FOX 479/499 FOLDING KARAMBIT KNIVES

Product Review

An Excellent Folding Karambit at a Reasonable Price

Product: Fox 479 or 599 Karambit Knife

Price: $116.12 – 127.46

Durability: Very High

Best Place To Buy This Product: Amazon.com

My Overall Rating: 9.5

Quick Product Overview

The Fox 479 G10 Black Folding Karambit is the best self-defense tool and utility knife available on the market. Whether you need a utility knife to open boxes and clamshell packaging or a reliable self-defense tool, Fox karambits are a force to be reckoned with. If you want the most reliability in any situation where a need arises for a good blade that works and works well, this is your knife.

This knife utilizes the Emerson Wave, which is the most effective and efficient deployment option available in the knife industry. The patented Emerson Wave allows you to fully deploy your karambit effortlessly with just one hand. It is strong, has a consistent edge with a high degree of sharpening,  with enhanced edge retention.  Very easy to conceal.  It has a safety ring for a sure and secure grip, even in extreme environments and the safety ring allows you to utilize in less-than lethal situations by keeping the closed karambit in your hand.  Works for hand sizes measuring 3.6″ or over across the back of your knuckles. If smaller, see Fox 599

Specifications Of This Product:

Overall Length – 7.60″ in

Blade Length – 3.00″ in

Blade Thickness – 0.11″ in

Blade Material – N690Co Steel

Blade Grind:Plain

Blade Finish – Black Teflon

Edge Type – Single Edged

Handle Length – 5.00″ in

Handle Material – G10

Handle Thickness – 0.50″ in

Handle Color – Black

Closed Length – 5.00″ in

Lock Type – Liner Lock

Liner Material – Stainless Steel

Weight – 4.60 oz

Attachment – Reversible Clip

Emerson Wave – Yes

What I Like About This Product:

This knife feels really good in my hand, has a lightweight feel, smooth to the touch. The Blade comes very sharp right out of the box and it did not need any “touch-ups” with my ceramic stone. The lockup is tight, there is zero play in the blade, this Karambit is well made and sturdy. The patented wave-shaped opening mechanism makes this knife open very easily when deploying it from my pocket.  While it does take some practice getting it to open from your pocket, this mechanism works very well.

What I Would Change About This Product:

One thing that I was not aware of until after I purchased this knife.  When purchasing this knife through Amazon or another online store, Fox knives will not insure their knives due to “being unable to confirm the original source of the product or reliability of the seller” this goes for all genuine fox karambits.

Final Remarks:

This Fox Karambit Folding Knife is a very beautiful and great knife, for the price, this is one of the best self-defense tools available. The grip is very solid due to the finger grips of the handle, it really fits my hand very well.  The blade is made from N690 stainless steel which came very sharp and seems to hold a good edge.  One of the big positives for this knife is the Emerson wave feature, that helps you deploy the blade with only one hand.  Since this mechanism is not real aggressive, it does take some practice to become successful with it.  Mine came with a hex key to change the location of the pocket clip.  I highly recommend this folding karambit for self defense use.

If you are interested in this product, click here.  If you are interested in similar products, click on the link below and it will take you to my EDC Folding Knives page, Thanks for reading this product review.

Go To EDC Folding Knives.

If you have any questions about this product review or anything else related to Everyday Carry (EDC), feel free to leave a comment below and I will be happy to get back to you.

Thanks,

Larry

Founder of EDC Essentials

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    Keep Your Knives Sharp – Use A Good Knife Sharpener

    Knives are awesome tools!  They come in all shapes and sizes, folding or fixed blade.  But that wonderful sharp blade that came out of the box will not stay that way for very long under normal use.  You will need a way to get that blade back to a useful sharpness so it can do it’s job.  There are many sharpeners on the market that will sharpen your knives, some better than others.  In this article I will talk about a few that I know to be good and then you can make up your own mind.  But it is important to keep your knives SHARP, otherwise why carry them with you!

    Work Sharp Knife & Tool Sharpener

    The Work Sharp Knife & Tool Sharpener is the first knife sharpener designed to sharpen every knife you own. Using flexible abrasive belts, the sharpener is able to sharpen not just straight bladed knives, but also curved knives, tanto blades, filet knives, serrated knives, gut hooks and virtually any other shape of knife blade. The Knife & Tool Sharpener uses precision angle sharpening guides to ensure that you get the proper angle every time. Two guides are included: a 50° guide for hunting and outdoor knives (25° per bevel) and a 40° guide for thinner blades and kitchen knives (20° per bevel).

    Professional knife makers use flexible belts to put a razor sharp edge on their blades, and now you can have the same technology at home to use any time your knives get dull. You may already have other sharpening methods, but never before has a knife sharpener been able to quickly and easily sharpen this broad range of knives to such extremely sharp results. 

    It also sharpens other common tools including scissors*, axes, hatchets, mower blades, garden shears, shovels, and most any tool with a cutting edge.

