EDC Knives: Benchmade, Spyderco, Gerber and More
Bristlecone Blog: October 2019
EDC Knives: Benchmade, Spyderco, Gerber and More
Written by: Joe Kriz
Abbreviated and commonly referred to as simply EDC, we often think concealable handguns when talking everyday carry. But there is another tool you should include in your regular loadout that can be used for daily tasks, in addition to personal protection—a carry knife.
From opening plastic packaging to breaking down cardboard boxes, cutting loose threads to peeling an apple, knives are a multi-functional tool with endless uses. If you’re like me, you’ll constantly find new reasons and ways to use one. In fact, just the other day I used mine to fix a stuck magazine spring while working on the shooting range.
However, like buying a gun, selecting a carry knife can feel overwhelming amongst the countless manufacturers, blade types, opening mechanisms, materials, and features. Luckily, Bristlecone Shooting, Training & Retail Center carries a selection of some of the best EDC knife brands and styles on the market.
BENCHMADE
For more than 30 years, Benchmade has been manufacturing knives for a variety of purposes, working with well-known custom knife makers like Mel Pardue and Warren Osborne. Today, the knife company make knives for everyday carry, hunting, survival, tactical and more with fixed, manual, automatic, bali-song designs.
Recommendation: Mini Griptilian
Available in six different blade styles, the Mini Griptilian is one of Benchmade’s most popular models due to its all-around functionality and versatility. A manual thumb stud opener with a 2.91” blade length, overall length less than 4” and a reversible clip, the Mini Grip will feel at home in any pocket.
SPYDERCO
Located up the road in Golden, CO, Spyderco introduced its first folding knife in 1981 and became a pioneer in the industry for its holed blade design, as well as for adding a handle clip and serrated edge. From fishing and hunting to everyday carry and throwing knives, Spyderco is both a go-to local and national knife brand. You might even see founder Sal Glesser shooting at the range!
Recommendation: Delica 4 FRN
With a plain edge blade and fiberglass reinforced nylon (FRN) handle, the Delica 4 is both a physically sharp and sharp-looking knife. Featuring a 13mm blade hole for one-hand opening, the blade runs 2.87” in length, 4.25” when closed. An ambidextrous clip, lightweight handle and secure back lock make this a great carry knife—I would know, it’s what’s in my own pocket.
GERBER
Renowned for their knives and tools, Gerber has been creating knives, multi-tools, and equipment for 80 years. Perhaps best known for their hunting and survival gear, including a Bear Grylls collection, Gerber has a proven line of everyday carry knives to keep you prepared for whatever the day throws at you.
Recommendation: Fastball
Featuring a 3” Wharncliffe blade, the Fastball uses a finger flipper and ball bearing technology to provide a quick and smooth opening. A three-position pocket clip and aluminum handles make for lightweight and versatile carry while a liner lock release makes for easy closing of the 7.1” overall knife.
KERSHAW
Whether it’s a hardworking pocketknife or a hunting blade, Kershaw has been producing knives people are proud to own, carry and use since 1974. As a brand of Kai Group, a premier Japanese blade producer, Kershaw takes an innovative approach to knives while high-quality materials, state-of-the-art manufacturing and tight tolerances provide performance for a lifetime.
Recommendation: Scallion
The smallest—with a 2.4” blade—and most affordable knife we’ve recommended, the Scallion is easy in the pocket and on the wallet. A flipper with Kershaw’s SpeedSafe assisted opening, the blade displays quickly when needed, is liner-locked when open and folds into a 3.5” package. Handles are aluminum with a single position pocket clip for convenient carry.
Whether you’re looking for your first EDC knife, another blade to add your daily rotation, or a gift for a family member or friend, ask our retail employees about our selection of knives the next time you stop in to shop or shoot at Bristlecone!
