As a self-proclaimed EDC aficionado, there’s a certain joy to writing about knives, but there’s an even bigger joy to actually see them be built. If you fancy the latter, look no further than Koss, a YouTuber who’s dedicated his life to building some of the most eclectic knives and recording the entire process for people to see and appreciate. At the end, the knife gets listed on their Etsy store, almost as a reward for the viewers, giving them the opportunity to own one of the artist’s unique works. Each knife is made just once, as Koss creates and uploads the video, creating a sense of preciousness around the knife itself.
This particular beauty is perhaps one of Koss’ most minimal designs ever. It starts off as a simple hollow rectangular copper pipe and a carbon steel billet, which Koss expertly transforms into a beautiful dagger + sheath that focuses on visual purity.
Most knives try to channel an aggressive aesthetic, given the fact that they’re weapons designed to harm and intimidate. The Copper Dagger isn’t that, it’s more of a gentleman’s letter-opener that also serves as an enemy-opener too… which explains why it looks as minimal as it does. The knife eschews any unnecessary detail, relying simply on showcasing its materials. There’s no pocket-clip, no jimping, not even as much as a textured grip. Just a beautiful dagger-point blade with a fuller groove running along the center to provide stiffness and character.
A closer look at the carbon-steel blade and the fuller groove running from tip to grip.
Building the knife is a process that borders on sheer artistry too. Koss starts with a rather rusty-looking billet of steel, which he cuts, machines, sands, and hardens into the blade of the dagger. The dagger’s dimensions are machined to absolute precision, designed to fit snugly into the copper pipe he sourced too. Once ready, Koss soft-hammered the pipe over the dagger, ensuring a tight, glue-less and screwless fit. The full-tang blade then got a bit of sanding done on the back, revealing both the metals with a neat bevel detail.
Sadly, the Copper Dagger didn’t last too long on Koss’ Etsy store. Priced at $420, the dagger saw an immediate buyer who snagged this minimalist beauty. However, if you’ve got the tools and the energy, the YouTube video above should serve as a how-to guide if you want to build your own EDC knife too!
Everyday Carry (EDC) is everywhere, and they come in all shapes and sizes with what appears to be an unlimited laundry list of features. However, if you’re the type of person who wants a simple yet elegantly designed utility knife that lives side by side with your keys, then the KIWI, a titanium trapezoid utility knife, could be considered as striking the perfect balance between functionality and convenience that stand out as indispensable tools. With its focus on precision cutting and ease of use, unlike the conventional multitools that aim to cover a broad range of functionalities, the KIWI carves its niche by excelling in what it does best: cutting with unparalleled precision and reliability.
The design philosophy of the KIWI is rooted in minimalism, stripping away the unnecessary to focus on the essential. It boasts a sleek titanium blade holder that houses a standard trapezoid utility blade, epitomizing the “less is more” approach. This design choice enhances the knife’s aesthetic appeal and ensures its functionality, allowing for smooth and effortless blade deployment and retraction. I respect the idea that simplicity can coexist with efficiency, offering a seamless cutting experience without the fuss.
Crafted for standard trapezoid utility blades, KIWI boasts a quick-release design for effortless blade replacement
One of the most notable features of the KIWI is its quick-release blade mechanism. This thoughtful design addresses the common issue of maintaining a sharp edge in utility knives. This feature allows for easy and quick blade replacement, ensuring that you’re always carrying around a knife that’s always ready for action. The knife’s lightweight yet robust construction is another hallmark of its design. By hollowing out a significant portion of the titanium sheet, the KIWI achieves an impressive lightness akin to a quail egg without compromising strength or durability.
Changing the blade is exceptionally convenient—effortless for anyone, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
The one-piece structure, specifically designed to work with standard trapezoid utility blades, measures 5.2mm in width, 25.1mm in height, and 76.6mm in length. I like comparing the Kiwi to a bespoke Italian suit for an everyday utility blade, which can be easily replaced when dull. Changing blades in small knives can often be a cumbersome and risky task, but the KIWI addresses this issue with a blade change mechanism that is both safe and simple.
KIWI’s user-friendly method of changing blades involves merely pressing and pushing the blade all the way out to remove it and doing the reverse to install a new one. This approach underscores KIWI’s commitment to a hassle-free experience, ensuring the knife is accessible and convenient for users of all skill levels.
In terms of blades, the housing is compatible with the standard blade and the hook, black-coated, and rounded-edge blades.
