(Part 2) Best products from r/BuyItForLife

Winter Clothing/Underwear
In the fall I would wear whatever sweater was on sale at Goodwill.
For the colder winter months I wore a heavy Carhartt jacket and layered as necessary, normally using old/retired ARMY-issued polypropylene underwear.
I bought this around 7 years ago and it's awesome to have in cold weather.

Long Sleeve
For a long sleeve I would always wear these Hanes Cool Dri T-Shirt's in the summer. They claim 50+ UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) though I'm sure that high of a rating only applies to the black ones and it will slowly go down as you put it through the wash. I bought the safety green ones over a year ago and haven't noticed any change in sun protection so far. They were holding up too witch was impressive with my line of work at the time (railroad labor).

Pants
I started wearing whatever blue jeans I found at Goodwill but they would always end up having holes after a month or so. I used that saved money and waited to for a 25% off sale to buy a few pairs of Duluth Firehouse pants (the originals, not those quick-dry things). I've returned 1 pair so far after 2 years even though I staggered them every day. I suspect I may have over-washed them (weekly)?

Hats
I was required to wear a hard hat so I bought this sun shade that wrapped around the brim, it worked out very nicely because 50% of the work involved bending over, exposing the back of your neck to the sun.

Socks
I bought Darn Tough socks and haven't looked back since.

Boots
I went through a few brands of boots before I found the perfect pair of Chippewa's. All other boots I tried were uncomfortable in the toe area. I was restricted to certain boot requirements from the railroad: 8", defined heel, safety toe, laced. I also put on some KG's Boot Guard before I wore out the leather on the toe area, use masking tape to make it look good! As for boot care, I opted for Obenauf's Heavy Duty LP because of the water and chemical resistance. Any time I needed to clean my boots I used Dawn (yes, the dish soap). For a thorough (bi-yearly) cleaning I used Murphy Oil Soap (yes, the wood cleaner).

Lunch Box
As for a lunch box, a basic small cooler/ice chest will do the job just fine for storing hot or cold items (not both at once!). They're well insulated, cheap, and beat broken zippers, ripped cloth, or dented metal any day.

Canteen
COLD: I bought this Coleman 1 Gallon Jug about 5 years ago at Goodwill for $2 and it still looks brand new today.
HOT: This Stanley One Hand Vacuum Mug was the best money I ever spent. It's awesome for driving without spillage and relatively easy to use while wearing insulated gloves. Sadly my first one was ran over by a coworker but I quickly bought another.

Sunscreen
Find whatever works for you, but keep in mind that high SPF ratings are pretty much marketing. SPF 15 = 94% UVB protection and SPF 45 = 98% UVB protection. As far as I'm aware you cannot obtain 100% UVB protection from sunscreen.

Sunglasses
Again, find whatever feels most comfortable to you, everybody is different. I was required to wear safety glasses which means polycarbonate lenses, they are known to scratch easily. Because of that, I found a pair that could be cheap enough to replace when necessary. Yes, my company did provide them, but they were incredibly uncomfortable to wear for 8+ hours a day.

Other
Having a few bandanas will always come in handy.
If you need gloves, your leather choices are between grain and patched. Grain is much more expensive, takes some breaking into, is water resistant and very durable. Patched is pretty much the exact opposite of grain. My goto brand was Kinco.

I may add more if I can think of anything else.

EDIT 1 - Forgot a link..

Ya gotta be a TOUGH MANLY MAN to make it through NorthEast winters.....

Just kidding, man. It's a great question, actually. This is my experience...

You're going to need wool socks to keep your feet warm. I personally like Darn Tough socks and some from a label called Mountain View I got at Ocean State Job Lot for $4.00 (70% merino). You don't have to spend a ton of money to get wool socks. TJ Maxx and Marshalls have slightly irregulars on sale quite often around here. Not sure about California, tho. Avoid cotton socks. Run far, far away from acrylic socks. Look for socks that are mostly (>50%) wool. Nylon will give them some durability.

You're also going to need to learn how to take care of your boots! Maybe you do this already, but if not...

The simplest thing to do is wipe them off with a clean towel after you get back indoors.

You're also going to have to treat your leather boots with some kind of dressing. Frequency varies, but at least once a year. Once a month is probably overkill. So find something in-between that works for you.

This is strictly in my opinion and experience, but the two best products I've found for this are Obenauf's Leather Protector and Huberd's Shoe Grease. WARNING: Obenauf's WILL darken the leather. That's no big deal to me but for some people it's a non-starter. Huberd's doesn't seem to darken leather, but YMMV.

Lastly, Bick #4 does a real nice job of conditioning and cleaning leather shoes/boots. I only use this when I think my shoes/boots are looking a little grubby. Bick #4 does NOT darken leather at all.

I hope you get a chance to "enjoy" a "real winter" sometime soon. One of the most fun experiences I've ever had was hanging out with a buddy from India who had never experienced snow before. He thought it was glorious. It made me take a new look at it, and winter CAN be glorious if you want it to be.

I have that cutco paring knife. It's pretty from an aesthetic standpoint, but as a knife, it's pretty crap.

I never really found it worthwhile to sharpen the cutco knives since they're made out of a soft steel with high chrome content for maximum shine. (I think they use 18/10?). They quickly dull again after sharpening and never get that sharp.

A decent cheap paring knife that's highly recommended, and extremely cheap, is the Victorinox. Cheap but sharpens up well and holds a nice edge.

The cleaver, well, cleavers are generally dull anyways. Wouldn't worry too much about that, cleavers are more about smashing stuff.

That Henckels is a decent knife, sharpen it up and use it for what it's worth.

