Aside from real SHTF situations, having keychain or pocket EDC tools will come in handy in many ways. I’ve used my EDC tools to fix my daughter’s broken toys, retrieve keys from a locked car, and change a bike tire (to name just a few).
As well as being incredibly useful, these tools are also seriously cool, so let’s dive in!
If you are confused about the most important gear to carry for EDC, check our post on EDC essentials.
1. Leatherman Micra Keychain Tool
Leatherman makes a vast array of EDC tools. The Micra makes the list because it is so easy to carry. It weighs just 1.76 ounces and measures under 10 inches.
The Micra multi-tool has 10 tools, including pliers, scissors, and tweezers.
2. Swiss+Tech Micro-Max
This is the option if you need more tools on your EDC keychain multi-tool. It has 19 tools, including 2 hex wrenches, 6 screwdrivers, pliers, a bottle opener, wire cutter and stripper, and a hand drill.
The EDC tool is cheap and has a lifetime warranty. It folds down to be compact to fit into your pocket.
3. Columbia River Micro Tool & Key Chain Sharpener
This EDC tool is designed for SHTF situations. The apocalypse has struck, and you need to open an oxygen tank? The CKRT will do it.
Need to cut yourself free of a seat belt? The CKRT is so sharp that you’ve got to keep it covered, so you don’t cut yourself on it. It also has a field sharpener.
4. Gearward Keychain Duct Tape
The uses for duct tape are virtually unlimited. So, it is pretty awesome that someone has finally developed a keychain duct tape tool.
Okay – you could easily make this yourself by wrapping some duct tape around a cylinder-shaped keychain. But would you have thought to do it if Gearward hadn’t made this cool EDC tool?
5. Leatherman Tread
Of all the EDC tools made by Leatherman, this might be the most impressive they’ve made yet.
First, it is worn instead of carried, which will be a plus for anyone tired of gear taking up space in their pockets.
The Tread bracelet consists of 9 stainless steel links plus a clasp, each containing multiple tools. In total, you get 29 tools. The two which stand out are the carbide glass breaker, pick/Sim card tool, and cutting hook.
6. Columbia River Eat’n Tool
We usually don’t think of forks and spoons as tools, but try to eat without them, and you’ll see why they are so important. Okay, maybe a fork isn’t the most useful tool, but it is nice to have it when your hands are filthy and hungry!
This keychain eating tool has a spork, bottle opener, can opener, screwdriver tip, and metric wrench.
7. Lever Gear Toolcard Pro
I love Lever Gear products, especially this slim EDC tool. It fits in your wallet and contains 40 tools. Designed and made in the US, this is a step up from the many cheap imitations to be found.
8. Victorinox Swiss Army SwissCard Multi-Tool
Here is another credit card-sized EDC tool that you’ll love. This one contains scissors, a file, a blade/letter opener, tweezers, toothpick, awl, stainless steel pin, and a screwdriver.
Do you have any EDC tools? What’s your favorite? Let us know in the comments.
Another good one is the multitool from roadeavour. Its lightweight and durable.
Not seen that one – will keep an eye out for it.