The core material EDC, to me would be knife, light and cellphone. But cool keychain gidgets are really nice too.

So I'd say if you have a knife, a good flashlight would be next, then a backup knife and light (one is none, two is one). I like a multi-tool or SAK for my backup knife, and a keychain light for my backup torch.

(In case you're curious, after that I start considering footwear, gloves, hats and other clothing.)

(Sorry, I'm feeling a bit lazy, so you'll have to live with bare links.)

This one is pretty popular for keychain use: www.amazon.com/iTP-A3-EOS-Flashlight--Upgrade/dp/B006K5C2EG/

Fenix has single AA and 123 powered lights that are well regarded and compact:
AA: http://www.amazon.com/Fenix-E11-Compact-Lumen-Flashlight/dp/B005GW8UC2
CR123: www.amazon.com/Fenix-Compact-140-Lumen-Flashlight/dp/B005CWRB44

There are a lot of other brands worthy of consideration too, of course (Fourseven's mini, Jetbeam, Klarus, Zebra, just to name a few).

There are also a lot of much larger but more capable flashlights out there.

Keychain stuff is always nice:
I use these sliver grippers way more than I thought I would. The convenience of always having them around is unparalleled: http://www.amazon.com/UNCLE-BILLS-SLIVER-GRIPPER-TWEEZER/dp/B001KMSUA4
I've been thinking of getting this, I'm a little leery about that much stuff for so little cost though: www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003A5E5IK
I love this style of keyring, but it's way cheaper on eBay: http://www.amazon.com/Vigilant-Gear-Aircraft-Cable-Ring/dp/B006ZSP1PA
Little one-piece keychain tools have become really popular, and I really like having a little prying and screwing tool always present.
The Gerber Shard is cheap but probably at least worth what you pay for it: http://www.amazon.com/Gerber-22-01769-Shard-Keychain-Tool/dp/B002ZK45IQ
This one has a bit more functionality, and is made of the magically delicious titanium: http://www.amazon.com/Schrade-Chain-Tool-Seatbelt-Cutter/dp/B004PQJ1QO

Keychain multi-tools can be good.
Here's one from Gerber: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006M9NIDO
Supposedly the build quality isn't as good as Leatherman's though: http://www.amazon.com/Leatherman-64010101K-Micra-Multi-tool/dp/B000JCN0FG

I'd also recommend looking for a glow in the dark lanyard.

A pen you can EDC is another "you're surprised how often you use it" item. I have an Inka and it's definitely alright, though a bit fiddly: http://www.amazon.com/Nite-Ize-Inc-Inka-Pen/dp/B001E6R6EM/
The biggest competitor is the classic Fisher Bullet Space Pen: http://www.amazon.com/Fisher-Space-Pen-Bullet-400B/dp/B000WGD13U

Something to write on is nice. I'm a real child of the digital age, but I still like having an analog recording medium on me. I prefer Pentalic's pocket size books to Moleskine's. They're a little thicker, but they have a flexible cover, and are usually cheaper. Here's one: http://www.amazon.com/Pentalic-Travelers-Sketch-3-Inch-4-Inch/dp/B0025TZ35Q but I don't know if it's ruled or grid or what. I also prefer a bright color cover to make it easy to spot.

Continuing on the writing stuff matter, a sharpie and/or a metallic (ink) sharpie are nice to have. You can get sharpies with stainless steel cases too, which feel nicer to hold, and you're a little less likely to forget somewhere.
Black (dozen): http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00006IFEP
Stainless Steel: http://www.amazon.com/Sharpie-Stainless-Permanent-Marker-1747388/dp/B001V9LQLG
Metallic: http://www.amazon.com/Sanford-39108PP-Metallic-Sharpie-Permanent/dp/B00119QWCO

I think everybody should carry some sort of bandanna. I carry an off-brand buff (tubular bandanna) and an olive drab shemagh.

I like to carry a small baggie of what I call MacGuyver goods. Paracord (bound up in a hanayawa right now), some gorilla tape and electrical tape wrapped around a card, super glue, a sewing kit, zip ties, twist ties, rubber bands, safety pins, binder clips, and a few 1 quart ziplock freezer bags. (Like hell I'm finding links for all of those.)

Yet another "surprising how useful it turns out to be" item is a small mirror: http://www.amazon.com/Coghlans-Featherweight-Mirror/dp/B0047QV44O/

Whistles are useful for warning people of fire or danger, or calling for help, so I like to carry one: http://www.amazon.com/Fox-40-Whistle-Breakaway-Lanyard/dp/B00544UJC6

A monocular is fun to have on your person. This particular model is really great because of its super low minimum focusing distance, which lets you use it as a sort of loupe. In regular mode it's good for looking for house numbers or your car in a parking lot, that sort of thing: http://www.amazon.com/Brunton-Echo-7x18-Pocket-Scope/dp/B000FKMTBS

I think that's all I could come up with off the top of my head.

Items are as follows:

1. Camera is a Fujifilm XE-1. I technically bought it for my fiancé but I've slowly began to adopt it as my "carry-around-anywhere" camera. It's smaller and cheaper than my primary camera and still produces killer images - so it tends to just come around with me, sometimes carried on a wrist strap, sometimes around the neck, sometimes in a bag (which I mentioned in another comment).
   
   
2. Knife is a Sog Reactor. I really enjoy the small size and minimalist feel. Has the essentials: a nice blade, a fantastic setoff pliers, an innovative, interchangeable bit driver, and, of course, a bottle opener. I recommend it - the blade has held its edge really well, it fits comfortably in a pocket, I find myself carrying it much more often than my last multitool.
   
   
3. Flashlight is a Jetbeam (aka Niteye) KO-01. It runs on a single 18650 rechargeable battery - super powerful, runs forever and is IPX-6 water-resistant - (Protects from powerful water jets. So if you modified your super soaker with an air compressor and an aftermarket tip, your stuff is still safe.).
   
   
4. Shades are Kaenon Bluesmasters which you have to believe me when I say are a steal at $150 (in that link). I also have the Kaenon Burnets which I actually favor for more of a stylish pair and treat them a little nicer. I believe it was two brothers who left Oakley to start Kaenon... but don't quote me... and they produce some crystal clear lenses far superior to brands like Oakley and Ray Ban. They may even be better than Maui Jims.
   
   
5. Notebook is a Rite in the Rain all-weather notebook. They make tons of different sizes and styles of notebooks with paper that feels like paper but can be written on in pouring rain... Obviously, then, you need a pen that can live up to that as well...
   
   
6. Pen is a Fisher Space Pen which is a great pen for $12. The all-metal construction, nice clicky mechanism, and ink that works in all conditions because it is pressurized ([it was designed for astronauts](fisher space end astronauts)) make it an ideal pen, IMO.
   
   
7. Wallet is my most recent addition. It's a Trayvax Element which is a Buy-it for-life, Made-in-the-USA wallet to end all wallets. It's made out of cerakoted stainless steel, thick leather, and 550 paracord along with a unique rivet-esque patented button. It holds cash, comfortably 6 cards and a Zootility Pocket Monkey which I failed to include in the picture. Both the wallet and the pocket monkey have bottle openers.
   
   
8. Buds are some older Bose SoundTrue Earbuds which I love for their decent noise-canceling and fantastic sound.
   
   
9. iPhone6

I'm 18, I'm a student and a IT guy (pretty good one too). I like fixing stuff


What I put in my pockets


Verizon LG G3 An oldie but goodie, been weilding this phone for a little over 2 years. Currently is running Cyanogenmod 13. Also has a 3rd party Anker battery inside which are a bit nicer than the one the phone comes with

Buxton Tri-Fold wallet Very sturdy and nice feeling wallet. My grandparents got it for me half as a joke as my last name is Buxton. Holds a second battery for my phone in addition to all the money I dont have.

Keyring with 144GB of Flash Storage on it. Keys for my house, and assorted flash drives. 2 8GB and 2 64GB. One 64GB is for my portable build of Ubuntu, the other is for Storing files on the go. One 8GB is for Hirens Boot CD, and the last one doesnt work and i'm too much of a lazy ass to take it off. Plus it looks cool.

Feild Notes I think everyone on EDC has one of these. Super handy. Above it is my handy Pilot G2, my personal favorite pen. Ive been using that one for about a year and it shows it with all the chew marks at the top.

Random Skullcandy Headphones.

Things I put in my bag


iFixit Pro Tech Toolkit Probably the best toolkit for computer repair, has literally every single screwdriver tip imaginable, plus some really handy tools for things like phone and tablet repair

2016 Razer Blade A wonderful gaming laptop, that can actually be used in the real world. Is very thin and light considering what's on the inside. Holds a 5ish hour battery life, so I'm not tethered to a wall all the time.

Steam Controller Wonderful for Gaming on the Go. It's a very good controller for PC Gaming, but only for certain people. First person shooters would totally suck on this controller (but then again they suck on every controller), but works very nicely for the games I play.

Logitech MX Master Probably the nicest mouse I have ever used in my life. Fits super well in my rather large hands, and the thumbrest button, speed adaptive scroll wheel, and horizontal scroll in addition to wonderful tracking and bluetooth support make it my favorite mouse of all time.


Cable Matters Thunderbolt Dock Very handy for a laptop that doesnt have Ethernet or VGA output, and an Extra USB port never hurt anyone either.

USB 3 & Micro USB OTG, SD Card and Micro SD card Adapter. Can plug into either standard USB or Micro USB, works as an adapter for a Micro SD or an SD Card. Also useful for a computer that doesnt have an SD card slot.

Microfiber cloth. The Razer Blade is a fingerprint magnet, so this comes in handy quite often.

At the moment I'm running:

TEC Centipede - Titanium ruler that's about 8.5cm in length. I measure things irregularly, but not enough to warrant a full tape measure which will take up more pocket space. Feels super well made.

Leatherman Micra - Just got it, and I'm torn on how much I like it. Whilst beefy, the scissors sometimes flex whilst cutting thicker items (so it goes between the blades laterally). I've never had this problem with my Classic SD, and may end up moving up to a 74mm Victorinox like the Executive for the sake of the bigger scissors.

Boker Vox Access Tool - Titanium prybar with a carbide glass breaker on the end. I've come from the SD Titanium Prybar which was bloody useless for nail pulling due to the groove literally being a 'V' without any guiding for nails, and the edge of the bottle opener kept digging into my hand when I used it. Although for it's follies, the tip lip is very thin (yet sturdy) and can get between thinner crevices than the VAT; I also drove in a couple of nails with the SD, and in seeing if I could unscrew a half in one with the VAT, I chipped the guiding groove for the nail puller (not severely, but it was kind of disheartening as I literally just bought it and didn't think it was much of a stress test).

Kershaw Pub - Technically this isn't on my keys, as I put it in the 'snuff pocket' in my jeans, it's beefier than the VAT for box opening, and the blade is about the same size as a Stanley blade. It's a bit of a different design and great for fidgeting. Not so great for fidgeting when people see you, but fun all the same.

