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Best Cheap Everyday Carry Items for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best affordable EDC items for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: June 28th, 2024

🛠️Everyday Carry (EDC) items like pocket knives, multi-tools, and flashlights can really come in handy in your daily life. These tools can help you deal with unexpected situations and keep you prepared for almost anything. After going through tons of reviews, we've rounded up the best affordable EDC items for 2024. These picks will let you beef up your daily carry without emptying your wallet.

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Overall Best: True Utility Titanium Locking Pocket Multi-Tool

True Utility TI Locking Pocket Multi-Tool, 8-in-1 Tool kit, Titanium Nitride Frame, All-in-One EDC Asset for Camping, Hunting, Fishing, and Hiking, Silver/Red, One Size

Our top pick for the best overall EDC item for 2024 is the True Utility Titanium Locking Pocket Multi-Tool. This versatile multi-tool is designed to handle a variety of tasks with ease. It features spring-loaded pliers with built-in wire cutters, an awl, a bottle opener, a saw, a knife, and dual-headed screwdrivers. Constructed from ultra-tough titanium with a titanium nitride coating, it's incredibly durable and resistant to both rust and corrosion. The ergonomic grip ensures comfort during use, and the dual-position locks (90 and 180 degrees) provide versatility for different tasks. Its compact size makes it a perfect addition to any EDC kit.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$49.99 at Amazon

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Runner-up: Leatherman Free K2 EDC Knife

LEATHERMAN, FREE K2, Folding Pocketknife, 8-in-1 Multi-tool for Everyday Carry (EDC), Home & Outdoors, Made in USA, Gray (K2)

The Leatherman Free K2 EDC Knife is our runner-up choice for a dependable everyday carry item. This user-friendly knife incorporates eight essential tools within its lightweight aluminum body, including a knife, screwdrivers, and a bottle opener that all lock securely into place. The adjustable pocket clip allows customization based on your dominant hand or can be removed entirely. According to our research, its sturdiness and comfortable grip make it a reliable choice for daily use.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$89.95 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Leatherman FREE K2? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How durable is the pocket clip on the Leatherman FREE K2?

So, if you're wondering about the durability of the pocket clip on the Leatherman FREE K2, our research gives us a mix of opinions. The overall build of the tool is pretty solid—it's made of 420HC stainless steel and has a noticeable weight at 4.9 ounces. Some folks really like this heft because it feels substantial, but others think it might be a bit much for something you carry around every day. Now, the pocket clip itself has sparked some debate. While the multitool is generally well-crafted, the clip seems to be a weak point. According to our research, some people have noted that the clip's design isn’t the most ergonomic and may not stand up to very heavy use. There's even feedback suggesting it could break under certain circumstances, which might be something to keep in mind if you use it a lot. Pocket clips do take a good deal of stress daily, so it's understandable that they might not be everyone's favorite part. If you're thinking about getting the FREE K2, consider how both the clip and the tool measure up to your everyday carry needs. Some find the larger size just right for their needs, valuing its multifunctionality. Others feel it's a bit bulky for carrying in a pocket and have concerns about how long the clip will last. In the end, it kind of comes down to your personal preference and how you plan to use it.

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How sharp is the blade on the Leatherman FREE K2?

So, about the sharpness of the blade on the Leatherman FREE K2—it's made with 420HC stainless steel. This steel is pretty popular because it's tough, resists rust, and isn't too hard to sharpen. From what we've found, people say it's quite sharp right out of the box, which is great for all sorts of everyday tasks. The manufacturer highlights the FREE K2's versatility with its range of tools, but the sharpness of the blade really stands out. Folks like that it holds its edge well over time and is relatively easy to sharpen when needed. There are also notes about how the blade works well with the tool's other features, like the magnetic locking system. This keeps the blade secure when it's open, which makes one-handed use smoother. One thing to keep in mind is its size and weight. At around 4.9 ounces, it's a bit heavier than other pocket knives. Its dimensions (6.06 x 1.5 x 3.38 inches) make it take up some space too. Because of this, some people prefer carrying it in a bag or vehicle instead of a pocket, where it might feel bulky. In the end, the FREE K2 is a solid choice if you're after a multi-tool with a sharp, reliable blade. It's great for those who value functionality and durability, but you might want to consider if the size and weight fit your daily carry needs.

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Is the Leatherman FREE K2 good for everyday carry (EDC)?

The Leatherman FREE K2 seems like a pretty solid option if you're thinking about an everyday carry (EDC) tool. It's got a bunch of handy features like a knife blade, screwdrivers, and even a bottle opener—all packed into one tool. A cool thing about it is the magnetic technology, which makes it easier to open and use with just one hand. According to our research, folks who have tried it generally like these features and appreciate how sturdy and versatile it is for everyday tasks. When it comes to size, it weighs about 4.9 ounces. If you're used to carrying multi-tools, this might feel just right, but some say it's a bit on the bulky side for carrying in a pocket. Our research highlights some mixed feelings about its thickness; while it's well-built and durable, a few people think it's better suited for a bag or car rather than pocket carry. If you prefer a compact setup for lighter tasks, the size might not be ideal. But, if you're often needing a more capable tool, this one could work well. It's particularly noted for its sharp blade and reliable performance, which is great if you're tackling bigger tasks. In the end, whether the FREE K2 is right for you really comes down to your personal preferences and what you need it for. If you're okay with carrying something a bit larger and need a trustworthy, versatile tool, this might be a fantastic choice for your EDC. But if you're all about keeping it lean and simple, you might want to check out some smaller options.

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Budget Pick: Gerber Dime Multi-Tool

GERBER Gear Dime 12-in-1 Mini EDC Multitool - Needle Nose Pliers, Pocket Knife, Keychain, Bottle Opener - Gifts for Men, EDC Gear and Equipment - Black

For those on a budget, the Gerber Dime Multi-Tool is unbeatable. At about $22, this compact tool packs in a variety of utilities such as pliers, scissors, screwdrivers, and a bottle opener, all within a lightweight and portable design. It easily attaches to a keychain, making it a practical and convenient addition to your everyday essentials. From what we've gathered, it's a favorite for its affordability and functionality.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$23.20 at Amazon

Best Pen: Fisher Space Pen

Fisher Space Pen Matte Black Bullet Space Pen with Clip

Perfect for writing in challenging conditions like upside down, underwater, or on greasy surfaces, the Fisher Space Pen stands out as the best pen for EDC. Priced under $25, it boasts reliability and a compact design that expands to a full-size pen. This pen even has a history with NASA's Apollo missions, making it a popular choice among EDC enthusiasts. Whether you're jotting down notes or need to write in unconventional situations, the Fisher Space Pen won't let you down.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$30.28 at Amazon

Best Flashlight: ThruNite Ti Pro

ThruNite Ti Pro Rechargeable Mini Flashlight, AA Battery Compatible, Max 1012 Lumens, Compact and Powerful for Outdoor and EDC Ti Pro CW

If you need a dependable and powerful flashlight, look no further than the ThruNite Ti Pro. This compact flashlight offers a maximum lumen output of 1,012 lumens and a throw distance of 416.6 feet. Its IPX8 rating means it's fully waterproof, and the robust 6061-T6 aluminum body is built for durability. Priced at just $20, it's a cost-effective yet high-performance addition to your EDC gear, ideal for those who demand reliability in their lighting tools.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$19.99 at Amazon

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