Remember those thick pens back in the ’90s and early 2000s with three-four refills that could individually be deployed? The same pen could write in red, blue, black, or even green, and truth be told, that’s about as versatile as pens got back in the day, but not today. Something as slim as a pen today can write, measure, cut, carve, assemble/disassemble, and even break windows. Meet the Ti-ONE, a 6-in-1 pen-shaped EDC multitool that doesn’t pack a punch, it packs an entire 6-step melee combo. The tool, no bigger than a pencil measuring less than 4 inches tall, packs a Cutting Blade, a Craft Blade, a multi-bit Screwdriver, an Eternal Pen, A Window-breaker, and even a multi-unit Ruler or Scale. Crafted from either titanium or stainless steel depending on the variant you choose, this tool is both lightweight and remarkably durable, making it a perfect companion whether you’re camping outdoors or just tackling everyday tasks at home. At just 90mm (3.5 inches) in length and 10mm in width, it’s sleek, sophisticated, and engineered to perform.
The Ti-ONE’s six tools exist within a modular form factor no larger than the average index finger. The body features a multi-point swiveling design that either reveals the Ti-ONE’s cutting blade, or a hex-bit docking zone that lets you attach a variety of modules from screwdriver bits to stationery. The swiveling design has a unique fidget-like quality to it, but it also gives the Ti-ONE the ability to shapeshift between tools and even transform into a high-torque driver just in case you’re working with tough screws and bolts.
The first tool is the Ti-ONE’s Cutting Knife, a built-in drop-point blade. Made from steel, the blade offers the ability to achieve quite a few indoor or outdoor tasks, from opening mail to cutting/whittling branches outdoors. It’s fairly durable and lends itself rather well to intense tasks, but the best part is its ability to un-dock from the knife, letting you detach it when you want to carry your EDC on flights.
While the Cutting Knife has its specific skill-set, for other kinds of cutting, you’ve got a Craft Knife mount that accepts scalpel blades. The cutting knife isn’t replaceable, but the Craft Knife’s blades are. They’re ridiculously sharp, making them perfect for working with precision, whether it’s slicing paper, working with materials like leather or cardboard, or even carving/scraping hard materials like plastic or soft wood. Scalpel blades, made from surgical-grade steel, are a little more fragile than the Ti-ONE’s own knife, which is why they’re designed to be replaceable. They come in a variety of styles too, so you can alter the shape of the blade too – something that makes them a tad more versatile than the included Cutting Knife.
Moving beyond blades, the Ti-ONE comes with an ‘Eternal Pen’ module that lets you almost literally write forever. Designed to write up to 10,000 meters, it becomes an indispensable companion for anyone on the go. The pen fits effortlessly into the compact frame, always ready for those moments of inspiration or necessity. Whether you’re sketching out a design, jotting down field notes, or signing documents, the Eternity Pen delivers smooth, reliable performance. Moreover, built with a standard threaded design, the Eternal Pen’s nib can be replaced for traditional graphite or even any color-pencil nibs, giving you a veritable stationery set in your palms.
When it comes to functionality, the Ti-ONE’s screwdriver is a standout feature. But this isn’t your average screwdriver—it’s engineered for versatility and strength. Dock the bit in and you’ve got yourself a standard screwdriver that’s fairly elementary… but swing the Ti-ONE’s outer arm down and you now have an L-shaped screwdriver, allowing for high-torque use that makes it ideal for both small, precise adjustments and heavier jobs. Whether you’re fixing something at home or tackling a repair on the go, the tool’s design ensures that you have the leverage you need without the bulk of a full-sized driver. The clever, external extension port means it can reach deep, narrow spaces that traditional screwdrivers struggle to access, so no screw is too far out of reach.
The L-shaped Screwdriver in action
What sets the Ti-ONE apart is its compatibility with standard hex bits, giving you the freedom to use the bits from your existing screwdriver set. It comes equipped with a single Phillips head bit, which covers most everyday tasks. But for those situations where you need a flathead, Torx, or specialized bit, you can simply swap in any standard hex bit of your choosing. This flexibility is a game-changer, transforming the Ti-ONE from a simple EDC tool into an essential part of your toolkit. You no longer need to carry multiple screwdrivers or worry about the right bit for the job—Ti-ONE adapts to your needs, effortlessly.
The square cross-section lends a few advantages to the Ti-ONE. For starters, it prevents the tool from rolling around the way a pencil or pen would, while also offering a better grip thanks to the squarish design that’s perfect for when you’re working with screws and such. However, the flat surfaces of the sides of the Ti-ONE also double as a tiny makeshift scale, allowing you to measure in both imperial and metric units. Sure, at just 3.5 inches in length, there isn’t much you can measure… but it’s still a neat add-on.
Lastly (and by no measure the least) is the Ti-ONE’s emergency window-breaker tip, which sits at the end of the device. Designed to instantly shatter reinforced or laminated glass, this glass-breaker might look small, but is quite literally the difference between life and death. The inclusion of this tool really makes the Ti-ONE a must-have EDC, allowing you to make quick exits from buildings and vehicles in an emergency. Pair it with the scalpel blade’s ability to cut through a seatbelt like a knife through butter and you’ve really got yourself a life-saver on your hands. Quite a hefty reputation for something the size of a pencil, no?!
The Ti-ONE comes in two variants, with the stainless steel version starting at $59, and the titanium at $79. Both have the exact same design and features (including even tritium slots in the body for adding glow vials), except the titanium variant has the added advantage of being stronger, lighter, rust-proof, and just being nearly 4x stronger than stainless steel, giving you an EDC that could – for all intents and purposes – last multiple lifetimes. Grab yours now and the Ti-ONE begins shipping globally in December.
Leatherman has been a trusted name in multi-tools for years, and when it comes to everyday carry (EDC), the ARC Obsidian is nothing short of the mother of all EDC tools. At Yanko Design, we appreciate practical and well-designed gear, and this multi-tool hits the mark. Made in the USA, the ARC Obsidian is built to handle everything from routine tasks to more demanding situations, making it an essential piece for anyone serious about their everyday carry.