    Benchmade Guided Field Sharpener

    The Guided Field Sharpener is a compact knife and tool sharpener designed for use in the field. Built-in 20 degree angle guides ensure a consistent bevel angle across the entire edge of the blade. Five abrasive steps provide a complete sharpening solution. All elements are self contained and require no assembly in the field.  Sharpen many other other tools including scissors, fish hooks, broadheads and more.

    Spyderco Tri-Angle Premium Sharpmaker Set

    The key to sharpening any cutting tool is removing the steel at the edge while maintaining a consistent angle between the blade and the stone. Spyderco’s Tri-Angle Sharpmaker takes the mystery out of this process and enables anyone to sharpen a knife effectively with just a few minutes practice. Its durable ABS plastic base contains keyed holes that accurately set the stones’ sharpening angles at a 30° (15° each side) or 40° (20° each side) for sharpening knives. Simply keep the plane of your knife’s blade vertical and draw the edge along each stone to sharpen. It’s that simple. For serrated blades, use the rounded edges of the stones and a slightly looser grip to allow the stone to flow into the recesses of each serration. The Sharpmaker system includes two sets of high alumina ceramic stones: a pair of medium-grit (brown) stones for aggressive sharpening and a set of fine (white) stones for professional-grade finishing. A set of aluminum safety rods protects your hands while sharpening and all components snap into the self-contained ABS plastic base and lid for easy storage. Every Sharpmaker comes complete with a detailed instruction book and DVD that guides you step by step through the process of sharpening knives, scissors, awls, and many other tools.

    Smith's Pocket Pal

    Smith’s new “Pocket Pal” Multi-Functional Knife Sharpener features pre-set crossed carbides and ceramic stones, which provide the “Perfect Edge” every time. Carbides provide quick edge setting, and the specially shaped ceramic stones are designed to give you a razor sharp edge on either standard or serrated edges. A fold out, tapered round, diamond coated rod is designed for sharpening serrations and small gut hooks. Unit is compact, lightweight, durable, and comes with a lanyard hole.

    Lansky C-Sharp

    The Lansky C-Sharp features four sharpening angles (17º, 20º, 25º, and 30º) in 600 grit ceramic. It also has an 800 grit fine ceramic benchstone that can be used for polishing straight or serrated blades.  Perfect as a Lansky System accessory, or as a stand-alone sharpening solution, the C-Sharp offers the same great features as the QuadSharp, in an all-ceramic option.

    Work Sharp EDC Pivot  Knife Sharpener

    The Work Sharp EDC Pivot Knife Sharpener is a fast, easy and effective way to sharpen any knife you own. Convex Carbides quickly restore a sharp edge; while the fine grit ceramic rods hone the edge to factory level sharpness. Pivot Response follows the curve of the blade when sharpening making it easier and more consistent. Additional medium grit diamond sharpening surface is ideal for touching up knives, tools and even fishhooks. Compact size easily stows in your pack, pocket, tool or tackle box.

    Final Remarks

    Each one of the knife sharpeners mentioned work very well, I have my favorite but I will mention it later.  The first three sharpeners are larger and are better used at home.  While the last three are pocket- type knife sharprners that can be used when you are at work or at play.  My favorite sharpener is the Work Sharp Knife & Tool Sharpener, it is easy to use and works very well.  The price is fairly reasonable for the quality of sharpening that it does and I would highly recommend this a a good quality knife sharpener.  As for the pocket sharpeners, I still like the Smith’s Pocket Pal.  I have used them for years and they do a good job.  I am not saying they are better then the others, I am most familiar with the Pocket Pal and use it more often.  Check them out, you will not be disappointed.

    If you have any questions about this review or anything related to Everyday Carry (EDC), feel free to leave a comment below and I will be happy to get back to you.

    All the best,

    Larry

    Founder of EDC Essentials

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      COMP-TAC KICK & MUDDY RIVER TACTICAL CLAW

      Product Review

      These are two examples of a holster accessory that is available for many different holsters right now that all have the same end result.  They push on your belt from the inside of your pants and twist your holster so the butt of your gun is pushed inward toward your body.  I initially thought it was for appendix carry holsters only but they also work for any IWB holster.  I feel they are a necessity if you want your handgun to conceal well.

      Comp-tac Holster w/ Kick attachment
      Muddy River Holster w/ Claw attachment

      Product: Comp-Tac Kick 

      Price: $9.99

      Durability: Very High

      Best Place To Buy This Product: Amazon.com or Comp-tac.com

      My Overall Rating: 9.5

      Product: Muddy River Claw

      Price: $10.00

      Durability: Very High

      Best Place To Buy This Product: MuddyRiverTactical.com

      My Overall Rating: 9.5

      Quick Product Overview:

      The claw or kick attachments hit the market roughly a year ago and is now made by multiple companies.  These attachments are designed to ride against your belt, on the outside of the trigger guard to push the grip of the firearm towards your body.  It is quite amazing the difference it can make on mid to full size firearms.  These attachments were initially designed strictly for appendix carry.  But now they have had success in all  IWB carry holster positions.  If you are having any issues with concealment at all, this may be the answer to your prayers!  Many people are now looking to upgrade to a  IWB Kydex Holster with Claw or kick to take your concealment to the next level! 

