The “Other” EDC – Everyday Carry Knives
BLADE MAGAZINE TACTICAL KNIFE SPECIAL ISSUE FEB. 2026 THE “OTHER” EDC by Blade Field Editor, Les Robertson, pg. 30
When most blade fans talk everyday carry (EDC) knives, they usually mean folders. The two main EDC advantages of folding knives are they are convenient to carry and easy to conceal. Fixed blades offer several advantages, as well. One the most significant is the full tang construction, providing added strength & durability.
REBEL by PIOTR GOSCINIAK TACTICAL FIXED EDC
Unlike the folding knife, there is much less chance of mechanical failure. Locks & pivots on folders can fail and require more maintenance. A fixed blade typically will have better handle ergonomics. Its handle is usually designed for prolonged use, featuring a more comfortable grip that also aids in balance. If your hands are cold, wet, injured or gloved it is harder to open a folder, especially a slip joint.
RIDGELINE by KOLAKOWSKI TACTICAL EDC
Whereas with a fixed blade EDC in an accessible sheath, it is ready for immediate deployment. Kydex sheaths are preferred over leather for EDC fixed blades because they do not hold moisture and does not require Tannic Acid. Tannic Acid can cause the carbon steel of the blade to discolor and the leather may shrink from moisture of outdoor elements. Most tactical fixed blades sold at Robertson’s Custom Cutlery come with a Kydex sheath that is molded to fit the blade, will not deform, providing a safer carry option for your tactical fixed EDC.
TRAILHEAD by TOMASZ DZIUBINSKI TACTICAL EDC
I’m not suggesting EDC folders do not have an advantage in some cases, it frankly depends on their use. They provide versatility for light tasks such as opening letters, boxes, cutting cord etc. and are more socially accepted. The majority of featured knives in this story have 3.75″ – 4″ blades; therefore, about the same size of an open tactical folder.
STREET SCALPEL by RAFAL KOLAKOWSKI TACTICAL NECK KNIFE
Depending on what you are using it for, you may want to consider a knife that has the mechanical advantage, requires less maintenance, can be easier to deploy in difficult environments and is more comfortable in the hand. With perhaps the exceptions of concealability and some legal restrictions; fixed blades, the “Other” EDC has the EDGE.