Designer: Leatherman
A Thoughtful Blend of Functionality and Durability
Right away, the ARC Obsidian’s matte black PVD-coated handles catch your attention. The coating gives it a refined, professional look and helps protect the tool from corrosion and wear over time. The combination of the PVD coating with DLC-coated components makes this tool highly durable and able to withstand everyday use and more challenging environments.
At the center of it all is the MagnaCut steel blade. Known for its toughness and excellent edge retention, this steel gives the blade strength and longevity. Whether you’re dealing with small, precise cutting tasks or something more demanding, the blade stays sharp and resists corrosion, a must for anyone who needs reliability in their EDC.
Despite being packed with tools, the ARC Obsidian maintains a compact form. With a closed length of 4.25 inches and a weight of around 8.6 oz., it’s easy to carry without feeling cumbersome. The balance between size and functionality makes it a perfect fit for those who need a tool they can rely on for everyday tasks and in more challenging environments.
Easy Access and Ergonomic Design
One key aspect of the ARC Obsidian is its user-friendly design. Leatherman’s technology makes it easy to access many tools with just one hand, which is a huge plus when you’re multitasking or in a situation where one hand is occupied. The tools open smoothly and lock into place securely, giving you confidence in their stability during use.
The locking mechanisms are beneficial with tools like the pliers and bit drivers, ensuring that they won’t accidentally fold or shift once they’re in use. Every tool, from the scissors to the file, is strategically placed for easy access, meaning you won’t waste time hunting for the right one. The convenience of grabbing the tool you need quickly makes it a versatile option for any EDC setup.
How the tools are arranged also helps reduce hand strain during extended use. Whether you’re tightening a screw with the bit driver or cutting through material with the saw, everything is positioned in a way that feels intuitive and ergonomic, making the tool easy to handle over time.
Built for Versatility with 20 Tools
Leatherman has packed 20 useful tools into the ARC Obsidian without sacrificing usability or portability. It comes equipped with everything from a large and small bit driver to needlenose pliers and a saw. The MagnaCut blade, as expected, performs flawlessly across different applications, retaining its edge even after extended use.
One of the most requested features—bit drivers—has been integrated into the design with both large and small options and nine double-ended bits. This means that no matter what kind of fastening task you encounter, the ARC Obsidian has you covered. The variety of bits, including Torx, hex, and Robertson, ensures you’re prepared for almost any situation.
Additionally, the replaceable wire cutters and hard-wire cutters mean that heavy use won’t wear the tool down over time. These components can be easily swapped out, prolonging the tool’s life without needing an entirely new multi-tool. Other features like the diamond-coated and wood/metal files add to the tool’s versatility, handling everything from sharpening to smoothing rough edges.
Despite the range of tools, the ARC Obsidian remains slim and easy to carry. This balance between function and portability is one of its greatest strengths, ensuring that you always have the right tool without adding unnecessary bulk to your gear.
Ready for the Toughest Conditions
Durability is one of the ARC Obsidian’s key strengths. The MagnaCut steel blade offers exceptional corrosion resistance, toughness, and long-lasting sharpness. This material is well-suited to handle everyday tasks, but its reliability becomes even more valuable in harsher environments. Whether you’re working through routine jobs or tackling more rugged conditions, the blade is designed to maintain its edge and perform consistently over time.
The PVD-coated handles and DLC-coated components further reinforce the tool’s durability. These coatings help protect against corrosion and wear, ensuring the tool remains functional and looks sharp even after heavy use. Whether in a humid, wet environment or used daily, the materials chosen for the ARC Obsidian keep it going strong over time.
For anyone who values a tool that can handle a bit of everything—from cutting and fastening to filing and crimping—the ARC Obsidian is built to last. It’s designed with durability and functionality, making it stand out from other multi-tools, no matter the conditions it faces.
Ready for Everyday Tasks or the Unexpected
The ARC Obsidian isn’t just about extreme environments or specialized tasks. It’s also built to handle the little things you face daily. Whether you’re cutting rope, fixing gear, or just tightening a loose screw, this multi-tool is versatile enough to cover a wide range of everyday tasks.
Tools like the spring-action scissors, the bottle opener, and the wire stripper add to the tool’s usefulness in routine situations. The MagnaCut blade makes quick work of cutting tasks, from slicing through thick material to handling more delicate jobs, and the one-handed operation adds convenience, particularly in moments when you need to act fast.
Versatile for Any User
While it’s a strong choice for professionals who need a reliable tool for demanding jobs, the ARC Obsidian works just as well for those who value having a high-quality multi-tool in their everyday carry. It includes replaceable wire cutters, hard-wire cutters, and various bits, making it practical for many users.
The ARC Obsidian’s versatility means it’s not limited to one type of user. It’s equally useful for outdoor enthusiasts, DIYers, and anyone who values a reliable tool they can carry daily. With 20 integrated tools, all in a slim and durable package, this multi-tool proves that you don’t have to compromise between functionality and portability.
Leatherman’s ARC Obsidian redefines what an EDC tool can be. Whether it’s the MagnaCut blade, the durable coatings, or the carefully arranged tools, every detail is designed to provide the best in everyday use and more demanding situations. It’s the kind of tool that’s always ready, no matter what’s ahead.
The Pen might be mightier than the Sword… but the MetMo Multi Drive is mightier than pens, pencils, swords, scalpels, screwdrivers, and even drills. The sleekest multitool from MetMo’s lineup, this pen-shaped device lets you swap out graphite leads for a whole variety of other instruments, from scalpel tips to hex-bits or even drill bits. It gives you every conceivable tool in the format of an easy-to-use, comfortable-to-hold pen, replacing your entire toolkit with something so sleek yet so versatile, that you’ll want to carry it everywhere. After all, that’s what EDCs are all about, no?