      Specifications Of This Product:

      These attachments are available in left and right hand. The holes of the are minimum .5″ apart and maximum .75″ to be used with multiple holster products. 

      What I Like About This Product:

      The minute I put them on my holsters I could feel the difference.  The gun butt immediately turned toward my body and held it there.  There was not the slightest printing of my handgun through my cover garment.  So they work really well.

      What I Would Change About This Product:

      This attachments works very well and does not need to be changed.

      Final Remarks:

      These are two examples of products that are made on the market. I used these two examples because I have their holsters.  If you are interested in this type of attachment, check with your specific holster maker first to see if they have this attachment.  If they are made for your specific holster, it will fit perfectly.  If they do not have them, then think about ordering from another holster maker.  Regardless of who you get them from, they really help your concealability and I highly recommend them.

      If you are interested in these products, click on the links below, Thanks for reading this product review.

      Go to: comp-tac.com and/or muddyrivertactical.com

      If you have any questions about this post or anything else related to Everyday Carry (EDC), feel free to leave a comment below and I will be happy to get back to you.

      Thanks,

      Larry

      Founder of EDC Essentials

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        GUNFIGHTERS, INC., KENAI CHEST HOLSTER

        Product Review

        One Of The Best Outdoor Holster Made

        Product: Gunfighters, INC, Kenai Chest Holster

        Price: $150.00

        Durability: Very High

        Best Place To Buy This Product: Amazon.com

        My Overall Rating: 9.5

        Quick Product Overview:

        The Kenai Chest Holster was designed as the ultimate way to carry a firearm when hiking, camping, backpacking or any other outdoor activity where having a firearm on your hip is inconvenient or impossible.  This holster was designed for all day comfort, no matter what you’re doing in the outdoors, the placement of the firearm on your chest enables you to be ready for anything, without compromising on comfort or your choice of firearm.  When a firearm is placed in a secure and comfortable position, it is more easily ready to draw when needed. The Kenai Chest Holster is a perfect pairing with a modern firearm such as the Glock 40 MOS or a classic big bore revolver such as the Ruger Super Redhawk.   You can carry as big of a gun as you’d like with maximum comfort and accessibility.  

        Specifications Of This Product:

        These holsters are made of a blend of Kydex and Nylon for excellent retention characteristics, unyielding to weather and light weight.  The buckles are strategically located to be out of way of pack straps, rifle slings and binocular slings. The wide, flat webbing maximizes comfort while preventing chafing or hot spots.  It’s adjustable for most body types and can be worn low or high on the chest.  The harness has a 4-way stretch yoke to increase comfort and mobility.  The yoke was designed so that it sits flat to reduce pressure points while wearing a backpack – an important consideration when carrying a heavy load.  Your firearm is available without fumbling with snaps, straps, zippers, or buttons.

        The harness is sewn in house by GunfightersINC of 100% US made Nylon.  It’s solution-dyed for long-term durability and color fastness.  Additionally, all thread is coated with waterproofing and is UV resistant for a long lifespan. 

        What I Like About This Product:

        This holster is extremely handy and can even be worn with a backpack that has a waist belt.  I like Kydex so this holster is a natural for me.  It fits your handgun perfectly and the nylon webbing and buckles work great no matter what the weather.  The firearm snaps in this holster very securely so whether you are riding a horse, on a 4-wheeler, hiking, walking or anything else in the outdoors, this holster really works.  

        What I Would Change About This Product:

        I really like this holster and harness system and while I have used it for the last year, I have not found anything that I would change about this holster.

        Final Remarks:

        The Kenai Chest Holster is a rock solid outdoor holster.  The materials used can really defy the elements very well.  Rain, hail or snow, it works and works very well.  The design of this holster keeps it secure, where you need it to be.  The centered position on the chest allows for a quick draw from any position, even when wearing bulky winter clothing or seated in a vehicle.  No need to rig things together  or carry your firearm in your pack or on your hip.  The Kenai Chest Holster gives you the confidence you need in that split moment when every second matters. Having your handgun on your chest makes it easy to get to no matter what you have on your back.  I highly recommend this holster because it works, yes it is not cheap, but good things seldom are these days.  

        If you are interested in this product, click here.  If you are interested in other holsters that Gunfighters, INC produce, go directly to their website, see the link below.  Thanks for reading this product review. 

        GUNFIGHTERS, INC 

        If you have any questions about this post or anything else related to Everyday Carry (EDC), feel free to leave a comment below and I will be happy to get back to you.