I've currently retired:

The SD Ti Prybar - See above, a great little prybar, hampered by a frankly stupid decision to put a bottle opener on it. NOT EVERYTHING NEEDS A BOTTLE OPENER.

Victorinox Classic SD - A present which I absolutely love, however I'm in the pursuit for something 'beefier', although the scissors on this are second to none for all the little odd jobs I've had over the years.

Uncle Bills Sliver Grippers - Brilliant tweezers for splinters, however the first day I put them on my keys, and then sat on my keys, I hadn't put them in the holder right and they stabbed me in the arse. These tweezers have never been on my keys since.

Resqme Car Escape tool - Had it on the keychain, realised I'd only ever use it in the car, and now I keep it in the glovebox as I have the glass breaker on the VAT.

Leatherman Squirt PS4 - An absolutely fantastic multitool let down by a shit pair of scissors which have a lot of play between the blades. It results in a lot of rough cuts and ultimately spoils a perfect out of the box multi-tool. In the pursuit of better scissors and a lighter set of keys, I've currently retired this fantastic piece of kit.

Leatherman Brewzer - I absolutely loved this little prybar, but it broke in half when I tried to get a little shelf stud out of a bookcase, and it just shattered my confidence in the product to the point that I can't be bothered sending it in under warranty, as I know I'd never use it again.

Gerber Dime - I bought this at the same time as the Squirt PS4 because I couldn't decide between them. After taking them both out of the packing and comparing them side by side one after the other, it was instantly obvious that the Leatherman was just the better fit, so this was retired pretty much instantly and was gifted within an hour.

True Utility Keytool - First keytool I ever had and it was great for years! Practically invisible and as I only used it for the file, the mini screwdriver, and the thread cutter, it was fantastic. Never had an issue with the quality, and never had the need to take it off the key it was on, I only stopped carrying it because I don't use the type of key it works with anymore, and don't want to carry it round for the sake of it when I have so many other options. Great little buy though.

I'm probably going to buy:

Victorinox Manager - This is pretty much the best multitool for what I really need, and it has a pen. It's just 58mm and I really want a larger pair of scissors, however it has all the tools I've used recently, and it has a pen!

Another Prybar. As soon as I find a beefy titanium 80mm~ straight prybar which doesn't have a bottle opener on it, and instead has another useful purpose I'm going to get it. Hell, even if it doesn't have a secondary purpose I'll probably get it as well.

Bags

• (1) [Filson Medium Field Bag](http://www.filson.com/products/field-bag-medium.70232.html?fromCat=true&fvalsProduct=luggage/field-bags&fmetaProduct=1019): This is my usual every day bag, and I rarely leave the house without it. After a long search for a bag last year, I decided to buy the Filson (and get it shipped from the US); I'm glad I did – the quality is fantastic, and it looks practically the same as it did on its first day.
  
  -or-
  
  
• (2) [Filson Briefcase Computer Bag](http://www.filson.com/products/briefcase-computer-bag.70257.html?fromCat=true&fvalsProduct=luggage/briefcases&fmetaProduct=1019): If I ever take my MacBook Air with me outside of the house (usually to some work at a coffee shop), or if I go on a flight, I'll take this bag. It's rarely used in comparison to the Field Bag, but it's worth a mention nonetheless.
  
  Gadgetry
  
  
• (3) [iPad (third generation) - Wi-Fi and 4G](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00746V5DY/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=yoarthwo0e-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00746V5DY) with (4) [Byrd & Belle felt pouch](http://www.byrdandbelle.com/product/ipad-kindle-sleeve-gray-wool-felt-and-brown-leather), and (5) red leather Smart Cover: The iPad has been an integral part of my EDC since the original iPad. I seem to be getting more and more done on the iPad – whether it's emailing, writing with Byword or reading news with Reeder.
  
• (6) [iPhone 4](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0041E5G32/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=yoarthwo0e-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0041E5G32) with (7) [Sena Tan Leather pouch](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003X9ZJSS/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=yoarthwo0e-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B003X9ZJSS)
  
• (8) [13" MacBook Air](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005CWHZP4/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=yoarthwo0e-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B005CWHZP4) with (9) [Byrd & Belle felt pouch](http://www.byrdandbelle.com/product/macbook-air-sleeve-gray-wool-felt-and-brown-leather)
  
• (10) [Fujifilm X100](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0043RS864/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=yoarthwo0e-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0043RS864) with [Leather Case](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004MME698/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=yoarthwo0e-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004MME698): I used to own a Canon 7D, but its size is so unwieldy for me in practice, that it ended up not being used. Instead, I've swapped it for the X100 – sure the lens is fixed, but I mainly used a prime lens with the 7D anyway; the APS-C sensor is a boon, especially for the camera's small size. The software is a little finicky, but the cassis and build quality is fantastic.
  
• (11) [Etymotic HF3 Earphones with Mic with pouch](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003YTROIU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=yoarthwo0e-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B003YTROIU)
  
• (12)[ B&W P5 Headphones](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003IHUHGE/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=yoarthwo0e-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B003IHUHGE): If I have the rare inclination to listen to music (I usually listen to podcasts) and am happy to take the additional hassle compared to the HF3s, I'll sometimes use the P5s. The design and construction is amazing and the audio quality is great, although the leather pads do get a little hot after a while on my ears.
  
• (13) [Amazon Kindle 4](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0051QVESA/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=yoarthwo0e-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0051QVESA): Reeder and Instapaper are great on the iPad, but the Kindle is much better for novel reading. The iPad 3's new screen is on par (if not better) than e-ink, but the Kindle's much smaller size and weight is a necessity for prolonged periods of reading.
  
  Accessories and Miscellaneous
  
  
• (14) [Cocoon GRIT-IT! Organiser](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002HU27UW/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=yoarthwo0e-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B002HU27UW): This incorporates, (15) [Studio Neat Cosmonaut Stylus](http://www.studioneat.com/products/cosmonaut); (16) Barclays PinSentry card reader; *(17) Zebra F-701***; **(18) iPad SD Card Reader; (19) [Griffin USB Mini-Cable Kit](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003T5KXJQ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=yoarthwo0e-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B003T5KXJQ); (20) [USB Battery Pack](http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B000UH46YY/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=coffee-coffee-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=B000UH46YY)
  
• (21) Polo Ralph Lauren Leather Card Holder
  
• (22)[ Seiko SNK809 Automatic watch](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002SSUQFG/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=yoarthwo0e-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B002SSUQFG) with [Hirsch Liberty leather strap](http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B002ZJIVNW/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=lawrencemurga-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=B002ZJIVNW)
  
• (23) Keys including [True Utility Cashstash](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002JUDJBG/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=yoarthwo0e-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B002JUDJBG), [LaCie 8GB Key](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004D2AZ0Q/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=yoarthwo0e-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004D2AZ0Q) and Barclays Cycle Hire key
  
• (24) Hand Sanitiser
  
• (25) Passport
  
• (26) Screen Cleaning Cloth

Firstly, some unsolicited advice. If there's a low chance of the knife getting confiscated for whatever reason, I'd say save up a little more scratch and get something a little nicer. Alright, now that I've said that, I'm going to assume that you're going to completely ignore it. (Which is fine.)

Ontario RAT 2 always comes highly recommended. You pretty much can't go wrong here. It is a liner lock, which will be a little easier to use one-handed than a lockback. Though maybe only if you're right handed.

I think if I were going for a Spyderco in that range, I'd go with the Ambitious instead. (Right under $30, blade is 2.25 inches.) Or, save up a few extra bucks and go with the Persistence (Just under $35, blade is 2.75 in). The Byrd line is designed by Spyderco, but made by other companies under Spyderco's direction. I'm sure they are a decent value, but if that's what you want, I think you'd probably be better off, and happier, saving your money and getting a Delica 4.

You may also want to look into the Buck Vantage. It's a flipper, so easy opening is there. I think it's a liner lock as well. The steel is okay, but expect to be sharpening it fairly often (maybe once a week if you want to keep it razor sharp).

Another option is the Ka-Bar Dozier. It uses AUS-8A steel, which is pretty good for the price range (in my opinion). Thumb stud, lockback. This one's $20, so a little below your budget actually. Could use some of the money saved to get some sort of sharpening system (DMT Card maybe?)

Blue Ridge Zancudo, designed by the same people behind the RAT series. Pretty much the same idea, but I think the blade shape on the Zancudo is a little better if you need to be able to pierce things.

Last one, the Kershaw Shuffle. A little smaller, at 2.4 in blade length. But has a bottle opener, if you're into that sort of thing. Also, cheaper than any of the rest of the options here. I also think that this one probably has the best blade-shape, in my opinion. It's almost all belly.

Personally, I have found that having the longest knife you have is good, but a lot of the time most of that edge isn't put to good use. Sometimes it's too long, which makes it cumbersome. If you're mostly opening boxes and mail and stuff like that, something closer to a 2.5 inch blade might be more the ticket. I find that it makes it easier to make precise cuts.

For the record, I feel the same that the Cryo is too slippery - which is why I'm super glad Kershaw released a G10 version of it last year.

I also agree that the Tenacious is just a bit too big for EDC - and they do make the Persistence, which is a shrunken version of the Tenacious, with a 2.75 inch blade vs the Tenacious' 3-3/8 inch blade. If you wanna go even smaller, the Ambitious has a 2.25" blade. All 3 knives share a similar design (though the Ambitious is small enough that the proportions might look a little weird to some).

A few other knives of note that are standouts in the sub-$50 price range:

• CRKT Ripple - Ken Onion design with a more-traditional drop point blade, IKBS, 8Cr14MoV. Usually on most people's "Under $50" list.
  
  
• Kershaw Leek - Again, a little slippery and still Speedsafe but a slightly weaker torsion bar so not as forceful. Some people have issues with broken tips since they're a little thin, but this thing was the best under $50 when it came out.
  
  
• Ontario RAT 1 - At $25 this thing is a pretty great package, if not a little big. 3.5" blade, but it's AUS-8 if you don't like the 8Cr China steels (even if they are pretty similar).
  
  
• SOG Flash II - again, a 3.5 inch, AUS-8 blade. Assisted opening, but much less forceful than Speedsafe.
  
  
• The Kershaw Emerson CQC-6K has blown up since it's release and a lot of high speed low drag tactical types love it for EDC use. $25 makes it a pretty appealing choice and rock solid under $30.
  
  
• The Spyderco Delica 4 is just a touch over $50, averaging about $60, but it's also a go-to knife in the $50 for many people. VG-10 steel on this one is a big selling point.
  
  
• On the same hand, the Kershaw Blur is usually available for about $60, and for those looking for a big folder (seriously this thing is large) it's a great choice. Sandvik 14C28N as standard steel, also available with S30V for about $75.
  
  A few notes here
  
  
• You'll see a lot of sub $50 knives using 8Cr13MoV or 8Cr14MoV. The main difference is a little more Chromium in the 8Cr14MoV, leading to a little more corrosion resistance. A lot of people loved the Skyline, but there were a few issues with minor rust spots on the knives, leading to many companies switching to 8Cr14MoV for some of their knives (most of the budget Kershaws are 8Cr14MoV now).
  
