Anything But Pews: Best EDC Combos for Three Different Budgets

Oh, we all love the everyday carry game. It’s equal parts preparedness and fashion show.

But what gear should you actually trust on a daily basis?

Today, I’ll be your personal concierge as we explore my favorite EDC watches, knives, and flashlights at three different price brackets.

You want the best EDC loadouts? You’ve got ’em.

EDC Watch Comparison Chart

EDC Knife Comparison Chart

EDC Flashlight Comparison Chart

Best EDC Watch, Knife, and Flashlight for $300

If $300 sounds like a lot of money, keep in mind that this is for three of the most important EDC items you need. For less than $100 each, you can actually get high-quality products that you can trust and be proud of. 

Casio G-Shock DW5600 - Best Budget EDC Watch

Best Budget EDC Watch

Casio G-Shock DW-5600

$60

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$60 at Amazon

Specs

• Style: Digital
• Lens: Mineral
• Water Resistance: 20 ATM
• Case Material: Resin
• Case Dimensions: 49 mm x 43 mm x 13 mm
• Wristband: Resin
• Country of Origin: Thailand

Looking for your first enthusiast watch? You need a Casio G-Shock, plain and simple.

I encourage you to read Teddy Baldesarre’s excellent history of the G-Shock, but here’s a crash course.

Casio dropped the first G-Shock, a ground-breaking timepiece, in 1983. It was accurate, light, durable, and surprisingly affordable. The secret sauce was a digital module suspended in shock-absorbing rubber, then encased in durable resin.

This DW-5600UE stays fairly true to the original, both in form and function. It’s waterproof to 200 meters, shock-resistant, and the battery should last five years.

Features include everything you need, and nothing you don’t.

This version of the G-Shock tells the time in hours, minutes, and seconds; day; and date on the main screen. Cycling through the modes reveals alarm, timer, and stopwatch functions. The LED light is improved over previous iterations, and you can tap the button for a quick glance or hold it for sustained illumination.

And you’ll never need to update software or agree to terms and conditions.

I picked this watch for my budget option because it’s extremely inexpensive without being cheap. For about $100, you can get a legitimately tough timepiece that you can wear with pride every day. Watch snobs will respect it, and the real ones probably own one.

My DW-5600 has gone on sweaty hikes, ridden along for powder days at the local ski area, and endured gym sessions. I love how thin and light it is – this is the watch I wear when I can’t have bulky gear getting in the way.

It’s totally relevant and usable in the present day, but kind of makes me feel like I’m blasting the latest Hewie Lewis and the News cassette in an E30 BMW. That’s one powerful watch.

Spyderco Delica 4 - Best Budget EDC Knife

Best Budget EDC Knife

Spyderco Delica 4

$82

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$82 at Amazon

Blade HQ (see price)

OpticsPlanet (see price)

Specs

• Steel: VG10
• Blade Profile: Drop point
• Handle: Fiberglass-reinforced nylon
• Blade Length: 2.88”
• Overall Length: 7.13”
• Country of Origin: Japan

Ask a group of knife collectors about Spyderco, and you’ll get nothing but glowing reviews. The brand’s knives are top-notch, and many of them are surprisingly affordable. The Spyderco Delica 4 is the people’s EDC knife.

This version, with a plain edge and black grip scales, comes in at right around $100.

For that price, you get a blade made from Japanese VG-10 steel that’s known for delivering a lot of bang for the buck. A lot of kitchen knives feature VG-10, because it allows chefs to keep a razor-sharp slicing edge with minimal effort.

This steel’s edge retention and toughness are fairly average, but it resists corrosion very well and it’s easy to sharpen. That combination of traits makes it great for knife newbies and shoppers on a budget.

That giant hole in the Delica 4’s blade is a Spyderco calling card. Once you get the hang of it, flicking the blade open is just as easy as it would be with thumb studs, but with nothing protruding from the blade. Crisp jimping on the spine adds a bit of control for precise slicing or applying leverage with your thumb.

Once deployed, the blade sticks in place with a firm lockback snap.