        Thanks,

        Larry

        Founder of EDC Essentials

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          MTECH 664 BK TACTICAL KARAMBIT KNIFE

          Product Review

          An Inexpensive Fighting Knife That Works

          Product: Mtech 664 BK Tactical Karambit Knife

          Price: $10.59

          Durability: High

          Best Place To Buy This Product: Amazon.com

          My Overall Rating: 9.0

          Quick Product Overview:

          MTech Tactical Karambit Neck Fixed Blade Knife, Model MT664BK. 7″ overall. 3 1/4″ curved design karambit style blade. One-piece black finish 440 stainless construction with integrated finger ring. Machined hole cutouts. Molded black sheath with belt/pocket clip.

          Specifications Of This Product:

          • Blade Length: 3″
          • Overall Length: 7″
          • Blade Thickness: 0.13″
          • Blade Material: Stainless Steel
          • Blade Finish: Stainless Steel
          • Handle Length: 4″
          • Handle Material: Stainless Steel
          • Weight: 3.6 oz.
          • Sheath: ABS
          • Sheath Weight: 1.6 oz.

          What I Like About This Product:

          This is an excellent knife for the money.  This knife is an $11.00 knife and is made extremely well for that price. It was pretty sharp right out of the box but I touched it up with my ceramic stone and it is very sharp now.  I use it with my appendix holster as a last ditch self defense knife. Since this is only a self defense knife, I do not cut paper. cardboard, etc. with it, I just keep it for self defense use only.  It comes with a plastic sheath that is OK, but not the best in my book, I will elaborate below.  My hands are about average size and this knife fits my hand very well with minimal hot spots.  

          What I Would Change About This Product:

          The knife itself is very functional but the sheath needs some work.  The belt clip is terrible, it does not really work at all.  You can slip it on the belt but it does not stay securely.  It would be easy to drill out the rivots and rivot a new belt clip that would work, even a belt loop would be better then what came with it.  The sheath is very tight so if you attached a belt clip that would hold the sheath on your belt, it might loosen up with use.  I am going to make my own sheath out of Kydex, using a toaster oven and a clamp setup that I already make.  When I get this done I may do a quick article on how it is done.  I cannot justify spending $30 – 40 on a new sheath for an $11 knife.

          Final Remarks:

          I do not mind buying knives that are inexpensive, as long as they are comfortable and functional and this Mtech 664 BK Tactical Karambit knife is both to me.  This knife holds a good edge, sharpens easily and is comfortable in my hand.  I bought this as a self defense weopon and it can be used exactly for the purpose I desired.  If you are looking for a good last ditch knife for self defense, this might be the one you are looking for.  I highly recommend this knife but do not recommend the sheath as was shipped to me.

          If you are interested in this product, click here.  If you are interested in similar products, click on the link below and it will take you to my EDC Backpack page, Thanks for reading this product review.

          Go To EDC Fixed Blade Knives.

          If you have any questions about this post or anything else related to Everyday Carry (EDC), feel free to leave a comment below and I will be happy to get back to you.

          Thanks,

          Larry

          Founder of EDC Essentials

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            A Fighting Knife – Is It Necessary Today?

            What do you consider that is a “fighting Knife”?  Some people think that any knife that you have is considered a fighting knife.  My definition of a fighting knife is any sharp knife that is only used for self defense.  You don’t cut string, rope or cardboard with it, you keep it sharp enough to shave with but only use it to save your life.  The question is, do we need that type of knife in today’s society?  I think the answer to that question depends on where you live and the people you associate with.  Here are five fighting knives to consider.

            MTech 664BK Tactical Karambit Knife

            The MTech 664BK Tactical Karambit Knife is a nice self defense knife for the money.  This fixed blade knife is 7″ overall in length with a 3 1/4″ curved design karambit style blade. It is a one-piece stainless steel finish, using 440 stainless construction with an integrated finger ring. There are machined hole cutouts to give it a lightweight feel. It comes with a molded black sheath with belt/pocket clip.  This knife fits medium-sized hands and the finish is smooth.  It feels good in the hands and comes very sharp.

            Cold Steel Tiger Karambit Knife

            The Cold Steel Tiger Karambit knife is a thoroughly modern tactical interpretation of the Indonesian Karambit. A design collaboration between Lynn C. Thompson and the late custom knife maker Steven Likarich, the Steel Tiger was designed to possess all the best features of this iconic hooked blade and to integrate them seamlessly with modern materials and styling. The Steel Tiger’s deeply curved and needle sharp AUS 8A stainless steel blade is vacuum heat-treated and sub-zero quenched, taper ground and given a stone wash finish for maximum strength, cutting power, edge retention and performance. The 5″ durable Griv-Ex core handle fully encapsulates the tang, emerging to create the bolster, thumb-shelf and distinctive finger ring. This core is then injection over-molded with premium Kray-Ex, creating a superb, non-slip grip that won’t let you down even in when your hands are cold or wet. It has an overall length of 8 3/4″, blade length of 4 3/4″, the blade thickness is 5mm.  This is an awesome knife that is very sharp and ready for action.