  
• Kershaw has many many options for budget folders under $50, for all kinds of aesthetic tastes. The Chill, Thermite, Link, Oso Sweet, etc. I've owned a handful of Kershaws, and loved all of them, especially for the price.
  
  
• The 8Cr steels (13MoV and 14MoV) are pretty much on par with AUS-8, especially from CRKT, Spyderco, and Kershaw who all do a good job on their heat treats. There's a slight difference in hardness (3 to 4 HRC difference by most counts), but really they're nearly identical for all intents and purposes, mainly sharpening and edge retention. Some people just prefer AUS-8 because they don't like so called "China steel."
  
  
  ETA a few more links and some clarification of my still-awake-at-5am rambling.

Ok here goes. Pocket breakdown.

Front right pocket: Phone

Clipped to edge of front right pocket: Knife

Clipped to edge of back right pocket: Pen

Back left pocket: Wallet

Clipped to edge front left pocket: Flashlight

Also clipped to front left pocket: Keychain

Now for my flashlight philosophy. Phone lights are just kind of fine but they really stink as flashlights because they aren't very bright and can't throw more than about 15 feet. My $10 Olight i3E keychain light can throw like 100 feet, which is not all that far. My sidewalk from the road to my house is longer than 15 feet and I like to be able to see a good ways in front of me when walking at night. My main flashlight (Emisar D4) has adjustable brightness so I can put it really low in a movie theater or something when I need see to go pee but not disturb anyone, and I can also put it on full brightness to turn on the sun in any given direction if I need to see far or see a lot of stuff. Mostly it's just plain easier to grab a flashlight clipped to your picket and press a button than it is to pull out your phone, unlock it, swipe the quick settings onto screen, and then click the flashlight button.

Knife philosophy: I carry a dedicated knife because it's easier, faster, and more comfortable to use than any multitool. It always stays clipped in the right hand, tip up position so I just pull it out, deploy the blade, and start using it (and that all takes like half a second or less). If I tried doing the same with my Leatherman Squirt I'd have to pull out my keychain, find the Squirt, open the blade with the nail nic and then reposition my hand to start using it. That requires about 3 seconds (6x as long) and BOTH HANDS. Often when I need to cut something I'm supporting the thing with one hand already so I only have one hand free to get my knife.

Tweezers: take a look at these. You might be able to add them to your keychain: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001KMSUA4/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1523632099&sr=8-1&keywords=keychain+tweezers&dpPl=1&dpID=41qJZ3wCLJL&ref=plSrch

I hope this helps!

I would recommend a flashlight, and small multitool.

Flashlight

I would recommend the Fenix E05 | [Amazon Link] $20.13 for a very small light.

Multitool

The Leatherman Style | [Amazon Link] $16.79 is my most used item on my keychain because of the great scissors and minimal toolset. It has none of the tools I don't ever use. If you're looking for a more versitile toolset, look through the remainder of Leatherman's great micro-multi-tool lineup. Try to stay away from Gerber products if at all possible.

Flash-Drive

A flash-drive can be useful as well, but it's hard to find one that is both small and durable. I did a lot of research on which option to buy for quite a while. The grail of USB flash drives is the PQI Tiffy because of its incredible speed and durable housing. Unfortunately, it is nearly impossible to find for sale, and it's also super expensive. I went for the Kingston Datatraveler | [Amazon Link] $10.40, and it's working very well for me.

Fire

I've rarely needed one, but many folks want to carry a fire-starter with them, and there are some small options for your keychain. The Exotac NanoStriker $23.50 is a ferrocerium-based striker, and the True Utility FireStash [Amazon Link] $16.23 is a simple, tiny lighter.

Suspension

Finally, it's nice to have your keys hanging in a comfortable place in your pocket, and not in a bunched-up heap at the bottom. Definitly consider grabbing a P-7 suspension clip $12+shipping. I waited a while to pull the trigger on mine, but I don't regret it.
Another option would be the Obstructures Pry/Open tool $32. It serves as a pry-bar, which you don't yet understand how much you might use after you start carrying one.

Additional Information

Here's my setup today.

Here is a great post by /u/goretsky about where to buy one-handed multi-tools like Atwood, etc.

---------------------

P.S. It's great to have a color-scheme for your keychain. It looks fantastic.

Left to Right, mostly:



Green Cards - I switch this out with other cards pretty regularly, but it matched today. ( https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01ESWPAKU/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_i_R-0TDbZEN6C0N )



Slim Wallet - It's super thin and it attaches to my phone. ( https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07P4J55NV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_9msGDb54PTKM2 )



Watch - It's durable and in my opinion doesn't look too bad for the price. ( https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009KYJAJY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_BosGDbN06048V )



Wireless Earbuds - They are dated so they aren't the best anymore, but they are still pretty good. ( https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07582VVJR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_QnCDDbV5X5EQY )



Multitool - It doesn't have a knife so I take this to school. It's not the best, but it does small things great. ( https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0058RX9NU/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_Rc1TDbRPMMDB0 )



Flashlight - For the size, it is really bright. It doesn't last forever, but it is rechargeable. I recommend it for something small. ( https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GQRJLDP/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_6g1TDb65T465P )



Knife - This sub knows this knife. ( https://www.bladehq.com/item--Benchmade-Bugout-AXIS-Lock-Knife--98607 )



Necklace - Totally normal carbon fiber dog tag. ( https://www.bladehq.com/item--Spyderco-Panchenko-Dog-Tag-Folder--29966 )


If anyone has any questions about any of this stuff, leave a comment and I'll do my best to respond. To clarify, the knife goes in my pocket and I put on the necklace after school. 

Thanks for taking the time to check out my post! Have a good rest of your day everyone!

Keyring

1. Kingston DT108 - solid flash drive, been using this one for years, never failed me. Looking for a larger capacity replacement, something that preferably lines up with the keys better?
   
2. NITE IZE S-biner - pretty cool, fun to mess with.
   
3. Utili-key - love the idea, but the knife is not as useful as I hoped. Looks cool on the ring though. Would appreciate suggestions on replacing it.
   
   iPhone 5 leather wallet case - SPORT - Just got this one yesterday, nice construction, great feel, haven't quite broken it in yet though. It's a neat concept, the phone is magnetically attached to the wallet. I recommend you check it out!

Okay here are some suggestions

1. Wallet. I have not ordered it yet but [this] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002P4Y9EW/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A28SBX2GB3VZCT) cigarette case could work.
   
2. Knife: [Spyderco tenacious] (http://www.amazon.com/Spyderco-Tenacious-Handle-Folding-Plain/dp/B001EI7578/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1370136756&sr=1-1&keywords=spyderco) is $32 and a little more than 3 inches or the [Spyderco ambitious] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004MMSDHO/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_4?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER) which is a baby tenacious with a 2 1/4 inch blade and $29.
   While they are not tactical opinels are really nice and are near $10 and come in lots of sizes.
   
   
3. Pens: I have a [zerbra 701] (http://www.amazon.com/Zebra-F-701-Stainless-Ballpoint-Retractable/dp/B002L6RB80) and a [Fisher space bullet pen] (http://www.amazon.com/Fisher-Space-Pen-Bullet-400/dp/B000095K9D/ref=sr_1_sc_2?s=office-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1370136956&sr=1-2-spell&keywords=fisher+space+ben). For the money the zebra is excellent, the bullet pen is nice but there is a tutorial on how to mode the zebra to take space pen refills which is the best of both.
   
4. I know you got the wave but I suggest getting a small mt like a sak or a leatherman ps4 or micra. The victorinox classic sd is good and about $10
   
   Also with all the stuff you want to carry, It might be wise to invest in a maxpediton micro pocket organizer which is about $15
   If you got any questions just ask.

• Samsung Gear S2 - I need to replace this thing soon but it's served me well for 3ish years.
  
• FUNCL W1 Wireless Headphones - Indiegogo headphones. I've been looking for something even remotely close to the quality / small form factor that the Apple Airpods provide. These are the closest I've found (I've tested more than a few truly wireless headphones)
  
• Gerber Dime - This thing has saved me more times than I'd like to admit. Glad I carry it with me.
  
• Kent Beard Comb - Been growing out the fuzzyness, needed to keep it straight, little dingy thing that does the job well. (I'd like to find something as small and black to fit the theme haha)
  
• Spyderco Tenacious Carbon Fiber G10 - grabbed this off of Massdrop a while back. It's been my daily carry ever since.

I'm glad people got you up to speed on carrying an approved TQ.

I have not see anyone mention where to actually get training, so here's a starting point:

https://www.bleedingcontrol.org/may/learn-how

I'm somewhat concerned with the O.C. spray, as according to their website "18% OC" isn't a thing. Major Capsinoids are what determines how effective OC is and nowhere do they mention what percentage of Major Capsinoids their spray contains. It cannot be 18% as the most effective sprays used by law enforcement (i.e. Sabre Red, etc) are at 1.33%. Get and carry Sabre Red. Problem solved. Do not get gel, unless you like the idea of waiting around for half a minute or so for the effects to manifest themselves. Gel has a much longer activation time and you lose the inhalation effects. Get a stream.

https://www.sabrered.com/formulations-heat-strength-and-law

Jabber. Likely worthless. Even if you know and are well-versed in kubotan techniques, they still aren't a worthwhile defensive tool because they can't cause enough pain or do enough damage to physically incapacitate a determined attacker. If you are looking for a defensive tool to carry in your hand, carry the spray.
Spray should be your first option for de-escalation and defense, after of course awareness and avoidance.

Lights. Invest in a quality light or three. Olight, Fenix, Streamlight and Surefire make excellent lights. I have a small Olight I3E on my key fob. It's an excellent emergency, always have it sort of little light.

OLIGHT 90 Lumens i3E EOS PMMA TIR Lens AAA Flashlight Compact Keychain Flashlite EDC Flashlight https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017R560WC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_EGjADbR5HG387

The Streamlight Microstream is another excellent small light. I generally always have one of these as a spare in whatever bag I have on me.

https://www.streamlight.com/en/products/detail/index/microstream-usb

My main EDC lights are the Fenix PD36R, the Surefire EDCL-T2 and the Olight M2R Warrior. Both the SIIIR and S1 Baton from Olight are also excellent if you're looking for something slightly smaller.

