Anybody criticize your EDC?

[xDANx]

Does anybody think you are strange for carrying a Knife, Light, tools, and other gadgets? Some people I know call me the "toolbox". It is funny though, usually when people see what I carry, they are asking to use something that they aren't carrying.

[kamkazmoto]

My daughter in law is very anti-knife and anti-gun so she keeps wondering why I carry two or three knives at a time, My grandson who is three is the opposite. He just knows that Grandpa always has a knife with him. In fact one time he asked me for a knife to open some toys. I gave it to him, followed him and watched him give it to his Mom proudly proclaiming that this was Grandpas knife.

[Deaths Head]

Nope not me. I only carry one knife, and I am careful not to whip it out in front of people due to the fact of reactions from non-knife folks.
You never know where they could be lurking!

[xDANx]

I EDC 2-3 knives, a small one that won't scare people, and one that has a 3.5 blade. But Knives are common carry items so I mostly get the strange looks when I pull out the flashlight.

[bobisculous]

I always get select words from friends. Not so much the fam, as they just got over it. My brother is skeptical about me a little though more that I think about it.

-Cameron

[parnass]

I've gotten a few strange looks when using a flashlight at night in shopping center parking lots. Even parking lots with lights installed on poles have dark areas and the flashlight helps alert drivers to my presence when walking.

It matters not to me what the unlit masses think.

[gordonk]

They used to until I used my edc stuff to resolve some stuff in our test centre. We blew out a hard drive in one of the PC's. While everyone was out looking for a screwdriver, I undid the back with my Wave II and pulled the drive out and had it apart by the time they got back. Used my Delica to cut open the open the box for the new drive. At the time, I had one of those 3 LED Dorcy's with me and used it to hook up connectors, etc. back up. One of my co-workers went out the next day and bought a Wave and a Byrd Cara Cara :) Then he moved to an Endura 3, which I inherited after he blew out a serration on a live wire (It's now one of my "beaters" :)), and now has an Endura 4. Occasionally, I will get the "look" from others when I open a coffee bag for our machine when I unclip a folder, open it, cut the bag, put the knife back in a matter of 10 seconds or so.

- gord

[Goldtanker]

Now that it is summer in Minnesota a parka no longer covers the multitool sheath on the left and the folder sheath on the right, not to mention the inova in the pocket of my cargo pants, the S&W 340PD ankle holster and speed strip that people can't see - my wife thinks I just look like some old guy. ;D I am however, still Ranger Ready.

[M.TEX]

My wife just don't get it.... :(
She always say " You are Crazy...." :P

The guys at work think it is Funny... They call me " Mr. Gadget" ;D

M.TEX

[Co_Outdoorsman]

I have this one guy that gave me crap when we started working together... we work out in the boons and most times alone...

When I met him I was carrying a E2E surefire, Benchmade or two and a leatherman Surge... he was carrying a cheapo knifeo and a knockoff wannabe Leatherman...

Now he carries a Surefire 9P, Leatherman Surge and wants me to find him a Benchmade Ruckus or Skirmish, guess he feels the need to exceed me in the "toys" department... gotta love a convert!

[pipedreams]

Not much criticism towards me. The motto at my office is "Go find Todd, he'll fix it!"

todd

[Gadget Guy]

Almost everyone I know... They all think my EDC gear is all junk! To me, a knife is about as basic of a tool as you can have in life. I still can't figure out why everyone doesn't carry some type of knife. A nice SAK isn't any more scary than a kitchen knife, but if you carry a knife on your person, then it must be a weapon!

GG

[watchman]

:D Where I live you could ask 100 people if they had a knife. and 99.9 would say yes.
if you ask the same 100 if they had a pistol 99.9 would say yes. I don't leave home without it :D O0 ;D The only time I don't have both is when I am taking a bath. then the Sig is laying on the
counter ;D

[0dBm]

Criticism, no.* Because few, besides my wife, has seen the entirety of what I carry.* I have had strange looks when I use the lights that I carry.* Those looks have been from those that needed a light but were too lazy or uninfrormed to carry one when they needed one and I gladly, but temporarily, activated mine just long enough to help them. :P

[pipedreams]

Almost everyone I know... They all think my EDC gear is all junk! To me, a knife is about as basic of a tool as you can have in life. I still can't figure out why everyone doesn't carry some type of knife. A nice SAK isn't any more scary than a kitchen knife, but if you carry a knife on your person, then it must be a weapon!

GG
I gave a little lady that I'm very fond of a Pink Vic Classic for her high school graduation this year. See loved it. It was funny that at least 3 people she show it to made a "weapon" reference. Sad times...

todd

[Mahachippy]

Criticized about it...not yet O0

Told to shut up because I won't quit talking about.....typically every hour or so ;D

[pipedreams]

Told to shut up because I won't quit talking about.....typically every hour or so ;D
:laugh: Been there, too, my friend. EVERY TIME I get a new toy!

todd

[Mahachippy]

I know, personally I just don't understand what is boring about going through and talking about every single blade/tool on a SAK. After all if you don't know what it is then how are you going to be able to use them! But for some reason the tv seems to get louder or the rooms clears spontaneously when I start talking about such things! :knuppel2:

[Superdave1]

:D Where I live you could ask 100 people if they had a knife. and 99.9 would say yes.
if you ask the same 100 if they had a pistol 99.9 would say yes. I don't leave home without it :D O0 ;D The only time I don't have both is when I am taking a bath. then the Sig is laying on the
counter ;D


Uh what happened to the guy who's only 9/10's... :lolhammer:...farming accident?

[Bob Lindell]

No criticism, maybe just a "Whatever..." kind of raised eyebrow.... If they happen to see the pouch & light on my belt.

[charlie fox]

Nope, and if anyone does I just drop my keyring on them :nyah:

[KeyGrip]

Not really. My friends have gotten used to it to the point where they don't care anymore, and most of them have an EDC of their own. I usually don't carry a large (3+ inches) knife in public because I live in a *******-filled town. The most negative reaction I've ever gotten to an EDC piece was directed my use of a Prybaby as a bottle opener at a school art gallery. After I saved everyone's freakin' lives by opening a few bottles of sparkling cider, a teacher looked at the 'Baby and said "I don't even want to know what else you use that for." I was tempted to say "Prying", but at the time it sounded too threatening, (honestly, I think this person would be threatened by her shadow.) so I decided to choose my battles and continue opening bottles. I love people sometimes.