If you have a hankering for better knives, check out chefknivestogo. I've found all of the knives there to be a much better value proposition than the bigger brands, like Henckels, Wusthof, etc. Get a gyuto for around $70 bucks and a sharpening stone like the one /u/SavageConciousness mentioned, then teach yourself basic knife care and sharpening, and you should be good to go.

I've never heard of those mugs or bottles so I'm not familiar with them . . . But I recently just bought a Zojirushi mug that is 20 oz and I'm in love with it.

I've been able to put hot water in it before I leave for school (usually at 7am) and I have pulled it out still hot at 5pm for tea.

I have also left coffee in there with that time frame and was still able to enjoy a hot cup at 5pm until I left for home around 8pm.

It's also really cool because I've been able to lay it flat in my backpack on top of my books, laptop and binders and it doesn't leak at all. Which I was really paranoid about but after trying it out like that a few times I see now I have nothing to worry about.

In fact I've kind of gotten into the habit of showing it off by having my friends try to unlock it and test it's heat insulation.

Then I have them try to open it while the little mechanisn that allows you to lock the button that opens the mug's lid is locked. They can't so we undo the lock and it comes off pretty gently.

I usually tell them to hold it, and ask if they can feel any heat. Sometimes there's a bit of warmth but nothing that compares to what's inside. Then I take the entire lid off and tell them to hold their hand over it, and their usually surprised by the amount of steam coming off of it.

If you look at their reviews on Amazon you'll also see I'm not the only one who was impressed by it.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00HYOGUM2/ref=psdcmw_602608_t1_B00CHOUI86

The Sweethome has a list of dorm room essentials.

If you don't have one already, a microwave is a lifesaver.

Good bedsheets are nice to have and they have their recommendation in the link above. I don't know if there are Target stores in the UK, but I really like these Threshold cotton percale sheets. They feel great to sleep on and are affordable.

I really love my Zojirushi travel mug. It has a secure flip top cap, can be easily cleaned, and it's almost too good at insulating hot & cold drinks. You can use it as a regular cup at home and travel with it to class.

Most importantly, keep condoms around. I like Lifestyles Skyns. The Skyn Elite ones are thinner and have torn on me, so be careful.

Ok, so based on the suggestions you've gotten so far, my suggestion might be too expensive. Having said that, I'd still like to make the case for them.

The headphones you should buy are the Shure SE215s.

Now, before you look at the $99 price tag and completely balk at them, let me explain why you should consider them.

First, comfort. Shure manufactures several sizes and types of cushioned ear tip sleeves. This means that you can find a size and type that works best for your ears and gives you the most comfort with the best possible seal. If you're anything like me and you live in your headphones, this is massively important.

Second, sound quality. This is a professional pair of headphones. Sure, they're definitely on the entry level side of things if you're talking to an audiophile. But if you're coming from Apple headphones they will reveal parts of your music that you've never heard before and might be good enough to shatter you emotionally for a while.* If comfort matters, then so does the actual quality of the thing you're listening for.

Finally, and most importantly, the cable is detachable, replaceable, and damn near indestructible. This means that while your initial investment is higher than it would be for a pair of skull candies, you make up for it by actually being able to repair the headphones long term. Additionally, you shouldn't have to replace the cable that often, it's kevlar reinforced and can survive almost anything you throw at it. The pair I currently own I've had for almost 3 years now, and I've only had to replace the cable once (which I did for ~30 dollars).

If your goal is to buy it for life, I honestly can't recommend the SE215s enough.

Most important: Get one with a vacuum seal. Nothing else works as well. Referencing the comment from /u/0accountability... There are Contigo Autoseals with and without the vacuum seal.

I recently bought two "actual" Thermoses. For something I love and use every day I feel they're inexpensive (mine were $25 and $30 )and after a few months of every day use, I'm a huge fan. My recommendation, look through the Thermos brand products on Amazon and on Thermos.com. Find one that "Keeps hot for 24 hours", then look for other features that you're interested in. (How it looks, does it have a caribeener, does it float, etc.)

I bought one, loved it so much I decided to get one with a caribeener and gave the "old one" to my wife who loves it as well.

Here are links to the two I use:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003U583YW
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000FOOSIQ

I have only used mine for cold liquids, but I've been really impressed by the quality and performance. They both keep drinks cold for 12-24 hours (REALLY!) It does depend on external temp and starting temp of the liquid but I have been astonished by their ability maintain temperature. Judging from my experiences with the cold, I expect the hot to do very well.

Ya this post got me interested in looking for a razor upgrade again. I've had the same chinese "crappy" safety razor going on 8 years now...and the thing kicks ass. No corrosion, tough as nails, shaves great - cost me $2.25 on amazon. I have had friends that got them, even one that got the same one I ordered months later (didn't receive the same one I got) and a lot of people said theirs sucked/corroded/broke/rusted.

This is the one I ordered - was $2.25. Again this may NOT be the "same one" I received, I must have gotten lucky cuz the one I have is fantastic and I love it. If I'm going to upgrade, it's gotta be for something badass and truly BIFL. A lot of reviews show these studs breaking pretty easily, which I could see happening. No matter what I upgrade to, this knockoff will probably outlive anything I get.

One of my favorites is an electric griddle. I also have a cast iron one I enjoy, but I do like the fact I can cook "away" from the stove. There are a number of them out there, but the more real estate the better.

We also added a toaster oven like this http://amzn.com/B001L5TVGW I cannot speak to the BIFL, but it is built well and I use it for 95% of my baking (I can get a Calphalon 9x13 in there with no problem).

Speaking of Calphalon, I have been infinitely pleased with their cookware and bakeware. Their baking pans are amazing and should really last.

