How to Build the Ultimate EDC Tool Kit
When you leave home, what do you take with you? For most of us, the answer includes at least three essentials: your phone, wallet, and keys. However, when it comes to being truly prepared for any situation, your EDC tool kit (Everyday Carry tool kit) should include more than just the basics.
Whether you're facing unexpected challenges, handling daily tasks, or preparing for emergencies, your EDC tool kit is designed to keep you ready for anything. In this guide, we’ll break down the essentials for creating a well-rounded EDC kit that meets your needs.
What is an EDC Tool Kit?
An EDC tool kit is a collection of essential tools and items that you carry with you every day to ensure you're ready for various situations. It’s customizable and can be tailored to fit your specific preferences and lifestyle. Your kit can include tools you carry on your person, in your car, or both.
Why Build an EDC Tool Kit?
Building an EDC tool kit helps you stay prepared for life’s uncertainties. From minor inconveniences to unexpected emergencies, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference. Whether it’s getting a splinter or facing a more serious situation, being equipped with the right gear can help you tackle challenges effectively.
How to Build Your EDC Tool Kit
When building your EDC tool kit, consider the types of situations you encounter most often. What items would make your life easier? What tools could help you in an emergency? Asking yourself these questions is a great starting point for curating your kit. Let’s explore some of the core tools to consider for your Everyday Carry setup.
Part 1: EDC Tools To Carry On Your Person
When I think about EDC tools to carry on my person, I think about what I can fit in my pocket(s) that will provide practical uses without being bulky or burdensome to carry.
Knives
Purchasing a knife can be a great way to start your EDC tool kit. With some gear, the saying two is one, one is none applies, and knives are no exception. The two categories to think about are survival/emergency and then everything else.
Survival/Emergency Knives
You should use the survival/emergency knife only in survival or emergency situations. There are many options to choose from, and they all vary in cost, design, and materials. The most common design is known as a foldable knife, but you can choose a fixed blade as well.
Foldable Knives
Foldable knives come with pocket clips attached, making them easy to fit securely in your pocket. The knife's blade folds inside the handle for safe storage and transport. Some foldable knives come with a spring-assist. A spring-assisted knife is a knife that springs open after the blade is pushed open with force. Spring-assisted knives differ from a switchblade knife which will deploy the blade with only a push of a button. Switchblades may be illegal in your state, so make sure you know the laws regarding knives in your state before buying one.
Fixed Blade Knives
Fixed blade knives do not fold into the handle; instead, they use a case or sheath to cover the blade. Depending on the size of the knife, you may be able to fit it in your pocket. If the knife doesn’t fit in your pocket, make sure the sheath has a belt loop so you can carry it that way.
The Everything Else Knives
Everything else knives are used for everything other than survival/emergency scenarios. You would use these knives to cut tape or cardboard, or you can use them for other miscellaneous tasks that would dull or potentially ruin your survival/emergency knife.
EDC Utility Knives
You could purchase another foldable or fixed blade knife, but we recommend an EDC utility knife. EDC utility knives are designed to change blades with common utility brands. Many EDC utility knives also have features like bottle openers, prybars, screwdrivers, etc. EDC utility knives will have either a clip or a loop to secure the knife on a keychain, ensuring this tool is never too far when you need it.
Multi-Tool Knives
Multi-tools commonly feature at least one knife in the design. There are many recognizable multi-tool brands such as Leatherman, Gerber, and Swiss Army. Besides having a knife attachment, multi-tools can also have scissors, bottle openers, saws, screwdrivers, etc. The size of the multi-tool will determine how you carry it. Some multi-tools are held on a keychain, while others are designed to be carried in a case on your belt.
Wrapping Up Knives
As you can see, there are many options for knives. We encourage you to research and pick the best knife that meets your budget and functional needs.
Pen and Paper
Since the invention of modern smartphones, pen and paper might sound like an outdated concept; however, do you have something to take notes on if your phone is dead or unavailable? I will often use my notebook to write down information when I am on the phone with someone, and I don’t want to use the speaker because I am in a public place. A small notebook fits in your pocket no problem because they are the same size as a wallet.
You can carry any pen you want, but EDC-specific pens are something you should consider. EDC-specific pens are capable of doing more than just writing. Some pens feature compasses, flashlights, screwdrivers, flint, and more.
Flashlights
Flashlights are another great thing to add to your EDC tool kit. Once again, smartphones make flashlights seem like an outdated tool since your phone has a flashlight feature; however, what will you do if your phone is dead?
Flashlights for EDC have many options. Some are designed to fit on a keychain, while others have a clip to fit in your pocket securely. Depending on the flashlight you purchase, it can run on a disposable or rechargeable battery. Whatever your next adventure is, make sure you can light the way when things get dark.
Pocket Organizers
Purchasing a pocket organizer is an excellent option for your EDC tool kit. Pocket organizers come in all sorts of colors, sizes, and prices. Some organizers are designed to fit inside of a pants pocket, while others are meant to be used to keep all the tools in one place in your backpack, bag, or satchel. If you want an easy way to have all your EDC tools in one place, consider purchasing a pocket organizer.
Part 2: EDC Tools For Your Car
Vehicles are a great way to carry items that might be too bulky to carry in our pocket(s). When selecting items for your vehicle’s EDC tool kit, you can ask yourself the same questions for your personal tool kit. You can put all these items in a backpack to carry outside of your car or in a bag to keep organized in your vehicle at all times. Some things you should keep in your vehicle include a first-aid kit and a multi-tool set.
First-Aid Kit
First-aid kits are another highly customizable option for you to have in your EDC tool kit. Some basics to have with you are band-aids, gauze, kerlix, hot/cold packs, and a tourniquet. These products will help control bleeding and provide care for you, your family, or someone else in need.
Taking a first-aid class can provide the skills and knowledge necessary to provide life-saving care. The courses can also provide additional information on what to carry beyond the basics of what we talked about here.
Auto-Safety Kit
The potential trouble we may run into on the road is unknown. Mechanical issues may require more than your small multi-tool. There are vehicle toolsets out there that you could buy, or you can make your own. Whatever you decide to do, ensure that your toolset has a multi-bit screwdriver, booster cables, zip ties, spare fuses, a traffic vest, and cones.
Wrapping Up: Create the Perfect EDC Tool Kit
Building an EDC tool kit is all about preparation and personalization. Whether you’re looking for survival tools, multi-functional items, or just essentials to make your day-to-day life easier, creating the right kit ensures you’re ready for anything.
Looking for more gear to add to your EDC tool kit? Check out our Axwell EDC Gear Collection for a wide selection of high-quality tools and accessories designed for everyday use.