[Ors]

My wife just don't get it.... :(
She always say " You are Crazy...." :P

I second that...my wife is the same way >:(

She snapped at me...SNAPPED because I put a Micra on her keychain. She told me to take it off, it was way too heavy. She has like, 38 keys, a couple of equipment sized carabiners, three remotes for cars, a DR Freedom Photon (which I put on her keys, and she tolerates) and a modified kubaton...and yet, the Micra "is just SO heavy, and I noticed it right away. Why did you put that thing on there?"

I had a few thoughts for responses to that question, but... :-X

The other day, in a grad class full of peers, I was trying to open a tube of cashews and was having a hard time tearing it, so I pulled out my mini RSK M2, and three people had a fit! (and there were only seven in the room). They made a big deal about me "having a knife in school (the school I teach at) and zero tolerance" Pretty sad :(

Although I've noticed that my wife has been asking me more and more, "Do you have a _______ on you?" Tonight she asked me if I had toe nail clippers on me. :laugh: Then the more I though about it, I think she actually expected me to pull them out of a pocket or pouch!

One small step for my wife's acceptance, one giant leap for EDC! :highfive:

[pipedreams]

So are you gonna start packin' toe-nail clippers? :laugh:

todd

[copykat]

Yes.
I immediatly pull out my rite-in-the-rain notebook and my bullet pen and put thier name on a list.
When they ask, i tell them its a list of people "to never let use anything I EDC".
They learn!
HaHa

[Boy SureFire]

Somewhat... In the beginning I took a lot of heat from just about every person I knew (famliy included), but now people have gotten used to seeing gear nut BSF loaded to the teeth w/gear. Just last week I was out grocery shopping at Trader Joe's with a friend, & she never even noticed the thigh rig I was wearing. Somewhere out here in NorCal there's a young kid thinking about the sweet EDC he saw... I've really got to get my EDCF patch's sewn on pronto.

[GRIFFINHAWKS]

No .

BE WELL .. GH

[bpa]

Only behind my back.

[steeldragon]

just the cops when they ask me to empty my pockets :)

[Tradecraft]

Does anybody think you are strange for carrying a Knife, Light, tools, and other gadgets? Some people I know call me the "toolbox". It is funny though, usually when people see what I carry, they are asking to use something that they aren't carrying.

Yes, and I married her...

[jag-engr]

Criticized about it...not yet O0

Told to shut up because I won't quit talking about.....typically every hour or so ;D

Guilty... :-X

Typically no one says anything because they don't see anything. I always try to use the smallest tool that will accomplish the job. A lot of people who get attention using their EDC gear get it because they want it.

I don't go around looking for a reason to whip out my Spyderco Swick to open mail. I reach for the scissors on my Vic Midnite Manager, instead. Task accomplished more safely and inconspicuously.

Need a light in the movie theatre? I could whip out my SC50w and kick on the high setting, but I discretely operate it in low mode.

[jwhite75]

I work in an a combo setting of LEO and office professionals. I pul out my SOG, or Benchmades and the gasps are audible. Most "gentleman" carry a small pen knife or three blade pocket knife. My inlaws used to make light of the fact that I carried a gun everywhere. Then they realized my clientele are all convicted criminals and I have to see them out and about in my community including when my wife was with me. I also have occasion to make them angry with me while enforcing rules and regulations of their probation granted by the court. They know it is for prtoection of me and most importantly her. Now she also carries a firearm, and they say nothing. As far as my "kit"...people that see it usually need it. They criticize me for a flashlight most of the time too...but when they need one I got it, and they dont make remarks....

[jwhite75]

Funnty thing is I go "grey" most of the time. The only thing that is readily visible on me is my cell phone in my clip holster on my belt, which I intend to remedy eventually when I find the right pocket pouch for it. I carry a fighting size handgun, extra mag, flashlight, knife, two wallets, two key rings, pocket change, and a cell phone on a regular basis. In some occasions I carry a backup gun and and a reload. Nobody is ever the wiser other than my phone ocassionaly hwoing especially at work when I am in a suit. I wear no "bat-belt" or big pouches and organizers. For slightly more serious applications at work I have a "work" bag, with things that pertain to my job, and some ocaasional things that come up.

[Wolvee]

I get crap from people all the time about my "Man Bag" "Purse" or "Murse." But I am always the only one who is always prepared. When they come running to me for a band-aid, paper clip, multi-tool, FL or pen I just laugh at them. Since I started carrying my EDC, I have never been left with the helpless feeling in any situation. Some of the best feelings I have ever felt is the piece of mind that I know my family is taken care of so long as I am there. My wife is now starting to have a "safety" EDC and she doesn't even realize it. With her streamlining her purse contents and the vehicle kits I have prepared she has told me she now feels safer than she ever did before.

[paustin]

I am a knife junkie so I have 3 or 4 on me all the time, and I own about 7 or 8 benchmades and a couple of spydercos just to hit the highlites of the knives I have. I keep a ton of stuff in my maxpedition bag and I now have picked up the nickname "boyscout" because when someone asks for something no one else has I usually have it in my bag. You know what I mean "Does anyone have any pliers" and out comes the leatherman, "does anyone have something for a headache", out comes the advil. So yeah I catch some grief for my EDC.

[Brewtality]

Yes... and then 10 minutes later they are the one asking for a light, if anyone can help them cut something, says they wish they had a screwdriver, etc.

[Mister Scribble]

I do. I always wind up carrying too much weight and I have to trim down. But some things
I have to carry regardless. My belt pouch is looking more and more like a football. I don't
really want to carry a bag, though.

I've also gotten negative comments from one family member about carrying a folder in a belt pouch.

I actually only carry a few items these days and they are almost all small keychain items.

But at home I need to be more organized about preparedness items. I have some but
frankly in a small apartment there isn't room for a lot of food or water.

