Welcome to the Urban EDC Showcase! Each week, we feature one member of the EDC community and the gear they rely on every day. Want to be featured? Submit your gear photo.
Currently working as a university teaching assistant, Ryan (@pocketfind) just moved to Arizona with his wife 2 years ago and is avidly exploring and taking in all that Arizona has to offer. His first and favorite blade is a Paramilitary 2 and has customized it extensively himself to make it his own. Read on to find out about Ryan’s unique carry and what’s next on his gear radar.
Featured Tools:
- Knife: Spyderco Paramilitary 2
This was my first serious knife purchase 6 years ago and I believe it’s what got me into modern knives and EDC in general. I did an acid etch on the blade back when I first got it and it has slowly developed into what it is today.
The original digi-camo scales were eventually dyed black, the pocket clip was switched for a deep carry clip, and a brass back spacer has been added. To me, the Paramilitary 2 is a perfect primary knife. It is a proven design and the S30V steel holds a nice edge. Its large enough to perform most tasks and yet light enough to be a pleasure to carry. I also like that mine is one of a kind.
- SAK: Victorinox Alox Cadet
I carry this knife constantly. For me, it’s the perfect secondary knife because it is small, lightweight, multifunctional, and “workplace friendly”. No one bats an eye when I pull the Cadet from my pocket.
I primarily use this knife for food prep and general cutting tasks when away from home. I also really like that it fits perfectly in a change/watch pocket.
- Flashlight: Maratac AA
The Maratac AA is my preferred size for an EDC light. In the past, I tried carrying larger and found myself leaving them at home often due to their size.
This Maratac fits nicely in my pocket next to the Pokka pen and doesn’t become uncomfortable when sitting down. I also really like the personality the light has developed as the copper continues to develop a patina.
- Pen: Pokka Pen
I just recently started carrying these pens, but now I’m hooked. I prefer them to a standard pen because they are half the size until I’m ready to write. They practically disappear in the pocket and they are very affordable compared to some other offerings.
Background:
My name is Ryan and I live and work in Phoenix, Arizona. I currently work as a teaching assistant at a university where I am also completing prerequisite coursework for dental school.
I enjoy spending time outside hiking, camping, and exploring. My wife and I moved to Arizona 2 years ago from the eastern US so we are still exploring everything the state and surrounding area has to offer.
Social media and internet forums were my introduction to EDC. I did a lot of research before buying my Paramilitary 2 and during that time my eyes were opened to this wonderful community.
Favorite EDC Tool:
The Paramilitary 2 is by far my favorite. It is a solid knife that has never let me down. I’ve put a lot of work into making it my own and enjoy showing it off to friends and people I meet in the EDC community.
What's On Your Gear Radar:
An upgraded version of the CRKT Pilar has been hinted at by the designer Jesper Voxnaes. I’m waiting patiently for that.