With the attitude of a fancy metal stylus, the MetMo Multi Drive puts a toolshed in your palms. It looks like a pen, feels like a pen, and is designed to be held like a pen too… but features a machine collet system on the inside that lets you add modules to your EDC’s body. The Multi Drive comes with an endless list of instruments that lock into its sleek body – from 3mm graphite leads (the kind you’d use in mechanical pencils) to hex bits, metal scribes, scalpel blades, needle files, grease leads (for writing on a variety of surfaces), and even a tungsten-carbide mini drill bit.
Knife, Pencil, Scribe, Drill, File and Micro Driver.
The MetMo Multi Drive takes the compact comfort of writing tools and brings EDC tools to it. A versatile gizmo, it lets you write, sketch, cut, carve, drill, file, assemble, and disassemble, all within its small format. It’s difficult to think of who the Multi Drive is specifically for, because it has a little for everyone. Whether you’re an artist, architect, designer, craftsperson, engineer, or a maverick creator, the Multi Drive has something for you. It’s easy to use, is ridiculously compact, and in signature MetMo fashion, is made entirely out of metal because plastic feels cheap, breaks easily, and is bad for the environment. In fact, MetMo itself stands for “Metal in Motion,” underlying the company’s unwavering pursuit of engineering excellence in industrial, aesthetic and functional design.
The metal collet system, or the mechanism that loads and holds all the instruments, is a refinement of an original design from 150 years ago. With newer technologies, MetMo’s managed to scale things down massively, creating a chuck-like gripping mechanism that allows the Multi Drive to hold onto the instruments you plug into it. A two-part outer design lets you twist to tighten or release instruments, ensuring that when they’re loaded, they’re secured well… and when you’re done, you can easily swap them out for new ones. In fact, the collet is strong enough to hold weights of up to 8.1lb or 3.7 kilograms, so you know that the instruments inside are as tightly secure as they can possibly be.
While it’s easy to think of its small size as being a disadvantage, the Multi Drive’s compactness is, in fact, what makes it so great. The all-metal construction is incredibly durable, and MetMo offers aluminum and stainless steel versions of the Multi Drive, depending on what activities you’re likely to use it for. The Multi Drive also comes in distinct kits that prioritize different professions and activities. The basic 20-piece kit comes with the aluminum Multi Drive, along with graphite leads, a grease lead (that can write on cloth, glass, and even metal), scalpel blades, a flat file, two hex bits, and a metal scribe for engraving on soft metals, glasses, etc. All these activities require regular use that doesn’t put too much stress on the Multi Drive’s body. For more heavy-duty tasks, upgrade to the stainless steel Multi Drive and you can now perform more torque and pressure-intensive tasks like working with all sorts of hex bits (made from hardened steel), or even using MetMo’s tungsten carbide drills that load right onto the Multi Drive, letting you manually drill into wood and plastic with ease.
Upgrading to the steel Multi Drive gives you the option of getting its companion instruments in either a metal case or a leather craftsman pouch. The Metal Case, which is just marginally larger than a big smartphone, fits 24 hex bits, a metal scribe, a scalpel blade, and the Multi Drive itself along with a graphite lead included. The Metal Case also has an integrated graphite sharpener, and has magnets on the back, letting you mount the case on metal surfaces. The Leather Case/Pouch on the other hand has a more rustic appeal, with space for the Multi Drive, scalpel blades, metal scribe, 10 hex bits or drill bits, extra graphite nibs, 6 needle files, and some more. The aluminum MetMo Multi Drive starts at £84 (approx. $108 USD), while the black steel variant has a £109 price tag ($139 USD), and the top-end stainless steel variant will set you back £120 ($153 USD). Each MetMo Multi Drive comes with the basic set of tools, and you can upgrade your pledge to include extra tools and the metal or leather case. Do this at your own risk, you may end up abandoning all your other EDC work tools altogether!
Multitool meets a la carte dining – say hello to ZEN, an EDC multitool that lets you choose which tools you want to have on you. Unlike a Swiss Knife or any other multitool where you don’t really get to choose which tools get included, ZEN focuses on versatility and customization. It comes with an ’empty’ holder that lets you add the tools of your choice, giving you a Swiss Knife that feels truly DIY. Carry the tools you need, and swap them out at any time if you find yourself wanting a change. You shouldn’t be stuck with a multitool that is only 30% usable because you don’t use or need 70% of the tools included in the design… right?
There’s a distinct appeal to ZEN’s a la carte approach. It gives you the freedom of being able to design your own EDC like you would a desktop. A lot like picking a motherboard, CPU, GPU, and storage based on your choice, ZEN lets you add the tools of your choice to its open framework. The design offers 7 tools to choose from, and you can either add all of them to the ZEN’s holder, or stick to just the basics and keep the tools you find yourself using the most often.
The 7 tools that come with the ZEN cater to a variety of needs and requirements. You’ve got a bottle-opener, a rope cutter (which also works as a flathead screwdriver), a wood/metal file, an awl or pry-tool, a jagged toothed saw, a drop-point knife, and a screwdriver that lets you load hex-bits of your choice into its design. There’s probably never a time when you’re going to need all these tools at once, so you can choose exactly the tools you may end up requiring and carry just them instead of having a bulky heavy EDC on you all the time.
In fact, the creators of ZEN have even more tools in the works that you can buy as add-ons and attach them to your multitool. Available as separate accessories, you’ve got a ruler, comb, diamond file, scalpel blade, scissor, fish hook, bicycle spoke wrench, can opener, or box cutter, with many more tools in the works. Attaching them is as easy as hooking them into the ZEN, where they secure firmly until you need to remove them. You can build your own multitool to serve a precise scenario or series of scenarios – a camping-specific multitool would have a rope-cutter, knife, and bottle opener, while a tinkerer would require the bike spokes, screwdriver, file, and pry tool. The possibilities are as endless as your needs and requirements.