The fiberglass-reinforced nylon handle is equally practical, and the texture is classic Spyderco. I’ve used several knives with this pattern, and it does extremely well in all kinds of adverse conditions. Snow and mud are no issue.

It’s also backed by a steel liner for rigidity and positive lock engagement. 

We all have different preferences when it comes to carrying knives, so I always appreciate it when a manufacturer gives us more than one way to mount the pocket clip. The Delica 4 pocket clip uses three Torx screws, and you can mount it tip-up or tip-down on either side of the handle.

The Delica 4 might be a budget blade, but even knife connoisseurs with cash to burn will appreciate it. I picked this one because it’s well-made, light, thin, and strong enough to be a lifetime knife.

If you’re in the market for your first EDC knife or a low-cost daily, you can’t go wrong with the Delica 4.

Nitecore EDC23 - Best Budget EDC Flashlight

Best Budget EDC Flashlight

Nitecore EDC23

$74

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$74 at Amazon

OpticsPlanet (see price)

Specs

• Maximum Power: 2,500 lumens
• Maximum Intensity: 20,720 candeka
• Battery: Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
• Modes: Turbo, high, medium, low, ultralow, strobe
• Dimensions: 4.05” x 1.3” x 0.88”
• Country of Origin: China

When I did my testing for the Best Tactical Flashlights Under $100, the tiny Nitecore EDC23 struck me as an awesome EDC flashlight. Now, it’s getting another well-deserved moment in the spotlight.

At less than an inch thick and weighing 3 ounces, this is one of the most convenient pocket lights I’ve ever used.

Even clipped to lightweight board shorts, I don’t notice it until I need it. This is a super convenient option for people who want to beef up their EDC capability without stuffing their pockets with bulky gadgets.

Nitecore also managed to make this one of the more advanced flashlights out there. The mode button lets you cycle through a wide range of power settings and even a strobe function. There’s a sliding safety switch on the side that prevents accidental activation.

The lowest power mode is dim enough for reading without ruining your natural night vision, and the brightest punches deep into the darkness. During testing, I was able to spot frogs by their glowing eyes at 300 yards, and I would have been able to spot a person out to around 400 yards. 

Here’s what those modes look like in practice.

You can do that without activating the light because there’s a small OLED screen that tells you which mode you’re about to fire up. Once on, the display tells you how much battery life remains and how long it will last in your selected mode. That’s one smart flashlight.

See what I mean?

The EDC23 puts a tremendous amount of power in your pocket. Pen light, search light, tactical strobe – this flashlight does it all. The fact that you can buy one for around $75 makes it a home run in my book.

Like you, I don’t always have the luxury of carrying a sling bag or backpack full of gear. When I need to fit everything in a small fanny pack or my pockets, this is the light I reach for. If you’re on a budget, I don’t think you can do better in the EDC realm.

Best EDC Watch, Knife, and Flashlight for $750

This is the sweet spot, friends. If you can budget $250 each for your watch, knife, and light, you’re in really good shape from a capability standpoint. These will outperform my budget picks in certain aspects, and they get a lot closer to the premium picks than the price would suggest.

Garmin Instinct 2 Solar Tactical - Best Value EDC Watch

Best Value EDC Watch

Garmin Instinct 2 Solar – Tactical Edition

$248

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$248 at Amazon

Garmin (see price)

Specs

• Style: GPS smartwatch
• Lens: Power Glass
• Water Resistance: 10 ATM
• Case Material: Fiber-reinforced polymer
• Case Dimensions: 45 mm x 45 mm x 15 mm
• Wristband: Silicone
• Country of Origin: Taiwan

You just knew a Garmin would show up on this list, didn’t you? This time, I’m reaching into the brand’s back catalog for the tried and true Garmin Instinct 2 Solar Tactical. Yes, the Instinct 3 has more advanced features and an optional AMOLED display that’s absolutely gorgeous, but the previous model is still available, relevant, and very affordable.

First of all, this watch is an absolute tank. I’ve drowned it in mud, gutted deer with it on my wrist, and bashed it into more rocks and tree branches than I can keep track of. I’ve worn it under scorching desert sun and on frigid mountain tops. It just keeps on ticking (well, digitally, of course).