But it is in the Big City where, if there is a big disaster, you will most need them.

You won't want to go outside.

[dewildeman]

I heard a security guard mutter "Rambo" when he was returning my Spyderco, Gerber Multi-tool and Leatherman Micro. We were at the Empire State Building last year. My wife said to him, "You should see what he left home."

[Ghost]

Anybody criticize your EDC?



None that lived...

[Gnarly]

See post # 13:


:D Where I live you could ask 100 people if they had a knife. and 99.9 would say yes.
if you ask the same 100 if they had a pistol 99.9 would say yes.

Just discovered that watchman & I must live in the same neighborhood!

~Gnarly

[J_C]

Only negative comments I have ever had about my EDC gear is on forums (including this one) when I have answered threads about what I do or don't EDC and the comment is that I don't carry enough, or the right thing. This is mainly pertaining to choice of handgun, caliber, and amount of spare ammunition (hint: I usually don't carry, and when I do I usually don't carry spare ammo, and the caliber is .380).

In my day to day work nobody thinks a thing about the tools and bag I carry. I and my co-workers support technology systems in a semi-industrial setting so we all have laptop computer cases or backpacks stuffed with books, CDs, tools and gizmos. No one (including me) has yet needed the first aid kit I have assembled in an Altoids tin, but I bet if I needed to pull it out I would get nothing but thanks from whomever my preparedness was benefitting.

[lchoke]

That is soooooo funny.:)

I heard a security guard mutter "Rambo" when he was returning my Spyderco, Gerber Multi-tool and Leatherman Micro. We were at the Empire State Building last year. My wife said to him, "You should see what he left home."

[Boy SureFire]

Yep 33Min ago on my YouTube EDC dump video... LOL, I removed it though.


Whats your deal dude? Why would you need so much crap? You know you do not carry all this EDC "everyday carry".

[Crude]

Yep 33Min ago on my YouTube EDC dump video... LOL, I removed it though.

lol youtube.....it's great for entertainment but I would in no way take anything the subeducated people say in comments to heart.

No one usually cares around these parts...that or I don't care that they care. Either way no one comes to mind ;)

[keith1234]

I used to get criticized by one or two people, but now everyone I know ask me if I have my stuff on me for one reason or another because they know I usually do. When asked if I have my multi tool or flashlight it's not to borrow but to be used by me to fix something, at least it is accepted by the people I work with and not shunned.

[iacchus]

The wife used to make fun, but now she expects me to have everything on me, like Felix the cat. She just found me a great deal on a ScotteVest hoodie, officially now supporting my compulsion. I think it is because I did not have a protractor on me the other day when she asked for one. She was actually full blown surprised when I told her I don't carry one...
Sent from my A854

[Narcosynthesis]

I have had a few surprised reactions to the fact I carry a knife (a Victorinox cadet - which says something about the knife paranoia in the UK), and few comments along the lines of 'you carry a torch everywhere?'.

Generally most people are good, and it is quite nice when you pull out a light or small knife to do something and get friends and acquaintances showing your their keyrings in an 'I have a torch two' type way :)

[legoman0721]

I have a few times. Not by people that I don't know, because I keep my EDC as low-key as I can. I've been criticized by the girlfriend, my mom, my brothers, you know, the people that I end up helping the most! My roommate and my brother's girlfriend have also criticized the knives I carry, because I "don't go hunting, or live in the wilderness" and "I just don't like knives." But when somebody needs to cut something....

My brother has at least admitted that it's real useful to have a flashlight around, and my girlfriend is the most common user of my mini-FAK when we're out and about. She has said that she thinks my hobbies are goofy, but she'll admit that a lot of it is useful. Except for the Zippo... That's just for fun. ;D

[AcesQ]

One of my friend goes: "Man, your gears are cool!", and another goes: "Dude, why do you carry and have all these stuffs?"

How do you guys deal with people?

[Boy SureFire]

One of my friend goes: "Man, your gears are cool!", and another goes: "Dude, why do you carry and have all these stuffs?"

How do you guys deal with people?
The unprepared will die off, or they'll learn to love you when you save their buttocks.

[jda]

I tend to just screw with them,for example I have a good friend who I have known since I was 10 asks why I carry a knife - I started to answer him by saying (In a joking way) "Incase you get out of hand". That might not work with strangers, but among shooting buddies it works just fine.

[Rev. Chuck]

One of my new assistant managers got spooked when my other assistant manager pulled a leek to cut open some boxes that arrived to the shop, she complained to me that the other girl was carrying a weapon.

After we explained her it was a tool, and it was within company policy she put her two weeks notice because she didn't want to be around people carrying knives.

[indigo_wolf]

One of my friend goes: "Man, your gears are cool!", and another goes: "Dude, why do you carry and have all these stuffs?"

How do you guys deal with people?

Unless someone goes out of their way to make problems for you, why bother with dealing with it at all?

Most people spend too much time gawking at what's in the other lane rather than driving in the one they are in anyway.

We were in a meeting in the office today, and one of my co-workers received a package that was a little too well taped and was having problems opening it. I reached into my pocket, pulled out one of my knives and passed it to her. She opened the boxed, and passed the knife back to me.

The only person that might have been taken aback by it was the newest employee. Everyone in the office knows I carry a variety of things in my pockets including knives. It's not like I walk around the office brandishing them in a threatening way. I use them to open boxes, cut cord, and a variety of tool-type tasks. Making a big deal about it makes it an issue rather than the piece of normalacy it is.

Here's one of my favorite knife stories: I was in a small store about 20 years ago. There were about 10-15 other people in the stored besides myself. One of the store employees (maybe even the owner) was unboxing some merchandise, but was having problems with opening one of the boxes. He asked if anyone had a knife. Without exception, each and every customer in the store drew a blade.

ATB,
Sam

[GRIFFINHAWKS]

Their just jealous . I think someone posted that already [?]

BE WELL .. GH

[tower]

VERY few people know that I CCW, and the only blades anyone ever sees are the kinder gentler ones. Except friends but they usually only see my more dangerous blades if I've used them to get my friends out of a (cutting chore) jam of some sort. I like it this way, I carry tools to use as tools, not for the "cool" factor, undeniable as it may be.

