Always, Sometimes, Never: EDC Knives and the Habits of a Collector

There’s a rhythm to how we carry. It’s more than just picking a knife or a light; it’s about the why behind it. Whether you’re a seasoned bladesmith, a dedicated EDC enthusiast, or just starting to appreciate a well-made blade, understanding those habits—the always, the sometimes, and the never—can tell you a lot about a person and their gear. Samuel from EDC North Carolina and Ben North from Nothing But Knives recently shared a glimpse into their own EDC routines, and it’s a conversation worth hearing.

They kick things off with a simple icebreaker: what do you always carry, what do you sometimes carry, and what do you never carry? It’s a surprisingly revealing way to understand someone’s priorities and daily life.

Ben’s always is a chapstick – a tale of childhood eczema leading to a near-constant habit. He also carries a fixed blade, a Dry Creek Forge piece he picked up at Georgia Bushcraft. He praises the belly ratio for food prep and the comfortable pocket sheath, highlighting the importance of thoughtful design in EDC gear. It's a great example of how a bladesmith’s craft—the blade geometry, the heat treat—directly impacts the user experience.

Samuel’s sometimes is a headlamp or a Field Notes notebook, both useful for quick notes or hands-free illumination. It’s a reminder that EDC isn't just about the blade; it's about the tools that complement it. For those seeking to level up their EDC game, consider a Field Trip to a local bladesmithing shop – you might find the perfect pairing for your favorite knife.

The never category reveals what doesn't quite fit into a person's lifestyle or needs. While this part isn't explicitly detailed in the excerpt, it underscores the personal nature of EDC selection.

This conversation highlights a trend gaining traction within the Rogue Blades community: the rising popularity of fixed blades. It’s not just about the aesthetics or the ruggedness; it’s about the versatility they offer—a blade capable of handling everything from food prep to heavier tasks. If you’re intrigued by this trend, consider attending a Live Workshop at a HolyPlace to learn the techniques behind forging a robust fixed blade.

Whether you’re a Blade Angel shaping steel or a collector appreciating the finished product, this discussion provides a window into the thought process behind EDC choices. It's a testament to the constant evolution of our gear and the stories those tools tell.

Ready to deepen your involvement in the Rogue Blades ecosystem? Find a Blade Angel near you to share your passion, take a forge class to learn the craft firsthand, list a custom commission to offer your skills, or claim a creator profile to showcase your work.