The BEST Key Organizer Is One You Can DIY for $5
![Best Damn EDC [Taylor Martin]](http://yt3.ggpht.com/dEnbzSzpE6sYjPI492DObzSXQazhBlCAGLkT6Zgw7Yvz4Mq7j7SWn0yZMOqart_i47vobgeFbfg=s48-c-k-c0x00ffffff-no-rj)
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 9 ก.พ. 2025
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An EDC channel that just saved me money?! You have a new sub.
Dude loves high quality gear but he also adores function over form. This channel is definitely a hidden gem.
I’m officially making my own key organizer... Most useful DIY video ever. And Taylor, appreciate that you look out for the community and aren’t just here to advertise for manufacturers... I think they win big time with you, but at least you can make content that puts some of these products into perspective.
Marine hardware stores are the way to go for this kind of thing. Every kind of clip and shackle you could possibly imagine, all made in nice shiny indestructible stainless steel, and very reasonably priced.
Chicago screws and D-Shackles have been my go-to for a while now. I've also found that if I get one that's a bit oversized (to fit a fob, Kershaw cinder, etc), and add a small spring to it (half a pen spring, or similar), I can negate the jingle effect without having to cram everything together. Also works great when the amount of keys/things you want to carry puts you between shackle sizes
Just as a caution before you all, like me, go out and buy this stuff to try it out:
The 3/16 shackle did not fit any of my keys. Neither did the smallest barrel size of Chicago bolt that Home Depot carries.
If you're willing to drill out your keys, or you have ones with large holes as is - this seems like it can work great in that case. Just be warned re: sizing issues.
Greatest idea ever when I saw that video and said why the hell didn't I think of that I hate the sound of bulky ass keys. 3 years later and I still use it couldn't be any happier.
For the past 25-30 years, I've had an ASP Key Defender tucked down inside my waistband at the small of my back with a keyring attached to the end and my keys hanging over the top of my belt. Never go anywhere without it. It started out completely black, now is completely polished silver colored from use. Works like a mink--both for holding keys and blasting pepper spray. It it ever becomes unuseable, I have a backup. I'd almost be lost without it.
I had this dilemma today. Was stood right next to a large assortment of shackles at Home Depot. Grabbed a small carabiner and key ring for my fob and two keys. Not bad not great. Can’t believe I didn’t think to try the shackle idea
Dude! One the best reviews I've seen in a long time. Great videography. Great audio. Good common sense advice. I've done similar things but braided some paracord to wrap around the keys.
Taylor, one of the best things you can do is always get a vehicle with either a proximity open an start, or at least a keypad entry, then the deal you have or any other work way better. Also if you still tote keys with you an you have a keypad entry you can leave you an extra house or whatever key safley locked in you vehicle. The key with all the transponder or lock unlock things on it in most cases can still have a key cute thats normal an gain entry into your vehicle. Hope this helps!
I've been using this DIY organizer since the original vid on MOD. I've tried the titanium keybar, orbit key and a whole lot more yet I always seem to go back to this cheap option. I attach my keys to a boker tech tool and just use the clip to keep it all together. Thanks for the great vid Taylor.
Holy crap! Glad I ran into your video, just saved me $20! Thanks and keep up the good work!!
I converted all the locks in my house and workshop to electronic keypad locks (with well hidden physical backup keys), so all I leave from the house with is either my car fob or bike key. The best key organizer is the one you leave at home!
Now that's an idea! If I didn't rent, I would probably do the same or switch all the locks to smart locks.
I'd imagine I'd have to change the code every month in case the kids type it in next to their friends. Maybe when they're older and I have some money to spare.
@@BestDamnEDCSince most Home Smart Locks regardless of the price point are pretty much junk and can be easily defeated by the dumbest of crooks the use of Smart Locks or combination type lock is pretty much a no go with me. The front and back doors to my house have high quality Medco lock cylinders in old style escutcheon plate double throw locks. Additionally I have two dead bolts with Medco lock cylinders in the that locking bolt engages into a large piece a brass stock secured into the door frame along with safety hinges.
