The Ultimate Everyday Carry EDC Knife: Budget-Friendly and Practical for Camping and Fishing
Everyday Carry (EDC) knives are essential tools for adventurers, campers, and anyone who prioritizes functionality and reliability. Balancing cost-effectiveness with robust performance can be a challenge, but I have found a perfect knife that meets these criteria: the Cold Steel AK-47.
The Cold Steel AK-47: A Durable EDC Knife
I have been carrying knives for about 40 years, and the Cold Steel AK-47 has become a staple in my arsenal. This knife is highly reviewed for its durability and self-defense capabilities. It is available for around $96 to $107, depending on the online source you choose to purchase from.
Custom Blades for Your Needs
A truly excellent EDC knife is a custom blade tailored to your specific needs and desires. Here are a few examples of what such a knife might look like:
Minimalistic "Slim" Gentlemans Folder
This blade is perfect for those who need something light and functional in their pocket. It features a Japanese-style clay heat treatment with a hamon, indicating the high carbon nickel steel throughout the blade, pins, and lockback mechanism. This ensures uncompromising performance and improved rust resistance.
Tactical Folder for Urban Use
If you live in an area with strict knife laws, such as New York City, you might prefer a friction folder. The SageBrush BladeWorks 'Anachronism' is a versatile folder that avoids the general prohibitions against folding knives with locking mechanisms. It features a Modified Wharncliffe blade with a point design for close quarters and a San Mai 3-layer laminate high carbon spring steel for strength and edge retention. The blade is secured by Thunderstorm Kevlar and Stainless Steel rivets and blade pivot, with a Grade 5 Titanium stop pin reinforcing the open blade.
Creating Your Dream Knife
Your imagination can conjure up any number of perfect EDC knives, but these can come at a premium. A professional bladesmith can create a one-of-a-kind knife with unparalleled construction, suited to your specific requirements. While this option can be costly, the result is often worth the expenditure.
When working with a bladesmith, trust them to handle the material selection and heat treatment, as it is their expertise. You should specify your desired look and functionality in the concept stages. Ensure you get a concept drawing before finalizing your order, as design changes mid-build can be costly.
Personal Experience and Warranty
Both knives mentioned above were crafted from raw material to completion. The images and concept art of the 'Anachronism' are copyrighted by my shop, SageBrush BladeWorks. All knives from SageBrush BladeWorks come with an unconditional lifetime repair or replacement guarantee on the blade and structural handle components.
My guarantee is tied to my lifetime; if something goes wrong, I am here to fix it or replace it. If I am no longer here, the guarantee will cease to apply.
Whether you choose a budget-friendly option like the Cold Steel AK-47 or a bespoke, high-end creation, the right EDC knife can greatly enhance your everyday adventures and activities like camping and fishing. Trust your instincts and choose a knife that serves your needs best.