I absolutely adore my Breville BOV800XL toaster oven.

http://www.amazon.com/Breville-BOV800XL-1800-Watt-Convection-Toaster/dp/B001L5TVGW/ref=pd_sim_k_1

Costs a bit, but this was definitely my pick after searching around. Couldn't be happier. There's just two of us, and we do most of our baking/heating/broiling in this thing. Saves money, and doesn't heat up the whole kitchen when you just need a couple of chicken breasts or to broil a sandwich.

One caveat; If toast is important to you, this is not the greatest toaster in the world. It makes adequate toast at best. But as a small oven and a broiler, it absolutely rocks. Most powerful broiler you can buy in a toaster oven.

I have one. It was a gift but I wanted it. It has a nice weight to it, It isn't made of pot metal or sintered stainless steel. I'll never have to buy (and I do not collect) another DE. It has a nice weight to it, it is not an aggressive shaver, and the handle has knurling that gives a nice grip.

Does it give a better shave than my $15 Gillette butterfly I got in an antique store? No. And It seems that it was buy it for one life prir to me. Perhaps not even better than a Sodial razor (sp?).

Even on amazon they have dropped the prices from what it was just a year ago. If you want a DE, most will last a long time if never dropped. If you want this razor, it is a good deal.

I'll have to go with Gerber folding utility knife, this small as possible kind:

http://www.amazon.com/Gerber-31-000345-E-A-B-Pocket-Knife/dp/B002RILCLY/ref=pd_sim_sbs_hi_23

The one I have is slightly different with G10 handle, but they don't make it anymore... but I don't think it matters. Couple nice things about this: It is just so small/light and the clip works very well. I can kinda put it near the top of my pocket and I never know its there. And more importantly it takes normal razor blades, so I can buy a 50 pack and every other week or so put in a new blade. This is a huge both because I always have a super sharp blade that makes cutting thing so enjoyable, and because unlike having a fancy knife, I don't worry about treating the blade like crap. I don't care if it dulls. I've got some nice knives and used to carry one all the time but I was so careful with them.

I have a 1/2 gallon klean kanteen at home - brushed, and it's a very nice product, great for mixing large amounts of drinks, etc - but it has no insulative properties.

For work bottles - I cannot recommend this one enough: IT IS FANTASTIC. I've given them as gifts, people love them. Ice STAYS as ice for 10 hours or more.


http://www.amazon.com/Thermos-Insulated-24-Ounce-Stainless-Hydration/dp/B003U583YW/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1394404009&sr=8-2&keywords=thermos+water+bottle

note - 444 reviews with an average of 4.7, 359 5 star reviews -- Its a great bottle.

Sorry I'm a bit late to the party. I had a really good pair that lasted me 2 years(longer than any pair of earbuds ever) They were the best quality earbuds I ever had, and they stay in your ear really well, as they are designed with being active in mind.

They're usually 30 dollars, but right now are on sale for 16 on Amazon right here.

I know the name sounds sketchy and nobody has ever heard of them, but they're honestly great, durable headphones.

This La Crosse Charger gets among the best reviews on Amazon for chargers, but there are quite a few 1-star reviews that say it has melted or starts fires. Lots of 5-star reviews, but saying "this product probably won't burn your house down" isn't good enough for me.

I own two Maha chargers, this and this one both are excellent. I had my first C401FS break; they sent me a replacement with no charge, so I'm very happy with their service. Not a Buy-it-for-life quality product, not many electronics are, but they make the best stuff in this category.

I bought these to use while I ride my m/c. They stay in place under a full face helmet.

http://www.amazon.com/MEElectronics-M6-CL-Sound-Isolating-Headphones-Players/dp/B0038W0K2U

Up near the ear bud, the last two inches or so of the cord is a pliable material that you can shape around your ear for a nice secure fit. They come with 4 or 5 different tips that help give you more secure fit depending on the internal shape of your ear. Sound quality is decent but not on par with Etymotic or Shure.

If you are having issues with them staying in place, Comply Foam Tips would be another good option to try. I have replaced all my earbud tips with these.

http://www.complyfoam.com/

You roll the foam tip like an earplug and it expands in your ear to seal out ambient noise and provide a snug fit.

Sony MDR-7506

They've been a standard for professional audio engineers for decades for good reason - and they only cost $79.99 on Amazon.

I've had mine since the mid-90s and have traveled around the country with them crammed in a backpack and they have held up like a champion. I keep saying I'll replace them with the same model if they ever die, but they just keep working.... The only issue is that the ear pad covering wears away over time, but this is easily fixed by purchasing BeyerDynamic velour pads. These pads are super comfy, and well worth the $23. They're not just a replacement for the original, they are an upgrade.

In my opinion, ceramic is crap. It is VERY sharp, and relatively cheap. But the sharpness and edge retention comes at the price of brittleness too. (Steel can get brittle too if it is taken to a very high hardness.)

You know what else is VERY sharp, and is a fair price and will last you a lifetime? Good steel knives. Opinions differ, but I really like Japanese knives. Here's a good example from Tojiro, my favorite bang-for-the-buck knife brand (the DP line specifically.) I've had mine for 10 years and it's never let me down.

Tojiro DP Gyutou - 8.2" (21cm) by Tojiro http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000UAPQGS/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_PZFktb025ZKNT

If you get the Tojiro or something else, this is, in my opinion, the only knife sharpening method to consider. My Japanese wet stones have been collecting dust since this thing arrived 2 years ago.

Tri-Angle Sharpmaker by Spyderco http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000Q9C4AE/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_42Fktb1S4K15V

If you want that mirror polished edge you'll want to pick up a Ultra Fine Triangle Stone to go with it.

I'd trade 20 ceramic knives for one Tojiro and a Sharpmaker.