And let’s talk about batteries. The current Apple Watch Series 11 will last up to 38 hours if you disable the smart features and just use it to check the time. That’s cute. 

The Instinct 2 lasts 28 days in smartwatch mode. If you just use it as a watch, solar charging can keep it running indefinitely.

Using GPS will shorten battery life significantly, but consider how much computing power that involves. 

The Instinct 2 gathers positioning data from three satellite networks: GPS (United States), GLONASS (Russia), and Galileo (European Union). When those three combine, you get incredibly fast, accurate, and reliable navigational information anywhere in the world.

Tactical features on this particular edition include dual-format grid coordinates, compatibility with night vision, stealth mode when you don’t want anyone keeping tabs on you, and a kill switch to wipe all stored data.

That’s in addition to all the usual timekeeping, fitness, and daily convenience features you expect from a modern smartwatch. Pair it with your phone to unlock even more functionality.

There are far more capable Garmin watches (more on that in a second), but the Instinct 2 is one of the lightest, most affordable, and easiest to use. When I need to navigate in the open desert or mountain wilderness without strapping a watch the size of a Copenhagen tin to my wrist, this is still what I reach for.

Dollar for dollar, you can’t really beat it.

I’ve been to several industry events where every single person was wearing an Instinct 2 – and these are people with access to all the latest and greatest gear. That should tell you something about how much we trust it.

The Instinct 2  is a rock-solid GPS watch that’s proven its mettle in every corner of the world. Now that it’s getting a little long in the tooth, you can get one for a fraction of the original price.

Kershaw Bel Air - Best Value EDC Knife

Best Value EDC Knife

Kershaw Bel Air

$127

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$127 at Amazon

Battlehawk Armory (see price)

Blade HQ (see price)

Scheels (see price)

Specs

• Steel: MagnaCut
• Blade Profile: Clip point
• Handle: Aluminum
• Blade Length: 3”
• Overall Length: 7.25”
• Country of Origin: USA

Kershaw has a knack for punching above its weight, so I was curious to check out the Kershaw Bel Air for myself after it got the collective thumbs-up from the usual blade forums. Long story short, this is now my favorite Kershaw and one of my favorite folding knives.

A CPM MagnaCut blade is the heart of this knife. This powder steel is very popular right now, because it does everything well. Sure, some steels can be tougher, sharper, or more corrosion-resistant, but MagnaCut is a great blend that you can carry worry-free.

This edge was razor-sharp from the factory. If you want to give it that extra snap and pop, hit it with a strop for a mirror shine and that last bit of refinement.

On top of that, the blade has a stonewash finish to help it shrug off daily use and abuse. It’s probably overkill, but more durability is better when it comes to a knife that you’re going to carry in your pocket every day.

Kershaw actually used tiny ball bearings for this opening action, and it feels delightfully smooth out of the box. If I’m ever late to a meeting, it’s probably because I’m fiddling with this and missed my calendar reminders.

Metal handles can be a little polarizing, because many of them feel slick and cold – not exactly what you want when you have a blade in your hand.

This aluminum handle, I’m happy to report, doesn’t suffer from either of those problems. The Cerakote finish is just textured enough to provide a solid grip with bare hands or shooting gloves (depending on your glove material, of course).

The handle is extremely rigid, thanks to edge-to-edge steel lining. All told, this knife feels rock solid and inspires a ton of confidence.

Kershaw used two torx screws to mount the small, understated pocket clip. You can move it on either side, but only for tip-up carry. It would be nice to have the option to carry it tip-down, but I do appreciate how deep this knife rides in the pocket. That’s a nice feature for EDC knives, which I like to keep out of sight whenever possible.

In terms of price, this is a significant step up from the Spyderco Delica 4. That extra change will get you a smoother opening mechanism, more complicated lock, and higher-end materials. While not strictly necessary, I consider these worthwhile upgrades.