Any of the above listed also make excellent headlamps. I also like Petzls and REI has some really good deals on them right now, like:

https://www.rei.com/product/109952/petzl-actik-headlamp-2018?CAWELAID=120217890003369271&CAGPSPN=pla&CAAGID=15724846360&CATCI=pla-401945114287&cm_mmc=PLA_Google%7C404_87834%7C1099520003%7Cnone%7C_kenshoo_clickid_%7Cpla-401945114287&lsft=cm_mmc:PLA_Google_LIA%7C404_87834%7C1099520003%7Cnone%7C_kenshoo_clickid_&kclid=_kenshoo_clickid_&gclid=Cj0KCQjw753rBRCVARIsANe3o45iZ9-_AWJCwfsv2DCPv-g9gKBl43-zL4-f2q64a7QpuSpCCfUYxM4aAqwHEALw_wcB

Strongly consider adding or swapping out your bandanas for actual N95 masks. N95 means they will filter 95% of particulates. There are N99 and N100 masks as well, but an N95 will be adequate for filtering out dust and smoke in almost all short term scenarios you might encounter.

https://www.uline.com/Product/Detail/S-19253/Dust-Masks-and-Respirators/Uline-N95-Deluxe-Industrial-Respirator-with-Valve?pricode=WB0200&gadtype=pla&id=S-19253&gclsrc=aw.ds&&gclid=Cj0KCQjw753rBRCVARIsANe3o47D97sqUmfEGAAcaoGf6Iccqth1ZbjT0Y0yC1sI8dVaA1drIuLSMO0aAlU5EALw_wcB

My last suggestion since you seem to be properly concerned with self defense is this:

Go find a Judo club or a jiu jitsu gym and train. Go once and then don't stop going. Any reputable club or gym will allow you to come in and audit a class or two for free. I've watched female whitebelts with 6 months of regular practice absolutely demolish big new guys coming into the gym.

If you want a knife, take a look at the Kershaw Leek it's an awesome, medium sized folder, it is a great value for what you get. Amazon puts them on sale for sub $35 sometimes, so keep an eye out for that. It also has some different colored handle scales if you want to personalize it more to your liking.

If you want something a little smaller than the Leek, you could take a look at the Spyderco Ambitious, which is also a high value knife (less so than it's $35 bigger brother the Tenacious).

If you want an even smaller blade, take a look at the Spyderco Ladybug, it sports a 1.94 inch blade, so very inconspicuous and not "scary looking" at all. It'll look even more fun if you get yellow handle scales on it. They also have a purple version.

These are just a few options for you to look at, it really is only the tip of the iceberg. These are low cost, high value for what you get, I'm recommending the lower cost knives specifically because someone who isn't into knives might not value them as much (and thus not willing to pay higher amounts of money) compared to a person who is into knives. A lot of people think "What do I need a knife for?", well buy one, carry it on your person for a month and get back to me, you will see what a useful tool it is after carrying one for a decent amount of time.

Well, most of them, but ok, I'll bite. I really like the Bellroy Note Sleeve that I replaced my old, very fat, wallet with. I'm trying to settle on a knife carry right now, debating whether I want to pair my much-loved-but-I-wish-it-were-bigger Rambler with a larger knife or not. The Rambler really is great, though. It punches way over its weight class, which is half the problem - it covers everything I really need day to day, but I like to have a knife that fits my hand a little better. If you have trouble with things balling up in the bottom of your pocket, the Tec P-7 suspension clip solved that quite well for me. I guess that's about it, really.

I know this will get buried but I have decided to revamp my whole EDC.

/u/ieatedjesus I have taken the plunge on the Wallet you have recomended. I hate when a product has no reviews or I can't do research about it but whatever. I'm also super stingy with money so this is a huge deal for me lol ($42 with engraving)

As for the pen, I have decided to get a Fisher Space Pen $15. I have 3. Now I will have 4. (also bought a clip $5) ((also bought fieldnotes $10 for the wallet))

/u/odomandr I have decided to go with that knife $16. Nothing sexier than a good stone wash and minimalist design. I also need a knife. No idea about the quality but today I have decided to trust a total stranger on /r/EDC

/u/Ryl4nd99 Thank you for the great idea of a post! I hope to post again when everything comes in. I decided to add/replace my edc with the items above. I also carry a muthafuckin Casio as well as an Olight s2 Baton along with dollar store chapstick. Hopefully I can keep you updated or make a new post when all my goodies come in!

Sorry for the wall of text. Thank you for reading.

I frequent /r/watches but I'm no expert and they would be able to give you better recommendations. That being said, I'm often at constructions sites doing work with concrete, vibrating machinery, heavy chains, etc so I do have experience working in rough conditions while still needing to look presentable when I'm at the office or laboratory.

Off the top of my head, here are my recommendations:

Bernhardt Field Watch. I wear this daily and my last post on /r/EDC has one which you can look at my history to see. I highly recommend this.

Seiko 5. It's an automatic so the moving parts have a higher chance of failing but it is used by many as a beater watch. It's tough enough to withstand a lot and cheap enough to replace. A leather band replacing the NATO strap will make it look more presentable. Again, I own this watch as well and I posted a picture of it in /r/watches.

Luminox has a reputation for being tough but the aesthetics might be close to G-Shock

Hamilton comes to mind as well, they make pretty good watches but I have no idea how well they hold up. The one I linked seems pretty robust.

In one of your comments you said you were going to remove the blade on the multitool.

If so Leatherman does a bladeless version of the Rebar that has scissors instead. The Rebar is robust and relatively compact with a good compliment of tools and awesome pliers. I wouldn't bother with something like the Skeletool if you're going to remove the blade.
(70 bucks on Amazon but I'm sure you could find it cheaper elsewhere)

If that doesn't fit in your budget then I suggest getting the Wingman and removing the blade, it uses torx bits so it'll be easy to mod and it still leaves you with spring assisted pliers, scissors, a couple of drivers, a file and a package opener. (50 bucks on Amazon but I've seen them on sale for 30 at places like home depot so look around, it'll save you some cash.)

For those interested;

• Fenix E05
  
• Leatherman Squirt(pliers version)
  
• Spyderco Tenacious
  
• Paracord keychain
  
  Got everything for about $100. I really love the Leatherman, who knew something so small could have such great quality standards, it feels so solid. The Fenix is crazy small and light, couldn't believe it. Finally the Tenacious is a great knife for under $50, also great build quality and man is the clip tight, that thing isn't going anywhere.

Okay, I'll bite. These are all items I currently carry in my EDC organizer that are under $10.

• Uncle Bill's tweezers (definitely not in the everyday use category, but superb for that "damn I need this" category. e.g. wife with metal filing splinter)

• 16 oz Nalgene (just started carrying mine and glad I did. e.g. I need to drink more water)

• Mirror (sure you can use your phone, but I've found it handy a few times. e.g. at work place before meetings; to pick that food out your teeth after lunch)

• Toothpicks (to pick said food from teeth before meeting)

• WD-40 pen (cuz... WD-40. e.g. squeaks and stuff)

• Hand Sanitizer pen (because germs. e.g. after a BBQ Brisket Quesadilla for lunch)

• Gorilla Glue super glue (again, used a few times, but in a "save the day" type of situation.)

• Plastic or Metal Collar Stays (I always seem to forget collar stays, so I pack them in my EDC organizer)

• $10 (in cash) (I've forgotten my wallet once before—but had my EDC organizer in my laptop bag—still got to eat lunch that day)

Yes I realize 4 of my items specifically mention "lunch".

Before the list, I would just like to personally thank all of you on the EDC sub. Many of the things I use everyday, I bought after seeing them here and reading your reviews and recommendations. I love seeing the diversity of the tools and stuff you all use. I'm including links to where I got my things just to save anyone the time searching.

Here's my EDC on a budget...

Phone: OnePlus 5t (8GB/128GB). Recently replaced my aging Nexus 5. No phone has ever been perfect in my eyes, but the 5t is awesome and lightning fast, and it doesn't have a bunch of bullcrap and bloatware.
https://www.oneplus.com/5t

Knife: Gerber Suspension. I have several knives, but this is the one that goes with me everywhere. The pliers, screwdrivers and scissor get used more than the blade.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000EDPT9K/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Watch: Timex Field Chrono. Inexpensive, accurate and reliable. Plus I think it looks cool.
https://www.amazon.com/Timex-T49905-Expedition-Chronograph-Leather/dp/B0083XFHIG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8

Flashlight: J5 Tactical V1. Got this to replace my Mini-Mag LED that constantly flickers with even the slightest shake or bump. I used to love Mags when they had incandescent bulbs. They really f'ed up their LED tech though.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00V7T1YRQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Field Notes: I also do drone photos for real estate and I use this as a flight log.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0034KDEMO/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Other stuff: Cheap glasses because I lose or break them about every 6 months. Chapstick, Levis wallet, car keys, G2 pen, wallet survival card ($1 at Walmart) comes in handy.

Not pictured: Altoids to cover up the coffee breath. Ringke Fusion phone case.

Nice carry! I would recommend adding a small flashlight. It's probably the most useful part of my EDC. I have the ITP A3 EOS on my keychain, and I love it. One AAA battery, 3 modes, super bright.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B006K5C2EG?pc_redir=1404498212&robot_redir=1

• Blue Cerulean Zippo
  
• Taste-T-Picks mint-flavored toothpicks
  
• Blue Fisher Space Pen
  
• Streamlight Microstream (coating worn off where it rubs against my knife)
  
• new Spyderco Manix 2 in S110v - I linked the image to BBS, but you can actually find it cheaper on BladeHQ and Knifecenter.
  
• new +B Victorinox Castaway SAK in Blue Alox - Link is just the newsletter because it isn't available in the webstore.
  
• Leatherman Skeletool CX - I love this tool. I've purchased 4 or 5 of them and given them away to friends and family because I love it so much. I'd recommend to anyone. The blade on this thing is amazing.
  
• Burt's Bees chapstick
  
• Car/Jeep/House keys, Blue anodized WTF tool (Wrench-That-Fits), Blue Leatherman PS4, and iTP A3 EOS upgraded all attached by lobster clasps on Copper Corter Bottlehook and keyring.
  
  EDIT: Added links to everything and corrected some details.
  EDIT_2: Grammar.

There are tons of great options, the Parker Jotter I can definitely recommend. I've never had any leakage issues with the stock ink cartridge it came with but I also normally switch it out for a Fisher Space Pen refill.

Other good metal pens that aren't too expensive might be a Cross Click which is my current edc with a Fisher Space Pen refill in it which is great for signing receipts and quick things like that. I use it at work to give to customers to sign their receipts.. I like it because it is skinnier than the Parker Jotter, however, it is easier to accidentally click in your pocket whereas with the Jotter you have to use an intentional amount of force to click it.

Another one (or two) would be the Fisher Bullet Space Pen or the Cap-O-Matic Space Pen. The bullet is really quite compact and the Cap-O-Matic is a regular sized pen.

And if you're really worried about ink leakage in your pocket then you can get something like a Lamy Swift which has a mechanism so that when the tip of the pen is extended, the pocket clip retracts which makes it impossible to clip onto your pocket. One thing to keep in mind with the Lamy Swift is that it comes with a rollerball refill which is incredibly smooth but it puts out more ink than a regular ballpoint so it has a longer drying time and can smear on receipt paper.

One that I recently bought was the Leatherman CS, it has the same tools as the little SD victorinox but I like the design and feel a little more. Leatherman has the Skeletool as well if you're interested in something bigger.

On a classier side I really liked my Buck Chairman. It's only knives, no tools but it's a quality product.

Personally I always carry my Victorinox one handed Trekker in my pocket and my SOG Trident in my backpack just for good measure.