Source: Professional chef for 15 years (so far)

Not a pepper mill per se, but it works brilliantly as one. The Hario Coffee Hand Grinder Skerton uses a ceramic milling mechanism. I use it for coffee and other things that require grinding. Very adjustable/versatile/BI4L worthy.

I have a lot of experience in countries with very polluted air. I use a common 20 inch box fan with a MERV 11 to MERV 17 furnace filter taped to it. I always buy the cheapest Glasfloss or similar MERV 11 filters that are 4 inches thick. Example search for them:

• glasfloss merv 11 20x20x4 - Google Search
  
  If I need more filtration, I leave the cheap MERV 11 attached to act as a pre-filter, and then I tape on a higher MERV rating filter. If your filter is constantly recirculating indoor air (not filter fresh air from outside), then a lower and cheaper MERV rating can work for you.
  
  The best way to save a ton of money on filters is to buy industrial bag filters instead of boxy furnace filters. The bag filters can last years in household use before needing to be replaced. You can get bag filters here:
  
  
• https://www.factorydirectfilters.com/bag-filters.html
  
  Ideally, you want it hanging from a shelving unit. I always try to put my fan and filter as high up off the ground as I can get it. A lot of dust settles out of the air naturally, so you don't want to stir it up again with the breeze from the fan.
  
  Set your cheap box fan on "High", then use one of these to control the speed and noise:
  
  
• https://www.amazon.com/Lutron-Credenza-Halogen-Incandescent-TT-300NLH-WH-x/dp/B0000DI241

Also there is this razor. Its price ranges between 2 and 3 dollars (shipped!) and mine works just as well as my '52 Gillette Super Speed razor (the type they are talking about).

IMPORTANT: different razor blades (brands) work for my sodial and my gillette so you will need to buy a variety pack to see what brand works for you. No matter what razor you buy you REALLY should but a variety pack. Here is the one I bought, worked fine for me. There are plenty of other options out there but I liked that this one included Feather blades (sharpest and most expensive brand. i use them for my Gillette but not for my Sodial). If you need more info check out the FAQ on /r/wicked_edge or pm me since I enjoy talking about this sort of stuff.

I've had this box cutter/ knife for a few years and it has held up very well. Gerber has a lifetime warranty that I will probably never have to use. I've owned many pocket knives but this one is hard to beat for quality. Best part about it is that it's under $8 on Amazon with Free Prime shipping.

https://www.amazon.com/Gerber-Lite-Pocket-Knife-31-000345/dp/B002RILCLY

My favorite tool for cracking coconuts is a khukri. Ka-Bar Khukri is a great starter khukri, well balanced and holds a great edge.

I tried this one, and had to ditch it after a few days. I kept it clipped in my front pocket, and any time I would bend at the hip, or squat, the tip on the but end would poke right into me. Had to take it out of my pocket when I drove. Albeit, I'm real skinny. I loved the action, but I can't carry it. I keep it in my toolbag now.

I've since replaced it with this Gerber. It doesn't hold any blades, and I had to loosen the pivot to be able to flip it open one handed, but the size is awesome. You can use a coin to loosen the blade when you do need to replace it.

I quite like the design, feel, and quality of Caran D'Ache. If you like, you can get their pen and pencil to look like a matched set. They're high quality instruments but don't cost anything near the overpriced fluff.

I also really like the Zebra F-701, which is even cheaper. It's more substantial than the F301 which I also like a lot, and keep around me everywhere. But the F-701 I keep in the same spot at my desk. Also available in both pen and pencil

Best bang for buck is usually considered to be the Victorinox chef's knife.

Best bang for buck when it comes to Japanese knives is usually considered to be the Tojiro DP line. Much cheaper than Shun and just as good.

I have a Ka-Bar kukri that I love, and I bet will be Bifl. I have a couple other machetes and the kukri is my go to.

The blade is pretty thick so it would be hard to break, but the length is just right to make it easy to handle. The coating will help prevent rusting. The handle is solid and I don't see it ever breaking (I've broken the handle on a different machete).

Most recent task I used it for was to strip all the branches off our 7 ft Christmas tree after Christmas. Only took like 5 minutes using the Ka-Bar.

https://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-2-1249-9-Kukri/dp/B001H53Q8A

Zebra F-701. Great pen, stainless steel. Nice balance and writes great. Plus its $5.

http://www.amazon.com/Zebra-F-701-Stainless-Ballpoint-Retractable/dp/B002L6RB80/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1410233699&sr=8-1&keywords=f-701+zebra

I would really recommend Meelectronics m6, I have had a pair for 3 years and are still going strong. I love the memory wire that goes behind the ear, it keeps the earbuds from getting pulled out.

They are $17 on amazon right now.

http://www.amazon.com/MEElectronics-Sport-Fi-Isolating-In-Ear-Headphones/dp/B0038W0K2U

I agree. For a long time I used these and I really like their slender shape. They have the same innards as the one posted by dbzpsycho1 above.

I recently switched to the all metal one that he posted. I bought two of them on Amazon and I refill them as needed. Even though they're slightly thicker they are indestructible which is great!

I've had Global and Victoronix steak knives. I would recommend neither. However, I find this Victoronix pairing knife makes a really good steak knife. It's like eating steak with a scalpel:

http://www.amazon.com/Victorinox-4-Inch-Fibrox-Straight-Paring/dp/B008M5U1UE/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1408756006&sr=8-2&keywords=victorinox+paring+knife

And for $7, you can't really go wrong. Makes a good pairing knife too. I think I own 2 or 3 of these now.

I have been using the La Crosse BC-700 Alpha Power Battery Charger for several years now with great success. The reviews are mixed, and many folks recommend the pricier BC-9009 in its stead, but I have been 100% happy with the BC-700, and it is extremely affordable.