Safety is a paramount concern in the design of the KIWI, with a reliable locking mechanism that securely holds the blade in place, eliminating concerns for accidental slips leading to injuries thanks to a milled bump inside the trail serves to halt the blade, allowing precise control over the extension length. This focus on safety and the knife’s versatility makes the KIWI a trustworthy companion for many tasks, from delicate crafting projects to the rugged demands of outdoor adventures.
The addition of the built-in mini ruler, meticulously milled for precision, adds another layer of functionality, offering a convenient measuring tool that complements the knife’s primary purpose.
Its single-hand operation ensures unparalleled convenience, allowing for effortless use in various situations.
The choice of GR5 Titanium and brass for the knife’s construction contributes to its durability and stability and adds a touch of design elegance with the brass inlay decoration. This blend of materials sets the KIWI apart from its counterparts, making it a tool and a piece of art that lives on your keyring. The convenience of single-hand operation further elevates the user experience, allowing for effortless use across various use cases, from quick adjustments to precise cutting tasks.
The KIWI holds the blades safely and you don’t need to worry about the blade dropping or cutting your lap at all.
The robust mechanism, derived from the intrinsic properties of titanium and precision CNC machining, ensures a secure and reliable blade operation. The ergonomic grip, enhanced by CNC-machined grooves, provides comfort and control, even in challenging conditions, making the KIWI a tool and an extension of the user’s hand.
Once the blade is mounted, the locking bar securely locks it, preventing any accidental openings.
As a regular creator of unboxing videos for Yanko Design, I don’t require a large EDC. A beautifully crafted tool like the Kiwi enhances the production value of my videos. Since I often hold a camera or iPhone in one hand while opening a box, the ease of deploying the blade makes it both safe and effortless.
KIWI excels in a myriad of tasks, ensuring accuracy and adaptability for a wide range of uses.
A couple of convenient features include the ability to attach a 1/4 bit for times when you need to tighten or loosen screws. I use various photography accessories and mounts that require tightening; often, a hex tool is not readily available! Two tritium slots are on each side if you need to add tritium tubes.
Featuring a distinctive keychain hole, KIWI employs a 1/4 bit for effortless tightening or loosening of screws.
Lastly, the KIWI Titanium Trapezoid Utility Knife comes in two colorways: CNC satin silver or stonewashed grey. I personally prefer the latter because it creates a nice contrast between form and function.
Its minimalist design, innovative features, and premium materials make it an indispensable tool for a wide range of activities. Whether for everyday repairs, precision cutting, or outdoor adventures, I can see the KIWI being an essential addition to my EDC collection because it lives up to my expectations of an everyday carry with elegance and efficiency.
A well-designed tool needs to do more than just get the job done. It needs to be able to keep up with your needs and your lifestyle, whether it’s working on crafts or surviving the outdoors. That’s especially true for tactical knives that you need to cut through any problem at hand, not only staying sharp but also staying steadfast, safe, and strong under any conditions, especially rough ones. Tekto has always taken great pride in its growing family of powerful tactical knives, but its latest variant of the A3 Delta really ups the ante by introducing a handle made with exceptional strength and lightness and a serrated blade with enhanced cutting power, delivering the confidence you need to face any mission or task.
Designer: Tekto
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The Tekto A3 Delta automatic folding knife has always been a powerhouse in the brand’s arsenal. Inspired by the indomitable spirit of the US military, the knife’s design and features evoke a sense of unrelenting performance even in the most demanding situations. And yet it isn’t just some brute tool but also an exemplary work of fine craftsmanship, perfectly balancing power and style to bring a sharp tool that delivers both confidence and comfort in every cut.
With a new handle made from forged fiber carbon, the A3 Delta takes that experience to the next level, utilizing a material famed for its durability as well as its lightness. Together with specially designed contours and strategically positioned jimping, this new Tekto A3 Delta variant guarantees an unparalleled grip and exceptional comfort, no matter how you’re holding the knife. Plus, it looks stunningly handsome, even and especially with its rugged aesthetic.
Of course, this folding knife is more than just a handsome face. Thanks to a serrated blade, the A3 Delta Forged Fiber Carbon edition offers even more cutting power, while the same titanium-coated D2 material ensures longevity and reliability to weather any task. And this sharp blade can quickly jump into action each and every time, thanks to Tekto’s signature folding automatic mechanism that makes each deployment swift and smooth.
