Everyday Carry

13 EDC Essential Gift Ideas for the Holidays

Authored by:
Everyday Carry
Reviewed by:
Bernard Capulong
Founder and Editor-in-Chief
14+ Years Reviewing EDC Products
13 EDC Essential Gift Ideas for the Holidays

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  The Everyday Carry Holiday Gift Guide for 2023

Just like that, it’s November, and that means the holidays are just around the corner. Few things spread joy and holiday cheer like an awesome gift can, especially if it’s a piece of gear useful for your (or your loved ones’) EDC. We’ve teamed up with a lot of great brands this year to give you ideas for your holiday shopping list, and below we’ve put together some of our favorite products that would be excellent additions to any everyday carry.


Deejo MyDeejo Custom Knives

Whether you’re looking to gift someone a new heirloom with a meaningful design or you want to treat yourself to something that’s entirely your own, MyDeejo custom knives are a great option. All it takes is a few clicks and you can pick between three sizes, three types of steel finish, a plethora of wood handle scales or carbon fiber and more than 70 “tattoo” designs that truly make your Deejo knife your own. You can also engrave text on the handle to mark the knife as a cut above, a worthy gift for a special person in your life. A special name, a memorable quote, a date to remember--each of these just makes the knife that much more unique. Customization is just the beginning though, since Deejo knives are meant to be used and not kept in their box. The skeletonized design of a Deejo knife makes it super lightweight and easy to carry, with the smallest option weighing 15 grams while the largest weighs in at 37 grams. The 3.7” stainless steel blade is a great size for EDC too, giving you plenty of edge to let you slice through what you need whether you’re in a suit or sweats. And its curved design helps you maintain complete control throughout the cut, with a secure liner lock that helps keep any accidents from happening.

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Fenix PD36R + E01 V2.0 Combo Flashlights

The Fenix PD36R continues to set the standard for a modern, high-performance light with high output, rich features, and a forward-thinking design. At the top is a Luminus SST40 LED pushing out Turbo at 1,600 (dipping down to 900-550 lumens after 15 minutes) and joined by a few other standard modes. A two switch system—a rubber tail switch for momentary/full activation and a metal mode selector switch on the side—manages mode operation, with the side button doubling as a battery indicator. While it’s lowest mode of 30 lumens is a bit bright for low-light environments, it’s able to stay on for 115 hours, or almost 5 days. The generous runtime is also thanks to a beefier battery: the light comes with a 5,000 mAh 21700 battery, which is slightly larger than an 18650 while holding a significantly larger capacity. But in spite of its battery size the PD36R stays compact, smaller and lighter even than the original, at only 5.4“ and 3 ounces without its battery. It makes for a great gift, and for a limited time, Fenix is tossing in their compact backup E01 V2.0 AAA EDC light when you pick up a PD36R, doubling the bang for your buck this holiday season. First-time customers on their site can also use promo code EDCNEWMEMBER to save 20% off on their purchase.

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OWC Envoy Pro Elektron USB-C SSD

OWC brings the cutting edge of tech and convenience to your EDC with the Envoy Pro Elektron, a tough and compact portable SSD that makes use of the latest and fastest USB-C standard. If you’ve got someone on your list who often works on the go or isn’t quite set up for working from home, the Envoy Pro Elektron gives them fast and easy access to all their files, and there's plenty of room for even the largest workflows with up to 2TB of storage. The aircraft-grade aluminum construction is designed for both cooling and crushproof strength, and the IP67-rated resistance keeps dust and water out to keep your data safe. It’s compatible with USB-C and Thunderbolt 3/4 devices, and works with most operating systems and devices including PC and Mac, iPads, Chromebooks, and more.

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Leatherman FREE P4 Multi-tool

As this year led to more and more of us picking up old projects around the house and spending more time recreating outdoors, a proper, quality multi-tool can make all the difference. The Leatherman FREE P4 comes with some of the best features the iconic brand has to offer, and the most out of the entire FREE line, making it the perfect multi-tool gift for both a budding new EDCer and an old community veteran alike. 21 functions reside in its handles, standing toe to toe with some of their other flagship models. This includes the iconic needle-nose/regular pliers, replaceable 154CM hard wire cutters, a complement of drivers and openers, and assorted useful tools like spring-action scissors, a file, and an awl. For cutting, you get a full array of slicers, from a box cutter to your choice of three 420HC blades (plain, serrated, and a saw). All the tools deploy with the FREE's signature magnetic system paired with what Leatherman calls “epic haptic” clicks which give a more tactile experience that allows for operation by touch and feel alone. The Leatherman FREE P4 has its eyes squarely on the future of multi-tools, pushing design and usability forward while learning the best lessons from the past.