Looks like /u/Veritech-1 beat me to the punch on this, but I'd like to add another endorsement for Zojirushi coffee thermoses. I'm a coffee addict and a PhD student, so I spend a lot of time going from place to place with hot coffee in hand. I'm also very hard on my thermoses. Every one I've used eventually gets leaky, cracks, and so on. Not my Zojirushi. I fill it with hot coffee and shove it in my backpack every morning and it has never spilled. I once filled it and forgot it at home. When I came back from work, the coffee was still piping hot. Everyone who needs coffee on the go should own one of these.

Sony MDR-VR6 best headphones for 100$ Don't let the price fool you they are a production industry standard for a reason. Yes there are better cans but none for the price. They sound great and are tuff enough to throw in a tool bag every day for years. Add a set of byerdynamic dt250 pads and Bob's your uncle.
http://www.amazon.com/Sony-MDR-V6-Monitor-Series-Headphones/dp/B00001WRSJ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1342144715&sr=8-1&keywords=mdr+v6

http://www.amazon.com/Beyerdynamic-Velour-Earcushions-MDR7506-Headphones/dp/B0016MF7W2/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1342146963&sr=1-3&keywords=byerdynamic+dt+250

>I have 2 credit cards and 2 debit cards, some cash (usually), 1 old card for picking door locks, few gift cards, library card, 2 insurance cards, and ID. Money clip is not enough...

Incorrect

I've currently got 13 various ID cards, credit cards, rewards cards, etc. and about 15 dollar bills of various denominations.

I use this one, it is not fancy at all. You can put cards on both sides.

http://www.amazon.com/Slim-Clip-SCCH-MC12-Double-Sided-Money/dp/B00123VTAY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1376332329&sr=8-1&keywords=slim+clip

I've been using this one daily for five years. I honestly barely use my regular oven. I know that's not necessarily "BIFL," yet I hope it helps you.

Breville BOV800XL Smart Oven 1800-Watt Convection Toaster Oven with Element IQ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001L5TVGW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Y.NJyb0RBVZ2M

These, and this and a decent brush make a great shaving kit. My safety was actually cheaper than this and it's been going for years. As soon as it wears out (which it has shown no sign of), I'll grab another. The blades are really the commodity in this scenario. I absolutely love them.

Ask and you shall receive: Dexter-Russell

Some things are a little ridiculous, but a good spatula is not one of them.


Edit: I made an assumption that you wanted a "spatula" like a pancake turner, which I believe is a misnomer. These, I believe, are true spatulas...

Eagle cans they are made in the USA since the 1800s and are pretty affordable. If you don't wanna order one, I have found them at ACE Hardware stores - hard to find them at big box places.

They also don't have the pesky safety mechanism that seem to create more spills than they prevent.

Eagle UI-50-FS Red Galvanized Steel Type I Gasoline Safety Can with Funnel, 5 gallon Capacity, 13.5" Height, 12.5" Diameter https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00004Y75M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_nEqwxbCXVF69F

The replacement pads for the Sony MDR-V6. They're great headphones, but the pads are just god awful. Pick up those nice beyerdynamic ones, it lasts longer and feels more comfortable.

Awesome. I'm getting this based on this post (thanks everyone)...

Shure SE215-CL clear
Extra wired cable
Bluetooth cable
Extra Tips

Hopefully they will be close to "buy it for life" or at least last me longer than a year.

Yes, they do. I'd highly recommend a better charger, though.

These are really good sounding especially for their price and they've lasted me well over a year. Cheap buds like skull candy tend to last me a few weeks at most.

I've had one of those for six years now. Great shave and looks like the day I bought it. Match it up with a few packs of Derby blades and it'll keep the recipient clean-shaven forever. I get about a month of shaves out of each blade.

Older cast iron skillets. Wagner and Griswold and the ones to look for, but any U.S.A. made skillet that is machined smooth on the inside will do fine. Just learn to season it and take care of it so you can give it to your grandkids.

My personal skillet is older than my grandparents.

Edit: Use a steel spatula. I prefer this one:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002CJNBTO?pc_redir=1397965051&robot_redir=1

[this chefs knife- very best bang for buck]
(http://www.amazon.com/Victorinox-47521-10-Inch-Fibrox-Handle/dp/B0000CF8YO/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1450572369&sr=8-11&keywords=Victorinox+Fibrox)

[get this paring knife]
(http://www.amazon.com/Victorinox-4-Inch-Fibrox-Straight-Paring/dp/B008M5U1UE/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1450572029&sr=8-4&keywords=Victorinox+Fibrox)

[this slicing knife]
(http://www.amazon.com/Victorinox-12-Inch-Granton-Slicing-Fibrox/dp/B0000CFDB9/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1450572029&sr=8-9&keywords=Victorinox+Fibrox)

[if you have money left over - get this bread knife]
(http://www.amazon.com/Victorinox-47547-4-Inch-Fibrox-Handle/dp/B00093090Y/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1450572029&sr=8-10&keywords=Victorinox+Fibrox)

I have this one. Just make sure when you purchase, it says that the order will be fulfilled by Amazon. I didn't get a fake.