[rckshrk]

Somewhat... In the beginning I took a lot of heat from just about every person I knew (famliy included), but now people have gotten used to seeing gear nut BSF loaded to the teeth w/gear. Just last week I was out grocery shopping at Trader Joe's with a friend, & she never even noticed the thigh rig I was wearing. Somewhere out here in NorCal there's a young kid thinking about the sweet EDC he saw... I've really got to get my EDCF patch's sewn on pronto.

She noticed


The only person who ever says anything to me is my wife, but like other EDCers wives she seems to use my gear as much if not more than I do. Outside of my wife, my guess is that no one else has any idea how much stuff I have on me since normally there is no outside indication of it.

[Rev. Chuck]

She noticed


The only person who ever says anything to me is my wife, but like other EDCers wives she seems to use my gear as much if not more than I do. Outside of my wife, my guess is that no one else has any idea how much stuff I have on me since normally there is no outside indication of it.

Agreed, Wifes/Gf always know/notice, when I got married my wife always asked why did I carry my gear, couple of months ago she was out in the Las Vegas Desert working with some friends. To make the story short time flew, it got dark quickly and she was carrying her Monsoon, she popped couple of glow sticks and two two flashlights and the situation improved, her friends were amazed at ho good she was prepared.

That helped me because she is now a gear nut like the rest of us and I can buy gear without any problem =].

After that trip she upgraded from maglite to SF and she added a nice pink native to her edc!

[chaosmagnet]

After we explained her it was a tool, and it was within company policy she put her two weeks notice because she didn't want to be around people carrying knives.

That's crazy.

[Rev. Chuck]

That's crazy.

Oh yeah, We figured that out after hiring her.

[Dafabricata]

One of my new assistant managers got spooked when my other assistant manager pulled a leek to cut open some boxes that arrived to the shop, she complained to me that the other girl was carrying a weapon.

After we explained her it was a tool, and it was within company policy she put her two weeks notice because she didn't want to be around people carrying knives.



I can see it now...
She gets in a car wreck and is trapped inside her burning vehical when a courageous bystander breaks the window and cuts her seatbelt off with his/her "weapon" and then she turns around and files charges for assualt. People like that NEED something bad to happen to make them realize that its not the impliment but the mind behind it.

I used to catch a little slack from some of my friends, but after so many times of me helping them out and having the proper tools on hand, most of them also carry at least a flashlight and some even carry knives now.
Now when they pull out thier light, I say: "Why would you carry a flashlight in the daytime" and give 'em a poke.
More than anything I get compliments on my gear and most people seem to understand the usefulness of these tools and the importance of having them on hand.

[GRIFFINHAWKS]

One of my new assistant managers got spooked when my other assistant manager pulled a leek to cut open some boxes that arrived to the shop, she complained to me that the other girl was carrying a weapon.

After we explained her it was a tool, and it was within company policy she put her two weeks notice because she didn't want to be around people carrying knives.
Sounds like someone needs to WorkAtHome; close to there PanicRoom ! LOL !

BE WELL .. GH

[Rev. Chuck]

Sounds like someone needs to WorkAtHome; close to there PanicRoom ! LOL !

BE WELL .. GH

Yep, and the funny thing is We give the leeks to the employees that scored high on the customer service survey =]

[able_man]

I used to work in a job where we had to break down boxes constantly. And people wondered why I carried a knife!

[muddydogs]

I'm sure glad I live in the west, its nothing for a Grandma to pull a knife out of her pocket and cut something. Most men at least have a knife and I bet half carry a multi tool. Most the time you can open carry a firearm without getting to much hassle.

And no CA is not the West, its a hole other country and that's all I will say about that.

[legoman0721]

I used to work at a Dollar General so breaking down boxes was a common occurrence for me as well. All of the employees at that store carried box cutters either in a plastic belt sheath (very fast and convenient) or in their pocket. It was just habit. However, one day I was slacking in the break room and browsing through a knife store online when one of the ladies I worked with commented that if I had one of those knives she would make sure to stay on my good side! In all fairness it was a CS Recon Scout I was looking at (and now own ;D ), but I think we all can remember times where box cutters were used for nefarious deeds.

[Monocrom]

One of my new assistant managers got spooked when my other assistant manager pulled a leek to cut open some boxes that arrived to the shop, she complained to me that the other girl was carrying a weapon.

After we explained her it was a tool, and it was within company policy she put her two weeks notice because she didn't want to be around people carrying knives.

I would have told her to go live in a cave in the desert if she wanted to avoid people who routinely carried and used knives. Especially since multi-tools have a blade feature.

It's sad as Hell that such a diseased mentality towards tools is so common place and accepted in society. But if an insane outlook is common enough, it no longer gets seen as insane.

As for cash, one idea that isn't mine is to get one of the larger pill-fobs (such as the Bunker Capsule from goinggear.com) and use that for carrying extra cash; when you feel that a folded up $20 bill won't be enough. Those fobs are too big for my tastes. But might be ideal for someone else.

[CaptainBob]

Ever been to California muddydog?

It's not as bad as you think.

And yes, California IS in the west, every school kid knows that little geographic fact.

I carry a knife every where I go and most days a loaded .45 in my truck.

If ya follow the rules of common sense and use your head and good judgement, ya'll can edc with little or no problem.

[tonester]

im pretty sure carrying a loaded firearm in your vehicle in california is not legal. unless you are LEO of course.

[Boy SureFire]

Ever been to California muddydog?

It's not as bad as you think.

And yes, California IS in the west, every school kid knows that little geographic fact.

I carry a knife every where I go and most days a loaded .45 in my truck.