            Emerson Combat Folding Karambit Knife

            The Emerson Combat Karambit is a fast, efficient, ergonomic design that has long stood the test of time.  Fashioned after a tiger’s claw for those that go into harm’s way, many use the knife as an offhand weapon retention tool, to protect their sidearm against a take-away attempt. This knife is proud to serve our warriors whose job it is to protect the rest of us.  The Emerson Karambit knife, aka the Combat Karambit, is the ultimate 21st Century folding knife by Emerson Knives, Inc. Along with the patented “Wave Feature”, the Combat Karambit is one of the finest personal defense weapons ever developed. Featuring black G-10 handles for a textured grip, and a beautifully designed Karambit blade- This is one of the best every day carries you can own.  The overall length is 6.8 “, the blade length is 2.6″, the blade thickness is 0.125” thick and the weight is 3.6 ounces.  The handle is made of G-10, and very comfortable.  This is considered the ultimate folding Karambit knife for self defense.

            Fox 479/599 Folding Karambit Knives

            The Fox 479 & 599 Black Folding Karambit is one of the best self-defense tool and utility knife available on the market. This tool has been field tested in the most extreme climates by some truly hardcore people, and has proven itself time and time again to be of the highest quality. If you need a reliable self-defense tool to protect yourself, the Fox karambits are a force to be reckoned with.  If you want the most reliability in any situation where a need arises for a good blade that works and works well, this is your knife.  These knives utilize the Emerson Wave, which is the most effective and efficient deployment option available in the knife industry. The patented Emerson Wave allows you to fully deploy your karambit effortlessly with just one hand.  It has a strong, consistent edge with high degree of sharpening receptivity.  It has a safety ring for a sure and secure grip, even in extreme environments, the safety ring allows you to utilize in less-than lethal situations by keeping the closed karambit in your hand.  The Fox 479 is for hand sizes measuring 3.6″ or over across the back of your knuckles.  The Fox 599 is used for hands smaller than 3.6″.  The tiger claw shaped blade has a thickness of .12″ and length of 3″, offering a total reach of 7.5″ when fully extended and 5″ when closed. The Fox Knives 479 utilizes a liner lock and weighs in at a mere 4.02oz. The adjustable pocket clip allows ambidextrous use. It designed for tip-up carry with the patented Emerson Wave feature for fast deployment in a reverse grip. 

            Final Thoughts About Fighting Knives

            The above mentioned knives are all great self defense knives, each unique in their own way.  The MTech and Cold Steel knives are both fixed blade knives, the MTech is extremely basic, low cost, lightweight, and conceals very well.  The Cold Steel knife is bigger, heavier and has a more comfortable handle, but does not conceal as well.  Then you look at the Emerson and Fox folding Karambit knives.  The Emerson is the Cadillac of folding karambit’s and utilizes their Emerson Wave technology that makes it possible to open this knife with one hand and deploys in seconds.  But these knives are a little on the expensive side.  Then you have the Fox Combat Karambit that is everything that the Emerson is, including the Emerson wave technology at a cheaper price.  Two different size handles depending on your hand width.  These are all wonderful knives that work extremely well for self defense.

            One suggestion I have for anyone that is thinking of getting one of these knives, buy a training knife to help you understand how to use one of these knives without getting hurt.  That’s very important and can save any trips to the emergency room.

            But what is the answer to my question?  The truth is I can not answer the question for you, it is a personal question that you need to answer your self.  My thoughts are, we all need to be prepared for whatever comes along.  If you feel a good self defense knife is necessary for you then but whatever works for you.  If you feel it is not necessary then put your efforts into other EDC gear.  The question is yours to answer!

            If you have any questions about this post or anything else related to Everyday Carry (EDC), feel free to leave a comment below and I will be happy to get back to you.

            All the best,

            Larry

            Founder of EDC Essentials

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              COVID-19 and EDC, Do They Work Together?

              A lot has been happening the last week to 10 days concerning the Coronavirus or now as it is called, the COVID-19 pandemic.  It seems like most states are doing similar things trying to keep us all safe.  Here in Colorado, our Colorado State University (CSU) is leading the charge with all face to face classes being cancelled and once Spring Break is finished, classes will continue in the online format for the rest of the year.  That seemed to trickle down to our high schools and elementary schools, they extended spring break one additional week so we will see what happens after Spring Break.  Then our Governor mandated a “Stay at Home” order to keep people from congragating together. Businesses have begun to do some things too: closing lobbies to sit-down meals to limit the number of customers at one time, then they went to Take Out only.  Finally they are recommending that all people wear masks to try to limit the spread of germs.

              COVID-19 News Seems To Be Everywhere

              No matter where you look these days, that’s all you see! More information, more possibilities about COVID-19.  Will it ever end?  Facebook is plastered with every joke, every funny picture, every nasty comment that you can find.  Is it just one big joke?  Absolutely not!  I feel it is real and rather than just joking about it, maybe we need to “think” for a moment about the truth.  At first it seemed as though everybody was going over-board.  Then you have the idiots that buy up all the toilet paper, facial tissues, hand sanitizer and sanitizing spray.  Then you have the real idiots that buy those things just to sell them on Amazon at super inflated prices – shame on you!  Not to mention the “HOARDERS” that buy up all the meats, vegetables, pastas so no one else can get them. 