Victorinox Swiss Army One-Hand Trekker Lockblade Pocket Knife (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000687B44/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_tv7Iub1MPW1PS

Leatherman 831207 Style CS Clip-On Multi-Tool with Scissors https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0032XVNMQ/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_LJ7Iub1STMMN2

Buck Chairman Series Cadet Comfort Craft TM Knife (Rosewood, 3 1/4-Inch) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002NLIA4C/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_YL7Iub0XCV0VB

SOG Specialty Knives & Tools TF1-CP Trident Knife with Partially Serrated Assisted Folding 3.75-Inch Steel Blade and GRN Handle, Black TiNi Finish https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000PIE2I8/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_2Q7Iub16JNT0K

Well heres a list of some from amazon.

• Opinel No8 Carbon Pocket Knife | $12 | 4.6 Stars
  
  
• Kershaw Chill Serrated Pocket Knife | $21 | 4.8 Stars
  
  
• Kershaw Brawler Speedsafe Knife | $23 | 4.5 Stars
  
  
• Ontario RAT Folding Knife | $27 | 4.8 Stars
  
  
• Kershaw Cryo Speed Safe Folding Knife | $30 | 4.4 Stars
  
  
• Spyderco Ambitious Plain Edge Knife | $33 | 4.5 Stars
  
  
• Spyderco Tenacious Plain Edge Knife | $34 | 4.7 Stars
  
  
• Camillus Carbonitride Titanium Folding Knife | $37 | 4.8 Stars
  
  
• Kershaw Ken Onion Leek Folding Knife with Speed Safe | $39 | 4.7 Stars
  
  Hope that helps!
  
  PS if you aren't sure about your knife laws check out this PDF just scroll to your state and check. Also /r/Knives can probably help you if you have more specific questions about knives. Although going to that sub-reddit will also probably mean spending more than $30 so be forewarned.

Sorry guys, I thought this comment would show up but it didn't so here's it again!

Info and such.

Picture one is my work (garrison, not deployed) EDC and picture two is my normal EDC.

1. IPhone 5 with LifeProof case
   
   
   
2. [Fisher Space Pen] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001E103CY/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_dp_ss_1?pf_rd_p=1944687602&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B000095K9D&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=1RKGZQWYCXZQTRK0TSEH) (This is my third one, last two flew off.)
   
   
3. Just a normal sharpie
   
   
4. Two diffrent types of Rite in the Rain
   notebooks
   
   
5. Gerber Flick Multi-tool and belt carrying case
   
   
6. Southord Jackknife lock-pick set
   
   
7. Kershaw Cryo knife
   
   
8. CREE LED flashlight
   
   
9. Keys with a TEC P-7, a tritium key FOB, and a 2 GB flash drive
   
   
10. ID tags
    
    
11. A very cheap Armitron sports watch
    
    
12. Carmex
    
    
13. A BIC lighter
    
    
14. Standard ear Protection
    
    
15. Standard tri-fold wallet (will upgrade soon)
    
    
16. Oakley Flak Jacket (These were given to me)
    
    
17. Standard issue gloves (do not buy these)
    
    So I do carry much more stuff with me while I'm working but I'm quick to shed it when I get back to the barracks.
    
    Hope you enjoyed and I'll be happy to answer any questions about my getup!

You can get quite a few of those together for $25, but obviously different places. I would map out what you use the most:
Notepad, pen, lighter, pliers, scissors, screwdriver, flashlight are all great to have.

http://www.amazon.com/eGear-PICO-Zipper-Light-Blue/dp/B001SAM0IQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1344376840&sr=8-1&keywords=pico+light are a better choice over the streamlight. You can often pick up Micras for $15 or less at Target or Menards on clearance/sale

I prefer the Meretac, but http://www.amazon.com/Fenix-Flashlights-E01FL-Compact-Flashlight/dp/B002YLTU3Q/ref=pd_sim_hi_12 is a good option

http://www.amazon.com/Vigilant-Gear-Aircraft-Cable-Ring/dp/B006ZSP1PA/ref=pd_sim_sg_66

http://www.amazon.com/UNCLE-BILLS-SLIVER-GRIPPER-TWEEZER/dp/B001KMSUA4/ref=pd_sim_sg_79

You can find a lot of Amazon items... I'll go through my purchase history and see what else...

ideas for you:

Flexy unwallet

Seiko 5 wrist watch

Tritium keyring

I just realized all my links won't work for you cuz it's not amazon.co.uk but whatever lol

Keysmart key holder

Leatherman wave or skeletool cx if you want something smaller

If you pref the SAK route I'm personally planning on picking up a cybertool lite soon. Might be over your budget.

best of luck

Leatheman Style CS has excellent scissors and a very good blade for it's size(1.6in blade). It is basically a step up for the SAK classic. Better scissors, blade, and tweezers. Loose the toothpick and gain a bottle opener. Can be found for around $20. It won't replace an actual knife in most peoples EDC, but for many it could.

If it isn't enought knife then look into a value dedicated knife like an opinel no.6 as well if you want more knife.

• Water bottle: Klean Kanteen 64 ounce stainless steel - $30
  
• Phone: I might buy a cheap MetroPCS phone w/ $25 plan
  
• Wallet: Alpine Swiss - $12
  
• Watches: I'd be happy with a black and brown Timex Easy Reader - $25 each. Fossil would be my next level, but what are some some even better watches?
  
• Flashlight: This is hard because I love my light but it's discontinued. It would have to be a single AAA light with a reversible pocket clip. Maybe a Lenser P2 - $17
  
• Protection: Condom case - $5 and Skyn condoms - $17
  
• Protection: Glock 19 - $550 and Galco King Tuk - $60
  
• More protection: Milt Sparks pocket magazine carrier - $63
  
• Belts: Black and Brown Hanks Amish Belts - $36 each. Maybe I'd shop around, but they have been working for me.
  
  Keys:
  
  
• Leatherman carabiner + bottle opener - $10
  
• SOG keyknife - $11
  
• Uncle Bill's tweezers - $10 for 2
  
• A pill holder from Winn-Dixie... - ~$5
  
• Reusable earplugs - $13
  
  I'm not sure if I want to carry a full-sized knife anymore but I think the Boker Plus Nano ($43) looks cool!
  
  That's just about my current EDC. I'm planning on eventually buying the carabiner, key knife, tweezers, and I'll probably go with a desantis pocket mag carrier opposed to the 3x more expensive Milt Sparks.

This is a fun idea.

Assuming you carry a separate knife:

Gerber Shard - $6.82

Fenix E01 - $12.73

Total: $19.55

The Shard does so much for so little, and the Fenix is a very reliable, functional flashlight (with the added bonus of using easy-to-replace AAA batteries).

Assuming you don't carry a separate knife:

Leatherman Style CS - $16.79

Generic button cell light - $3-$4 at Walmart or wherever

Total: $20.79 (assuming the $4 price on the button light, it's a little over, but you can probably find one for $3 if you look)

OR

Victorinox Rally - $11.60

LRI Photon II - $8.27

Total: $19.87

This kinda depends on your needs. The Style functions better as a knife than the Rally (in my opinion), and offers essentially the same tools plus a great pair of scissors. But in return, you sacrifice a little in terms of your light. Personally I'd opt for the Style + generic.

A small multi-tool like the Leatherman CS replacing a utility knife.

I also think we (this sub) overlook the utility of smartphone apps. This demographic (reddit) is reasonably likely to have a smartphone and I know that I use useful things every day like:

Pocket

CRADaR

RadarNow!

to simplify my life and protect myself. I sure could use some recommendations from folks like you about apps I haven't heard of.

I daily a seiko 5 SNK809, this one. It's a mechanical automatic watch. The hands and dots for each number glow. it's a little thick and the band it comes with sucks but I replaced it with a thin leather NATO strap. I recommend it highly. It gives a very accurate time, needs no batteries, and looks great. It costs as much as a normal timex right now and the second hand is really smooth.

The actual point of this is that it's a little bit thicker than a weekender but with that thickness you get a mechanical timepiece with a clear back to show off the movement. You've probably seen the watch on here before. it seems that everyone in /r/Watches has one.

Sorry for the lack of info fellas. I posted the pic last night and totally for got to add the specs.

• Kershaw Blur with Tanto Profile - I cut the "wave" feature in with a Dremel.
  
  
• Ruger LCP + Crimson Trace Laserguard + Keltec P3AT Belt Clip - Polished Barrel and Feedramp
  
  
• iPhone 5 + Magpul OD field Case
  
  
• Lucky Line key ring holding my keys. I like the idea of these but I've had the ball and socket break loose on my twice. I've ordered the screw apart versions with some in hand but haven't swapped over yet. There is also a S-biner on the loop.
  
  
• Fenix E05 - Great little light. I ran the E01 for a long time before upgrading to the E05. Very happy with it's performance.
  
  
• Fossil Magnetic Wallet

Knife, flashlight, and good batteries

• Gerber Mini Fast Draw $21
  
  
• Gerber Paraframe Mini $10
  
  
• Maglite LED Solitaire 1xAAA twisty, 37 lumens - $15
  
  
• Olight i3 1xAAA twisty, good pocket-clip, 3 mode 2.5/20/70 lumens - $22
  
  
• ITP A3 1xAAA twisty, good keychain attachment, 3 mode 1.5/18/96 lumens - $20
  
  
• Jetbeam BA10 1xAA tactical tailswitch, 12/160 lumens - $30
  
  
• 4 pack Energizer Ultimate lithiums AA/AAA $8

Looks like you got everything you need! Maybe add in a little light! You can get a cheap, small yet powerful Olight that will be super handy! You would be amazed what having the power of light will do for you when you need it!

Items for outside the classroom

Biggest thing to carry is a bottle opener

Cheap Keychain Bottle Opener

You don't want some expensive bottle opener because you'll be passing it around alot and you might forget to ask for it back

BIC Lighter

Kershaw Cinder

BUT preferably swiss army knife classic
SAK Classic

or the rally with a bottle opener
SAK Rally
you sacrifice scissors for bottle opener

wallet
dont get a bifold wallet those are out of style no (no offense to anyone who still carries them) but a simple slim card holder is alot better and sleek

Things you need in the classroom

Best Red Pens a must for note taking
I wouldn't get the blue one uniball because its a dark blue almost black

So get these instead
BIC blue pen

Most "EDC" notebooks are expensive and offer very little sheets of paper. You could use one as an assignment pad but something with acutal dates is better so once you get your syllabus you can right down all the assignments during the first week.

Note books I would just go to walmart. You can get five subject notebooks for $2 now during their back to school special. Where ever you buy notebooks take advantage and buy for the spring semester because prices are only this cheap in aug/september.

Not your usual edc recommendations but I wasn't rolling in dough early on in my college career and rather let people borrow a cheap pen and let them keep it then stress about getting my pen back when I let the next person borrow it to sign in.

your edc should be what you like to carry and use

It's great! Small yet feels great in the hand. Its my first Spyderco and I couldn't be happier!

It's also only $33 on Amazon.

Pockets

• Phone Case - Magpul iPhone 5 Field Case
  
  
• Knife - Benchmade Mini-Griptillian
  
  
• Handkerchief - Fifth&Brannan Charcoal Pocket Square
  
  
• Bottle Opener - New Belgium Globe - Got this for free after a tour there, and it's lived in the small pocket of my jeans ever since.
  