Using the ZEN is just about as simple as a Swiss Knife. The tools fold open when you need them, and slide shut into their holder when they’re done. The tools sit inside the holder in a stacked fashion, and the topmost tool can be opened with a single hand, which means it’s best to have the drop-point knife or the rope-cutter at the top, letting you singlehandedly flip it open like you would any EDC.
The ZEN’s holder or outer shell comes in one standard size that fits multiple tools inside it, but offers 3 different materials to choose from. The most obvious (and budget-friendly) is stainless steel, but right after that is G10 fiber, which most EDC enthusiasts will love for its grippy tactile feel. You can also opt for a titanium holder, which makes your ZEN virtually indestructible, although the tools on the inside are all 440C high-carbon stainless steel.
The ZEN is entirely CNC machined, from the holder down to the tools themselves. The entire multitool measures 3.54 inches in length when closed, and comes with a sturdy yet lightweight design (the weight depends on how many tools you add to your ZEN). Finally, a pocket clip on the side lets you attach your custom multitool to the lining of your pocket for easy access. The ZEN DIY Multitool ships globally and starts at $49 for the stainless steel variant, while the G10 and Titanium versions start at $55 and $69 respectively.
Rather aptly named the JOAT, or Jack Of All Trades, this modular multitool holds the unique distinction of being the perfect EDC to have on you for practically any sort of crisis. Whether it’s gear that needs fixing or beer that needs opening, the JOAT’s uniquely equipped to help. Made from titanium and with modular elements that stack together magnetically, the JOAT has its own fold-out scalpel blade, set of hex-wrenches, pry-bar, portable saw, magnetic screw-bit holder, and a bottle opener… all in one thumb-sized form factor that fits around your keychain. The magnetic modules snap apart, making them easy to use individually, and they’re all crafted from titanium, so they’ll practically last a lifetime.
While most multitools try to cram as much functionality into the tiniest form factor (we’re looking at you, Victorinox), the JOAT’s approach is a tad bit different. It uses magnetic modules that let you pull different parts of the EDC apart, giving you individual tools that are easier to use without any of that bulk associated with larger multitools. Need a knife? Just take the knife module out. Need a wrench? You don’t have to worry about any of the other tools while you’re working the wrench.
The scalpel knife is perhaps the JOAT’s most standout feature. Unlike most knives that have fixed edges, the JOAT uses a standard removable/replaceable scalpel blade that you can attach to its folding arm. You can easily attach any standard scalpel blade to the JOAT, removing it during travel (so the multitool is TSA-friendly), or replacing just the blade when its edge wears out. Standard scalpel blades are ridiculously sharp, giving your EDC multitool a great outdoor or tactical advantage. The pointed tip and deadly-sharp edge are perfect for piercing, cutting, slicing, carving, shaving, or doing anything you’d require a portable knife for. That means easily being able to navigate any outdoor situations that require a cutter, or any potential self-defense scenarios where a tactical blade could prove to be handy. The blade’s replaceable design makes maintaining your JOAT easy, allowing you to just swap out old blades for new ones instead of sitting and sharpening your knife like you would with most other multitools.
Any good multitool needs to have a bit-driver, and the JOAT takes its name and reputation seriously. Really a jack of all trades, the multitool packs a bit driver and holder in one of its three modules, allowing you to store as many as two standard 1/4″ hex bits of your choice. Although most people recommend having an Allen-bit and a flathead bit handy at all times, the JOAT lets you choose exactly which bits you want to carry along with you, letting you either stick to traditional picks or go super obscure if you’re fixing things like tech or any special gear. When in need, just take the bit you want and dock it into its holder and you have a makeshift screwdriver for any sudden emergencies when your regular toolkit isn’t around.
Got some nuts and bolts that need tightening, the JOAT packs an entire bunch of hex wrenches in its third module, along with a bottle-opener for good measure. Ranging from an M2 wrench to an M6 wrench, the standalone module is grippy and easy to maneuver, allowing you to quickly tighten or loosen bolts. The fact that the JOAT’s modules are detachable and independently usable means you can potentially use the hex wrench and the screwdriver as separate tools, allowing you to hold and tighten with the same multitool.
Finally, the JOAT’s base platform comes with its own pry tool, along with a blunt serrated edge that doubles as a nail file or even a primitive saw for buffing/filing down wood, plastic, or even soft metals. That titanium build proves rather handy here, given its status as the strongest metal known to humankind.
At just 80mm (a little above 3 inches) in length, the JOAT’s exceptionally pocket-friendly. It weighs 1.8 ounces (51.5 grams) and comes with its own loop that lets you secure it to a carabiner or even to your keychain. The all-titanium multitool starts at $69, and for another $7 you could get yourself the leather strap and titanium machined keyring to go with your EDC (shown above). If the idea of a nude metal multitool doesn’t appeal to you, there’s even an option to get a PVD black version of the JOAT for an extra $11. The all-in-one EDC multitool ships globally, and although it doesn’t come with an explicit warranty, the fact that it’s machined from grade 5 titanium should speak volumes for its durability. Let’s just say, this might be the last EDC you’ll ever need to buy…
The term EDC broadly refers to a category of belongings referred to as ‘everyday carrys’. These could be everything from your watch, wallet, phone, to more obscure devices like pocket knives, multitools, flashlights, or even stationery. Most of the EDC we cover on this website falls within the tactical category, pocket blades, toolkits, Swiss-army multitools, etc. but the AceStand has a surprising feature that goes beyond your average set of features. Sure, it’ll open bottles and cans, tighten/loosen screws, and even help you start a fire outdoors… but it surprisingly also transforms into a tiny stand for your smartphone or tablet, making it uniquely useful enough that you’re sure to carry it everywhere with your phone and other belongings. It’s EDC for your EDC, simply put!