Of course, with a powerful knife such as this, safety becomes an even more important consideration, and the Tekto A3 Delta definitely delivers. With a button lock and safety switch working in hand-in-hand, you can rest assured that the knife remains securely closed when you don’t need it. And when you see the crimson red indicator, you know that your trusty partner is ready to cut through your tasks in an instant. Strong, stylish, and safe, the Tekto A3 Delta with a new Forged Carbon Fiber handle raises the bar in what tactical knives can offer to bring not just the power you need but also the joy of having a well-designed tool in your hand.
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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.
I’d like to think that we’re in a golden age for Titanium (I get the irony of using the term golden to describe it but let’s not focus on that)… whether it’s dominating the EDC world or even slowly carving its way into popular culture with the latest iPhone 15 Pro. Touted as the world’s strongest metal, titanium has some significant benefits that make it such a perfect pick for tools and other EDC. It’s medical-grade, corrosion-resistant, relatively non-reactive, fairly lightweight, and is nearly impossible to damage or even make a dent on. That makes it perfect for EDC, but it also means your EDC can be smaller but still have multiple functions and features, like the TiSpanner, a scaled-down version of your hefty toolkit spanner, but with a few extra tricks up its sleeve. Aside from being the size of a car key, the TiSpanner has a built-in spanner, caliper, bottle-opener, nail-pry, and tungsten-carbide glass-breaker for emergencies. It’s the perfect blend between size and functionality, and fits right on your keychain, allowing you to carry it wherever you go.
The TiSpanner is a uniquely versatile tool with a built-in precision spanner that can open/close nuts and bolts, while also functioning as a caliper tool for measuring. A rotating knob lets you make micro-adjustments to the TiSpanner’s jaws, while its meticulously machined threading ensures the kind of accuracy a pair of calipers would demand. Etched markings on the side of the TiSpanner let you calculate linear measurements, while the adjustable metal jaws themselves expand to fit hex nuts or bolts as large as M10 on the nominal scale.
Look around a bit further and you spot a few extra details that bring more value to the TiSpanner. For starters, a notch in its outer jaw, coupled with the TiSpanner’s general shape, makes it a perfect nail-pry, while a groove in the inner jaw allows the TiSpanner to function as a bottle opener. The linear design of the spanner lends itself well to both those uses, as it turns into a class 3 lever for opening bottles, and a class 2 lever for pulling/prying nails. Finally, the TiSpanner ends with quite a tactical flair, boasting a glass-breaker tip on its reverse end. Designed to be held in between your fingers with the glass-breaker pointing outwards, the TiSpanner can easily shatter even laminated panes of glass like the ones found in cars, allowing for a quick and effortless exit in an emergency.
Each TiSpanner comes meticulously machined from individual pieces of titanium, giving it incredible strength and a fairly long lifespan (I assume a couple of generations at the least). The spanner is small enough to be carried everywhere, measuring merely 2.2 inches when closed. Given its tiny size, it comes with a few slots to put in vials of tritium that help you spot your EDC in the dark, or better yet, just string your TiSpanner around a keychain and you’ll always have your multitool right at your fingertips! The TiSpanner starts at $68 USD and begins shipping in January 2024.
Opportunity rarely knocks twice, but this is one of those times. If you missed CIVIVI’s Thanksgiving Month discounts, you may be in luck! Their top-of-the-line EDC is still on a 15-25% discount, which means your new favorite folding knife is still quite literally within grasp. CIVIVI’s knives are loved by tens of thousands of patrons who form the broad EDC community. Designed to be a handy carry-on that you can keep in your pocket, bag, or even attached to the strap of your backpack, CIVIVI’s folding knives are perfect for everything from opening holiday gifts to using as a survival tool in the great outdoors if you plan on heading camping or alternatively to more temperate climates for the wintertime. The discounts make these knives absolute no-brainers, and like all of CIVIVI’s gear, they’re all built to be incredibly resilient, so your first CIVIVI folding blade might just end up being the last one you ever need… Unless you’re a collector like us!