Hario Ceramic Coffee Mill Skerton Storage Capacity (100g) https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B001802PIQ/

I like my slim clip. You can't more minimalist than that. Just as good as a wallet, it holds all the cards I need on one side and cash on the other. It is cheap, lasts forever and I find it far more secure or cautious in a front pocket than a wallet in a back pocket. It also keeps me from becoming a hoarder since there is not a lot of room for cards I don't really need.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00123VTAY

Here's a few that are in your price range and pretty well known for their durability:

Beyerdynamic DT 770

Sony MDR 7506 (Also check for the price on the V6 as they're both very similar and just as durable)

AKG K240

Shure SE215

if I can't use it everyday without wearing it out, then I don't consider it BIFL... sure, they'll need to be resoled eventually, but that's any pair of boots. If you're worried about the leather drying out, then this is the stuff to use: http://www.amazon.com/Obenaufs-Heavy-Duty-4oz-Preserves/dp/B003SKCARK

Smoke jumpers use it to protect their boots from heat and caustic ash... they still have to buy a $400 pair of boots every season, but for me it has kept my Danners with 100s of miles on them feeling soft and looking like new

America's Test Kitchen likes the Breville BOV800XL Smart Oven though it is expensive at around $250 USD.

The Hamilton Beach Set & Forget Toaster Oven with Convection Cooking was rated their best buy, and is significantly cheaper at $83 USD.

I've only used my roommate's cheapo toaster oven, and that one sucked, so I can't give any personal recommendations.

ka-bar machete is pretty good.

You’d be much better off with the inexpensive but good Victorinox/Forschner chef’s knife or the Tojiro-DP wa-gyutō:

• https://smile.amazon.com/Victorinox-Fibrox-Chefs-Knife-8-Inch/dp/B000638D32
  
• https://smile.amazon.com/Tojiro-DP-Gyutou-8-2-21cm/dp/B000UAPQGS
  
  Henckels and Wüsthof knives are excessively heavy and most chefs prefer other brands.

I've had my Sony MDR7506s for over 12 years and they are still going strong. You can replace the pads with higher quality ones

http://www.amazon.com/Beyerdynamic-Velour-Earcushions-MDR7506-Headphones/dp/B0016MF7W2

You can thank me in advance

https://www.amazon.com/Eagle-UI-50-FS-Galvanized-Gasoline-Capacity/dp/B00004Y75M/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=Eagle+gas+can&qid=1558744993&s=gateway&sr=8-3

Are these any good? I don’t like the rubber handle, because gas has a tendency of eating it up

ok i will offer you two BIFL versions. the first one being BIFL on a budget and the second being a much higher dollar BIFL cost.

quality on a budget- http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000CF8YO/ref=cm_ciu_pl_B0000CF8YO_mo1ZWCPZP5I7S3B

http://www.amazon.com/Lodge-Color-EC6D43-Enameled-6-Quart/dp/B000N501BK/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1371857337&sr=1-1&keywords=lodge+dutch+oven

http://www.amazon.com/Victorinox-4-Inch-Fibrox-Straight-Paring/dp/B008M5U1UE/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1371857377&sr=1-1&keywords=victorinox+paring

http://www.amazon.com/OXO-Grips-Wooden-Spoon-3-Piece/dp/B008H2JLP8/ref=sr_1_2?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1371857407&sr=1-2&keywords=wooden+spoon

http://www.amazon.com/Lodge-L10SK3-12-Inch-Pre-Seasoned-Skillet/dp/B00006JSUB/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1371857459&sr=1-1&keywords=lodge+cast+iron

higher dollar items include-

http://www.amazon.com/Global-G-2-inch-Chefs-Knife/dp/B00005OL44/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1371857561&sr=1-1&keywords=global+knives

http://www.amazon.com/Shun-Premier-Chefs-Knife-8-Inch/dp/B003B66YKA/ref=sr_1_2?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1371857613&sr=1-2&keywords=shun+knives

http://www.amazon.com/Wusthof-Classic-2-Inch-Paring-Knife/dp/B00005MEGH/ref=sr_1_3?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1371857640&sr=1-3&keywords=paring+knife

http://www.amazon.com/Le-Creuset-Signature-Enameled-Cast-Iron/dp/B0076NOGPY/ref=sr_1_2?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1371857680&sr=1-2&keywords=le+creuset+dutch+oven

http://www.amazon.com/Lodge-L10SK3-12-Inch-Pre-Seasoned-Skillet/dp/B00006JSUB/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1371857717&sr=1-1&keywords=lodge+cast+iron


I own the cheaper BIFL items i listed and they have been AMAZING so far. you really cant beat the quality/ price ratio for the cheaper things i listed. if you want a better chef knife all the options i gave you would be excellent but just know that you could go crazy looking at all the different brands.

I was a skeptic and my wife was even more of a skeptic, but cast iron has taken over most of our non-stick kitchen duty.

You can read and learn all sorts of things, but if you're going to do one thing to make your cast iron experience better, then you should buy this:

pancake flipper

it's changed the way i cook. you need a really thin, rigid, metal flipper. Eggs. Burgers. onions. fish. actual pancakes. my cast iron is my favorite kitchen pan. If you're thinking about it, try to grab a cheap one at a garage sale.

I second this, but I'd recommend paying a little more for a Kabar. I take this camping and it's very solid, should last forever. http://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-2-1249-9-Kukri/dp/B001H53Q8A/ref=pd_sbs_sg_1

Hario Ceramic Coffee Mill Skerton Storage Capacity (100g) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001802PIQ/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_BSZkybT322R3V

I appreciate the feedback- this is the grinder and it is inexpensive. Do you recommend this one? Will get myself one!

I really like my Lacrosse smart charger, it has refresh and discharge cycles, can slow and fast charge, takes nimh and nicd, and trickle charges. The first one I had lasted around 7 years and only failed because I drenched it in root beer. It does a really great job at extending the life of my batteries, I'm still using some from 2004.

https://www.amazon.com/Crosse-Technology-BC700-CBP-Battery-Charger/dp/B000RSOV50

You can treat anything but suede, nubuck, and rough out leathers with Obenauf's LP Boot Preservative after its been cleaned. It should help preserve your boots.
*formatting

Might I recommend: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004SGKMA0/

​

... 100 blades for < $10. They work nicely, I'm through about 35 of them.