What we personally love about the AceStand is the fact that it ticks all the right boxes when it comes to effective EDC design. It’s compact, rugged, versatile, and most importantly, it’s well-thought-out, with features you’ll appreciate almost immediately, and a few that you’ll come to love with time. It satisfies almost all EDC needs, whether it’s working with tools or repairing things, or opening items like bottles, cans, and envelopes. The fact that it’s made from titanium makes it rugged enough to pass down even to your great-grandchildren, although the built-in phone-stand may come handy now, but who’s to say if phones will even be a thing in the year 2100?!
The AceStand features a two-part body that pivots at one end, opening and closing somewhat like a clamshell. Magnets hold the device together when you need to keep the AceStand shut, providing a satisfying snap that lets you close the stand while not in need. However, opening the AceStand reveals the sheer wealth of tools integrated into the stand’s overall design. With as many as 11 different tools built-in, the AceStand becomes useful pretty much anywhere. Hex wrenches let you tighten and loosen bolts, square wrenches let you work with bicycle spokes, a standard hex bit sits sandwiched between two halves of the AceStand, and can be taken out and used for working with screws. One of the AceStand’s tip serves as a pry-bar for opening tins and prying apart nails, while the wedged design helps serve as a flint-scraper to start fires, or even a dull-enough edge to open boxes. The stand opens 180° into a flat 14-inch scale that’s perfect for drawing straight lines or even measuring, thanks to the inclusion of both metric and imperial units engraved into the top. A bottle opener can also be found in the stand’s design, letting you crack open a brewski while you’re in the middle of repairing, work, or outdoor exploration… and if a chilled beer isn’t much of a mood-lifter, the stand’s pièce de résistance is the fact that when opened at an acute angle, it lets you easily dock a phone or tablet into two cutouts on the top.
Working almost like an easel for your phone, the AceStand’s cutouts let you rest a smartphone or a tablet in both landscape and even portrait modes. The cutouts are fairly wide, working just as well with thick phone cases too, making the AceStand a rather handy tool to have for when you’re bored, when you quickly want to watch a YouTube tutorial while repairing something, or when you just want to keep your kid occupied at the dinner table at a restaurant.
Carefully placed magnets inside the AceStand let you dock a hex bit of your choice, while magnets at the tip help close the EDC when you’re done using it.
The AceStand measures roughly 7.5 inches when closed, and comes with a keychain slot that lets you easily string it along with your keys or even wear it across your neck like a modern dog tag. The fact that it weighs a paltry 53.3 grams (1.8 ounces) makes it an easy carry too. The entire stand comes machined from solid Grade-5 Titanium, making it durable, waterproof, corrosion-resistant, rust-proof, and incredibly reliable (don’t worry about it breaking while in use), and a clever inclusion of three tritium slots on the outside let you add glowing vials in your EDC, so that it’s visible even in the dark.
The AceStand starts at a discounted $59, ships globally, and should easily last decades even with sustained usage thanks to the titanium construction (even though the maker doesn’t explicitly provide a written guarantee).
The Phantom 2.0 is an upgraded folding utility knife made from Gr5 titanium and carbon fiber sheets. It features replaceable blades and multiple ways to open it. This everyday carry (EDC) has an improved grip, double-side tritium slots for durability, convenience, versatility, and, most importantly, a safer lock mechanism. It also comes with a deep pocket clip, a lanyard hole, and smooth one-hand operation. And, it’s TSA-approved and allows for easy blade replacement. Let’s explore all these features in detail to help you determine if this EDC fits your needs for everyday tasks, traveling, or outdoor activities.
The new Phantom 2.0 is finally here, building on what people loved about the first version. It keeps popular features like the flip opening and blades you can change out. But there’s more to it this time around.
Unlike ordinary pocket knives, The Phantom 2.0 is a folding utility knife made from Gr5 titanium, boasting real carbon fiber sheets.
Backers and owners of the Phantom 1.0 love this product so much that they’re sharing their “backer number” along with comments about their anticipation for the release of version 2.0.
It’s a brilliant move for EDC Monster to listen to what users say and keep the well-loved features while adding additional cool updates. Now, there’s a thumb stud and a back flipper for opening it, making it easier to use with one hand. They’ve also added something neat: slots for tritium, a type of glow-in-the-dark material. This means no more fumbling around in the dark trying to find your cutting tool.
These updates are all about making Phantom 2.0 more useful and user-friendly. It’s clear that the feedback from users really shaped this new version, making it a tool that’s even better suited for everyday tasks.
Next, let’s detail the differences between versions 1.0 and 2.0. The Phantom 2.0 introduces several key enhancements to its design, making it an even more reliable and user-friendly everyday carry tool.
Firstly, the grip has been significantly improved. In addition to the existing groove on the side of the frame, additional lines and grooves have been added to both sides. This design ensures a more stable and comfortable hold between the thumb and index finger, enhancing the overall grip during use.
Safety and ease of operation have also been addressed with a safer lock mechanism. The liner lock has been extended by 0.59 inches to facilitate better locking functionality. This longer Liner Lock feature enhances the knife’s reliability and security, allowing users to focus on the task at hand with increased confidence.
The centerpiece of this Everyday Carry (EDC) is the cutting feature. It reliably performs tasks such as slicing through paper, carpet, cartons, leather, PVC, and even fruits over time.
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Accessing the blade only requires one-hand operation thanks to the roller bearing mechanism. Common utility knives often jam with frequent use, hindering smooth and rapid operation. The Phantom 2.0, equipped with a roller bearing mechanism, is a folding knife capable of opening in 0.5 seconds. It opens and closes swiftly and smoothly, maintaining its performance over time.
The Phantom 2.0 introduces a range of opening mechanisms to cater to different preferences and situations, making the knife more versatile and user-friendly. The back flipper opening is a standout feature that allows for quick and easy unfolding of the knife with a simple flick of the index finger. This method ensures a smooth and reliable action, providing users with immediate access to the blade when needed.
In addition to the back flipper, the Phantom 2.0 features a front flipper opening, a new addition not found in its predecessor, the G1. This design includes an extra flip tab located at the top of the blade, enabling users to effortlessly unfold the knife with a single motion. This alternative method offers an additional way to quickly deploy the blade, enhancing the knife’s functionality.