01. CIVIVI Mini Praxis
CIVIVI’s Mini Praxis knife is a compact powerhouse that draws inspiration from its larger counterpart, the Praxis. With a 2.98-inch D2 steel drop-point blade, it balances strength and sharpness. The wide G10 handle offers excellent grip, supported by a skeletonized stainless steel liner for added stability without excess weight. Remarkably, the Mini Praxis comes at an affordable price point, making it accessible to a broad audience. Engineered as a reliable workhorse, this pocket-sized gem offers blade options in both D2 steel and stunning Damascus steel, known for its marbling patterns. The handle choices include G10, translucent Ultem, and the luxurious Guibourtia Wood for the Damascus variant. The blade measures just under 3 inches, while the overall design prioritizes compactness for everyday carry (EDC). Weighing a mere 2.77 ounces (78.5 grams) and equipped with a practical pocket clip, it ensures easy and discreet portability.
The Mini Praxis seamlessly blends compact design with uncompromising performance, making it an essential companion for modern adventurers.
What we like
Portable and lightweight
That 25% discount makes it even more attractive!
What we dislike
The 2.98-inch blade may be too short for certain applications
02. CIVIVI Baby Banter
The CIVIVI Baby Banter excels as an everyday carry (EDC) knife, combining compact design and practicality for effortless portability. Its petite 59mm (2.34 inch) blade is surprisingly versatile, thanks to the drop-point shape, suitable for various tasks indoors, outdoors, or in tactical situations. Crafted from durable Nitro-V steel with a hardness rating of up to 60HRC, the blade ensures long-lasting sharpness. The full-sized handle, made from G10, offers a comfortable and secure grip while remaining lightweight and rugged.
Incorporating the perfect balance of compactness and functionality, the CIVIVI Baby Banter is a reliable companion for daily adventures. Whether you’re tackling everyday challenges or outdoor escapades, this EDC knife is up to the task, delivering dependable performance in a compact form.
What we like
Small and powerful, like dynamite
Nitro-V Steel is much tougher than D2 Steel
What we dislike
It’s smaller than the Mini Praxis, but double the price because of that Nitro-V Blade
03. CIVIVI Qubit
Designed for those who appreciate efficiency in a small package, this unassuming knife boasts a clever feature – an integrated bottle opener discreetly hidden within the closed blade. Unfold the Qubit, and you’ll discover a classic drop-point blade, now crafted from Swedish 14C28N Steel. This choice of steel ensures exceptional resistance to corrosion, chipping, and everyday wear and tear. The Qubit also offers the convenience of a button-lock mechanism for quick and secure closure. Its aluminum handle adds both heft and maneuverability, enhancing not only functionality but also the knife’s all-metal aesthetic appeal. The knife is running a site-wide 25% discount, and CIVIVI’s just dropped a pink-handled variant which has an introductory 15% discount.
The Qubit effortlessly combines practicality and style, making it a versatile companion for various tasks. Whether you require a reliable cutting tool or a bottle opener, this knife has you covered. Its compact size and innovative design make it an essential addition to your everyday carry toolkit.
What we like
Aluminum handle gives the Qubit a premium touch
The integrated bottle opener makes the Qubit a jack of all trades
What we dislike
At 80 grams (2.82 ounces) some small-knife cravers may find the Qubit a tad too heavy
04. CIVIVI StellarQuill Pen & Button Lock Elementum II Knife Combo Pack
Although well known for their knife craftsmanship, CIVIVI also has a reputation for stepping out of its comfort zone ever so often. By which I mean that if its audience demands it, they’ll redesign one of their best knives with a new feature, like the Elementum II which now has a button lock. Heck, they’ll even design pens if there’s enough buzz from the fan base. The StellarQuill Pen and Button Lock Elementum II Knife Combo Pack are a perfect culmination of this, giving you an updated crowd-favorite pocket folder, along with a compact all-metal ballpoint pen. The Elementum II retains its modern classic status with a beloved drop-point blade, now made from Nitro-V Steel. The most notable detail is the absence of the liner-lock from the previous model, replaced by a tactile button-lock mechanism that most enthusiasts will love.
Dedicated patrons get a special-edition version of the Elementum II with an ivory-colored G10 handle and bright red liner on the inside. The knife is accompanied by CIVIVI’s StellarQuill pen, a precisely machined piece of stationery made from aerospace-grade aluminum that’s perfectly sized to slide right into your pocket. It even comes with a lanyard hole to string into your keychain or a lanyard.