              So what is the next step?  Naturally, having to regulate how much people can buy so the maximum number of people can buy more product.  Is this really necessary?  Yes unfortunately it is, and that is pretty sad!  It has been said by Colorado Disease Control that it’s not if you will get it but when you will get it.  The purpose of limiting the number of people that are in one specific area is the way to limit the number of people that are getting exposed to this virus.  That way it decreases the number of people that have the virus initially.  Whether you agree with these procedures or not it is the truth. 

              How Can You Prepare Yourself for the COVID-19?

              So here are the symptoms that experts say we will have if you obtain the Coronavirus: runny nose, sore throat, cough, fever, and possibly difficulty breathing,  only in severe cases.  That sounds about like any other flu-type virus that is going around.  When you read how to avoid getting the Coronavirus, the one thing they say to do is wash your hands, wash your hands, wash your hands! Before you eat, after you eat, if you touch your face, if you sneeze, if you cough, that means all the time!  If you can limit the germs going in you will decrease your chances of getting sick. 

              If you are near a bathroom or a kitchen sink or someplace with running water and soap, its easy.  But what do you do when you are in your car or walking about away from those thing?  Easy, you go get a bottle of hand sanitizer and keep it with you. Unless you live in an area when those idiots bought them all.  Now what? 

              Making your own Hand Sanitizer

              Well if it’s not available in your stores then we make some at home. It is pretty easy and will get you what you need. So here goes-what you will need to make your hand sanitizer:

              1. 3/4 cup of isopropyl or rubbing alcohol (99 percent).

              2. 1/4 cup of aloe vera gel (to help keep your hands smooth and to counteract the harshness of alcohol).

              3. 10 drops of essential oil, such as lavender oil, or you can use lemon juice instead.

              4. Pour all ingredients into a bowl, ideally one with a pouring spout like a glass measuring container.

              5. Mix with a spoon and then beat with a whisk to turn the sanitizer into a gel.

              6. Pour the ingredients into an empty squirt bottle for easy use, and label it “hand sanitizer.” And there you go, easy but useful.

              OK Enough About COVID-19!

              So we talked about COVID-19 and some things to think about, now where does everyday carry (EDC) fit in?  As I have said before, there are different ways to look at EDC, some people consider it to be only the few things that are carried on your person. In that case they are always with you and that is a good thing.  I like to go a little bit farther, in addition to the items on my belt and pockets, I like to have a backpack full of a few more items that can cover a little more on the emergency side.  As we progress in this pandemic, we do not know what is going to happen or what will be expected of each one of us, because of that we need to be prepared to act at a seconds notice.

              EDC Backpacks Come in all Shapes and Sizes

              Since I have been through a major emergency in my life,  (read – Why is Your Everyday Carry Gear So Important) I understand the importance of being prepared.  That’s why I always have a pack with a few clothes, socks, underware, tooth brush/toothpaste, and a few emergency items, just in case I need them.  It pays to do some research on the Internet, putting together your EDC list so you can be ready when you need it.  Once your list is made, then determine what pack those things will fit in.  My EDC Backpack section of my website has many to choose from, go there if you need so ideas.

              EDC For The Pandemic

              I have said this before so please hear me, your everyday carry items can change with your situations.  So during this pandemic, I will carry things that I may not carry otherwise.  Here are some items that I make sure I have with me, either on my person, in my EDC pack or in my car or at home: Disinfectant spray, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, water bottle, alcohol wipes and a mask. 

               

              • Disinfectant spray is very useful but may be an item that I keep at home and wipe down my gear as necessary.

               

               

              • Wet wipes are handy to help with any cleanups, hand sanitizer works to keep your hands clean, but is not a substitute for good old soap and water. 

               

              • A water bottle is very important as we all need to stay hydrated, but it can also be used to wash your hands in case you are out of hand sanitizer.

               

              • Some type of alcohol wipes work very well too.  I keep these for cleaning my glasses but they work fine on your hands as well. 

               

               

              • My last item is a mask, some may like them and some may not.  This item too is very difficult to find in stores.  I had to find someone who could make me one, see the picture, very cool! Some people may carry rubber gloves but I choose to wash my hands rather than  depend on rubber gloves.  If you are looking for other EDC gear, check out my website.

              Making Your Own Disinfectant Spray

              As I touched on hand sanitizer, the same thing is happening with disinfectant spray, it is being over-purchased to where it is hard to find sometimes. So let’s make our own!

              Here is an easy recipe to make your own disinfectant spray:   

              1. Place one gallon of water into a gallon container with a tight cap. 

              2. Pour 1/3 cup of bleach into that gallon of water.

              3. Add some lemon juice if bleach smell does not appeal to you.

              4. Pour mixture into a new sprayer or re-use an old spray bottle.

              Re-cap gallon container and store away. Use of spray: 

              Pre-clean the are first.