  
• Lip Balm - Burt's Bees
  
  
• FitBit - Fitbit Ultra - Probably going to be replaced by a newer Fitbit soon.
  
  
• Pen - Fisher Cap-O-Matic Space Pen - I will buy this pen over and over.
  
  
• Wallet - Saddleback ID Wallet in Tobacco
  
  
• Gum - Orbit Sweet Mint - It's unbelievable how much of this I have chewed.
  
  
  
  Keys
  
  
• Biner - Nite Ize S Biner Ahh
  
  
• USB - Kingston Digital DataTraveler 8GB - Contents change daily. Mostly client software.
  
  
• Light - FOURSEVENS Mini 123/ML - Throws a ton of light for how little room it takes up.
  
  
  
  
  That's pretty much it. Any questions feel free.
  

Ah that is quite interesting! I always enjoy hearing why people carry what they do.

AAA with a pocket clip=Itp A3 Eos
AAAx2 with a pocket clip= Streamlight Stylus or Preon II.

I'd go with one of the 2x AAA's as they are easier to hold and won't fall out of your pocket as easily.

$10 is a little low for a multitool but this carabiner and this flashlight are in the price range and well worth the money. Throw them on some aircraft cable key rings and they should make great gifts.

I use my Every Day Carry items....every day....which is why I carry those items, every day.

Used my Fenix UC35 last night during our snow storm to keep an eye on the dogs, and to explore the dark winter wilderness a little bit. I also daily a warm knit hat and gloves for the season...which are also useful in the snow, for obvious reasons. Cut a very long loose string off my coat lastnight as well with the blade I've been carrying around for almost a decade now, my Sypderco Endura 4. My smaller Streamlight Stylus Pro wasn't needed, but was there if for some reason I developed a use for it.

Just recently got a Leatherman Squirt PS4 which I carry in the little coin pocket of my jeans. It's scissors are very handy in replacement of my older Victorinox Classic which works great for the tweezers and toothpick, but it's scissors have had it. Anyway, I used the Leatherman to file down a couple finger nails I tore up lifting a CVT onto a cart two days ago. The single cut file was good enough to keep the jagged edges of my nails from snagging my gloves, so it's alright in my book.

Frequently use my lighter, a Ronson Jetlite to flip around as a fiddle item or to light periodic items asunder, or to bond them to each other (in the case of paracord).

It's not quite the same but I have something like the Gerber EAB for a small carry and love it. Uses a utility knife blade tho. https://www.amazon.com/Gerber-Lite-Pocket-Knife-31-000345/dp/B002RILCLY/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=gerber+folding+knife&qid=1571754968&sr=8-4

Here are some links for the product in the above comment for different countries:

Amazon Smile Link: CRKT M-21 12


|Country|Link|Charity Links|
|:-----------|:------------|:------------|
|USA|smile.amazon.com|EFF|
|UK|www.amazon.co.uk|Macmillan|
|Spain|www.amazon.es||
|France|www.amazon.fr||
|Germany|www.amazon.de||
|Japan|www.amazon.co.jp||
|Canada|www.amazon.ca||
|Italy|www.amazon.it||




To help add charity links, please have a look at this thread.

This bot is currently in testing so let me know what you think by voting (or commenting). The thread for feature requests can be found here.

Timex Expedition is a great watch for value. It's a battery operated Quartz.

If your looking for an "automatic" check out the Seiko SNK. It's a lot more quality for still a good price.

Do some research on automatic vs quartz movements to decide what you want!

I have this Fenix as my keychain light, and it's excellent quality for such a tiny form factor. it's fairly bright, though not nearly as much as the eagletac mentioned above. however, if budget isn't really an issue, I can't recommend the Muyshondt Aeon enough. [this review] explains how it's basically the perfect EDC light when budget isn't an obstacle.

Just thought this would be fun to do.

(from left to right, top to bottom)

2009 13" Macbook Pro w/ 256 GB SSD

Pentel GraphGear 1000

Moleskine Notebook

Nebo Redline

Bolle Anaconda

Time Easy Reader

Ultimate Ears TripleFi 10

Boy Scouts Swiss Army Knife (not sure which model)

Audio-Technica M50 with EDT250 pads

Nintendo Wallet from NYC Nintendo World

Insulated 20oz Klean Kanteen

Kenneth Cole Reaction Bag

Arbor Bandana (as a face mask for cold days)

iPhone 4S

S-Biner

Keys (glowing tritium, apt, mail, bike, lockbox, utili-key, LED, room, car keys)

You might be interested in something like the Gerber EAB or Gerber EAB Lite for that utility blade. Both are pretty nice. Ironically, the EAB is lighter than the EAB Lite.

No information included about your desired price range so I'll just throw out a few suggestions. G-Shock is a solid choice - my favorite is the GW6900 as it is 5 buttons (dedicated light button), solar powered, and sets itself every night to the atomic clock. A slimmer option is the GWM-5610 with the same features except for the dedicated light button. These also have non-atomic non-solar versions for about half the price DW6900 and DW5600 which both come in around $45. These are classic models and won't draw unwanted attention.

If you're looking for something analog, while I hate to recommend another Casio, the MDV-106 dive watch is really hard to beat for 40-50 bucks. Water resistant to 200 meters, real functioning diver's timing bezel, applied indices, rubber strap... it's highly regarded at this price point. Good luck!

Another great option is the Fenix E01 or E05. They're both great single AAA lights, and tiny too!

The carabiner is a Nite Ize carabiner with a bottle opener Link Here.
I have one and I love it. I use it to hold my keys and open beers and it works great for both!

Phone: iPhone 5c + cheap Spigen case

Watch: Seiko SKX007 + Super Oyster II Bracelet

Wallet: Radix One

Keychain: Remove Before Flight tag, Sandisk Ultra Fit, Dollar Store Carabiner

Keychain Multitool: Victorinox Classic OR Leatherman Micra

Multitool: Leatherman Skeletool

Flashlight: Streamlight Microstream

Pen: Fisher Space Pen OR Modded Zebra 701

Yoyo: The Sage (for now)

First post, any questions or suggestions please feel free. Thanks guys!

I know you asked for an 18650 torch, but I picked up this little guy, and love it. It sits in one of the pen slots on my NWUs perfectly so it's always there when I need it!

Edit: wrong link

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0062YADWI?pc_redir=1409578634&robot_redir=1

I wear the leatherman cap lifter sidekick. It isn't "real" climbing nor is it locking but it is perfect for belt loop carry. The clip is stiff and I've never lost anything with it. It's been through the washing machine a couple times without any decrease in performance. The bottle opener comes in handy as well.

they are worth it, just dont buy some mega expensive 1000000 lumen job.

you shouldnt need to spend more than $50 to get a really nice one

cellphone lights drain your battery really fast, and dont illuminate nearly as well as a proper flashlight

if you dont carry a bag then i would recommend a single AAA keychain light, like these

• Fenix E05 - $20 - 27 lumen,
  
  
• Klarus Mi X6 Ti - $47 - 85 lumen,
  
  
• MagLite Solataire LED - $13.50 - 37 lumen
  
  if you carry a bag too(I do) then you can carry a larger(better) light.
  
  I carry a Klarus XT1A (single AA, 150 lumen)
  
  my buddy carries a LedLenser M14(4xAA 220 lumen), which is complete overkill, but he likes it.
  
  edit: bulletpoints

Thanks for the brief review.

I can see where a storm alarm would be more useful if you're hiking up in the mountains. Weather changes can really fuck up your day, though you should always have an eye on the skies anyways. Wouldn't make much of a difference if you've just accepted the suck or came prepared, though.

A wrist compass is generally only good as an emergency backup, at least in my personal opinion.

The altimeter and barometer are very nice features for an outdoors watch, I think.

____

I use one of these things. I've gotta say, it does everything I really need out of a watch and it can take a beating. It's very worry-free watch. I don't have trouble reading it in the sun or anything, but I guess results vary on eyesight. It has a pretty similar display to the way the Suunto looks based on the picture. I have no real qualms about it though. Pretty solid beater all in all.

I have been looking at this backpack and from the reviews i have heard it seems very reliable and sturdy with the rigid pockets.

It states a laptop of a screen size no greater than 15.4 inches will fit. however i do not have a laptop so i cannot say for how well one would fit or if the measurement is truly the case.

Previous post, I've changed a few things now and I'm constantly updating! Looking for a nice slim black hand stitched leather bifoldwallet at the minute.

• Fisher Space Pen with an extra spring for more click.
  
  
• Orbitkey Black limited edition + Orbitkey Multitool + Orbitkey ring
  
  
• Apple Airpods + Nomads case
  
  
• Simple watch co Earl Watch
  
  
• Common Projects Card holder
  
  
• Leather field notes cover with a little leather pen holder stuck on the back page, field notes coast edition inside. Fits lovely in my back pocket. Thinking about replacing it with the bellroy one.
  
  
• Some cheap rings from asos

Light, and if you have any use for one a knife, or multitool.

Light: https://www.amazon.com/Olight-S1-Baton-Compact-Flashlight/dp/B014JPY3O0

Knife: https://www.amazon.com/Spyderco-Delica4-Lightweight-Ground-PlainEdge/dp/B000PL5C84/ref=sr_1_3?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1483010260&sr=8-3&keywords=Spyderco&th=1 (Scale color Grey, Brown, Green, Purple, and Black)

Multi tool: https://www.amazon.com/Leatherman-Wingman-Multi-Tool-Stainless-Steel/dp/B005DI0XM4/ref=sr_1_2?s=power-hand-tools&ie=UTF8&qid=1483010402&sr=1-2&keywords=Leatherman

Minus taxes (if it applies) everything is $150 and everything should qualify for free shipping. Three categories, three amazing items.

Neat, thanks for the link. Out of curiosity, why something like that instead of, say, a Gerber EAB Lite?

Also, while I'm here, a tool that seems close to OP's that I recently came across is Ron's Utility Knife from Screwpop. Thinking of picking one of those up.

here go

Also check out Coast flashlights, very good company and really nice lights as well.

I couldn't have said it better myself. I would like to add on to what he said about the knife. When I was in high school (a public school in California) I carried a small swiss army knife like this during the day and a cheap Jeep knife that i left in my car during school. if you buy a knife, for a first EDC just get a $15-$20 knife. upgrade when you find it necessary

Wow, that's pretty cool. I carry a Fisher military space pen with me religiously, but cool pen nonetheless.

Uncle Bill's Sliver Grippers are very popular and have a good reputation: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001KMSUA4/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_U_x_n1HgDbFWNEYCD

Note that the CountyComm versions appears to be either the same or similar. Titanium offered as well: https://countycomm.com/products/tweezers-tick-splinter-removal

I keep a wingman in my bag. Nice variety of tools for half the price of a wave. If you don't need the bits its probably your best bet.