Slim Clip $7

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00123VTAY

Had mine for about 8 years and it handles everything you need. Cash and about 8 credit/ID cards. Only thing it doesn’t hold is business cards but I don’t hand any out.

Don’t be a Costanza.

I just got one of these and love it: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002RILCLY/ref=sr_ph_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1466747281&sr=sr-1&keywords=knife

• It's dirt cheap if I lose it.
  
  
• The blade is replaceable when it dulls/breaks so i can do stupid shit with it.
  
  
• It's tiny enough to fit in the change pocket of my jeans so I carry it everywhere.
  
  
• It looks classy enough people are still impressed when you whip it out.
  
  
  To date its my most used knife ever and ive had it all of a week. When the blade is replaceable, theres really no fucks to give about using it whenever a knife could be useful.
  
  hope it helps, fellow "better not use my nice knife to open that x" brother.

I love my Hario Ceramic Coffee Mill

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001802PIQ/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Thats actually pretty steep for blades!

You can get premium blades for less. 100 pack of Feathers for $26.50 or $0.265 or if you just want cheap blades the 100 pack of Darby's will run you less than $10

SlimClip. Not sure you'd call it stylish, but it's definitely slim and sturdy. I've been carrying this thing for 10 years now, and it's great. No regrets retiring fat, lumpy wallet for this puppy.

http://www.amazon.com/Slim-Clip-SCCH-MC12-Double-Sided-Money/dp/B00123VTAY

Local box store such as lowes or order via amazon. The funnel is removable, but obviously useful for filling up mowers, other cans, etc...

Bought one of these a few years ago, great for yard equipment and the like but a total pain if you want to put gas in a car without another funnel. Anyways it's a little cheaper on Amazon:

Eagle UI-50-FS Red Galvanized Steel Type I Gasoline Safety Can with Funnel, 5 gallon Capacity, 13.5" Height, 12.5" Diameter https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00004Y75M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_LSa6Cb6J7PRR3.

After wearing out too many leather wallets I got a cheapie and I've been really enjoying it so far. Had it about a year.

Most likely problem: You are using the wrong spatula.

Once teflon pans went mainstream, a lot of stores stopped carrying proper spatulas for anything but teflon. You want something like this: http://www.amazon.com/Dexter-Russell-2-5-Inch-Stainless-Walnut-Pancake/dp/B002CJNBTO

Why? The sharp stainless cuts the food off the pan, allowing carbon to build up and smooth the surface of the pan. After a period of use the pan becomes smooth and the non-stick properties develop to the point where you could use a plastic spatula, but don't.

Don't use a silicone or other plastic spatula that was designed to protect teflon. Don't use a thick rigid BBQ/commercial griddle turner designed to work on large very flat surfaces instead of a 10" frying pan. Use a thin, flexible, sharp stainless steel spatula that was designed for small pans with metal surfaces.

Here are the knives I recommend.
Victorinox 3.5 inch pairing knife https://www.amazon.com/Victorinox-Cutlery-3-25-Inch-Paring-Polypropylene/dp/B0019WXPQY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1480391266&sr=8-2&keywords=paring+knife+victorinox
Wustoff Hollow Ground Santoku https://www.amazon.com/Wusthof-Classic-5-Inch-Hollow-Santoku/dp/B0001WN9OG/ref=sr_1_fkmr2_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1480391489&sr=8-2-fkmr2&keywords=wustoff%2Bhollow%2Bground&th=1
Tojiro DP 8.2 inch, it's a carbon steel knife so it will stay sharp for a very long time. https://www.amazon.com/Tojiro-DP-Gyutou-8-2-21cm/dp/B000UAPQGS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1480391699&sr=8-1&keywords=tojiro+dp
Also just keep the boning knife from her current set, it really doesn't matter. If it doesn't have one you can just get this one: https://www.amazon.com/Dexter-Russell-P94818-Boning-Knife/dp/B00149GFAA/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1480391773&sr=8-2&keywords=dexter+boning+knife

I used to have to write down logs every hour and I liked writing fast. I always used these and have never had a problem. Plus they are refillable. http://www.amazon.com/Zebra-Pen-Retractable-Ballpoint-1-pack/dp/B002L6RB80

You can still get these new

Eagle UI-50-FS Red Galvanized Steel Type I Gasoline Safety Can with Funnel, 5 gallon Capacity, 13.5" Height, 12.5" Diameter https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00004Y75M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_oEi6Cb118P705

The Breville. It's attractive, durable, and large (inside). You can cook a medium pizza for christ sake.

http://www.amazon.com/Breville-BOV800XL-1800-Watt-Convection-Toaster/dp/B001L5TVGW

There are some very cheap (~7) Sodial razors on Amazon that I probably wouldn't consider BIFL. That said, I've used one before and it was surprisingly decent.

This has lasted 6 years so far...with no sign of ever breaking. The metal has not stressed either, holds everything just as securely as the first day.

http://www.amazon.com/Slim-Clip-SCCH-MC12-Double-Sided-Money/dp/B00123VTAY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1396022030&sr=8-1&keywords=slim+clip

Here's a link to it. I have this one, and I love it, but I have noticed that the size of the grounds isn't as consistent as I was led to believe it would be. It's not really an issue for me, but I'm not the most refined connoisseur, either.

