5 Awesome EDC Items for less than $25!

You don't need a $200 flashlight and a $300 knife to carry a solid Everyday Carry (EDC) kit. A few of the most-used pieces in my own pocket sit under $25 each. Here are five of them.

Cheap. Useful. Each one earns its pocket.

1. A real folding knife (under $25)

The CRKT Minimalist runs around $30 new but Kershaw and CRKT both make sub-$25 folders that punch above their price. Look for a liner lock, drop-point blade, 2.5"–3.5" length, pocket clip. Skip the assisted-open gimmicks — a good thumb stud or flipper opens just as fast.

2. A small pocket flashlight

Sub-$25 buys a real 200-lumen pocket light these days. Look for an aluminum body, tail-cap clicky switch, clip, and a common-battery format (AA or AAA). Olight, Streamlight Microstream, ThruNite. None of these are toys.

3. A keychain pouch

If you're carrying keys plus a couple small items, get them off the loose pocket pile. The Hot Shot Scout Keychain Pouch is $25 and holds a key ring, folded cash, a small flashlight, or a backup folder. Zips closed, clips to a belt loop, sewn in Cape Coral, FL from Mil-Spec Cordura®.

4. A small notebook and pen

Field Notes brand notebooks run about $15 for a 3-pack. A Fisher Space Pen Bullet is under $25. If you take real notes on shift, in the truck, or at a job site, a paper notebook beats a phone every time — it doesn't die mid-sentence, and you can hand it to someone to read.

If you want a cover that protects the notebook, the Inspector Notebook cover is sewn from real fire hose and holds a standard Field Notes pocket book.

5. A tourniquet (training first)

Genuine CAT (Combat Application Tourniquet) tourniquets are under $30. Counterfeits are everywhere — buy from a known medical supplier, not a random Amazon listing. And don't carry one until you've taken a Stop the Bleed class or equivalent. A tourniquet you don't know how to use is useless.

Carry it organized

All five of those plus a wallet shouldn't crowd your pockets if you've got the wallet right. A slim front-pocket wallet leaves room for the knife, light, and pouch without bulging. The Sergeant Wallet at $39 anchors the kit.

Built For

• New EDC carriers building a starter kit on a budget
• Firefighters and EMS off shift
• College kids and tradespeople
• Anyone who wants a real kit without spending $500

Start with the wallet, add pieces one at a time, only after you're sure you'll use them. Sergeant Wallet, sewn in Cape Coral, FL.

Built to go with you. Wherever you go.