40oz Hydroflask with straw attachment

Field Notes


GEARWARD duct tape

Cold Steel Recon 1 Micro

Costco eyeglass cleaner kit mini Phillips and flathead screwdriver


Chotech USB C keychain adapter

Magnetic PicoPen

Olight variable flashlight - This things lowest brightness is just as bright if not brighter than my old flashlights ONLY brightness.

Metal USB3.0 flashdrive with USB to Type-C adapter.



Pebble Smartwatch

Leatherman Wave

OnePlus 5T
OnePlus 5T Case | SUPCASE
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BSZBHN5?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

Frenchie Wallet
https://www.thefrenchie.co/speed-wallet

XTACER Tactical Molle Key Ring
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DSMZBGO?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

Standard Zippo

Benchmade 943
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000Q9CLF2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_e677AbHZWZ2N3

Samsung Gear S3 Frontier Smartwatch (Bluetooth), SM-R760NDAAXAR – US Version with Warranty https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M7MDK5S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_o877AbX4HJSM2

Gear S3 Frontier / Classic Watch Band, V-Moro 22mm Solid Stainless Steel Metal Business Replacement Bracelet Strap for Samsung Gear S3 Frontier / S3 C https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MG08BY8?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

Craftsman Slide-Locking Utility Knife Model 994877 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004GPADBQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_3.77Ab4CDNWX1

KONOV 8mm Stainless Steel Mens Ring, Blue Plated Faceted Edges, Blue Silver - Size 11 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DRHHFI8?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

Smok Alien 220w
Tobeco Mini Super Tank
Tobeco .2 sub ohm coil

Spyderco 2160199 C170GBBKP Kara hawk G-10 Folder Blade Knife, Black, 2.35" https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06Y2K2SX6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_bj87AbS6969NS

Zebra F-701 Ballpoint Stainless Steel Retractable Pen, Fine Point, 0.7mm, Black Ink, 1-Count https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002L6RB80/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_jl87AbB68Z7HP

Field Notes Kraft Ruled 3-Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0034KDEMO?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

Field Notes / Moleskine Pocket Notebook Cover by Metier Life | Canvas with Vegan Leather | Fits Journals 3.5" X 5.5" | With Included Field Notes Notebook and Metier Pen - Stealth Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072VR628C?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

SKILCRAFT B3 Aviator Multi-Function Pen Black/Red Ink & Pencil with Stylus (7520-00-NIB-2522) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00YT3FGTY?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

BRS Barebones 2.0 https://www.bladehq.com/item--BRS-Barebones-Balisong-Butterfly--33574

gerber EAB ( $9 )

Nitecore TIP ($29)

ROCO minimal wallet ($15)

Chapstick ($2)

Earplugs ($7)

Pen ($40)

This looks over-budget, but I bought most of the above on sale. Great thread, I added a few things to my wishlist, that's why I'm posting, to keep this going!

> Multi-tool always seem too heavy for what they offer

• Leatherman Style PS @ 44 grams
  
• Leatherman Style CS @ 44 grams
  
• Leatherman Skeletool @ 141 grams (5 ounces)
  
• Leatherman Skeletool CX @ 141 grams (5 ounces).
  
  That's not heavy if you ask me. I think the Style is perfect for every-day on-person EDC, and the Skeletool for either on-person or in an EDC bag. The Skeletool is missing some features compared to a full-up Charge TTi (8 ounces) or similar, but for an EDC, it's better than not carrrying a multitool at all.

The style is fantastic. I've carried the Style CS for 2 years now with no complaints. I would recommend the Style CS because it has scissors and a small knife instead of pliers. The scissors are sturdy and sharp, has tweezers, bottle opener, and of course the knife and file. If you want a great tool that lives on your keychain and is barely noticeable get the Style. If you want more tools and don't mind another thing in your pocket get the Squirt.

been using this for a few years now. holds up great and is nice and slim.

http://www.amazon.com/Keychain-Clip-Multi-Purpose-Suspension/dp/B00L75GRX6

Keep it light, keep it simple.

 

• Knife: CRKT Squit ($16)
  
  This small knife does the job without taking up much bulk in your pocket or EDC. And if you misplace it, it won't cost an arm and a leg to replace.
  
  
• Light: Olight i3E ($10)
  
  This light is fairly bright and is easy to use. Twist on/off. No fancy modes with this light. Waterproof and shock resistant in a compact package that runs on just a AAA battery. Also easy to replace if it mysteriously disappears.
  
  
• Pen: Pilot G2 ($11 for 12 pack, around $1 per pen)
  
  This pen doesn't need much of a story. It's cheap. It writes smooth. It conquers.
  
  
• Watch: Casio W800H-1AV ($12)
  
  This is a nice little watch for the price. It's tough and tells the time even in harsh conditions. If you somehow manage to break it or the battery dies, it's not going to break the bank to replace.
  
   
  
  Don't carry much in the wallet department so a rubber band or binder clip would do the job. That'd be less than $0.10. Do the math!
  
  So that's a grand total of $50. Excluding a phone or CCW since OP stated that isn't affected.
  
  Not bad for a few quality items that will get you through a day to day basis easily.
  
  Sorry if I missed anything!
  
  Edit: Added a watch to the mix. Added descriptions for all items. Formatting!

As far as tools go, here are some good starting points:

Gerber Shard

Leatherman Micra

If you go the flashlight route, I hear good things about the Fenix E01 and E05.

I have a SAK Classic SD on my keychain, but if you are looking for just a knife, the SRM 605 is hard to beat. It has a good liner lock, and for a very small knife, provides a solid grip. Don't let the low price disturb you - it is just a very good deal.

It's the S-biner from Night Ize. Pretty handy keeper, and definitely doubles as a double sided bottle opener.
They got em cheap here on amazon.

Personally I have 6.25" wrists and this watch is just a tad big. G-Shock DW5600E-1V

You can find them cheaper in the US if you're from there. They're available usually all over the world. Just be careful when using Deet products (ex. mosquito repellent) since it eats away at the resin.

If you're looking for an analog watch that you can beat around I'd say this Seiko 5 SNK809. It will also fit smaller wrists not to mention its probably one of the cheapest reliable automatic watches available from a reputable company.

Again there are many straps for both watches and a few different colours.

Cheers.

Have you seen the S Binder Ahhh? I'm planning to order one soon. It looks pretty sweet.

I've been carrying one of these for more than a year and I've been pleased. I think it's a great keychain light although I'm not a big fan of the included keychain clip but that is easy enough to replace. Hard to beat for $20.

iTP A3 EOS 96 Lumen Flashlight -Upgrade Version 1 X AAA battery by iTP Light http://www.amazon.com/dp/B006K5C2EG/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_Urlgtb1VFPA7G

1. Ken Diamond envelope wallet (link)
   
   
2. iPod classic 160GB
   
   
3. Ken Diamond key fob (link)
   
   
4. Leatherman Juice CS4 (link)
   
   
5. 1941 replica Zippo (link)
   
   
6. iPhone 5 (+ Apple product(RED) leather case)
   
   
7. Guitar picks! The most important EDC of all! Jazz III's for life.
   
   
8. Apple 30-pin-to-lighting adapter
   
   
9. Casio MDV-106 (link), w/orange zulu strap from The NATO Strap Co.

1. Work laptop. HP Elitebook 850 G3.
   
   
2. Not shown. Left at work :/. Fisher Space Pen with clip.
   
   
3. Stand in for Space Pen, Pilot G2 .07.
   
   
4. Field Notes.
   
   
5. Standard 32GB USB 3.0 flashdrive..
   
   
6. Elk Ridge Ballistic knife. Name engraved gift from being a groomsman at a buddy's wedding.
   
   
7. Fitbit Surge. Large, Black.
   
   
8. Jaybird Bluebuds X. They have newer versions out than this one so if you wanted a pair, I'd recommend upgrading as the newer ones are almost the same as these now.
   
   
9. KeySmart.
   
   
10. The Ridge Wallet.
    
    
11. Samsung Galaxy Note 4. White, 32GB, Verizon.
    
    
12. Spigen Neo Hybrid Note 4 case. Metal Slate in color.
    
    
13. Samsung Note 4 spare battery charger + extra battery.
    
    
14. FlyawayToys fidget spinner. Blue with full ceramic bearings.
    
    
15. Contigo AutoSpout Addison 24oz Water bottle. Smoke in color

I'd consider getting a new multitool as well. I had that exact same multitool and all the tools just became wobbly and unusable. I'd recommend getting this Leatherman Wingman. I got it to replace the Stanley a few weeks ago, and it's holding up really well so far. It's only about 10 bucks more, too.

Leatherman Squirt: $32.95

Sleekish wallet: $17.99

Thats all I really need, but I usually keep a larger knife or multitool on me as well

EvoGrip 18: $29.99

Wingman: $29.99

Edit: You could also grab a Skeletool or Wave off Ebay for ~$35 like I recently did

Good question! I was thinking about the same thing today. I've had one of these for years. I'm definitely looking for a newer option.

It is pretty cool. Backup bottle opener too! http://www.amazon.com/SBO-03-01-S-Biner-Carabiner-Bottle-Opener/dp/B0037H3EB0

I generally have either a SAK classic or a leatherman squirt on my keychain, both are tiny, useful and in no way can be mistaken for a weapon and they suit my everyday cutting needs. The other SAK I might take if I need it is a SAK tinker, I like SAK's as they don't look threatening when you use them and they are good pocketknives.

You just have to be smart about what you're carrying and if you don't have a legitimate reason to carry one then don't.

Ahh, ok. I was fooled by the "ideal self defense edc"

There's always something like this, or a variation, if you're really just looking for a multi-tasker keyring.

Might not have the "cool factor" for you, though.

Posting initially without links and will edit them in my mobile browser is crashy.

Keychain: nite-ize S-biner bottle opener 2.98 (it's really useful to clip onto belt loops etc for cycling)

Wallet: A6 leather notebook cover wallet w/ pen loop - 36.99( fantastic thing to have i would imagine, a6 is w bit larger than "field notes")

Pen: Kaweco Sport in blue. 24.94 (It is the space pen of fountain pens)

Knife: Case Sodbuster in american workman blue - 24.98 (I am a sucker for a traditional slip-joint)

Light: Maglite Solitaire in blue 9.43 (very tiny and pocketable, 40 lumen, made in the USA!)

It comes to 99 and change

I recommend the fisher space pen map-O-matic. It a really nice pen that takes the fisher space pen refills that last for ever and write in all situation.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Fisher-Space-Pen-Cap-O-Matic-Ballpoint/dp/B001E103CY/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1458765853&sr=8-3&keywords=fisher+space+pen

http://www.amazon.com/Leatherman-LTG930378-Carabiner-Lifter-Sidekick/dp/B0062YADWI

)
I actually have the carabiner that broke on you, I hope it holds up well!

Leatherman Skeletool is a great item, which you should be able to get in that range. I got the upgraded Skeletool CX for under that from r/knife_swap.

If you want smaller try the Leatherman Style or Gerber Dime . The Style comes with scissor main tool or pliers.

Full size I’d suggest the Leatherman Wingman .

Suspension clips work better just attached like this.

Thanks for your input, I wrapped some electrical and duct tape around my sharpie, and I think I'm gonna get some of these. They look well built, Also do you have a pic of your Maxpedition Organizer setup?