Furthermore, the Phantom 2.0 is equipped with a thumb stud, allowing for swift and easy blade access using just the thumb. This feature adds to the knife’s versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of cutting tasks. The inclusion of the thumb stud, alongside the front and back flipper openings, ensures that users have multiple reliable options for opening the knife, catering to personal preferences and situational needs.
As we’ve already briefly mentioned above, another significant upgrade is the addition of double-side Tritium Slots. Unlike the previous model, which only has one, the Phantom 2.0 comes with a tritium slot on each side, measuring 1.5 x 6mm each, to ensure that you can effortlessly locate your knife in any low-light environment. This improvement makes the knife an indispensable tool in various low-light or emergency situations, ensuring visibility regardless of its position.
There’s also an add-on option for glass luminous vials and tritium vials (both come in several color options) to meet your different needs and preferences.
The blade replacement mechanism has been upgraded for even greater convenience. The small metal plate has been redesigned to facilitate easier blade installation and disassembly, making blade maintenance more effortless than ever. EDC Monster is very proud that while maintaining the excellent features of the Phantom 1.0, the Phantom 2.0 is also TSA-compliant. Remove the blade, discard it, and keep the handle. This makes it an ideal travel companion for all your creative needs.
Tying everything together, the Phantom 2.0 enhances everyday carry convenience and security with its thoughtfully designed deep pocket clip, positioned strategically in the middle of the knife to ensure secure and discreet placement. Additionally, it features a keychain hole designed to accommodate a lanyard bead, adding a layer of personalization and versatility. This specific design not only elevates the functionality but also the aesthetic appeal of the knife, making it a more tailored and essential component of your everyday carry.
Together, these enhancements make the Phantom 2.0 a superior choice for an everyday carry knife, combining improved functionality, safety, and ease of use in one sophisticated tool.
New Year New Gear, they say… but before we explore what 2024 has in store for us, here’s a look at our top EDC gear from the year gone by. Our love for EDC only grew in 2023 as we began venturing outdoors again (you know, after the entire 2-year house arrest), and we honestly believe 2023’s been a golden year for the category. Titanium finally went mainstream, with Apple adopting it for their flagship 2023 iPhones, and we saw multiple independent creators taking to platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo to bring their EDC visions to life!
So what really constitutes this list and how did we arrive at our top ten? It’s simple, really. All the EDC have a few things in common. They’re built to be compact, robust, highly utilitarian, and have a wow-factor, whether it’s a unique feature, or just stellar craftsmanship. We’ve even awarded a Best EDC Design of 2023 to a certain multitool so scroll ahead to know more about why we loved it so much!
1. Prytium Titanium Multitool by G.S.G (Best EDC Design of 2023)
With a staggering 14 features built into its compact, lightweight, machined titanium design, the Prytium Multitool wins our award for just being the most versatile, capable, and handy piece of EDC money could buy. Perfect for pretty much any situation life throws at you, the Prytium is the kind of EDC you wish you’d have if you were stranded on a desert island. It’s got possibly every conceivable tool from a folding knife to a bottle opener, pry tool, nail file, glass breaker, and even a few wrenches and screwdrivers to get you through a whole gamut of worldly situations, whether they’re mildly frustrating like a hangnail or actual emergencies that require tactical tools.
Why is it noteworthy?
Aside from being made from Grade-5 that is well known for its sheer durability, the Prytium really surprises with exactly how much it manages to pack into its pocket-friendly design. It does so rather cleverly too, offering tritium slots so that your EDC is visible even at night, a deep pocket clip so you can attach your multitool to your clothing for convenience, and my favorite bit, a removable replaceable blade that you can change whenever the old one gets dull… so you spend less time sharpening your blade and more time using it instead.
2. Septimo Multi-tool by Jeremy Valdez for CRKT
The CRKT Septimo Multi-Tool may appear to be your typical pocket knife, but it’s ingeniously designed to offer far more than just a flipper blade. Crafted to combine compactness, ergonomic comfort, and a rich array of features, this versatile tool was conceived by Jeremy Valdez, a seasoned member of the 7th Special Forces Group. Inspired by his vision of the perfect everyday carry multitool, the Septimo (which translates to ‘Seventh’ in Spanish) boasts a 2.86-inch fold-out American Tanto blade with a secure liner-lock mechanism. It also includes a built-in bottle opener, a dual-purpose flathead and Phillips head screwdriver, an adjustable wrench, and a handy glass-breaker tip for those tricky situations. Plus, with its convenient pocket clip, you can keep your Septimo Multi-Tool easily accessible, ensuring you’re always prepared for a wide range of everyday situations.
Why is it noteworthy?
Necessity may be the mother of invention, but for the Septimo Multitool, it was more like a strong survival instinct. The origin story of the Septimo is probably the wildest thing you’ll ever hear. A member of the 7th Special Forces, Jeremy Valdez was posted in Afghanistan in 2009 when his helicopter crashed during a combat operation. In the heat of the moment, Valdez realized that the tools he had at the time failed miserably at real-world applications when it came to prying open fuselage, cutting harnesses, and freeing his fellow soldiers from the blazing, mangled chopper wreckage. Some people live in the trauma of such incidents, but not Valdez. He went to the drawing board and came up with the Septimo – a tribute to his fallen brothers and sisters, and an EDC so capable it has literal military experience.
3. Rike Knife S05 by Rike Knife
This knife almost won Best EDC of the Year for just how bonkers-beautiful it is. Intricate to the point of being absolutely impossible to counterfeit, the Rike Knife S05 has one of the most unique Damascus blades we’ve ever seen. In fact, I can say with a degree of confidence that I’ve never seen a blade this beautiful. With a dizzyingly detailed pattern that’s brought about by using different grades of metal that are hammered, forged, and acid-etched to reveal the marbled texture, the S05’s blade is a literal work of art. It sports a clip-point design that folds into a titanium handle that has a marbled pocket clip too. The price of such beauty? Well, given that you’re paying for top-tier craftsmanship, the $550 price tag doesn’t really hurt as much.