Surefire Stiletto Pro - Best Value EDC Flashlight

Best Value EDC Flashlight

SureFire Stiletto Pro

$233

at GrabAGun

Prices accurate at time of writing

$233 at GrabAGun

NeoMag (see price)

Hinterland Outfitters (see price)

Specs

• Maximum Power: 1,000 lumens
• Maximum Intensity: 5,100 candela
• Battery: Rechargeable lithium polymer
• Modes: High, medium, low, strobe
• Dimensions: 4.5” x 1.63” x 1”
• Country of Origin: USA

The tactical flashlight market has been having a bit of a resurgence lately, but the SureFire Stiletto Pro was king of the hill for a long time. Now, it’s one of the best buys out there.

Let’s run through the numbers quickly. Many people want a flashlight that produces at least 1,000 lumens – the Stiletto Pro checks that box. Intensity is equally capable, with 5,100 candela piercing more than 150 yards into the darkness.

The various power modes cover reading, indoor use, and maximum illumination outdoors. Here’s the specs with expected battery run times for each.

And here’s what that looks like.

The strobe is a huge advantage if you plan on working your flashlight into your self-defense plan. Instead of cycling through modes, you can fire off 1,000 lumens of rapid-fire light by triple-tapping and holding the button on the tailpiece. 

The tailpiece button also activates a momentary high mode that shuts off when you release the button. It’s a convenient way to bypass the administrative brightness settings and get right down to business in a flash (pun intended).

Of course, the metal-bodied Stiletto Pro is also as tough as you expect a SureFire to be. The IPX7 rating is good for one meter of submersion for 30 minutes. The aluminum housing even makes a handy striking tool that tickles my “one mind, any weapon” proclivities from MCMAP (Marine Corps Martial Arts Program) training.

You can get an hour out of this light on high mode, and the battery is rechargeable via Micro USB.

Some of you already have smoke coming out of your ears and an angry comment burning through your fingertips, but rechargeable batteries have their place. That place is EDC flashlights, and this is one of the best in the business. Just plug it in overnight like your phone if you’re worried about running out of juice.

Besides, there’s a little LED by the power button that lets you know when it’s time for a recharge.

Now, there are lots of equally capable flashlights out there – many for less money.

What makes this so unique is the combination of all that performance in a package that still slips into a front pocket comfortably. I’d much rather carry this flashlight than a round-bodied light that I have to fight to reach my keys.

This is a great addition to your EDC, whether you’re using pocket carry or a CCW bag.

The pocket clip is reversible, so you can carry it light-up or light-down. Pro tip: in the light-up configuration, you can clip it to your hat brim to go hands-free.

Yes, I know the Stiletto Pro II has this flashlight beat on the spec sheet. It’s also about $130 more expensive, and most people will never need dual beams and the extra power they offer. In fact, you might not want to carry something that bulky.

Want an even more affordable option? Check out the base Stiletto. It’s polymer instead of aluminum and produces less power (650 lumens and 1,530 candela), but it’s still a great light for around $100.

Best EDC Watch, Knife, and Flashlight for $3,000

These are all great EDC combos, but what if you have serious cash in your pocket? When money isn’t an obstacle, there are some downright incredible pieces of gear out there, and you can snag these three for a cool $3,000.

Marathon GSAR - Best Premium EDC Watch

Best Premium EDC Watch

Marathon GSAR

$1800

at OpticsPlanet

Prices accurate at time of writing

$1800 at OpticsPlanet

Marathon (see price)

Specs

• Style: Automatic
• Lens: Sapphire crystal
• Water Resistance: 30 ATM
• Case Material: 316L stainless steel
• Case Dimensions: 41 mm x 41 mm 14 mm
• Wristband: Rubber
• Country of Origin: Switzerland 

After admiring the Marathon GSAR (Government Search and Rescue) from afar for years, I finally got one. Two years later, I can attest that it lives up to the hype.

The heart of this watch is a Swiss Sellita SW200-1 movement that’s well-known in the automatic watch community for its durability. Many watchmakers use the SW200-1, so parts are readily available, and there’s no shortage of data points pointing to its reliability in all kinds of environments.

Like the rest of the GSAR, the 26-jewel movement is refined and elegant without being delicate. It’s a true workhorse fit for divers, combat troops, and guys who write about guns on the internet. Unlike a lot of “water-resistant” watches, the GSAR is rated for 30 ATM or 1,000 feet of submersion.

