What Is Your EDC? – In my previous blog, I wrote about how to carry (open or concealed) and particular situations that might dictate not being able, one of which is if you are in a place that you are not allowed to carry. Due to the nature of my job, I am not allowed to have a firearm on my person or in my vehicle. This, to me, is unnerving. Still, I am religious about what I carry daily that I think will help me in an emergency situation.

A knife:

I served under a General who had a particular set of rules, one of which was always carrying a knife. Most places may not let you carry a firearm, but a knife is permitted, pending the size. I do have a bigger fixed blade in a bag, but on person may be too much. I usually carry a small folder with assisted opening and is always kept clean, sharp, and lubricated. I have used it for everything from staple removal, gutting a deer (everyday carry), and some smaller camping use (kindling). Check your laws and business rules, but it is an excellent idea if you can’t carry a pistol.

Firestarter:

You never know when that most primitive of capabilities, starting a fire, will be of importance. I usually carry a reliable lighter on my person but have a secondary means in my bag, like a flint and striker. I have only needed it a few times, usually for melting cordage, like 550 cord, for other tasks, but good to have in an emergency.

Back up cash:

How many people carry cash on hand these days? With the pandemic, paper money has become less desirable where I live, but it speaks a lot better than a plastic card if there are issues with the machines. I also carry some coins for phones (yes, payphones still exist) and usually a silver dollar. The latter I have for luck, barter, or colloidal silver if I am hard up.

Cordage:

I usually carry one or two types, usually 550 cord, as I use it for my boot laces and other things more out in the woods, such as traps, fishing line, firewood sling, rifle slings, and one time as a sling. I also have extra that my kiddos carry in some very fashionable bracelets.

Hankie/Bandanna:

So underrated, but this little square cloth has been tremendous, as it has been used to stop a rough wound. It is a backup for my mandatory mask at work, and it is great at wiping your nose. I have also used it as a sweatband and a great way to cool down if you wet it and put it on your neck. If you don’t have a first aid kit on hand, this is a great temporary solution.

Waterproof USB with information:

I used to carry weatherproof paper with important phone numbers, insurance, etc., but that was easily stolen, and I now opt for a USB with all the documents I need. I carry it if I am stranded or something happens to my phone (who remembers numbers these days). A USB device is small, has considerable data amounts, and it is encrypted so that no one can access it without my passwords.

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Author: Ian Bolser