If ya follow the rules of common sense and use your head and good judgement, ya'll can edc with little or no problem. I'd stop that pronto:


http://ag.ca.gov/firearms/travel.php

HANDGUNS

California Penal Code section 12025 does not prevent a citizen of the United States over 18 years of age who is not lawfully prohibited from firearm possession, and who resides or is temporarily in California, from transporting by motor vehicle any pistol, revolver, or other firearm capable of being concealed upon the person provided the firearm is unloaded and stored in a locked container.
The term "locked container" means a secure container which is fully enclosed and locked by a padlock, key lock, combination lock, or similar locking device. This includes the trunk of a motor vehicle, but does not include the utility or glove compartment. For more information, refer to California Penal Code Section 12026.1.

[Rev. Chuck]

Ever been to California muddydog?

It's not as bad as you think.

And yes, California IS in the west, every school kid knows that little geographic fact.

I carry a knife every where I go and most days a loaded .45 in my truck.

If ya follow the rules of common sense and use your head and good judgement, ya'll can edc with little or no problem.

As another Californian I am sad to say that We are loosing a lot to the government, and also +1 on getting rid of the .45 unless you are a LEO or a professional bounty hunter

[CaptainBob]

with a CCW it is.

[muddydogs]

Ever been to California muddydog?

It's not as bad as you think.

And yes, California IS in the west, every school kid knows that little geographic fact.

I carry a knife every where I go and most days a loaded .45 in my truck.

If ya follow the rules of common sense and use your head and good judgement, ya'll can edc with little or no problem.

CA is as bad as I think and sadly it may be West but it has lost all of the Western mentality. You get to carry a pistol in your truck, thats great, I can carry a pistol on my person just about anywhere I want in Utah with other Western States having similar carry laws. When you look at knives on line and they have a section for CA legal knives what dose that say about CA laws? How about the restrictions and modifications that are placed on AR 15's and other weapons of this style? I know a few other states are just as bad but its CA and the people that come from CA that have the most effect on other Western States. More of the CA goverment and people need to follow the rules of common sense and use there heads and good judgement so edc and CC will be no problem like it is in other states. Do you know in Utah we can CC in public schools and there has been no problems. Try to get that passed in CA and see what is said. Its funny how some states and people have a fit about something but the state next door is doing it.

[Ghillieman7]

The main thing I get (almost daily) is just out and out teasing. Things like that dont bother Me. However, like most EDC'ers I do find that I am the guy that all the non-believers look to when they need something that they dont have.
That in itself makes me feel better about it all.
Let them tease, it' not my fault if One chooses not be prepared.

[Hector]

Just curious, are you really a Free Mason, judging from your profile pic?

[Rev. Chuck]

with a CCW it is.

In the county where I live, the only way to get a CCW is prove that your life is in imminent danger at all times.

[legoman0721]

The main thing I get (almost daily) is just out and out teasing. Things like that dont bother Me. However, like most EDC'ers I do find that I am the guy that all the non-believers look to when they need something that they dont have.
That in itself makes me feel better about it all.
Let them tease, it' not my fault if One chooses not be prepared.

That's a great way to put it. Just the other day I was going out somewhere with my brother, and he made fun of me for having my knife and multitool. This was despite the fact that just before we had left, our roommate had needed to borrow my Leatherman to use the pliers. Some people just don't get it.

[GRIFFINHAWKS]

Just curious, are you really a Free Mason, judging from your profile pic?
Just curious, Where the heck do see that in who's profile pic ?

OK, I saw it way back in the thread . I didn't know they had a slogan . !?!?!?!?! My grandfather is rolling in his grave right now ! 8|

BE WELL .. GH

[haiyter]

My family, friends, and girlfriend think its weird. Since I think I'm probably the only one that literally carries my sitka nearly everywhere I go. My gf kept asking me why I got to take all thise stuff with me which I reply back to her why she carries all these junk on her purse and she doesn't even use 3/4 of the stuff.

[RogueEDC]

I had a coworker try to tease me about having a multitool on my belt. Mostly questions, not criticism. A friend asked why I carry a flashlight.

[Trunkmonkey]

Since I am an IT guy, I always have an assortment of tools and such on me, so most everyone "expects" it i think. If not, whatever.

[n800]

I am always surprised when people ask why I carry a knife while I am opening something with it right in front of them.

[LinuxHack3r]

I get odd looks from carrying flashlights. Furthermore, and ironically, my Fiance's Mom and Fiance's cousin have both ask very intruiged about where I bought my Surefires, as if they liked them, and expected to be able to buy one for less than $10 at some "hidden store" in town they haven't seen them at. After they found it "ridiculous" to pay that much for a light. Not my fault my E2DL and E1B cost just a little bit more than my G2L. I want one of the newer G2's...;)

Sent from my Droid using Tapatalk

[Mumbojumboo]

Ever since I was in high school (20 plus years ago). Most people just don't see the need for a bandana, knife, flashlight, and multi tool. Constant ribbing for my whole life. I didn't even now I was an EDC guy until a few months ago when I stumbled on this website. It is nice to know that there are others. UNITE!

[firemedic183]

UNITE!
WORD Brother!!!!

[dewildeman]

I got criticized recently by a non-EDC buddy for not having something. We were at a gun show and I didn't to know the size of something to know if it would fit in a safe. My buddy said "You don't have a tape measure on you?" and then he pulled out his car keys with a small tape measure on the ring (and a big smile on his face). I haven't found one to add to my stuff yet but I will.

[able_man]

My girlfriend actually bragged about me getting her a flashlight and SAK to carry in her purse. :smitten:
That made me happy when everyone else is asking why I carry this stuff.

[indigo_wolf]

and then he pulled out his car keys with a small tape measure on the ring (and a big smile on his face). I haven't found one to add to my stuff yet but I will.
:crackup: My girlfriend just added one to her keychain this weekend. In a lot of cases, you should be able to find it in the "hardware" section of your local pharmacy or the office supply store.

Big box hardware stores (Home Depot, Lowes, etc) should also have them, but sometimes the lines aren't worth it for a single small item.

If all else fails, and you can piggyback it on a large order, there is always Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=keychain+tape+measure).

ATB,
Sam

[rosshs]

the only criticism i've ever had was along the lines of "you.ve got a plastic spork? They do titanium ones you know". Everyone i work with all have the same kind of mentalitly, even the ones who don't carry very much. Guess i'm lucky.