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Nomatic Navigator Backpack 15L

For the jetsetter on your list, give them something to look forward to for their next trip that’s as practical as it is thoughtful. The Nomatic Navigator Series of travel bags was designed for travelers to have the right bag for every adventure. It combines a clean, streamlined aesthetic with durable water-resistant materials that make perfect gifts for any frequent travelers on your holiday shopping list. The Navigator Backpack 15L is an everyday commuter pack that can handle up to a 16" laptop and has a foam formed back panel for comfort and airflow. It comes with 5 mesh pockets, 2 zippered pockets, and a tablet compartment to complement the laptop section, with a dividing wall between them and a false bottom under them to keep your essential tech protected. And when you’re on the move, 2 external quick access pockets keep your keys, boarding pass, and other commuter essentials handy, along with a hidden compartment for sensitive gear, and a water bottle pocket to keep you hydrated. Like the rest of the collection, the backpack comes in 500D Kodra with a kiss coating on the front face, with PU Leather Rock T2000 panels for the Nomatic logo. The new signature reflective bars also come with micro pieces of glass as part of the texture to ensure super bright reflectivity. The bags all come with YKK and Zoom zippers, with custom metal pulls as part of the new design.

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Dango A10 Adapt Wallet with Phone Adapter

The Dango A10 Adapt Wallet is the smallest and most compact model in their series, providing tool-less modularity in a slim, RFID-protected, sturdy aluminum wallet. It fits up to four cards in its main cavity, and there’s an open, unshielded card pocket on the other side that’s perfect for your ID and travel cards, as well as any NFC compatible cards that can be used for point-of-sale registers and public transit access. This 4.1" x 2.7" x 0.6" package weighs 2.3 ounces and functions great as a rugged but minimalist cardholder wallet. Combine that with Dango’s A10 Phone Adapter Plate and you gift them an easy way to attach and combine your A10 wallet with your smartphone. This slim, 3mm thick polymer baseplate attaches to your phone or its case via 3M's 200MP removable adhesive. This kit also comes with a removable steel plate that uses the same adhesive to add a metal surface to this plate—allowing it to interface with any magnetic mount such as those used on car phone holders and similar accessories. Dango's continuing the Holiday deals, and you can save on your next purchase right now with 15% off ALL orders with code FINAL15 and get Free FedEx 2-Day Shipping on orders over $99. 

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Ledlenser P7R Core Flashlight

Brighten up a special person’s day with Ledlenser’s P7R Core, which features a bright, 1,400-lumen max output powered by a magnetic USB rechargeable 21700 battery. It can throw that beam out to 300 meters with Ledlenser’s patented Advanced Focus System that helps you maximize the potential of the light to the situation at hand with its ability to switch between a spot or flood output. And where other lights boast water and dust resistance, you can submerge the P7R Core, making this a go-anywhere light that’s ready to stand up to the elements no matter where it’s taken. As an added special touch when gifting one of these flashlights to friends and family, Ledlenser is offering free custom engraving on this light until December 18.

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G-SHOCK GA900A-1A9

You probably already know G-SHOCK timepieces are the most shockproof and durable timepieces you can buy (and gift) for EDC. But if you plan to give one out this year, the G-SHOCK GA900-1A9 is (literally) a solid choice. This ultra-durable timepiece mixes industrial design aesthetics with an easy-to-read analog-digital display. Its key feature is its 10-sided bezel that resembles the shape of a nut, and is accented on 4 corners with screws for a tougher look. This is further bolstered by the knurled band connection and button design unique to this model, and resembles the textured surfaces you’d find on the rest of your EDC gear. It’s waterproof down to 200 meters and features mineral glass that will stand up to more than a few bumps and scrapes during a daily commute and more. It’s a gift that keeps on giving, and for the adventurer on your list, it certainly will not disappoint.

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TASER StrikeLight 

The strike bezel on many tactical EDC lights look like they can be used as a self-defense weapon in a pinch, but TASER Self-Defense went a step further by integrating their technical prowess and personal protection into a compact EDC-friendly package with their StrikeLight. The combination of bright light output and the self-defense stun gun capability built into the device makes it a great gift for loved ones who might need a leg up if they find themselves in a bad situation where they’re unable to call for help. As a special deal for the holidays, save 15% off the StrikeLight, Pulse, and Pulse+ models with code EVERYDAYCARRY on checkout.

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Pioneer Division Billfold Wallet

Upgrading from a tattered, bulky wallet to a sleek and slim wallet from Pioneer will be an experience they can appreciate every day. A Pioneer wallet lets them dip their toes into the world of cardholders and billfolds using technical fabrics instead of bulky leather to carry cash and cards on the reg. And because of the unique 10XD and 3PN fabric materials used in its production, a waterproof wallet like The Division can still carry up to 12 cards along with a bill compartment for cash, divided into 6 main card slots on the inner panels with 2 internal slots for business cards. It has traditional billfold style without the traditional billfold bulk or the traditional price, when you use promo code EDCGIFT for 20% off your order.