              1. Spray on disinfectant spray and leave on surface for 6 minutes. 

              2. Rinse area with plain water.

              There you go, very easy and fast to make!

              Everyday Carry Gear is Important

              I have said this many times and I will continue to say this, you need to carry EDC that is important to you!  Don’t carry what I carry or don’t carry what your friend carries, you need to carry what makes sense to you.  Think about it, read about it and make a decision for yourself as to what you shout carry.  Then buy it and carry it!  Items left at home will not do you any good in an emergency.  It needs to be on you, or with you, not in your car or on your nightstand or in your office desk.  Carry it with you all the time!

              If you have any questions about this review or anything related to Everyday Carry (EDC), feel free to leave a comment below and I will be happy to get back to you.

              All the best,

              Larry

              Founder of EDC Essentials

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                SWATOM 8 IN 1 MINI SCREWDRIVER

                Product Review

                Handy Little Screwdriver

                Product: Swatom 8 in 1 Mini Screwdriver

                Price: $8.99

                Durability: High

                Best Place To Buy This Product: Amazon.com

                My Overall Rating: 8.5

                Quick Product Overview:

                This screwdriver is a complete self-contained tool – all bits store inside handle 5″ length x 1/2″ diameter, 1.5 oz.  There are 8 screwdriver head kits: 1/16in,5/64in,3/32in,1/18in,00,0,1,2.  It is a professional portable hardware tools,lightweight,pact design.  This precision screwdriver set is a handy tool small large projects mini size and has a lifetime free delivery missing/broken screwdriver head kits

                Specifications Of This Product:

                What I Like About This Product:

                This screwdriver is very handy, it has 8 bits that can be very useful.  These bits are held in place by a magnetic holder that works very well.  

                What I Would Change About This Product:

                I do not have anything to change on this screwdriver.

                Final Remarks:

                This Swatom 8 in 1 Mini Screwdriver is a sweet little tool that is definately worth the money.  It might not hold up under daily long term use but for occational use it works great.

                If you are interested in this product, click here.  If you are interested in similar products, click on the link below and it will take you to my EDC Backpack page, Thanks for reading this product review.

                Go To EDC Backpack.

                If you have any questions about this post or anything else related to Everyday Carry (EDC), feel free to leave a comment below and I will be happy to get back to you.

                Thanks,

                Larry

                Founder of EDC Essentials

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                  Appendix Carry – Is That A Wise Decision?

                  If you look on YouTube these days, you find a lot of articles about appendix carry.  Some people love it and others do not, but lately it appears that the scale is falling more on the positive side.  I am left-handed and have been carrying my handgun in the 8 o’clock for the last 15 years.  Some days it feels good and other days its very uncomfortable.  So I thought I might try something different. 

                  Why Do Some People Dislike Appendix Carry?

                  For those of you that may not know, appendix carry is in the 11:00 to 1:00 position, right where your belt buckle would be.  That poses a problem for some guys that do not like the idea of having a loaded gun pointing at their crotch.  Especially handguns that do not have an external safety.  Whether your gun points at your crotch, or some place on your leg or your femoral artery, those are areas that you don’t want a bullet to enter.  Others object to the fact that it is uncomfortable to sit wearing a handgun in the appendix position.  And finally is seems that appendix carry does not work with all body types.

                  Why Do Some People Like Appendix Carry?

                  Those people that favor appendix carry will say that it offers good concealment, as it is in an area that most people do not readily check out on a regular basis.  It has also been documented that appendix carry brings about very fast presentation. Also with a good holster and the right body type it can be every bit as comfortable as other carry options. 

                  What Gear Do You Need When Carrying Appendix?

                  When I speak of appendix carry I am definately not talking about sliding your handgun down the front of your pants.  There is some special gear that is necessary to make it safe and effective.  1) A good holster is a necessity, it needs to fit your handgun securely,  have a slim design, it needs to have a neutral cant, and a secure belt attachment.  2) A wing or claw of some sort that helps to push the gun butt into your body for better concealment.  3) Some people like to have a wedge that also pushes the  gun barrel away from your leg which also pushes the gun butt into your waist.  4) A belt that has a small buckle that can be turned to the side so it does not get in the way of your holster.  Now put that all together and you are ready to carry appendix.

                  My Appendix Carry Gear

                  Since holsters are one of the most important pieces of equipment, I got two custom made appendix holsters.  One made by Tier One Concealment which is a holster and magazine holder combined.  These two are joined together using stretch cord which makes it flex with my movements.  They make it fit your gun perfectly thus giving it that “snap” fit and it has a neutral cant.  It also has a double belt attachment that snaps on your belt to let it ride securely on your belt.   It also has a claw which fits against your belt thus pushing the gun butt in toward your side.  This is a great idea having everything connected together

                  The other one is made by Muddy Rivers Tactical where the holster and magazine holder is separate.  Muddy Rivers Tactical has to have the fastest turn around time of any holster company I have ever used.  My order was delivered to me in one week – now that’s fast!  This holster fit my Glock 30 perfectly, the cant is adjustable and it has my favorite belt loops for attachment to my belt.  The magazine holder fits my 45 auto magazine very securely too and it also has belt loops for a secure attachment.