As for you hide-a-key trailer hitch they are easy to spot and can be opened with a little piece of a coke can in about 2 minutes or less or with one good hit with a 2 pound hammer. Personally I think you would be better off putting you keys on top of a tire or in a magnetic hide-a-key than that thing but you do you
I enjoy to have the key ring. I tend to rely on my hearing to hear the keys thrown to me in the dark or shaking table tops or bed sheets or hitting the couch to find them if lost in a mess or last minute task that require me to leave
The thing I like about the keysmart/keybar type thing is it gives you more to hold on to. I always drop my keys when I'm trying to open the door while I'm carrying things but with that extra to hold onto I never drop them.
Just got a Chicago screw at Home Depot and it works great for my keys. They call it a “binding post screw” seems to only be available in 3/16” width. I had to drill into one of my keys to make it fit. Thanks!
Same here. There is always one a little too small.
I've been using a D shackle combined with some paracord and a TEC clip for several years now. The TEC clip holds onto my pant pocket and makes it so I don't have to fish the keys out of my pocket.
I don't carry my keys in my pocket anymore. I bought the Boyou belt key clip and find it so secure and convenient to have keys outside the pocket that i'll never go back. Great vids !!
Thanks for the idea, it inspired me to solve a key issue in my pocket. I have keys(4) to my parents and in-laws houses on my key chain and it is bulky and rarely used. I created two duplicate sets and used the shackle to keep them together and placed one set in each of the vehicles. Thanks for the motivation to solve a key issue.
Just stumbled onto this and noticed the guy who used to talk about mobile devices ages ago is doing EDC stuff now. Hot damn.
I’ve been wanting to know what those screws were called for the past 6 months, and the answer finally shows up in an EDC video! This community is awesome!
Hey, I was in the same boat as you, but I knew that they're also called book screws, which is harder to look for since chicago screw is a more common name. I finally found out their most known name by watching an Adam Savage's Tested video about it. I can highly recommend also checking out his favourite tool series, where one can learn the names of tools one has seen, but doesn't know the name of.
th-cam.com/video/Sz4mxsYOwzQ/w-d-xo.html
Edit: attached the link to the video I'm referring to.
The people who pressed thumbs down are the people who backed the kickstarter lol
I love this idea! I've tried Keybar, KeySmart, Orbitkey, etc., etc., and end up hating them for the exact same reason that you stated. I'm going to give this a shot. Thanks!
THIS MAN UNDERSTANDS MY PAIN!
I am OCD about making noise and key rings are my biggest annoyance. I'm headed to the hardware store now.
I actually thought the KeyBar was super difficult to use. Extremely well made, but just couldn’t get keys out easily and it got to be uncomfortable in my pocket. I’ve been using the Jibbon for a few months and love the hell out of it. Very well made and is easy to use. Not taking anything away from the KeyBar or other dual mounting key organizers, but I find the single ones easier to use and I like that there’s no metal piece on the outside of the mounting part on the Jibbon vs the OrbitKey.
Thank you for greatly decreasing my learning curve in my keyholder quest.
This is super-smart! I've been looking for a way to cheaply organize my keys and this has inspired me. Thank you!
Yo! Just stumbled on this video looking for key holding ideas and your honesty on this was refreshing!
Tec accessories p-7 suspension clip is what I'm using to clip my keys inside my pocket. Absolutely amazing if you don't have many keys.
THANK YOU SO MUCH for this... I was looking for a solution like this and it's just so simple but... I needed someone smart to figure it out 😂❤️
I made a key holder out of thin paracord (not 550). I tied a scaffold knot and looped the non-working end into the knot so I ended up with two loops (one small, one big) and a knot. To use it feed the larger loop through the key holes and then line it up with the small loop (so the keys are hanging). I put both ends through a bead to capture them (not needed but it works nice) and then ran a keyring through both loops. This locks everything in but still allows you to change keys out.
I am also using my keys on a d-shackle like these due to your video! By far the best way to organize and carry my keys, ever!
I've been using it for almost 3 years now, so thanks for the idea ;)
The biggest issue I had with the chicago screw method was the screw undoing itself over time.
A little dab of loctite solved that issue.