Outside, I appreciate the clean face, tritium hour markers, date window, and unidirectional bezel. This watch checks so many of the boxes most people have when they shop for an automatic watch with tactical capability.

I’m obsessed with the Arctic version on a black rubber strap. Other options include a standard black face with white numbers and hands, a stainless steel bracelet, and a NATO strap. It will also work with any strap designed for a 20-millimeter lug width.

I live in a particularly dusty climate with severe temperature swings, and my GSAR has never missed a beat. I wear it every day, adjust the date and time for daylight savings and months with fewer than 31 days, and never worry about damaging it.

If I had to explore some harsh, remote location, this watch would be on my wrist.

A word of caution, though: like any mechanical tool, this watch needs maintenance. Plan on sending it back to Marathon or taking it to a trusted watch repair shop every five years or so for cleaning and lubrication. Do that, and it’ll outlive you and whoever you pass it on to in your will.

Now, some of you prefer tech over old-school horology. I thought about you, too.

Garmin Tactix 8

$1399

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$1399 at Amazon

OpticsPlanet (see price)

Garmin (see price)

When I want maximum navigational prowess anywhere in the world, I buckle into my Garmin Tactix 7. That watch’s successor, the Garmin Tactix 8 Solar Elite, is as close to James Bond gadgetry as you can get in real life.

Remember that the Instinct 2 gets positioning data from three satellite networks? The Tactix 8 Solar Elite taps into five: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS (Japan), and BeiDou (China).

Battery life takes a hit compared to the ultra-efficient Instinct, but you can still get about a month out of smartwatch mode and more than two days with continuous use of all five satellite connections. That’s pretty darn impressive for the amount of work the onboard computer is doing.

The screen is giant (1.4 inches in diameter), which makes navigating on detailed, full-color maps super easy. The only drawback is how big it feels on the wrist.

And there’s a suite of tactical apps and features, including a built-in flashlight (with green mode), diving and flying tools, and a ballistic calculator courtesy of Applied Ballistics.

When I travel internationally, my Tactix 7 is one of my favorite pieces of gear. It’s comforting to know that I can figure out where I am and find my way anywhere in the world without relying on cellular service or expensive subscriptions.

AMTAC Northman - Best Premium EDC Knife

Best Premium EDC Knife

AMTAC Northman

$500

at AMTAC Blades

Prices accurate at time of writing

$500 at AMTAC Blades

Specs

• Steel: MagnaCut
• Blade Profile: Drop point
• Handle: G10
• Blade Length: 3.5”
• Overall Length: 6.88”
• Country of Origin: USA

The AMTAC Blades Northman isn’t just the best defensive knife I own; it’s one of the best things I own.

AMTAC owner Bill Rapier obsessed over every detail of this design. He chose the steel to hold up to abuse (from you and the elements). The blade’s extremely sharp point is perfect for thrusting. The 90-degree spine works with a ferro rod to start a fire. 

From a materials standpoint, it’s everything I want in a high-end EDC knife. The MagnaCut blade offers an excellent balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, sharpness, and edge retention. Mine is razor sharp, even after splitting frozen logs for firewood during a winter survival course.

The G10 scales provide maximum grip and require no maintenance.

The Firesheath is another huge win. It rides low in a pocket or inside the waistband with a Discreet carry Concepts clip – the best in the business. 

There’s a built-in ferro rod for starting fires, and a secret compartment where you can stash small items like a folded $100 bill or a handcuff key (you know, the basics).

The handle is short, but its shape works with all kinds of grips. Here's a great video demonstrating your options.

I haven’t seen a defensive knife with more thought put into it than this one. Best of all, it’s small enough to fit in your front pocket so you really can carry it every day (well, as long as your local laws allow concealed fixed blades).

If you’re going to carry a knife for self-defense, you need to train with it just like you train with your carry gun. That’s why AMTAC Blades includes a blue training blade and a spare sheath for the Northman while you’re using it. This level of attention and commitment to training is unmatched, and it’s one of the reasons I hold the company in such high regard.

AMTAC Blade builds its knives in small batches by hand, so you might have to be patient when they’re not in stock. They’re worth the wait, though.

