Everyday Carry: Building Your Kit Around the Rule of 3
When it comes to Everyday Carry (EDC), simplicity and readiness go hand in hand. The “Rule of 3” is a great foundation: three hours without shelter, three days without water, three weeks without food. But when we think in terms of real-world EDC, we can adapt that into a practical framework: a tool to cut, a way to see, and a way to make fire. Let’s start there and build upward.
The Base Layer: Never Leave Home Without It
These are the items that should be in your pockets every single day, no exceptions. They’re simple, low-profile, and highly useful.
1. Folder Pocket Knife
A sharp, reliable folding knife is the cornerstone of any EDC. Whether you’re opening boxes, cutting rope, or slicing an apple, it’s your go-to tool. Look for something with a good steel (like S35VN or D2), solid lockup, and a design that fits comfortably in your hand and pocket. The Spyderco Para 3, Benchmade Bugout, or a trusty Kershaw are all good options depending on your budget.
2. Light Source
A pocket flashlight may not seem important—until you need it. Whether it’s a power outage, a car breakdown, or just looking under the couch, a compact flashlight like the Streamlight MicroStream or Olight i3T can be a lifesaver. Bonus if it runs on common batteries (like AA or AAA).
3. Fire Source
A simple Bic lighter is underrated. Waterproof, reliable, and cheap. Stash one in your pocket or bag—especially useful if you’re outdoors, but even in urban settings, fire has its uses. Lighting candles, burning threads, emergency warmth—never underestimate it.
Second Layer: Enhancing Utility
Once the basics are covered, think about items that expand your ability to solve problems.
4. Multi-tool or Pocket Tool
Whether it’s a full-size Leatherman or a minimalist pry tool like the Gerber Shard or Griffin Pocket Tool, this item fills the gap between a knife and a toolbox. Flatheads, Phillips, bottle openers, tweezers, and hex drivers all come in handy more than you’d expect.
5. Firearm (Where Legal)
Carrying a firearm is a personal decision and comes with a serious responsibility. If you’re trained and legally permitted, a compact, reliable handgun like the Glock 19 or Sig P365 can be an essential part of your EDC. Always pair it with a quality holster, and ensure you’re proficient with it.
6. Fixed Blade Knife (Optional)
While a folder works for most daily tasks, a small fixed-blade knife (like the Bradford Guardian 3 or ESEE Izula) offers greater strength and quick deployment. This is especially relevant in outdoor or survival contexts—or if your job or routine takes you off the beaten path.
Extended Layer: In Your Vehicle
Your vehicle is your mobile basecamp. It can carry what your pockets can’t. Here’s where preparedness can really shine.
7. First Aid / Trauma Kit
Skip the drugstore bandage kits. A good med kit should include:
• Tourniquet (CAT or SOF-T)
• Chest seals
• Compressed gauze
• Hemostatic agent (QuikClot)
• Nitrile gloves
• CPR mask
Pair that with a basic boo-boo kit: Band-Aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, ibuprofen.
8. Water and Snacks
Keep a few bottles of water and long-lasting, calorie-dense food like protein bars or trail mix. You never know when you’ll be stuck on the road longer than expected.
9. Spare Tools & Essentials
A small bag with:
• Duct tape
• Jumper cables
• A real flashlight
• Batteries
• A power bank for your phone
• Rain poncho
• Paracord
A small, well-stocked bag in your trunk can mean the difference between inconvenience and disaster.
Final Thoughts
EDC isn’t about paranoia—it’s about quiet confidence. You don’t need to be decked out in tactical gear to be ready. Just follow the layered approach: start with your essentials, build up with useful tools, and ensure your vehicle is a fallback zone. The goal? You’re ready, calm, and capable—whatever the day throws at you. I heard it said to never miss a chance to be Batman and I do my best to prepare for such an occasion and you should too.
Here’s a printable EDC checklist broken into layers for easy reference, along with a few solid gear recommendations that work as solid base level equipment in several environments.