Got that solution from the Discord server. Kudos!!
until you moved house... lol
Thanks, I was supposed to be asleep 3 hours ago but I hopped down the rabbit hole of EDC key stuff that I didn't need to do tonight but just had to order. 🤦🏽
Diy orbitkey with Vegtan Leather is the best: no daggling, no scratching your pant, with style and personal touch
Brilliant! Cheap, DIY, and useful? Well I'll be. First time I ever walked away from an EDC video without having to consider getting a mortgage.
Great idea and it works! I had to drill a hole in 2 keys. I believe the anchor shackle is more secured than the Chicago screws.
Hell yeah, my week is now complete. Thanks for vid Taylor
Hi, Just stumbled across your video when searching for a key organiser. I really liked your style of presenting which is down to earth and sincere. Thanks for the great idea. Best wishes from Sydney, Australia.
The best key holder is the cable and twist screw ends. So light and it's available at dollar general, Wally World, Lowes and most general stores like Ace Hardware. Next best imho is the simple key ring.
You might also want to look at the Lucky Line Twisty key ring. I keep a couple on a titanium gate clip to attach things. Rather than make a separate post, I'll also note that I carry my keychain in a small leather pouch. I used to actually have one designed as a keychain, leather pouch, spring steel opening and attachment point, but it wore out. I have to check our new smart key, but the last one was kept in a small spark-lite box with a thick rubber band (from broccoli bunches) around it, to protect the necessarily expensive device and so the buttons would never get depressed accidentally. I never needed the buttons so they are better shut away. I have the new one in a small belt pouch from CountyComm...I suppose it it comes to that I can use that in my pocket or leather pouch.
My front door house key is actually on a separate parachute cord key fob, which I try to keep in the same leather pouch. Does anyone know of a front door smart lock that will actually work on a three point locking impact rated (hurricane) door? I have not found one that will lock the bolts at the bottom and top of the door. Most only seem to work the latch. We are getting a new double front door (French door) and it appears we will have to stick with a key operated lock/handle combination on the active door. At least on the new one, the inactive door bolts will also work from a the interior handle. On our rear French doors the active door bolts work from the handle but the inactive door had those little latches along the inside edge of the door. [I only mention this in a sort of warning as when we were looking at doors I was surprised to find a friend had doors which had latches on the active door that had to be manually activated from the inside. No thank you.]
I've seen a lot of videos for budget EDC gear. I've seen a lot less on DIY EDC gear. This may now be my favorite category of this stuff. I think I also saw one of your videos on how to make a minimalist wallet with a strand of flat elastic band and some super glue. You need to find a way to DIY an entire EDC gear set from hardware store components. (aside from like a watch).
MA BOY… you just cracked a world obvious secret that we’ve all been fvkin oblivious to. Good stuff
Nice tip, i have been using a D shackle myself for a couple of years now. My house key, my work key and a key to my locker and a journal cabinet at work. These are the keys that i use every day.
I do this but i cut off the ‘handle ‘ of the key, or most of it. Drill a new hole And the d ring becomes the handle
I've been using those horseshoe shackles for 20 years. I thought I was the only one. I drill keys that don't fit and keys with the bulky plastic piece because when the plastic breaks, you lose the key. (The hole does not go through the metal key, just the plastic.)
Tip: As a safety, you can take a very small split ring and run it through the hole in the screw ant through the shackle to prevent the screw from turning.
Chicago screws! So that's what they're called! Thank you!
They're miserable to deal with (IMHO). I bought a key bar that had them. The shallow straight slot slips too easy, and nothing to grab in the back side. I just replaced it with a small bolt.
Suggestion: closer shots of the small items would be nice. Great video quality though. 👍
I’m with you about hating keys. Car keys and fobs are stupid large. It makes caring in pockets difficult. Who thinks this was a good idea. It’s so bad, I actually need a house key for every vehicle. I remember when I could have my vehicles on 1 ring. No more. Keep up the good work
Waaay late to the party, but have you tried a Quiet Carry Q3? It’s maybe not the best solution if you have a lot of keys, but it’s fantastic for 2 to 4 keys. It’s great, because It completely covers the keys, giving it a nice clean aesthetics. It’s titanium, so extremely durable (I’ve carried mine in my pocket every day for years, so there’s a little bit of wear, and a few scratches, but the stonewash titanium makes them much less visible). Also, comes with a knife or multitool attachment as well. I highly recommend the Q3 if you haven’t tried it.