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Luminox Navy SEAL 3508 GOLD Watch

Whether you’re gifting this watch to a Navy SEAL or a watch enthusiast who enjoys quality everyday carry timepieces with exceptional lume, the Luminox Navy SEAL 3508 GOLD is a strong contender for their valuable wrist space. This is a design that features a lightweight yet durable and water-resistant Carbonox case with a 45mm case diameter, and comes with gold-colored accents that contrast well with the otherwise blacked-out, discreet aesthetics of the Swiss Made timepiece. It comes with water resistance down to 200 meters, and features Luminox’s signature Luminox Light Technology (LLTs) with constant illumination for up to 25 years. The end result is a sophisticated watch that doesn’t look too sporty in an office setting, and designed to stand up to rough use far beyond what most people will take it through. Its mission-ready heritage is why Luminox is trusted by Naval Special Warfare operators, and it’s why you should feel confident gifting this watch to a special person this season.

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The James Brand Pike Pocket Knife

If you have your eyes set on a classy gent’s knife as a gift but you want to step things up from the traditional models of old, The Pike from The James Brand is a great place to start. It’s billed as “not your grandfather’s pocket knife,” but he’d certainly love to have one of these in his pocket. It’s a clean and aesthetic non-lock slip-joint knife featuring brass scales and a utility-minded wharncliffe-shaped Sandvik 12C27 stainless steel blade, built for harder used compared to the softer steels in older traditional knives. But even though it has a more modern look, it’s not overboard, and it will add a touch of class to any generation of EDCer.

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Wazoo Viking Whetstone

At first glance the Wazoo Viking Whetstone looks like nothing more than a unique accessory, but there’s more to this necklace than meets the eye. As its name implies, the Viking Whetstone takes its name from a traditional Norse tool and doubles as a maintenance and survival essential for the outdoorsy person on your list. The pendant is made in the USA out of genuine Arkansas Novaculite stone, which is prized for its abrasive properties for use as a whetstone to sharpen knives when out in the wild. It’s carved out of large quarried boulders, and cut, lapped, drilled, ground, and shaped to size before each whetstone is laced with a leather cord and ships out as a unique piece. Functionally, the Viking Whetstone is a 600-800 grit sharpening tool that helps keep knives in tip-top shape no matter where they’re needed, as it has been for almost 2,000 years. Save $5 off the purchase of your Viking Whetstone with code EDC202020.

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This is a sponsored post.

Bernard Capulong

Founder and Editor-in-Chief


About the Reviewer
Bernard Capulong is an everyday carry (EDC) gear expert, entrepreneur, all-around nerd, and the founder and editor-in-chief of EverydayCarry.com—the largest online community for EDC gear enthusiasts. Since founding Everyday Carry in 2009, he’s built over a decade of experience in the industry, reviewing and highlighting brands and products, including pocket knives, flashlights, wallets, watches, bags, pens, and much more.

Bernard is known for bringing everyday carry out of obscurity and into the mainstream, having been published or featured in various publications such as GQ, TIME Magazine, The New York Times, VICE, HYPEBEAST, Outside, and many others. He has also played a part in curating, designing, and developing digital and physical products, resulting in successful crowdfunding projects or limited edition collaboration products with established softgoods brands. He stays on the pulse of the EDC industry by attending trade shows, participating in online interest communities, and actively engaging with fellow gear enthusiasts on social media.

In addition to being the editor-in-chief and main social media personality for EverydayCarry.com, Bernard is an avid gearhead and collector in general. His personal collections span technical bags, fountain pens, digital cameras, retro gaming hardware, personal hi-fi audio gear, and mechanical wristwatches, to name a few. Bernard Capulong is a prominent figure and trusted authority in the everyday carry industry with a career dedicated to helping people discover this hobby and stay prepared with quality gear.

Discussion (6 total)

Marcus G ·
The viking whetstone has become a daily staple in my EDC. And I had no clue I'd use it and miss it if I dont have it as much as I do! The thing is awesome and you'll never believe how useful it is until you carry it. You have a knife, you need something to maintain the edge!!
Daniel Griffin ·
I have the Wazoo Viking Whetstone. Absolutely love it.
Dustin ·
Thanks for all your support. Motivates us to keep pushing the capabilities of functional and fashionable EDC!
~Dustin & the Wazoo Crew
Dustin ·
PS: You’re awesome Daniel!
Brian Hinz Sr ·
The Deejo knife looks cool, but is pretty much worthless for actual everyday use. The custom options are great if you are wanting to give someone a presentation piece. The skeleton type handle is awkward and fragile feeling and because of that, its only use is opening boxes or cleaning under your fingernails.
NUNQUAM NON PARATUS ·
I wish Luminox spent as much money on supporting veteran-related causes, or investing in making their product more durable, vs spending it on all paid advertising and marketing hype.

Nah, who am I kidding... I still would never buy one of their products again.