What we like
The button-lock and caged ceramic ball-bearing allow you to easily deploy that gorgeous Nitro-V blade
The StellarQuill pen gets all the points for its small-yet-hefty all-metal build
What we dislike
The pen could use a pocket clip to prevent it from rolling around
05. CIVIVI Button Lock Praxis
Built on the framework of one of their most popular knives, this variation of the full-size Praxis now comes with a button lock, allowing for a more engaging and reliable deploying and retracting experience. Unlike the Mini Praxis (which has its own fan base), the Button Lock Praxis is a little larger and a little more capable, thanks to its full-size grip and 3.75″ Nitro-V blade. The blade still retains its drop-point design, which most people will say is the most popular design in the knife world, but the handle now comes made from Aluminum, giving the knife a balanced grip and a wee bit of weight (6.55oz / 185.6g) that makes it much more stable during use. If you felt like the Mini Praxis was the right design but just a tad too small for your liking, the Button Lock Praxis may just be the perfect alternative.
The Button Lock Praxis is just one of those knives that has been perfected over time and has reached a place where it arguably couldn’t be improved any further. Aside from adding extra tools/features, there’s not much you can do to make this knife better than it already is, aside from a discount I guess?! *wink wink nudge nudge*
What we like
Great value for money with that Nitro-V blade and Aluminum handle
Reliable button lock makes opening and closing easy
What we dislike
The clean design is great, but a thumb stud would have really given the Button Lock Praxis a fun opening interaction
06. CIVIVI Chevalier Ⅱ
The Chevalier II isn’t too different from its predecessor, the Chevalier, except for the fact that it now comes with a gorgeous machined aluminum handle that elevates the knife’s design. When you close your eyes and imagine a classic pocket knife, chances are your brain thinks of something like the Chevalier II – a simple, sophisticated little EDC that’s no-fuss and no-nonsense. The 3.47″ 14C28N steel blade is arguably the perfect size (not too small or big) and comes in a sheepsfoot profile that is great for cutting and slicing, and minimizes the risk of accidentally piercing yourself with the blade’s tip.
There’s something beautiful about how clean and slick the Chevalier II’s design is. This doesn’t, however, compromise on its functionality, whether it’s the balanced all-metal design, the pocket-clip that can be reversed, or the years of expertise its maker CIVIVI has in the knife business.
What we like
Gorgeous clean design with a premium metal handle
What we dislike
The lack of jimping on the top of the blade, which was present on the older Chevalier
07. CIVIVI Propugnator
The Propugnator stands out in this entire list because unlike every other knife, it comes with a fixed D2 blade that doesn’t fold into the handle. This significant design directions means the Propugnator is significantly more robust and is designed for heavy-duty tasks. If you want an EDC that doubles as a letter-opener, owning the Propugnator would be like using a flamethrower to light a candle – it’s kind of overkill. Instead, the Propugnator is built for a more hardcore lifestyle, whether it’s hunting, fishing, bushcraft, survival, or tactical use. The knife comes with a full-tang design, which means the blade’s metal extends all the way to the back, forming the skeleton of its handle. The edge of the blade measures well over 4 inches and comes with a rather edgy-looking reverse-tanto design that resembles the raw appeal of chiseled obsidian. You’ve got a choice between G10, Micarta, or Ultem handles, which give your knife a distinct design and tactile grip. The fixed-blade structure means each knife also comes with its own sheath crafted from Black Kydex, with a loop that lets it attach to your pants or belt loop.
The Propugnator, which means defender or vindicator, is far from your average EDC knife. It clearly means business and nothing else. The full-tang fixed D2 blade is sturdy and reliable, and that sculpted reverse tanto edge works remarkably well for all sorts of cutting, piercing, slicing, stabbing, and scraping tasks. Look away if you’re faint-hearted…
What we like
The raw, brutish design and grippy ergonomic handle is perfect for tactical use
What we dislike
The fixed-blade design makes the Propugnator significantly bigger than its folding friends, which won’t appeal to people looking for compact knives.
08. CIVIVI Typhoeus
The Typhoeus takes the term ‘folding knife’ to an entirely new level. While most knives simply have a blade that folds into a handle, the Typhoeus has a folding handle too that transforms from your regular handheld knife to a push-dagger-style knife that’s better suited for all-out tactical warfare. While the likelihood of needing a push-dagger as EDC is fairly low for us common citizens, the Typhoeus conveniently gives us the option with its convertible design. The knife sports a 2.27″ clip-point blade crafted from 14C28N steel, sitting within a two-part G10 handle that morphs from a linear form factor to a T-shaped one that you can hold in the grip of your hand with the blade pointing out between your fingers. “Perfect for general work or self-defence,” says one reviewer on CIVIVI’s site, and we can’t help but feel that might just be the best way to describe the Typhoeus… a perfectly good everyday folder, but with a wild alter-ego!