And give the brand a follow on Instagram because they roll out special edition knives every so often, and those are even more exclusive and cool than the normal ones.

Modlite PLHv2-18650 - Best Premium EDC Flashlight

Best Premium EDC Flashlight

Modlite PLHv2-18650

$309

at MidwayUSA

Prices accurate at time of writing

$309 at MidwayUSA

Primary Arms (see price)

Specs

• Maximum Power: 1,350 lumens
• Maximum Intensity: 54,000 candela
• Battery: 18650 or two CR123
• Modes: High, low
• Dimensions: 5.25” x 1.19” x 1.19"
• Country of Origin: USA

Is $300 a lot for a flashlight? Yes. But is the Modlite PLHv2-18650 system worth it? Also yes. This is an EDC flashlight for the one percent, at least for those of us who want to have a few pieces of gear like the one percent.

Modlite builds multiple systems from the same components. In this case, that’s the PLHv2 head, a body built around an 18650 rechargeable battery, and a one-button tailcap.

The PLHv2 beam is super intense in the center, with a wide-angle outer portion. This is what I recommend for most people. It’s not too powerful to use indoors, and the throw is wide enough for situational awareness indoors. If you need to reach out further, 54,000 candela is nothing to scoff at.

For dedicated outdoor use, I recommend Modlite’s OKW head. It’s much further-reaching than the PLHv2 – think shooting at distances that warrant an LPVO in the dark.

The battery produces enough power to generate 1,350 lumens and 54,000 candela. You can swap it out for a fresh one and recharge two at a time in the included charging station.

Let’s see it in action!

If you want something smaller, you can opt for the shorter body that takes an 18350 battery.

The simple tailpiece only has one button, but the PLHv2 head has a built-in admin mode that dials power down to about 200 lumens. Check out this programming procedure.

This flashlight is fairly bulky, but it's a great option if you have large pockets or carry some kind of bag on a daily basis.

I also appreciate the ability to swap out certain components and turn it into a rifle light or pistol light. If you think about it, this is kind of a bargain.

How I Chose the Best EDC Watches, Knives, and Flashlights

Pistols aside, the most important tools to have on your person on a daily basis are (in no particular order) a watch, knife and flashlight. Those three items can solve a whole lot of problems big and small.

Budget EDC Loadouts

I started by looking for one of each with an individual-item budget of $100. Here’s to the people who punch the clock every day and need great gear that doesn’t blow the budget. 

Sometimes you can find great options for less (and I did), but that’s kind of been a benchmark where I could reliably start finding high-quality items that you can count on and take pride in. For most days, this is all you need.

Value EDC Loadouts

For my value picks, I bumped the individual price cap up to $250. This category is all about getting more than you paid for – and boy, I found some great deals!

That opens the door to more complicated folding knife opening mechanisms, GPS watches, and combat-proven flashlights. This is the kind of EDC gear a lot of military and law enforcement types carry.

Premium EDC Loadouts

The premium category could have easily been unrestricted, but I wanted to see if I could do it for $1,000 each.

That’s a fine top-end price limit for knives and flashlights, but the watches I wanted to recommend were all well above it. I ended up moving more money into the watch category without compromising on my ideal knife and flashlight picks. 

Consider this the realm of elite EDC (and let’s be honest, style).

Meet the Experts

Editing this article is Scott Murdock. Scott has experience testing EDC gear for a range of authoritative publications.

That includes deep dives into watch history, torture-testing knives, and getting nerdy about lumens and candela. He drew from that expertise and his experience reviewing firearms and survival gear for this article.

Final Thoughts

If you’re like me, you’ll end up with a whole bunch of EDC items that you rotate through depending on the day.

These three EDC loadouts cover a huge range of prices, but the beauty of them is that they’re all effective. Even my budget picks will earn you approving nods from watch, knife, and flashlight enthusiasts.

If you have more money to spend, the higher-end picks are a real treat. I genuinely hope you get to at least try them out someday.

What does your EDC loadout look like? Break it down for us in the comments. Need more preparedness essentials? Head on over to our Survival & Prepping Ultimate Resource!