Something that crosses our minds a lot here at T&T is the concept of “BIFL” (Buy It For Life). We don’t just want items that look cool, we want them to last.
Today’s collection of EDC gear inspiration is presented with that philosophy in mind. The items are either made from aircraft-grade materials or are just about tough enough that it doesn’t matter.
Decadent DM1 wallet. ($49–$87, depending on size and color)
The striking DM1 wallet by Erik Moon is machined from a single billet of aircraft-grade 6061-T6 aluminum. There are no screws, no rivets, no straps, no elastic, no velcro, no rubber bands, no moving parts at all — just metal.
It securely holds up to 8 cards (each of which satisfyingly clicks into place), and despite its metal construction it feels almost feather-light in the hand when empty. Comes in a variety of colors, with available sizes for 4, 8, or 12 cards.
Baron Fig Squire aluminum pen. ($55)
The Squire is a beautiful pen cut from a solid block of high-grade aluminum. It’s precision weighted so that it rests comfortably in your hand, and the body subtly widens from top to bottom, making it more ergonomic and keeping your fingers from sliding down. It’s shorter than an average pen but longer than most pocket pens — hitting the portability sweet spot — and there are very few parts or edges to speak of.
They recently released a limited-edition orange version you should check out.
Fenix E15 flashlight. ($31)
The Fenix E15 clocks in at just 2.5″ long, weighs under 1oz., and still manages to put out 170 lumens of light. Consider us impressed. It’s also made from knurled, aircraft-grade aluminum, finished with a type-III hard-anodized anti-abrasive coating, and is waterproof to boot (at least while the light is on; the seal is looser when the head is turned to the off position).
Lucky Line “Twisty” key ring. ($6)
This key ring is made from flexible, corrision-resistant aircraft cable that’s been coated in nylon. Thanks to its unique ball-and-socket design, it opens and closes by twisting the cable into a figure eight (∞) shape, so it’s not likely to ever come undone in your pocket.
Leatherman OHT multi-tool. ($80 or $90, depending on color)
With most “one-handed” multi-tools, you get the option of one-hand-opening pliers OR one-hand-opening blades. With the Leatherman OHT (“one-handed tool”), both of these functions are combined into a single heavy-duty unit, along with 14 other tools.
All of the tools lock into place when open, and the handles are visually imprinted so you can quickly identify where each tool is. The Leatherman OHT comes in coyote tan or black. Each comes with your choice of black or brown molle sheath, and are backed by Leatherman’s 25-year limited warranty.
For more everyday carry inspiration, check out the rest of our EDC guides here.