Bro I have those same containers. But I use them for school lunches. Lol
OK, had to pause the video! Regarding combining your truck keys (key fob and ignition key) I literally, LITERALLY just did that yesterday with my Ford. I spent an embarrassing amount of time looking for a legit flipper key fob all-in-one complete with electronics and the immobilizer chip, finally found a reputable USA based ebay store that sells these for every bloody vehicle you can think of, even have a website that you visit when you receive your order, which gives instructions on how to program the electronics for your vehicle. To program the immobilizer chip, TH-cam is your best friend.
extra-partss on ebay (yes with 2 s') SUPER fast shipping, works perfect, solved my EDC keychain problem, smaller, less bulky etc, took me less than 5 minutes to program 2 new keys for my wife and I and best of all, now we've got these cool flip out keys which are fun to play with when your bored...neat!
Ok, back to the video
I have a key "organizing" solution that's even simpler and less expensive than this.
Use an abrasion resistant thread of around 1.5mm to 2mm of thickness. Knot it end to end to make a loop, then use a cow hitch knot around the holes of the keys.
Pull it tight, and the keys will be held together tight enough to make them jingle much less, and properly aligned too. Use the thread at the top as a lanyard, or slide it onto a keyring for use.
2:12 out of those the brown leather one works perfect for me
I used a similar shackle set up for a long time. I switched to a keysmart pro recently because I misplaced my keys often enough for it to become a thing and I like the integrated Tile sensor.
If you have a lot of keys you can buy something like Chicago screws but longer that are used to mount door handles straight through the door. You can cut them with good pliers ar different lengths. A few euros for a pack of them and you can probably use 20 keys on 1.
Great video, great to see stuff that doesn't cost a premium price for a change
I see your solution and I raise you a D-ring with an allen screw. No tab sticking out (but I do need an allen key to exchange keys). From a boating supply store.
I love things like this I have been working on the ultimate keychain gadget with that said you said you have a lot of things clipped in your pockets with that said how many days go by that you never use most of the stuff you carry
Love the critical attitude on this one.
“This is the best my keys have ever been, and I still hate it.” If that’s not the most relatable EDC junkie phrase I’ve ever heard, idk 😂
This solved my edc key overload easily.
I have the same key system for my defender, but I just leave the key in the ignition and just take the 'remote' with me. Really slims it down.
Great. Thanks for idea, definitely want to see more of DIY on your channel.
Bought a pack of chicago skrews today ,thank you so much
this video gave me an idea, I actually ended up putting one of those u shackles instead of a keyring on the end of my pull/reel type thing keychain but put the keys on the bend part of the shackle instead of the flat bar, though it did involve some light dremeling/filing on the key side which could also be remedied by getting keys cut with a large enough opening to fit. other than that it works great. so thanks for the inspiration.
I have two bow shackles that I buy at Home Depot the only problem is some keys 🔑 the holes are small what I suggest to do is use a drill make hole little big and is ready
thanks i was trying to find the name for these types of screws for entirely too long
I'm surprised you have never mentioned Quiet Carry's Q3 or Q2 key managers. I've been using the Q3 for two years, and it's the best looking and most practical out of all the different key managers I've tried IMO--and I've tried many.
I have one and didn’t care for it. It’s bulky.
@@BestDamnEDC Did you try it without the knife or multi-tool attachment? It slims it down significantly. If you have more than 3 keys plus the tool attachment, it can definitely get pretty thick
*currently carrying around three separate sets of keys distributed around four pockets, two cell phones (both tracfones one for music only) and a few other things that added up together weigh nearly four pounds total..and this is my standard EDC contingency so to be honest i need more of a utility belt with suspenders as there is even more i would carry if i had the pockets to do so*
I’ve been using one of these for about 4 months or so now. The one I have is from CountyComm and is titanium. I love it. It’s definitely the most minimal key organizer.
you can use a keyflip for your car key to reduce size length and obviously the pointy end
Honestly I know it doesn't sound "EDC" but the Louis Vuitton key pouch and others like it are perfect for me, I know it's pricey for a key holder but it's durable and puts your keys in a neat package that isn't uncomfortable in you're pocket and doesn't scratch any bags my keys go into
Nice Video, bro 👊😎 I got the same ideas, but now I really want to try both.
