with you on the Knipex pliers, I use them at least once a day. I have a minimal pry bar, a stainless Mighty Bar wedge, at 2.9" -- no blingy hunk of titanium or artsy paint job. I use it more than my Knipex pliers.
@bobbelttari1437 what do you use your prybar for? I'm genuinely curious cause I just don't see a reason to own one of those small ones. I would get one if I would use it.
I work in construction, concrete mostly, and I use my pry bar as much if not more than my knife for scraping concrete off of boards to make a pen mark, or make space for my claw hammer or pliers to get into. I totally agree with the basis of your video, if you don't use it, don't carry it. My pockets used to be full of stupid stuff, now I'm down to a knife, pry bar and pen. My pants are so light now! Pound sand!
Most of the two-sided hanks are microfiber on one side which is nice to have if you wear glasses or sunglasses often. I do quite like my Mighty Hanks. I think the prices are fair and I use them all the time.
I’ve carried a lot of traditional hanks for the eventual nose wipe for myself or my kid but that pretty much never happens. I’m never that far from a bit of toilet paper or paper towel so it feels dumb to soil my Hank. Which is funny because that’s why I carry it in the first place
I keep two tubes of name brand single use super glue in my EDC kit for a completely different reason than what I think you had in mind. I know some people use it for medical purposes but hell, I just use it for what it's meant to do. From fixing my wife's cheap sandals or reattaching a frayed bag zipper, I've used them for a number of little repairs out and about and it takes up almost no space or weight in my kit.
I agree! It's like I've heard before, "Need what you carry and carry what you need"
Great video! I also lean toward utility over the "you gotta have one of these" crowd. EDC has turned into some lifestyle choice over function, just like a lot of other things. Then, after the heat has died down, people lose interest in those things and don't even bother EDCing the stuff they really need. That extra shit just makes my bag too heavy! That's my 2 cents, hahaha.
You aren’t the hero we asked for, you are the hero we need! The gram and the forums is filled with absurd edc items. It always bugged me. The only thing I would disagree on is the pry bar. I find myself wishing I had a small pry bar frequently, don’t want to pry with my PM2 and risk snapping the blade. Other than that, amen brother!
Mannn, I laugh at this subject everyday while watching these EDC videos. Very informative and humbling!!! Thanks X the community needed this tongue lashing Lol pound sand
I started carrying a multi tool because I foud it usefull in my work as a product photographer. Then a flash light and that is all I carry in my pockets. After that I got a pouch and put there an item that I needed but did not have, then if I did not use that thing for 2-3 months I get rid of it. Now I have all sorts of things but nothing is out of place or not needed. And I go through a surprising amount of superglue in my day to day.
Pound sand! Agree with everything. I still carry man of them because I enjoy being part of a community and collecting them. But I’ll be the first to agree they don’t have utility. The one exception is “pocket trash” or “worry coins”. These do help with anxiety and the tactile / haptic / fidget factor helps me focus. I do this with knives at home, but that’s not as socially acceptable in the office place.
Pry bars: I use the flat head screwdriver on the Victorinox FarmerX I carry. I used it on Tuesday this week to pry open the steel door on an industrial unit, in the past I’ve pried open iron manhole covers.
The Victorinox Alox 93mm screwdrivers are a bit meatier than those on the 91 mm ranges, so maybe the screwdriver on a Spartan/climber/Huntsman/Champ or Tinker might not be able to fill that role.
I carry a "pry bar", it's called a Paint can opener. lol
I do use the pry bar at least once a week and use the knipex every now and again at work. The rest I don't touch. I would probably debate the bit bar.
I've cut down what I keep in my pockets to only what I use more than twice a week, and have developed a cross body bag that has the more situational stuff. I really just keep a box cutter, flashlight, mini pliers by Swiss, and a pry bar (I use my often)
I wear glasses 80% of my day so carrying a Hank in my back pocket is a must for me. Glasses need constant cleaning and wiping so thats what I use it for.
The paracord bracelet can pound sand. Has anyone in the history of time ever needed that seven feet of cord?
Not ever lol
Yes. I have. Tying something down on my motorcycle that I bought while I was out and discovered that I had foolishly left my straps at home. However, I just use a fast rope key fob rather than a bracelet. Partly because I just don't like wearing things on my wrist, and partly because the key fob serves triple duty. I have different colored paracord for different keys, making them easy-peasy to identify. The key fob, well, does that "easy to grab" key fob thing. And then having some cordage. It's not 550 paracord though, I use 325 for the fobs. 550 would be a FAT fob. 325 also makes for great little monkey fist zipper pulls, because black factory zipper pulls on a black bag are a PITA.
The voice of reason, at last! I agree on all accounts EXCEPT a prybar. I started to carry mine out of necessity (the place where I work have a lockers with electronic locks, but batteries didn't get changed as often as they should and locks tend to "die" suddenly; there was quite a few times when I got to broke into my own locker). But I made my own prybar myself, so I didn't wasted any money on it. And mine is significantly longer than those on sale, so it have a much better leverage and actually can pry something.😁
JRW Curator is a 21st century Pog. A very expensive Pog.