[JonSidneyB]

I have already posted once in this thread but I still think I must have always been around people from Mars. Not once have I got criticism. Even in the City I didn't get any. I worked at Eli Lilly's corporate offices at one time and not once did anyone bat an eye including security. In college, nope. On ranches, never.

Now I have seen others get some criticism but those where a different kind of criticism. The new comers at the NSS would sometimes show up with all kinds of gear and someone would explain what they have will not work in this environment and they would get some loaner gear. At some backpacking events people would get some criticism about what and how they where carrying and that they lacked the more important items. In work environments I would on a rare occasion here someone say it is going to be harder with that.

[burnd4life]

The girlfriend thinks I’m overly paranoid, but deals with it as long as I don’t start EDCing a tin foil hat and my friend used to tease me about my “man purse,” when I carried my fatboy, but not so much anymore since I switched over to a sitka.

[bxstylez]

i always get asked, "you carry a flashlight back home?" when taking it out of my locker after work

i always say, "well i gotta recharge it" --when i really dont need to

[ScottAW]

All my friends have realized i don't even sit around the house without at least light and knife. I use then both daily, and after a few uses nobody questions it.

[tonester]

i overheard my wifes family ask her why do i carry a lighter if i dont smoke. and she said, "why does he carry a knife and a flashlight?". we'll see who gets help when they need a flashlight or a knife or any other edc item i carry.

[Russ Prechtl]

Any more my wife makes fun of me when I DON'T carry my EDC stuff. The other day I went to write a check and realized I had forgotten my pen. My wife couldn't believe it. She was shocked!

My co-workers, on the other hand, think I'm weird. The other day we were looking at a piece of machinery in a dark spot. I handed someone else my work flashlight. Then I pulled out my EDC personal light. My co-worker's eyes bulged and he said "Dang! How many of those things DO you carry?" I didn't show him my back-up that was also in my pocket. :winkwink:

[keith1234]

I guess yours was a heck of alot brighter than the work flashlight. I know that is how it is where I work they have a few cheapo 2 D battery flashlights for emergencies and I don't think they even check the batteries.

[Russ Prechtl]

Yup! We have Streamlight 4AA Polymers. They're nice lights, but I had a Sunwayman M10A in my pocket that blew it away.

[dmattaponi]

I've had people notice some of the stuff I carry in my pockets, but I haven't had anyone make fun of me or be a critic. Just the other night one of my children's teachers came up to me during a Christmas play, and asked if he could borrow a flashlight to rig onto one of the music stands. We are friends outside of school, so he is aware that I tend to carry such things in my pockets at all times. He's a relatively recent refugee, California city boy (not a reflection on all California "City Boys" of course), who accepted a job teaching on the other side of the country. It's kinda funny, but he now finds himself living the life of a tenant farmer, on a large rural farmstead. He generally has no concept of self-reliance, and although it was obviously a bit foreign to him, he doesn't fault me because I do. That said, life on the farm, and the rural drive to and from work, seem to be causing him to catch on a bit.

[airsickness]

Everyone around me gives me a hard time about all the crap in my pockets or edc bag. Whats best though. Is the minute someone needs a light, knife, lighter, clipper, rope, paracord, needle-nose or a band-aid, I hear " go see uncle Kenny" he has all that sh**.

[agentofwrath2]

I've had people criticize me for my EDC carrying, but they are always the ones that need to use it. And other people like having someone around that is prepared.

[Narcosynthesis]

the only criticism i've ever had was along the lines of "you.ve got a plastic spork? They do titanium ones you know". Everyone i work with all have the same kind of mentalitly, even the ones who don't carry very much. Guess i'm lucky.

But dude... Titanium things are sooo much cooler than plastic, you really do need to upgrade to a Ti spork... :P

[3fgburner]

I usually get jokes. Saturday, for example, wife and I were at friends' house for Xmas dinner. One of the other guests remarked that I looked ready to fight the Joker. I just replied that some of my coworkers do, indeed, call my rig a BatBelt(tm). Later on, getting ready for dinner, I was helping out by carving one of the roast ducks. Carving knife bit me, slightly. The same guy was nearby. I unzipped the fanny pack, and asked him to grab the first-aid pouch and extract me a Bandaid. Meanwhile, I washed my hands and spritzed some antisptic from my pocket, onto the cut. Dude went from joking, to impressed.

In another circle of friends and acquaintances, one of the more-religious ones said that my obsession with EDC was a lack of faith. I pointed out that a flashlight works better in the dark, than faith does. Of course, he was the next person to ask if I had some Tylenol / Advil / painkillers in my fanny pack.

[TARFU]

I was showing my wife how I rigged my Maxped Kodiak to carry my Beretta and she said, "If the ****** apocalypse hits, then you're the first guy I call." I'm not sure, but I think she was making fun of me... ;D

[P90Puma]

Recently got ripped on for pack carry titanium cutlery. A bit over the top, but I like em.

Other EDC like keychain light/es4 get used all the time by coworkers, or friends, so after the need it once they never act stupid about it again.

[dewildeman]

Not criticism this time. I got 3 CRKT Eat'N Tools for Christmas from different family members!

[Trunkmonkey]

Not criticism this time. I got 3 CRKT Eat'N Tools for Christmas from different family members! Interested in parting with one of them maybe? I would like one! :)

[xtrajack]

I have the reputation at work of being the "go to" guy for almost anything.

[CatherineM]

I don't get criticized, but I do occasionally get teased, usually right after someone asks to borrow something knowing I probably carry it.

[Monocrom]

I don't get criticized, but I do occasionally get teased, usually right after someone asks to borrow something knowing I probably carry it.

Ironically, the guys most likely making fun of folks who travel prepared are usually the ones needing to borrow stuff.

[DrChimRichalds]

Ironically, the guys most likely making fun of folks who travel prepared are usually the ones needing to borrow stuff.
SERIOUSLY. There's one coworker of mine who relentlessly gives me **** for carrying so many things on my person but is always the first person asking to use one of them. Whenever I confront him about this, he always says that he could "just as easily grab something else to get the job done." Psshhht.

