The Kershaw Launch 13, with its ultra-strong Wharcliffe-style blade of durable, corrosion-resistant CPM-154 and a black DLC blade finish, offers versatile cutting performance in a lightweight package. It’s perfect for fine work but also offers full-sized cutting ability.
Its skeletonized, black anodized 6061-T6 aluminum handles bear a narrow profile, and deep carry pocketclip that let the Launch 13 easily ride in the pocket and round out the package.
The Kershaw Launch 13 is a steal (especially when you get it for under $150 at Live Outdoor Sports via the previous link) – and is great for EDC, but what else should you carry with it?
A Stone (and Cover)
Most EDC lists don’t include sharpening stones and the reason why is an enigma. If you carry a knife you should carry what you need to get it sharp, right?
Stuff a small Arkansas stone in your bug-out bag so you’re ready when you need to raise a razor edge. Keep a strop nearby too, or learn how to strop on your pants.
A Small Tool Set or Multitool
A knife is a highly useful tool but a small multitool can also be a lifesaver. They’re perfect for opening bottles and cans, stripping wire, and all the other odd tasks life will throw at you.
Pro tip – get a multi-tool with a bit driver that will enable you to tighten the pivot screw on your pocket knife or field strip it for cleaning.
A Flashlight
Being able to see is as important as, if not more important than, carrying a blade, and a flashlight can save you in a pinch.
Whether you need to see under the hood in the dark on the side of the road or simply need to be able to see your way out of a warehouse in a power failure, a flashlight is what you need.
Carry some spare batteries too, by the way.
A Lighter
For most, a lighter is probably not as useful as a flashlight, but a lighter can still be highly useful. You can also use a lighter in lieu of a flashlight in some circumstances – albeit inefficiently.
Lighters are also tops for smokers, candle aficionados, and campers.
A Pen
There is a saying, “if it’s worth remembering, it’s worth writing down,” and we agree with it wholeheartedly.
Not only is a pen indispensable for jotting down thoughts, but some pens also have integral glass breakers or seatbelt cutters that you can use to extricate yourself from a trapped vehicle in a pinch.
Then again, you can use your Kershaw Launch 13 for that too, but it’s still a thought.
A Notepad
Last but not least, you’ll need a place to write all those notes down, won’t you? So carry a notepad.
And not just any notepad. Water and weather can make short work of paper. Get one of those notepads with tear-proof, waterproof paper. If you ever get caught out there with sensitive notes in your pocket, you’ll be glad you made the right purchase.
