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Pocket knives are not just for exploring out in the woods. Instead, having a folding knife for everyday carry can be beneficial no matter where you live. Aptly named the everyday carry knife or EDC, to better understand what to look for, you must first know what the EDC knife is, and its uses.
EDC knives are folding knives that can comfortably fit in your pocket. This gear is lightweight, compact, multi-functional, and durable. Because of this design, they are easy to access and use quickly. This makes them ideal for everyday use.
Some see pocket knives as a potential weapon, threatening the safety of those near you. However, an EDC knife is not for that purpose. Rather, it’s a tool you use in different situations throughout the day. While you can use these knives for work-related tasks, if you’re reaching for your blade every few minutes, consider upgrading to a multi-functional tool or utility knife instead. If you’re looking for an amazing knife continue reading to learn what you need to know about the EDC Knife.
What you Need to Know about the EDC Knife
Reasons to Carry a Knife Everyday
Knives are some of the oldest tools created by man. These stone tools had sharpened points that were used to cut and chop objects. While time and technology have improved the quality of blades, you still need a knife for everyday use.
⎆ Convenience
Sometimes you need to cut something and have no way to do so. While a pair of scissors could manage the tasks efficiently, but, they are cumbersome to carry everywhere. However, an EDC knife is small and lightweight, making it the best option to carry with you. A simple EDC can cut tags, open packages, small pieces of wood, or rope. Rather than take a big hunting knife to go fishing or camping, a good pocket knife does the trick.
⎆ Utility
Everyday carry knife design allows these tools to be versatile. You might need a cutting tool and not have one handy during your average day. Of course, if you’re away from home, you can’t walk into the kitchen or garage to get what you need. The point is, having an EDC blade in your possession lowers your frustration when these situations arise.
⎆ Emergencies
No one likes to think about a crisis. No one plans to be in an accident or become injured. Still, these incidents happen. In emergencies such as these, an EDC blade makes the difference between being stuck in a car and getting free. It also aids in being able to dress a wound even if there is no first aid kit nearby. For example, these rigid knives can cut through a seat belt to allow you to get out of a wrecked car, or create bandages to dress wounds.
Considerations when Purchasing an EDC Knife
Knowing how an EDC knife can benefit you, it’s crucial to understand the factors to consider before purchasing one. While price and aesthetics are areas you need to be happy with, they’re not the most essential factors. Instead, you should focus on the blade, handle, size, and weight.
⎆ Blade
As the blade is the usable part, it is where your focus should go first. Most cities outlaw carrying knives with lengths over 3 inches. There’s no real need for a blade longer than this for an everyday carry knife, but you should always check with your local laws to ensure you get the appropriate size.
The material needs to be sturdy enough to handle the vast array of tasks you may encounter on a typical day. Most blades are made with steel or titanium. Others have a ceramic blade that offers the added benefits of being non-conductive and non-magnetic. Titanium blades give the knife heft but don’t hold a sharp edge as long as traditional steel blades do. Ceramic blades are typically harder than steel and can be sharper, depending on their design, than metal blades. Ceramic blades generally maintain their sharpness longer. However, unlike conventional steel and titanium blades, they cannot be sharpened. New blade innovations have led to finger-friendly blade edges, so do your research to see what’s new on the market before you buy.
⎆ Handle
Like the blade, the handle is a crucial feature to consider. Several types of material are used: metal, wood, plastic, or rubber. The style of the handles should be durable enough to take on typical daily tasks while being comfortable in your hand. It should balance the blade to help keep it steady when you use it.
Some handles have locking mechanisms to offer safety against the blade accidentally folding while in use and hurting you. The lock release can be located at the back of the handle or closer to the edge. It can be a button or slide.
⎆ Size
The overall size of your new EDC knife should comply with local laws as far as blade length. Once you’re sure the size is within legal limits, your knife’s size should be large enough to complete tasks safely. However, you need to make sure it feels comfortable when you use it. A knife that is too large or too small won’t be comfortable to use. If the blade is not comfortable in your hand, you’ll be less likely to use it, and it will remain in your pocket instead of being a tool.
Having a folding knife for everyday carry allows you to complete daily tasks without frustration. While there are a few things to consider before purchasing your new knife, the most critical part is understanding how it will help you each day.
Images Courtesy of Canva.
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About the Author: Ashley Edwards