Gerber Shard

If opening bottles is a thing you need it for over a knife, which was not the case for me, I got rid of this tool as well.



Simple but it works

This is what I carry now, after ditching my shard as well because there's plenty of ways to open bottles and tweezers are crazy useful.

Fox 40 Sonik whistle. Not something to be used for fun. This is a real emergency whistle that can reach 120+ dB. It's equivalent to having a chainsaw revving next to your head. They also make a standard version if you're not trying to blow out ear drums. It still gets pretty loud.

Olight I3E EOS

Olight I1R EOS if you want something rechargeable.

Also, Olight does regular sales and new releases on their website.

Streamlight is another great option but their keychain size offering is just not very good compared to Olight. I do believe everyone should have a Pro Tac 1L-1AA since it can take both C123A batteries and standard AA batteries.

i would probably get a leatherman wingman and just remove the knife. you can find them for $20 on sale esp around chrismas time (i know a long way away) it really is a question of how big and what tools you want on it. i like the bigger pliers and flat and Philips heads personally. plus it has a package opener that is not technically a blade so probably tsa compliant.....it really depends on how pissy the person is being at security.

this is what I have, love it http://www.amazon.com/Gerber-30-000469-Dime-Mirco-Black/dp/B006M9NIDO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368219851&sr=8-1&keywords=gerber+dime

That is one of Casio's dive watches. Model is MDV-106. I think it's one of the best dive watches for the money, it's actually my daily beater.
However, it is quartz and glass is mineral.
Amazon link.

P7 Suspension clip. It's like a pocket knife clip for your keys. Very minimal and allows you to keep your keys at the top of your pocket, without th bulging or sagging.

Overpriced yet worth its weight in gold once you start using it:
http://www.amazon.com/TEC-Accessories-P-7-Suspension-clip/dp/B00L75GRX6

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001E103CY/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_dp_ss_2?pf_rd_p=1944687742&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B000WGD13U&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=02HA29V3K8E7EY48YKFV

thats the one I carry. Smooth writing, rock solid EDC pen. They're fantastic.

• Kent hand made pocket comb
  
• Kershaw Cryo
  
• Apple Earpods
  
• iPhone 5 w/ Lifeproof Nuud Case
  
• Leatherman Carabiner Accessory
  
• The Leathershop Card Holder Wallet
  
• Geneva Black Mini Money Clamp

its actually this one i used to carry it and they are awesome.

Weekender is about the only decent thing in that price range. I would splurge a little more though and get the Seiko 809 Great entry level mechanical watch.

http://www.amazon.com/Leatherman-831207-Style-Multi-Tool-Scissors/dp/B0032XVNMQ/

All around great little thing to keep in your coin/watch pocket.

Leatherman style CS is what I carry. Fairly solid and very light weight. They also make the style ps which has pliers and the style, which is an even smaller tool. Also as others suggest, the squirt ps4 seems like a solid choice.

Off the top of my head things that are cool and don't break the bank:

Kershaw Cryo

Spydero Tenacious

Leatherman Wingman

Streamlight Microstream

Gerber Impromptu Pen

Sorry for photo quality. First post ever on this so be gentle. Starting from top row, left to right:

• iPhone 5S in Mophie Juicepack Air Case
  
• Field Notes Ruled Memo Book
  
• Zebra F-701 with Fisher Space Pen Black Refill
  
• CRKT M16-10KZ with Lowrider Stealth Pocket Clip
  
• Nike FuelBand SE
  
• Paracord Bracelet
  
• Colibri Monza 1 Single Flame Torch Lighter
  
• SlimFold Micro Black/Orange
  
• Ram 1500 Key
  
• House Keys
  
• Exotac FreeKey Keyring System
  
• Mas Design K11 Titanium Keyring Carabiner
  
• Lacie PetiteKey 32GB USB Flash Drive
  
• Office Key
  
• Gerber Shard
  
  Hopefully that all worked! If not, I apologize.

G-Shock GX-56BB Blackout Series Watches - Black / One Size https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GR7MF4S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_jeGdRkXA4HHJ2

Silicone Wedding Ring For Men By ROQ Affordable Silicone Rubber Band, Black - Size 9 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06VV7QNJR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_WyhEAb9SSAYS9

Ruger LCP (carried if not in hospital)

Smith & Wesson K frame 38 Special vehicle EDC (not pictured)

BangTi Titanium Quick Release Keychain Set Super Durable (45mm+32mm Ti Keyring) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0197PL5AW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_nUCqrg1Tvd2hC

Recut small truck key for 2001 GMC Yukon XL

Maratac copper AAA light https://countycomm.com/products/copper-maratac-aaa-flashlight-rev-3

GUS Pill capsule GUS Mini Pill Fob, Made in USA, Stainless Steel Keychain Pill Holder, Emergency Aspirin Holder, Compact Design https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MY9JUME/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_bEhEAbYAPF3BX

House key

Gerber Dime Multi-Tool, Black [30-000469] https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006M9NIDO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_gvDoYJLF2Mhvl
(If traveling Gerber Dime Multi-Tool Travel, Bladeless [31-002777] https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TBF5JC4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_SkE1gAGkchC9B)

DIY keychain pen http://www.instructables.com/id/Mini-BIC-Keychain-Pen/?amp_page=true

Spyderco Native Lightweight plain edge

Old monogrammed money clip

Chapstick

10 dollars


https://www.amazon.com/Olight-i3E-EOS-Flashlight-Flashlite/dp/B017R560WC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1481489215&sr=8-1&keywords=olight+flashlights


Single AAA battery, barely bigger than the battery itself. 100 lumens. Brightest light I have found at this size so far.

I just tried that S-Biner with the bottle openers for a week or so. I really wanted to like it but it was just too big and clunky.

I am giving this one a shot next. It arrives tomorrow...
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0062YADWI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Clockwise from top left:

• Replica WWI trench lighter
  
• Nail clippers I probably found in my couch
  
• Uncle Bill's Sliver Grippers
  
• SAK Classic SD I found in the trash outside a courthouse.
  
  
• Vintage 1930s Maxim's Brass Tin (to hold usb2go cable and 8gb Micro SD card with USB adapter)
  
  
• Leatherman Wingman
  
  
• Brass Wallet I made
  
  
• Keys on Brass Clip with Steel shackles (original pins replaced with brass) and 2 Kingston Travelers in 16gb and 64gb
  
  
• Vintage late 1950s New Haven Pedometer I bought at a 90yo ladys basement sale
  
  
• Fisher bullet in brass with pocket clip from a mechanical pencil
  
  Not pictured because I think my dog stole it last night while I slept:
  
  
• Bluetooth earpiece for listening to audiobooks while I work, worth every bit of the price and not a cent more.
  
  Edit: Update! My dog indeed stole and chewed my Bluetooth to bits. Guess I'm back to skullcandies for a while.

Leatherman Style cs without a doubt got mine in January use daily and the scissors are so versatile and still super sharp have cut my fingernails, wire, plastic and anything have tried and only $16.79 on amazon.
http://www.leatherman.com/product/Style_CS --------
http://www.amazon.com/Leatherman-831207-Clip-On-Multi-Tool-Scissors/dp/B0032XVNMQ

This ^

I’ll add the Casio Duro. It’s just slightly over your budget but highly regarded.

The Invicta Pro Diver has good reviews if you don’t mind a Rolex “homage”.

clockwise from top left:

• RFID blocking stainless steel wallet
  
• Casio LA670WA-1
  
• Field Notes pitch black edition
  
• Spigen Ultra Hybrid Nexus 5 case
  
• keyring
  
  • keys (obviously)
    
  • Kingston DTSE9 (8 GB)
    
  • perpetual calendar keychain (you can get these a lot cheaper though)
    
  • Victorinox Swiss Army knife
    

-Basic safety glasses

-FourSevens Mini ML-X

-Rite in the Rain Notebook

-Basic wallet

-Spyderco Kiwi3

-Leatherman Wave

-Victorinox Classic

-Nexus 4

-Eklind folding allen keys

-Snap-On 3/8" wrench

-Ti Click Classic pen

-Chris Reeve Sebenza 25

Field Notes

[Lamy Safari Special Edition] (https://www.amazon.ca/Lamy-Al-Star-Fountain-Copper-Special/dp/B00UJVMTK4)

Spyderco Delica

Ridge Wallet

ThruNite Ti3 EDC Cree

Broncos Zippo

Cadillac CTS V-Sport

Citizen Eco-Drive Avion Watch

Spigen Slimarmor S8+ Case

Mens Handkerchief

Maybe its just me but I cringe whenever I see someone with an Invicta watch. Get yourself a more reliable watch. I just picked up a nearly identical watch link for $45 bucks. I highly recommend it

Links to the amazon pages for each product for easy access:

Gerber Dime

Gerber Shard

My suggestion is the seiko 5 automatic line.

https://www.amazon.com/Seiko-SNK809-Automatic-Stainless-Canvas/dp/B002SSUQFG

I wear mine at all times, and its not an easy life for it. I've had it for about 3 years now and still looks great.

Put this on the keyring and see what you reckon.

​

I was a flashlight sceptic like yourself. This light changed me :)

Wierd, well here it is again:

Left pocket:

• naoLoop Pen (contents top to bottom, front to back)
  
• Fisher Space Pen Bullet with clip
  
• ATM card
  
• tri-folded cash roll
  
• drivers license
  
• Midori Memorandum Card
  
• spare phone battery
  
  
• cable lock key ring
  
• pill case
  
• house key
  
• Gerber Shard (optional swap [Gerber Dime]
  (http://www.amazon.com/Gerber-30-000469-Dime-Mirco-Black/dp/B006M9NIDO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1376866627&sr=8-1&keywords=gerber+dime))
  
• motorcycle key
  
• (optional add Sandisk Facet)
  
  Right pocket:
  
  
• ThL W200
  
  (apologies for the blurry photo)

I saw those, but didn't think they'd over enough room. I just ordered one of these hoping it does the trick what what I'm looking for.

Leatherman Wingman - $39

Casio F91W - $11

Pilot Metropolitan - $10

Total is $60 and is all you really need other than a handkerchief which you can get free some places.

Not the OP, but it looks like this Casio watch

Check out the Spyderco Tenacious line. I've been carrying the Ambitious and its very good for the price.

1. G-Shock GA-100-1A1CU
   
2. Geoffrey Beene Mirage Slim Wallet
   
3. Leatherman Wingman
   
4. LifeProof frē waterproof case
   
5. iPhone 5 - 64GB
   
6. Porsche lanyard (bought at Porsche Museum in Stuttgart)
   
7. Adapter for Lifeproof case (similar to this, but that won't fit)
   
   Edit: apologies for the flash on the Wingman, it didn't look as bad from my camera.

Panther Vision Hat

Cheap sunglasses from Zenni Optical

Casio CA53W

Gerber EAB Lite

Leatherman Wingman

Snap-On "Magic" Pliers

Kangertech EVOD E-Cig w/ upgraded battery

Wallet

Zebra F-701