Why is it noteworthy?
I’m going to sound like an absolute broken record at this point, but that Damascus blade has my heart. Almost like a piece of psychedelic art, it has something hidden in every corner, from checkers and strips to even Japanese symbols. Oh, and as far as the blade’s sharpness goes, it has a viciously sharp edge that cuts through materials like they’re made of butter.
4. KeyMaster by EDC Monster
I’d like to think that the KeyMaster is key-shaped because of its sheer ability to ‘unlock’ any kind of real or metaphorical door that holds you back. Sure, the key-shaped design means it’s the ideal size to fit on your keychain, but let’s also acknowledge the fact that this key-sized EDC has 14 different tools built in, including multiple wrenches for bicycle spokes as well as hex nuts, a few popular screwdrivers, a fold-out scalpel blade, a bottle opener, and even a miniature scale that has BOTH metric as well as imperial measurements.
Why is it noteworthy?
It’s small enough to sit on your keychain, weighs a paltry 29 grams (1 ounce), and is made from the most durable metal known to mankind. What’s not to love?! The KeyMaster is a handy-dandy EDC for when you need to perform minor repairs or when you need a small knife to cut open boxes, slice paracord, whittle wood, or defend yourself. And when you’re done, crack open a brewski with the built-in bottle opener!
5. Folding Travel Cutlery Kit by Uphold Living
The problem with travel cutlery is that in the interest of portability, it often makes a few unfortunate trade-offs. Take the spork, for instance… a two-in-one piece of cutlery that saves material/space, but is just an odd contraption that nobody loves to use. The Uphold Travel Cutlery Kit possesses the unique distinction of being a rather no-compromise solution. Designed to be as small as a bunch of credit cards, this kit contains not one, not two, but three cutlery sets that you can use just as you would the ones at home. The Uphold kit features a working spoon, fork, and knife that sit flat when not in use, but curve to assume their ergonomic shape when you need them, thanks to clever design and the use of flexible materials at exactly the right points, while relying on food-grade titanium alloy and aluminum alloy for the rest.
Why is it noteworthy?
Single-use plastic spoons and forks are a menace. Not just for the environment, which they pollute by thousands of tonnes every year, but also for humans. Why? Because flimsy plastic spoons and forks don’t offer any robust functionality at all. They bend and flex when you try to cut through food, and they’ll melt if your gravies are too hot. Uphold’s alternative is vastly better. Not only is it made from durable metals like titanium, but it’s also designed to be compact when tucked away, and incredibly functional when you need to dig into your food. The full-length design gives you all the convenience you need while you eat, and the fact that you’ve got a separate knife, fork, and spoon means no more dealing with that spork nonsense.
6. Typhoeus Morphing Knife by CIVIVI
We’re big fans of CIVIVI’s knives in general, but when I laid our eyes on the Typhoeus for the first time, I honestly felt my jaw drop a little. The Typhoeus isn’t your conventional folding knife, because it has a handle that folds too. Once you flip the blade out, you can either use it as a conventional clip-point knife, or fold the handle further to turn it into a push-dagger. This unique format gives you two knives, a conventional one and a hardcore tactical one, so you can cut open boxes and defend yourself with equal effectiveness. The Typhoeus features a 14C28N steel blade sitting within a G10 handle, but our eyes are on the Damascus steel variant that gets an upgraded aluminum handle for a more robust experience.
Why is it noteworthy?
The novel format is exciting and really reinvents a category (knives) that doesn’t see too much out-of-the-box thinking as far as mechanisms are concerned. Plus, with the Typhoeus you really get two knives for the price of one, and that itself should be enough to convince the moderate skeptic!
7. A2 Badger OTF Knife by Tekto Knives
Another one of our favorites remains Tekto’s OTF range. In a world where most portable knives have blades that swivel inwards and outwards, Tekto’s OTF (or Out The Front) knives shoot outwards when you hit the switch on top. The A2 Badger grabbed our eye this year for how compact yet capable it was. It eschewed the spear-point edge seen on most OTF blades for an American Tanto-style blade, crafted from titanium-coated D2 steel, and features a glass-breaker tip on the reverse end of the handle, giving you a knife that’s dangerous from head to toe!
Why is it noteworthy?
We firmly believe that if you’re an EDC enthusiast or even an amateur collector, you NEED to have an OTF knife in your arsenal. The A2 Badger, to that degree, is perfectly compact, well-built, and designed to be reliable and last long. The titanium-coated blade holds its edge remarkably well, and that aluminum handle feels great in your grasp, whether it’s for cutting or for shattering even laminated glass. When all’s said and done, that pocket clip lets you slide your OTF knife right into your jacket or pants, for another day.
8. M-Stand Titanium Multitool by ActMax
The M-Stand proves that there’s always room for more features in an EDC. It might look like your conventional push-dagger, but the M-Stand, as its name suggests, also doubles as a stand for your smartphone or tablet simply by splitting it apart into its two halves. Neodymium magnets hold the two titanium halves together, giving you an EDC you can wear around your neck simply by sandwiching a chain between the left and right elements of the M-Stand. However, when you need to use its vast catalog of features, split it apart and you’ve got two knives that also have built-in features like hex wrenches, a bottle opener, a paracord cutter, pry-bar, fire starter, and the phone stand, as I mentioned earlier. Snap them back together and you’re armed with a rather capable spear-point push dagger that you can wear between your knuckles and use for everything from self-defense to shotgunning a beer-can!
Why is it noteworthy?
The beauty of the EDC industry is its rather low barrier to entry. Sure, you’ve got a few big-name brands that dominate the category, but then an independent small-time creator shows up with a novel design and a Kickstarter campaign, getting the entire EDC community excited to see something new. The M-Stand is that novel design. It’s unlike any multitool we’ve seen. It does its job well, and has a fidget-like quality that’ll have your hands and eyes falling in love with it every single day!
