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Everyday Carry for Everyday Preparedness

Writer's picture: Brett BurnsBrett Burns

Everyday Carry (EDC) has become a popular trend in recent years. Grown men outfitting themselves with accessories for every possible scenario—combs, flashlights, titanium toothpicks… and for goodness’ sake, the hankies! Scrolling through social media and seeing pocket dumps loaded with beads, fidget spinners, toys, and all sorts of extras can feel overwhelming.

As a fixer, outdoorsman, farmer, and family man, I’ll admit—I’m starting to find it all a bit much. Now, far be it from me to tell anyone what they should or shouldn’t carry. But after years of EDC experience and solving real-world problems every day, I thought I’d share some insights. These are the items that have stood the test of time for me—on the farm, on the job, and yes, chasing this dang kid around!

This is my pocket dump. No staged photo here. Yesterday, I was feeding cattle with my dad, a 70-year-old farmer with a lifetime of know-how, and I tossed this gear into the bed of the UTV. This is what I carry from 5 a.m. to bedtime. It’s helped me:

  • Replace fuses in vehicles

  • Open security panels

  • Repair laptops and roadside electronic signs

  • Adjust throttles and carburetors

  • Fix light switches

  • Cut hay strings

  • Dig out splinters

  • Start fires

  • Thaw water lines

  • Field dress animals

  • Modify gear—and more

And yes, I usually carry a shemagh or handkerchief. Yesterday’s brisk, windy evening had my shemagh tucked around my neck as a gaiter.

Now, let’s take a look at Ike’s setup. Today, Ike is in “Dad mode,” traveling to support his son at a public event. Look at the similarities in what we carry. Ike’s pocket cross, gifted by Dr. Jason Hunt at Campcraft Outdoors, is always on him. His “boggin” hasn’t made it onto his head yet, and he carries cordage on his keys—something I’ve left out of my current setup because I’m never far from zip ties or hay string.

We both carry:

  • A simple pocket knife (a barlow in Ike’s case, which opens quickly with its large blade)

  • A Bic lighter (because flame throwers are frowned upon, apparently… whatever, America!)

  • Rudimentary tools (I even copied Ike’s mini screwdriver set for my keys since I’m constantly working on some machine or other)

Ike’s setup is ready to get him home from an urban setting, while my similar kit is with me here on the farm.

So here’s my question to you: Are we on to something? What do you carry every day that you find yourself using outside of a toolbox or gear bag?

We’d love to hear from you! Comment on our social media and share your EDC essentials. Let’s swap ideas and learn from each other’s experiences.

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