The knife’s Dr. Jekyll-Mr. Hyde persona is perfect for anything life throws at you, whether it’s an Amazon parcel or a mugger. Each knife also comes with its own black leather sheath that lets you stash your bad-boy away when not in use.
What we like
Innovative shapeshifting design
Fun to fidget with!
What we dislike
The folding handle means there’s no locking function, which might be a deal-breaker for some
There’s no pocket clip on the knife, but CIVIVI makes up for it with a leather sheath
09. CIVIVI Button Lock Brazen
Like the Typhoeus, the Brazen too has a tactical personality. It boasts an edgy, aggressive design with an American Tanto-style blade that offers dual edges and a pointed tip, perfect for piercing, slicing, chopping, and more. Crafted from 14C28N steel, the 3.46-inch (88mm) blade is housed within a slim yet grippy G10 handle, and in this variant, it ditches the liner lock for a button lock. Rightfully christened Brazen, it isn’t afraid of challenges, making it the top choice for those who confront adversity head-on. With a weight of 3.91 ounces (101.8 grams), it’s a practical everyday carry that’s ready to prove itself, and be carried everywhere you go, thanks to the deep pocket clip attached to the handle.
The Brazen, now with a button-lock, is effortless yet tactical – which sound like conflicting attributes, but they aren’t. The Button Lock Brazen is a lovely companion that gives you two edges for the price of one (thanks to the American Tanto blade), allowing you to cut, pierce, score, and do everything you would with your knife, using whichever edge you find more convenient. It also has a cool-kid aesthetic that should rub off on you too, making everyone ask you where you got your EDC from.
What we like
Two separate edges, where one can be used for scraping or opening packages, while the other can be used for slicing
What we dislike
The double-edged American Tanto blade can be a little tricky to sharpen
10. CIVIVI Vision FG
The Vision FG is our new favorite CIVIVI knife because it ticks all the boxes with an eye-catching ambidextrous design, a unique handle that comes with holes that let you peek through and see the blade when closed (and also make the knife lightweight), and a Superlock on top that lets you effortlessly deploy and dock the knife’s highly capable blade in seconds. Before we admire the superlock and the handle, it’s worth noting that the Vision FG comes with a different kind of drop-point, boasting a straight-back that gives the blade a ‘belly’ of sorts that lets you rock the knife back and forth while using it. The blade, crafted from Nitro-V, measures a respectable 3.54 inches (89.9mm), and will slice even through paracords with practically zero resistance. The handle, on the other hand, comes in translucent Ultem, highly durable Micarta, and the standard G10 variants. A noteworthy detail is the presence of holes that make the handle rather interesting to look at, giving it visual as well as physical lightness (the Vision FG weighs 4.35 ounces or 123.4 grams). Built into the top of the handle is a superlock that relaxes the blade, allowing you to deploy or retract it in milliseconds. The superlock is unique to just the Vision FG, and play with it once and you’ll never want to go back to a button or liner lock ever again!
The Vision FG is a rare combination of good-looking, powerful, and uniquely pleasurable to hold and use. The ambidextrous handle and superlock are sure to keep your hands and fingers occupied at all times, and that straight-back Nitro-V blade is formidable, to say the least.
What we like
The unique design is unlike any of the other knives on this list
That superlock is both functional and fidgety, and is arguably the feature you’ll love the most
What we dislike
Superlock exclusivity! We wish more CIVIVI knives had this kind of satisfying action.
Described by the folks at Tekto as “Compact and Formidable”, the A2 Badger is an impressive little picket blade that’s sure to be a favorite in your EDC collection.
What’s an OTF Knife you ask? Short for Out The Front, OTF Knives are switchblades with a vertical deploying action. Unlike traditional folding knives with folding/rotating blades, the blade of an OTF knife slides forward and backward out of the handle rather than swinging open on a pivot. This mechanism is typically operated by a switch or button located on the handle. OTF knives are known for their quick and easy deployment, making them popular among military, law enforcement, and outdoor enthusiasts… and if you still don’t own one, this might as well be the universe giving you that sign.