Most of the time, if I'm not carrying a folder that's too large I'll hand it over to one of my female coworkers if they ask me for a blade (they are expecting me to hand over one of the store-issued box cutters). Upon seeing the knife, usually they will hesitate but will almost always take it and use it. And almost never know how to close it. I enjoy being a teacher of EDC tools almost as much as I enjoy being the "Ever-prepared" one at work.

[MDCCLXXVI]

If someone teases you, tease them back for something quirky that they do.

[gstojinovic]

I got teased, but then my EDC saves day, and...

[tower]

If someone teases you, tease them back for something quirky that they do.

My, my... What a remarkably mature attitude.

[Nickortizzle1035]

i get some guff once in a while at work. most of the time a couple guys will give me the "dude are you going camping", or "whats in the bag". i usually fire back with a lewd and offensive comeback and we all laugh, that's how we joke around at my job. about a month or so ago we had a couple tornados and some insane storms roll through my state on one of my shifts. everyone was freaking out because we live in massachusetts, so its kinda rare to have tornados. so i took my break to run home and grab a few extra Surefires and a couple other gadgets just in case. everyone was all mad that i left because nobody there knew what to do if there was an emergency. as for me criticizing, i'm not shy calling someone out for carrying a crappy knife. it's not like you need a benchmade or spyderco, but don't waste your time or money on $2.00 Pakistani flea market knives...

[charlie fox]

Recently I was at a church gathering where my knife, my flashlight and multitool all came into use on several occasions. The best part was when one of our pastors came over and showed me all his gadgets! We spent the next half hour discussing the pros and cons of different knives, tools and lights. It was awesome!

[bladeblabber]

sorry for bumping this thread back up but i have a story from about a week ago i just have to share with you guys haha

so about a week ago i was out on a family golfing game. right when we arrived at the golf course there was a bag of chips i could get open, so i took out my spyderco ambitious and opened it. by dad said to me in a annoyed way "why do you need to be carrying a knife golfing?" i just told him that it could always come in handy. About 30 min later there was a taped up box of golf balls he could get open. he looked up at me and awkwardly said, "son... may i borrow your knife please?" haha so i think he is done criticizing my edc ;)

[RogueEDC]

I get called "MacGyver by a coworker who's always asking to borrow this or that.

I got laughed at by the clASS-clown coworker about carrying a multi-tool.

A friend asked why I have a flashlight.

I was asked if I was going camping because of the stainless steel flatware from REI. (These are people who go down the hall with their frozen dinners only to find that it's Friday night, we've run out of sporks and the vending machine guy isn't back until Tuesday because Monday is a holiday.)

I got what I thought was an odd look by a nurse when I was cutting the cuff-elastic in my Dad's exercise pants in his hospital room.

I've managed to avoid being questioned by authority figures so far.

[kfgk14]

I got laughed at for it in high school, until I saved my class on a nature walk (read: water purification and first aid), mocked in college until somebody needed a condom (what? I'm always ready, man), and idolized at the workplace since I walked everyone out of our office with my flashlight during a power outage!

I love when people ask, "Why do you have a knife?" while you're cutting something.

[YLR2312]

I've been criticized for carrying a pen of all things.

I think mostly my coworkers and family are just impressed. Since seeing my Fenix my mother and a friend have both gotten one as well.

[HappyStuffing]

I normally get some crap from the ******* until they inevitably need help form me which requires some part of my EDC. I happily help them out of course, and once in a great while I one of them turns into an EDC'er as well!

Success!

[Monocrom]

I normally get some crap from the ******* until they inevitably need help form me which requires some part of my EDC. I happily help them out of course, and once in a great while I one of them turns into an EDC'er as well!

Success!

It does get more than annoying after awhile when you're prepared for the daily grind but others simply refuse to do so. I was walking through the mall a few days ago when a young woman looked at me and said "Excuse me Sir." At this particular mall there are kiosk workers who now use that opening line to get you to stop so they can try to sell you their crappy goods. Just a few short years ago, they wouldn't allow that type of nonsense in the mall. I waved her off. At about that time is when I noticed that she was with a young man a few feet away. I got the impression that she might have been just a regular person who wanted to ask me the time of day.

I felt bad for a short while. But then realized that either way, I shouldn't. If she wanted to sell me something, she shouldn't be trying to engage in a conversation with me. Sure it's a mall. But that sort of thing wasn't allowed there just a few short years ago. If she wanted the time of day, well; they still make ladies watches. Even more significant, her friend should have had a watch on his wrist. Seems odd that neither one had a cellphone on them.

[GRIFFINHAWKS]

It does get more than annoying after awhile when you're prepared for the daily grind but others simply refuse to do so. I was walking through the mall a few days ago when a young woman looked at me and said "Excuse me Sir." At this particular mall there are kiosk workers who now use that opening line to get you to stop so they can try to sell you their crappy goods. Just a few short years ago, they wouldn't allow that type of nonsense in the mall. I waved her off. At about that time is when I noticed that she was with a young man a few feet away. I got the impression that she might have been just a regular person who wanted to ask me the time of day.

I felt bad for a short while. But then realized that either way, I shouldn't. If she wanted to sell me something, she shouldn't be trying to engage in a conversation with me. Sure it's a mall. But that sort of thing wasn't allowed there just a few short years ago. If she wanted the time of day, well; they still make ladies watches. Even more significant, her friend should have had a watch on his wrist. Seems odd that neither one had a cellphone on them.
With all due respect my good man .. I, having spent many years living in the big city as well as the country, some country time would due you well ,^)

Just sayin' (8

BE WELL .. GH

[pumbaa]

It does get more than annoying after awhile when you're prepared for the daily grind but others simply refuse to do so. I was walking through the mall a few days ago when a young woman looked at me and said "Excuse me Sir." At this particular mall there are kiosk workers who now use that opening line to get you to stop so they can try to sell you their crappy goods. Just a few short years ago, they wouldn't allow that type of nonsense in the mall. I waved her off. At about that time is when I noticed that she was with a young man a few feet away. I got the impression that she might have been just a regular person who wanted to ask me the time of day.