Shure SE215-CL Sound Isolating Earphones with Single Dynamic MicroDriver https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004PO10E2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_kZ9DCb0M0K0X7

Shure SE215-K-BT1 Wireless Sound Isolating Earphones with Bluetooth Enabled Communication Cable https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074QQNY64/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Th-DCbDK6R2FF

Shure RMCE-BT2 High-Resolution Bluetooth 5.0 Communication Cable https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HYMWSGY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_fi-DCbQY8XCSP

This is the thermos I carry. Perfect size and keeps my drink hot/cold all day.

Not sure what kind of lunch you eat, but I prefer the Asian designs for lunch boxes.

I have used Slim Clip for about 6 years, holds 6 cards and 30 bills. It doesn´t look like I will have to buy other wallet ever.

I struggled a lot with earbuds, like many have done. Using Amazon reviews is mostly pointless. They are all mostly a crap shoot. Cheap earbuds at Walmart are usually worse, I wouldn't earbuds there. While quality of sound is usually biggest determining factor for price (you get what you pay for regarding sound quality), durability is difficult to ascertain. Higher price doesn't necessarily mean increased durability.

I use these at work - JVC HAFX1X Headphone Xtreme-Xplosivs

Music is not high quality, bass is completely lacking and the clarity is just not there. But they work well for podcasts/audio books, and since that is all I listen to at work, I could care less about audio quality. I only listen to them using one ear, so the other hangs in my top shirt pocket.

They are the most durable earbuds I have ever purchased, and since they get a lot of abuse at work, I use the JVC's exclusively at work. I have owned 3 pairs of these JVC's, first one's died a while back, losing sound in both ear buds eventually, 2nd pair is running ok now, and the Third pair is sitting in a box, brand new, never used, waiting for my 2nd pair to break.

For talking on the cell phone, I use these - MEElectronics M31P-BK

The M31P's are very sensitive (volume wise), so I have to turn the volume way down on my cell phone, and even then, it can be too loud, especially if the caller raises their voice while speaking on the other end. Music sounds phenomenal on my Ipod, I almost want another pair just for my Ipod & working out. But phone conversations are the only thing I use these for, as as they are also the first time I have purchased them, I cannot comment on durability. Construction is good, better than the JVC's from what I can tell. But appearances may be deceiving.

For working out, I use these - MEElectronics Sport M6

The Sport M6 is not very sensitive and I find it necessary to raise the volume at near max in order to enjoy music. Podcasts are fine. Very high quality construction. 1st time owning these, so I can't comment on durability.

MEElectroncs get rave reviews by most users, general consensus is they are superior to most others in the bang for your buck category. They have a wide range of sound quality which means wide range of price as well. The M31P's seem to be discontinued but you can find something similar on their website/amazon.

Is it this one? If it is, did you happen to keep coffee in it for a while (~half a day?). I have the same problem. People on other forums tend to think that it's the non-stick coating inside that reacts with the stale coffee. IDK if it's true or not. Letting it sit in a baking soda solution, then washing it helped a bit.

The one I am constantly recommended is the Breville toaster oven.

http://www.amazon.com/Breville-BOV800XL-1800-Watt-Convection-Toaster/dp/B001L5TVGW

I just use a steel turner like a short order chef would use on a griddle:

https://www.amazon.com/Dexter-Russell-2-5-Inch-Stainless-Walnut-Pancake/dp/B002CJNBTO/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1484421202&sr=8-11&keywords=steel+turner

Just scrub up all the stuck on stuff with the turner and toss.

$35 for 5gal gasoline type 1

https://www.amazon.com/Eagle-UI-50-FS-Galvanized-Gasoline-Capacity/dp/B00004Y75M/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=eagle+safety+can+5+gallon&qid=1558783784&s=gateway&sprefix=eagle+safety&sr=8-3

https://www.amazon.com/Eagle-UI-50-FS-Galvanized-Gasoline-Capacity/dp/B00004Y75M/

My family has several Eagle gas cans that are many decades old and still get the job done.

Zebra F-701 This is the BIFL pen.

F701

http://www.amazon.com/Zebra-F-701-Stainless-Ballpoint-Retractable/dp/B002L6RB80

http://www.amazon.com/MEElectronics-M6-CL-Sound-Isolating-Headphones-Players/dp/B0038W0K2U

http://www.amazon.com/Thermos-Insulated-24-Ounce-Stainless-Hydration/dp/B003U583YW/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1371173045&sr=8-4&keywords=vacuum+thermos

Which mug? There's more than one, but the one I have will keep ice for longer than 3 hours.

Zojirushi SM-SA60-BA Stainless Steel Mug, 20-Ounce, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HYOGUM2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_rLEmDbJGVPSS1

I've been using my Slim Clip for the last 11 years and it still looks exactly the same as when I got it. There's nothing to wear out, it's just a piece of metal and for $6 it's hard to beat the price. It limits you to about 20 bills and 6 cards, which I find sufficient for my needs and prevents the wallet clutter I often see people deal with.

I’ve got this one and have been pretty happy with it. It’s a little bit of a pain to fill - you have to remove the funnel to do so. But I have no problem when it comes to filling lawn and garden gas tanks.

https://www.amazon.com/Eagle-UI-50-FS-Galvanized-Gasoline-Capacity/dp/B00004Y75M/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=gas+can+metal+5+gallon&qid=1558726693&s=gateway&sprefix=gas+can+m&sr=8-3

this one is great.

Tried to hyperlink but not sure it worked

One more thing about moneyclips: if you hate having a brick in your back pocket, you need a moneyclip, not a wallet. They're made of spring steel, so they never wear out, and the one I linked has room for your credit cards/ID.

How does this compare to the Breville? http://www.amazon.com/Breville-BOV800XL-1800-Watt-Convection-Toaster/dp/B001L5TVGW/ref=zg_bs_289937_2

Other than the insane difference in price? Is it worth it?