Featuring an oversized lanyard hole, this knife design accommodates a wider range of attachment options, including larger cords and paracords. This enhances convenience and accessibility, especially in low-light conditions or when wearing gloves, making it an ideal tool for any situation.
Pioneered by the folks at Tekto, OTF Knives have a tactile thrill to them that folding knives don’t. There’s always that bit of surprise and a slight amount of recoil associated with activating an OTF knife that you’re bound to fall in love with. The A2 Badger, like all of Tekto’s OTF knives, is deployed by a contoured switch located on the top of the handle, right underneath your thumb. Slide the switch and the blade gets deployed out the front (hence the name). The entire process can be done with a single hand in under a second, and even with gloves on, making the OTF knife perfect for scenarios with split-second consequences.
The A2 Badger button boasts an exceptional grip, ensuring maximum grip and control in any situation.
Its precisely contoured button allows for fast and effortless ejection and retraction of the blade.
Measuring a mere 5.26 inches when open, the A2 Badger is Tekto’s smallest OTF knife sporting a 1.8-inch tanto-style blade made from titanium-coated D2 steel. Although the 1.8-inch blade is smaller than your average pocket flipper, the A2 Badger still is quite a nimble beast, making it a favorite among both enthusiasts as well as tactical personnel and first responders. The tanto-style blade comes with a pointed tip and two sharp edges that make it perfect for all sorts of knife strokes. The titanium-coated D2 steel blade holds its edge incredibly well, taking on benign indoor activities, outdoor excursions, and even tactical scenarios with ease. For getting out of emergencies, the A2 Badger also packs a glass-breaker on the rear of its handle, helping you make quick exits.
With its compact and lightweight design, the A2 Badger is both easy to store and transport, making it a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts and those with limited space.
Weighing a mere 2.18 ounces and measuring just 3.3 inches when closed, the A2 Badger holds the title of being Tekto’s smallest and lightest knife. It’s built to be ambidextrous, and comes with a 6061 Aluminum handle that houses the OTF mechanism that’s backed by a button lock system so the blade doesn’t slide in while you’re cutting. A pocket clip can be attached to either side of the handle (depending on whether you’re right or left-handed), and a wide lanyard hole allows you to string your A2 Badger to your backpack, around your neck, or even your keychain for carrying wherever you go. The A2 Badger comes in 3 grip color variants – Black, Desert, and OD Green (Olive Drab Green) with a black-coated blade and a 15% discount on its $139.99 price tag.
There are Christmas ornaments and then there is The James Brand Throwflake. This ninja star (or Shuriken star to be precise) is designed to be ready this Christmas for Home Alone action in case those buggers slide down the chimney with bad intentions.
You are going to get a lot of questions asked about this one hanging from your tree though. That said, it’s always better to safe rather than sorry. Yes, you can use this collectible by TJB as your make-shift defense weapon to catch goons off guard. Don’t let your kids anywhere near this one and hang it up high on the Christmas tree, because you know, kids can be unpredictable!
The Oregon-based everyday tool maker wants to give modern explorers a reason to sit back for a while and enjoy the Holiday spirit with loved ones. They even give a warning for keen buyers not to use this as a weapon post the Christmas celebrations since it has “6 very sharp” points. That signals the ninja star could be as good as a knife, good enough to cut through objects like wood or even tin cans. This could also double as a defense tool out in the wild where anything handy in the pocket is critical.
The snowflake-shaped EDC cum ornament comes with a lanyard to hand onto the tree and it does impress with its sheen. Off the holiday tree and this becomes your secret weapon or tool in uncharted territory. For a price tag of $40, The Throwflake is hard to miss and TJB sure knows how to keep up with the holiday fun. So, are you going to get this one for your Christmas tree?
The three ideological aspects behind every portable multi-tool probably are versatility, performance, and user experience. Take one facet out and you’re left with little or no sense to carry the product in your tool bag, irrespective of whether you’re a professional or a self-taught DIYer. If there is someone who understands this better than the other tool-set builders, it’s Arrowmax… Well into its fourth essential portable tool, Arrowmax delivers the M1 Pro, an electric screwdriver, primarily with precision and intuition as its basis. It also comes with five-level controllable torque taking out the elbow-grease you’d require with a manual screwdriver, and the unintuitive power of most electric screwdrivers that require a learning curve. The M1 Pro’s beauty is that you don’t need a learning curve. The motor activates as you grip and turn the driver, automatically rotating clockwise or counterclockwise to open/tighten any screw you need to contend with.