I found my problem solvers to my keys very light. Price is just a few Penny's. All the keys rest flat in my pocket with out a bulges. I can lock them with ease to the road bike when I go out for the day or to a rucksack. Attachment of personal lettering is no problem from the craft store. Finding them can be of easy if the proper color is chosen. IT IS CALLED THE WORLD FAMOUS (P-CORD)
I tried this. Couldn't find a shackle at my local HD or Wally (Canada) that was the right size... the 5/16 one was so massive compared to what you're holding, and the 1/4 and 3/16 ones were a good overall size, but the post was *JUST* too big to fit through the tops of my keys. Might try the chicago screw next.
The one key ring to rule them all.
What size is the d ring/shackle?
I have 4 keys in the basic keysmart and my vehicle keys on a magnetic qd on a loop for the Zak tool on my belt. By far the most streamlined and convenient set up for me cause I can’t stand bulky keys or fighting to get them off my belt.
Mod in a box left overs.... I like that plastic case
😂 Someone pays attention. Both the Tupperware and shackles are leftovers.
Oh, and all the baggies.
Very interesting and good for you to give money saving info, but I live in a unique situation where I am not allowed to have "Weapons" and I don't live in the best area so I put as many keys and hefty metal things on my keyring put them on a threaded chain link and put that at the end of about a foot of braided Paracord with a loop at the end, and now my keys are multi purpose unlocking the things they are intended for but a bunch of metal things at the end of a rope I can swing at potential attackers.... Thank God I have not had to use it because I know it wouldn't be pretty but guarantee it will be effective 😉
Lee Valley Tools has had a shackle keyring in their catalog for years good simple stuff
Hate keys too! IDK dude that keybar and keysmart with their clips have changed the game for me. Although figuring out how to put them together has been a puzzle but when it’s together it works!!
I'm going to have to do this.
Great video! Thank you! Very helpful
I’ve been using an old school two piece separating dog bone looking (key ring at each end) for a couple decades.
Holds a lot or a couple of keys...
I keep my creeper van key on one end, so I can start the van, and have it running and still able to take my other key to open the house.... usually because I’ve forgotten something.
Kind of like the magnet model you showed in the begit
One of the advantages of the Orbitkey leather strap is the tugs away the sharp edges of keys, if you carry them in your pocket. This prevents them scratching through the pocket lining or scratching other items you carry in your pocket. So to compare the Orbitkey the he Chicago screw is really besides the point, in terms of what you are actually getting for your money. Also the Orbitkey mechanism with the "fancy" curved wave washer renders the washers placed between keys obsolete, while you can still easily move every single key. Seems Mr. Martin doesn't get that or he just likes to ignore it for the purpose of underlining how brilliant the cheap solution is. And that is only if you can find a dry goods store that will sell you a single Chicago screw... C'mon man
To be honest, I have no idea why I watch key organizer videos. I have two keys. My motorcycle key and my house key. That's it. I don't think I'll ever need a key organizer in my life, yet here I am watching a video about them lol
Damn, throwing shade at that kickstarter. I like it.
hey great video. This is for carrying around with you? How do you get your car fob on this? I have a typical honda key. Gadget seems cool but not sure how I can carry my car keys along with my other keys on this.
Gotta go on a key diet makes life much simpler when I carried less on the ring
A bike chain link does the job for my needs
Makes sense. For those who carry keys. I have not carried a key in 4 years.
Yeah I'm homeless too
Yeah I'm homeless too
What is the perfect measurement for 4-5 keys?
Mine is just an M4 nut & bolt with some washers, and a frame hanger.
Ahh. You’ve solved my problem!
I like your product research bud !
Thank you - thank you - thank you!!! I've been looking for a better way to organise my keys for ages... Chicago Screws are the answer!!! Thank you for sharing!!! PS... I have also sprayed my keys matt black for a blackout look!!!
Love this idea, remember when you first posted the idea on your other channel 🤘🏼
Did You tried the Ridge keyholder?
Isnt 5/16” too large to fit the size of a key?
Wow best video ever