A lot of EDC items are carried "just in case". I didn't carry a prybar in my formerly used EDC pouch (Maxpedition Fatty, IIRC), but that's because I haven't found one that meets MY definition of "good prybar" that would fit. I wouldn't carry a truly functional one in pocket, not a fan of being stabbed. I do carry one in my EDC bag. It's a 5" steel Vaughn, Stanley makes one similar, as do some other companies. Costs a whopping $4 when I bought it. I have run into multiple situations when having it was real handy, and as many when not having it was a bother.
As a glasses wearer, the two sided hanks are actually REALLY good. Why? Because you can fold it so that the microfiber side is completely covered. This significantly reduces the pocket nasty that gets embedded in it, and then scratches/screws up your glasses. Being two sided means I can't mix up the "clean side" from the "not clean side". Glasses are why I carry one. My cellphone screen? I can clean that on my shirt.
I mostly agree with you on the lanyard beads, they are essentially jewelry. Fortunately for me, the unfathomable obsession with skulls that afflicts that market means that 90% of them are immediately punted from consideration. I think $10 or less for a small piece of jewelry isn't unreasonable. But it IS jewelry, and I think that between the two knives I've put lanyards on I spent less than $10. Actually the only part of my EDC that doesn't meet a functional requirement.
Superglue? Sometimes you just need to glue something back together. I know that once one of those little tubes is opened it's done for, so I don't look at that as being a shortcoming. I don't think I would pocket carry it unless I KNEW I would be using some, maybe put it in an EDC pouch, definitely have some in my EDC bag. (the bag is about 3L in size.)
Dedicated bit driver? Bag only. Primarily because using a Leatherman for more than a couple of screws is a very annoying undertaking. It CAN be done, but it's a PITA compared to a proper driver. Mind you, I think a proper driver for the bag is an actual ratcheting driver from a company that makes tools for the trades and/or mechanics, not one just in the EDC space. The nifty drivers you showed are bench bling in my mind.
Neck knife? Perfectly reasonable choice in some use cases as you covered. Very rarely use one myself.
Nucks & Pocket Art? Not for me, but some of it's pretty cool to look at. There are worse things someone can spend their money on.
I think carrying super glue in your pocket is dumb, but it is super useful for cuts on your hands. I’m a firefighter/medic that does mechanic work on the side, I use it a ton for cuts on my hands along with electrical tape to keep them closed. But I’m not keeping it in my pocket.
Keep doing more of these. I like knowing I am not the only one trying to keep up with the weird trends. Pound sand my dude.
I have a pair of the Knipex soft jaw pliers in the kit on my bike; they are a life saver on the road and save me the trouble of needing box wrenches at all. Huge rec for those for a bike bag.
I agree with you X on most of the things you mentioned are just for showcase and never get used. My coworker bought a Leatherman tool and never used it because he didn’t wanted to scuff it or bend the implements. Waste of money in my opinion. One thing I carry with me all the time, that I never hear anyone mention, is baby wipes. I don’t carry an entire package but few in a ziplock baggie. They come handy if you have kids, specifically since they seem to attract dirt like nothing else on the face of the Earth. I use them to wipe sh!t like tables or benches at a public place, clean my glasses, and other sh!t I come in contact with on a daily and of course, for what they are meant to be used, your a$$. I try to avoid using public bathrooms as much as possible but sometimes you gotta go. More than once I went to use the toilet to find out the paper was out. Thank god I have wipes in my sling bag 😂😂.
Hmm. instantly in love with this video.
I'm a smaller EDC adjacent content creator and the fact of the matter is i thought i was mostly alone in a lot of these thoughts,
i even make a stress/fidget out of zipties that's infinitely more fun to fidget with than that pocket trash "art"
That being said, Pound sand
I use a pocket clip on a lanyard in place of the knife mounted clip. Seems easier to get your hand past it in the pocket. I carry as little as possible. If it’s not used regularly I don’t carry it. Smallish knife and small flashlight is about it, besides keys and wallet.
I'm never giving up my Knipex!! Loved seeing my pics. Keep it up, love your channel.
i do a neck knife in the woods as an on body backup fixed blade, my prybar is a prybrid utility knife bottle opener and gets used daily at work lifting scales at work for resets or cracking open customers keyfobs, my knuck is admittedly a just for fun carry with a bottle opener cut out but i could be cracking bottles another way but it also scrapes lotto tickets lol
I agree 100%. If I'm going to lug it around all day, it had better serve a purpose. And none of my EDC is particularly expensive. If I'm worried about scratching something up, then it belongs in a display case, not in my pocket.
Pound Sand 😂 Personally I really like the decorative 2 sided hanks. While I have numerous plain microfiber cloths I don’t like them. An 8 inch hank I can rap a pair of reading glasses in for the always need cleaning. And I use them on my Ray-Bans, knives and also electronic screens throughout the day. A Plumbers Pal 6 foot Metal Tape measure is probably the best fidget item that’s functional. Pry Bars & Pliers are useful items, not always EDC cause I don’t use my Leatherman everyday. Like a few others in the comments I work with tools daily, functionality and need is everything.