9. Batch #003 Knife by Leatherman
When it comes to multi-tools, Leatherman is practically a household name. Back in 1975, during a European holiday, Tim Leatherman and his wife Chau found themselves encountering leaky hotel plumbing and making roadside repairs to their temperamental Fiat. This experience sparked a brilliant idea that gave birth to the plier-based multitool – a remarkable innovation that Leatherman is renowned for pioneering. Based out of Portland, Oregon, the Leatherman company still champions this category as one of the most functional tools in their catalog, but earlier this year, the company developed a new kind of EDC that caught our fancy. The Batch #003 isn’t your everyday EDC knife. It comes with Leatherman’s proprietary interchangeable blade system. Press a button and you can pop out the old blade for a new one. Unlike most knives with replaceable standardized blades, Leatherman actually makes their own blades in-house, offering you a choice between a drop-point and a sheepsfoot blade, both made from 420HC stainless steel and completed with a stone-washed finish.
Why is it noteworthy?
Aside from being a gorgeous folding knife, the Batch #003’s proprietary blade-changing system sets a standard that I really hope more knives follow in the future. It’s difficult to sharpen some types of blades (especially serrated ones), and discarding a knife for just that fact seems like a truly wasted potential. Swapping blades is a great way to prolong a knife’s overall lifespan. Did I also mention that the Batch #003 comes with its own torx and bit drivers too? Just as a nifty cherry on the cake!
10. 8-in-1 EDC Multitool Scissors by Eiger Design
The world of EDC goes well beyond just knives. It also includes tools, fidget toys, stationery, wallets even… but you’ll be hard-pressed to find an EDC scissor, yet here we are. Perfect for indoor and outdoor culinary adventures, this 8-in-1 EDC Scissor comes apart to double as a set of knives… but what’s more interesting is the fact that it also has a built-in bottle opener, can opener, nut-cracker, and even a fire-starter, all in one handy package. Quite like the M-Stand from before that splits into two, this pair of scissors can separate into its individual halves, giving you two knives, and a variety of multitools on demand. Put them back together and the hefty scissors can cut through hard materials like cured meats too, while also relying on a serrated mid-section to crack through walnuts.
Why is it noteworthy?
This gizmo is the kind your kitchen couldn’t live without, but it’s also perfect for outdoor cooking on a camping trip. Use it as a single scissor, two handheld knives, or by its whole gamut of features… the 8-in-1 EDC Scissors get points for being clever, practical, and reinventing an aspect of life that isn’t just outdoor/lifestyle. Pair it with Uphold’s travel cutlery for the ultimate cooking experience outdoors! Oh, and if you’re looking to buy your own pair of scissors, we recommend checking out the YD Store.
Most carabiners are designed for strength, some have multitools built into them, but the KeyUnity KU02 is cut from a different cloth. Sure it’s made from titanium which bestows upon it high strength and durability, but the KU02 also sports a sharp spear-tip edge that works as an ideal self-defense tool or even an emergency glass-breaker to let you make a quick exit. Yes, it also has two built-in wrenches (one of which doubles as a hex driver) and a keychain holder, but let’s be honest, they aren’t exactly the KU02’s most ‘exciting’ features now are they…
The first thing that jumps out with the KU02 is that design. It’s carabiner-shaped, but assumes a more tactical form factor thanks to that pointed tip. The entire thing is made from CNC machined titanium with a stone-washed finish, which means you know it’ll be durable for sure. The carabiner’s arm is made from titanium too, and relies on a clever design feature to give it its spring-loaded action. The carabiner can easily be strung along your belt for outdoor adventures, attached to your backpack during travel, or even placed in a tool-kit if that’s how you prefer to organize your EDC.
The carabiner’s pointed tip is where a lot of its appeal lies. Not only does it allow the KU02 to work as a pry-tool, it’s great for emergencies and tactical use too. Wear the carabiner around your finger and the tip becomes like a push-dagger of sorts, allowing you to defend yourself in a sticky situation, or even make a quick escape by punching through glass windows or panes. It isn’t as effective as a tungsten-carbide alloy tip, which can break through eve laminated glass in a single strike, but the titanium tip can definitely cause some damage with sustained attacks.
Other features include the two hexagonal slots on the KU02’s side – one for docking 1/4″ hex bits, and another which serves as an M4 wrench. Together, these form the utilitarian features in the KU02, allowing you to disassemble, reassemble, and repair stuff around you. Jimping around the edges gives your thumb and fingers enough textured gripping power, and when you’re not using the hex tools, the hole serves as a nifty key-ring slot, allowing you to string your keys into the KU02.
If you’ve ever gone camping, chances are you probably had to start a fire for your cooking or smores needs. As someone who has never have done this but have seen enough movies and TV shows where people struggle with it, I can only guess that it’s pretty challenging if you don’t have the right tools or if you actually don’t know how to do it. Fortunately for those who still have to do it manually, there are a lot of tools now (and YouTube).
The Fire Starting Multi-Tool from Zippo should be able to do the job for you as its name says. It’s basically a Swiss knife type of tool that has everything you need to start a fire and do other outdoorsy things. It has a flint wheel ignition that should be able to spark that fire and then add shavings from the tinder grater that’s part of the tool. It also has a 420 high-carbon steel knife blade and a double cut saw blade that should let you cut through things like branches which you also need to kindle the fire.
You should be able to start up to 15 fires at 1 inch each or 12 fires at 3 cm each with what’s included in this tool , which includes 1 flint. It also comes with a fire paracord and bail with an attachment point. For non-fire things, there is a bottle opener and screwdriver so you can enjoy a bottle of beer once the fire has been started.
If you often go outdoors and start campfires and such, this is a handy tool for you to always have with you. Zippo is even offering a combo kit which includes other fire starting tools that you may need if you ned to have those smores while exchanging campfire stories.