I felt bad for a short while. But then realized that either way, I shouldn't. If she wanted to sell me something, she shouldn't be trying to engage in a conversation with me. Sure it's a mall. But that sort of thing wasn't allowed there just a few short years ago. If she wanted the time of day, well; they still make ladies watches. Even more significant, her friend should have had a watch on his wrist. Seems odd that neither one had a cellphone on them.

I go both ways on this. Sometimes by taking the short moment and engage, I feel it can be used to educate people in the EDC and how we need to go back to our roots of "Rugged Individualism". It's one thing to wave someone off, AFTER you have determined they are sales people, beggars, etc.. BTW, Most sales people do not start with "Excuse me sir", Usually it is "Good (day. morning, etc) have you seen... could I interest you, etc."

Additionally, maybe this young woman was digging you and you could have scored!

I err on the side of politeness, but I *DO* understand where you are coming from and prefer not to be bothered when in the mall by some hack. Still.... I'm a guy and if she was cute....

[KeyeEl]

I was at my in-laws last year and they had just received a package from another family member. Of course it had about 4 pounds of tape on it and they were having trouble opening. My wife asked if I had my knife on me and after handing it over, her mother's face turns into one of revulsion. "Why do you have such a large (4" blade) knife??!!!?" she says.

My reply: "I have big hands" :crazy2:

[Manatakui]

I've had the odd comment thrown my way for carrying a handkerchief, of all things; I suppose in my area, it's not too common for someone under 60 to be carrying and using.

[stax]

One time, this asshat at work made fun of my EDC blade.

I stabbed him in the neck.

[Kilted1]

Quite the opposite, most people I encounter think it's kinda cool if a bit odd. There is often a moment of confused astonishment that I might actually have X on my person, then a shrug, a smile, and we get the business taken care of.

[millhouse]

The uneducated folk are always the first to come to you when they need something.

[GRIFFINHAWKS]

The uneducated folk are always the first to come to you when they need something.
I'd say the opposite .

BE WELL .. GH

[able_man]

The uneducated folk are always the first to come to you when they need something.


I'd say the opposite .

BE WELL .. GH


I'd say both of these are HUGE generalizations. I don't think a persons level of education has anything to do with it.

[millhouse]

By uneducated, I did not mean a person's level of education.

I meant uneducated in EDC.

[able_man]

By uneducated, I did not mean a person's level of education.

I meant uneducated in EDC.

That makes a lot more sense! Maybe, the uninitiated?

[millhouse]

That makes a lot more sense! Maybe, the uninitiated?

That's probably the better word.

[GRIFFINHAWKS]

I'd say both of these are HUGE generalizations. I don't think a persons level of education has anything to do with it.
Generally, The average person in our modern society peruses [or dreams of] an "Education" that will allow them to make enough money to pay someone else to repair or maintain their belongings -
"Why should I carry a Flashlight when I can just turn on a light switch or use my cell phone" or "Knives belong in the kitchen for the wife to cook for me" etc. .
Lets face it, because of this insatiable drive to over achieve, most people these days do not know how to cook or clean, let alone fix their car because of it ..

Back to the subject, A good amount of us here are a small group of the population that tend to do for one's self's by choice, rather than follow the "Norm", and that causes remarks that stem from this instilled ignorance .

"Ignorance of all things is an evil neither terrible nor excessive, nor yet the greatest of all; but great cleverness and much learning, if they be accompanied by a bad training, are a much greater misfortune. "
Plato

BE WELL .. GH

[able_man]

Generally, The average person in our modern society peruses [or dreams of] an "Education" that will allow them to make enough money to pay someone else to repair or maintain their belongings -
"Why should I carry a Flashlight when I can just turn on a light switch or use my cell phone" or "Knives belong in the kitchen for the wife to cook for me" etc. .
Lets face it, because of this insatiable drive to over achieve, most people these days do not know how to cook or clean, let alone fix their car because of it ..

Back to the subject, A good amount of us here are a small group of the population that tend to do for one's self's by choice, rather than follow the "Norm", and that causes remarks that stem from this instilled ignorance .

"Ignorance of all things is an evil neither terrible nor excessive, nor yet the greatest of all; but great cleverness and much learning, if they be accompanied by a bad training, are a much greater misfortune. "
Plato

BE WELL .. GH

I just think it's a dangerous assumption that because someone has a degree (pursued a traditional education) that they have no interest in doing things for themselves. I have a degree and my fiancee is currently getting her PhD but we do everything we can for ourselves. I personally have no interest in only pursuing something for monetary gain so that I can sit back and have others do things for me.

I agree that there are a lot of people out there that see that as the ultimate dream and I hate to see someone who can't use basic tools or do a simple task and has no desire how to learn to do it. I know a guy (able bodied) in his early twenties that's never mowed a lawn or fixed anything himself. He can't cook and seems to have no desire to figure these things out. I find it sad. He does seem like the type who's hoping that once he has those degrees he'll have enough money that he'll just pay people to take care of everything for him. But, I think it's bad to say that someone can't have a traditional education, be well read, and know how to repair things, cook a meal, clean the house, and learn new skills.

[GRIFFINHAWKS]

I just think it's a dangerous assumption that because someone has a degree (pursued a traditional education) that they have no interest in doing things for themselves. I have a degree and my fiancee is currently getting her PhD but we do everything we can for ourselves. I personally have no interest in only pursuing something for monetary gain so that I can sit back and have others do things for me.

I agree that there are a lot of people out there that see that as the ultimate dream and I hate to see someone who can't use basic tools or do a simple task and has no desire how to learn to do it. I know a guy (able bodied) in his early twenties that's never mowed a lawn or fixed anything himself. He can't cook and seems to have no desire to figure these things out. I find it sad. He does seem like the type who's hoping that once he has those degrees he'll have enough money that he'll just pay people to take care of everything for him. But, I think it's bad to say that someone can't have a traditional education, be well read, and know how to repair things, cook a meal, clean the house, and learn new skills.
It's obvious that your not the average person and I was not making assumptions ,)

Your "Friend" is in of a much larger group of our society than yourself .

I find MOST "Younger" people these days to be just like him .

BE WELL .. GH