                  The belt that I use when I carry appendix is made by Blue Alpha Gear, its the Cobra EDC belt.  For being a nylon belt, it is extremely ridgid and holds it’s shape very well.  It is very easy to adjust the fit and it has a Cobra buckle that snaps together very well.  The nice thing about this belt is it slides to the side very easy thus keeping the buckle out of the way of your holster.  No matter what holster I wear it works well with this belt.

                  Final Thoughts About Appendix Carry?

                  So what is my true feeling about appendix carry?  I really like the idea of this method of carry, the quickness of draw, the great holsters, the fantastic belt, all that works well.  My problem is my body type, I am not thin, I am carrying about 25 pounds more than I should. So I have a gut and a pouch below my belt.  When I put all my gear together the gun felt good but the butt of the gun would not conceal very well.  It tips outward, not inward.  So I am not sure that appendix carry will work for me.

                  Those that seem the most excited about appendix carry are of thin built, where they do not have uneven contours in their body type.  I have seen overweight people talk about wearing their handguns in the appendix position and they feel good about it.

                  Am I done wearing appendix – NO!  But I may need to loose some weight before I can carry appendix effectively.  Or maybe I need get a different holster to fit my body type.  But one day I will carry in the appendix position, just not right now.

                  If you have any questions about this post or anything else related to Everyday Carry (EDC), feel free to leave a comment below and I will be happy to get back to you.

                  All the best,

                  Larry

                  Founder of EDC Essentials

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                    CRKT HI JINX Z KNIFE

                    Product Review

                    Smoothest Folder Ever

                    Product: CRKT Hi Jinx Z Knife

                    Price: $47.97

                    Durability: Very High

                    Best Place To Buy This Product: Knivesplus.com

                    My Overall Rating: 9.5

                    Quick Product Overview:

                    The Hi Jinx™ Z is a gentleman’s everyday carry blade with all the classical curves and subtle elegance that has become the anthem of a Ken On-ion knife. This gentleman’s knife has a shapely black glass-reinforced nylon handle with a “feel” that is just right. The satin drop point blade features a sleek flat grind, that will hold a good edge and it matches the handle’s good looks.  The Hi Jinx™ Z blade opens with a flipper and includes an IKBS™ ball bearing pivot system that facilitates fast and smooth opening and it has a stainless steel frame lock that holds this knife in the open position very securely. The pocket clip is reversible for left or right handed use and can be carried tip up or tip down and is designed to sit deep in the pocket. 

                    Specifications Of This Product:

                    Blade Length3.29″ (83.64 mm)
                    Blade EdgePlain
                    Blade Steel1.4116
                    Blade FinishSatin
                    Blade Thickness0.11″ (2.82 mm)
                    Overall Length8.00″ (203.20 mm)
                    Closed Length4.72″ (119.91 mm)
                    Weight4.90 oz. (138.91g)
                    HandleGlass Reinforced Nylon
                    StyleFolding Knife w/Liner Lock

                    What I Like About This Product:

                    The first thing that comes to mind when I think of this knife is the smoothness of the IKBS™ Ball Bearing Pivot System.  It is unbelievable how smooth it really is.  The blade is equipped with a flipper that aids in deployment of this knife.  Right out of the box it works well but seems to get better the more you use it.  If we continue with the blade, it’s sharpness is excellent just out of the box.  There was no reason for me to touch it up with my ceramic stone, it was just that sharp.  The blade also locks up very well, which helps to make this knife very sturdy.  It’s a great little knife.

                    What I Would Change About This Product:

                    This knife fits my needs and is everything I wanted in a knife.  At this point I do not have anything I would change about this knife.

                    Final Remarks:

                    When I think of the CRKT Hi Jinx Z knife I think of a smooth, sharp knife that is very cool looking.  It fits very well in my pocket and does not feel like I have a 2 x 4 in there.  When deploying this knife it has the smoothest action of any knife I have owned and the blade was extremely sharp right out of the box.  The lock-up of the blade was very tight and it disengaged easily.  The pocket clip is shorter than I am used to but does the job and is reversable.  I highly recommend this knife for anyone that wants a really good knife.  

                    If you are interested in this product, click here.  If you are interested in similar products, click on the link below and it will take you to my EDC Backpack page, Thanks for reading this product review.

                    Go To EDC Folding Knife.

                    If you have any questions about this post or anything else related to Everyday Carry (EDC), feel free to leave a comment below and I will be happy to get back to you.

                    Thanks,

                    Larry

                    Founder of EDC Essentials

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