Settings are automatically saved to the screwdriver, allowing it to resume in the last used mode even after being switched off.
The M1 Pro’s design sees a few significant upgrades over its previous models – something that hasn’t happened in a while. For starters, it arrives with a new handle design and touch-sensitive interface, which for many takers would transcend traditional experiential boundaries. Switch buttons near the head offer seamless screw fastening and removal with just a simple touch, while an OLED screen displays dynamic icons and battery power status when charging. The main stake of the inventive screwdriver is the enclosed package of 60 extended S2 steel bits it comes packed with. These various length bit bars and extended rods magnetically snap to or detach from the screwdriver head, enhancing the M1 Pro’s application range manifold and making it a versatile companion for a design project you wish to undertake.
Cutting-edge oval design for improved grip and control
The M1 Pro trades the usual screwdriver handle design for an ergonomic oval body – made from aluminum alloy – improving grip and control. The tool’s compact size permits a precise distribution of weight to reduce hand fatigue during prolonged usage. M1 Pro doesn’t just stop at versatility; it takes performance to a new level with a revamped circuit board, a powerful motor, and control software to meticulously execute touch and motion-activated controls, providing a seamless and efficient user experience.
One of the standout performance features of the M1 Pro still is its ability to function within five-torque modes: the first is A (Auto) mode, where torque is decided by manual or gesture control feature and the other four torque levels range between 1 – 10 kgf.cm. The screwdriver also comes with integrated shadowless LED lights that illuminate the work area, allowing you to even operate in low-light situations without needing someone to hold a torch. The multiple torque modes and shadowless lights have remained one of Arrowmax’s most prized features, so it’s no surprise that they make it to their latest flagship.
It’s not all manual doing here. You can control the torque settings wirelessly with the M1 Pro’s mobile app, available on Google Play, Apple App Store, and Arrowmax. For added smartness in the process, Arrowmax has equipped the M1 Pro with a proprietary Smart Motion Control system (SMC), which allows the screwdriver to be gesture-controlled by the direction you twist your wrist. The motor automatically adjusts torque and direction based on the angle of your hand rotation. Using the app, however, you can customize torque settings for each of the modes, and enjoy the convenience of automatic saving as well. The screwdriver saves the settings you’re working in to resume in the last used mode even after being switched off. And since Arrowmax understands that its tool will be required and should adapt to every situation equally, it can transition to manual mode when electric mode lacks sufficient power, and you continue working without losing a second.
M1 Pro is equipped with fast Type-C charging
The M1 Pro’s effectiveness of the torque and its performance are governed by the built-in 600mAh LiPo battery. This gives the screwdriver a working time of 90 minutes. To put that into perspective, the M1 Pro should be able to tighten or loosen over 900 screws on a single charge. Charging is handled by a Type-C fast charging cable that juices the unit fully in 100 minutes. The tool has a rubber back cover to help with battery replacement without any professional assistance.
M1 Angle Screw – precision at a new angle
The resourcefulness of the M1 Pro really takes a prominent twist with the interesting M1 Angle Screw you get with the M1 Pro Plus edition. Crafted from CNC-machined 7075 aerospace-grade aluminum and featuring steel gears, the special Angle Screw attachment is designed to negotiate tight spaces and challenging angles with ease of maneuvering and working on screws in upright and straightforward positions. The whole Arrowmax M1 Pro package is delivered in an aluminum storage box, again CNC-machined for durability and sheer precision. The M1 Pro box organizes bits efficiently with a magnetic compartment inside so you can remove and snap them back seamlessly during an efficient operation or a creative endeavor.
This versatile tool provides exceptional performance and precision for a wide range of tasks
The M1 Pro also comes with a standard M1 variant, which has the same number of drill bits, the same 10 kgf.cm torque output, torque modes, and battery capacity. The only features it lacks are the Smart Motion Control system (that lets the screwdriver automatically identify torque and rotating direction with your wrist movements), Bluetooth control, and a capacitive-touch display. The touchscreen display gets replaced with a button-operated interface and a smaller screen, like the ones seen in Arrowmax’s previous devices. The M1 starts at a respectable $59 discounted price, while the M1 Pro boasts a price tag of $89 (36% off its original $139 price). Both the M1 and M1 Pro ship globally, making them perfect a perfect addition, nay upgrade, to your existing DIY toolkit!
