Why the Best Damn EDC [Taylor Martin] Is BAD for Everyday Carry
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- Опубліковано 6 сер 2023
- Just my take why the Best Damn EDC isn't the best for the EDC community anymore...it is a rant.
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when i first started my channel all my knives looked worn and used because i only had so many to test, after you get a lot of knives you can rotate them out, and as long as you take care of them and keep them clean you can keep a knife looking good for a long time, edges is something i pay attention to because that is what is going to determine if you are using it or not, has it been sharpened or is it still factory. you do have to have the eye for it which many do
I like Jon Gadget. I think he owns some stores in the UK. His EDC is practical. I like his travel gear advice.
He a chain of stores called The Gadget Shop across the UK, it went bust 20 years ago but I think he had fingers in other pies. I think he is now doing the UA-cam out of the love of 'gear' but also to keep himself busy in retirement :)
I used to be really into EDC, but I stopped buying new knives and gear because I found myself getting expensive items that I was afraid to use (Didn’t wanna put wear on it). Plus, I realized I didn't really need most of it.
The only thing I’m still into that the EDC community got me into is watches. I can do without the dozens of unused knives, flashlights, mini prybars, titanium keychain clips and all the other overpriced pocket candy.
Great comment!
Bernhardt watches - made USA [Binnacle Diver is the boom]
I think the difference becomes are you a collector or?
What in the world are all these people doing that they need to carry a pry bar on them? It's just jewelry at this point.
@@John-ke2jm there are times I wish I had one instead of a knife. I used to carry a nice knife but was afraid to use it lol now its just a skelatool and works perfect for me
The overpriced ($100 IIRIC) paper clip key holder drives me nuts!
At least the normal one that isn't topo engraved isn't too unreasonably priced.
That's on you man, it's not for everyone. We all have our own taste and budget but it driving you nuts is the problem and hurts the community. If you don't like it don't buy it don't let it bother you. Simple
@@JavierGarcia-xz5vl, it's not that it bothers me. I don't have it means I don't like it. It's just ridiculous that a paper clip made of titanium is priced like that. People who are starting/entering the EDC world for sure will be intimidated by it. Worse, newbies are gatekept because they don't have these "premium" EDC stuff.
For a $100, I already have a complete EDC set.
This is true tho...
FR!!
First off, congrats on 50K subscribers; that's great! I like Taylor's content but I agree that the older stuff lured me in but the newer stuff is pushing me away from the channel - and by extension, all those like it. I'm with you; EDC should be about functionality before form. To quote another UA-camr (Zac in the Wild?), have what you need and need what you have. I'm pushing toward a minimalist lifestyle anyway as well as being more budget minded and less FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) minded. Outside of collecting, I see no reason why I'd want to spend $200-$300 on a single EDC item, regardless of what it is. I appreciate you speaking out on this and, as someone looking to get into EDC content creation, the views you expressed will be helpful when creating for my own channel. Keep 'em comin' and continued success brother.
The only thing I'd spend hundreds on is my gun. It's strange that no one on Taylor's channel ever seems to carry a gun including him. My guns are all 750 or less and they are all old school revolvers that are 50+ years old. I have a late 60's light weight Colt 38 special snubby that cost 630 bucks. The new Cobra, which isn't even a Cobra as it's a full weight turd of a gun, is 1,000+. I carry beautiful old school revolvers that look great but that I got for a great deal. As I can't stand Glocks and any other "popular" gun when the old 38's work perfectly.
I started enjoying EDC videos some time ago now, Best Damn EDC was the first YTB channel I discovered about this and that introduced me to this world. I also started to notice when things changed to brands that where either way to expensive for the average person or, products that where sold out already never to see the light again. Whats the point!? That's when i started to look to other channels for more "down to earth" content and products that I think where affordable to me while maintaining great quality. Your channel is one of them. I love your honest approach to the EDC and the variety of products you include in your videos and kits. Your no frills no bullshit videos is why I enjoy your channel and your kits are top notch. So here is for more videos to come from your channel and for the next 50K subscribers, Cheers!🍻
I don't think he's bad, after all, he's just a guy, and should be free to post what he wants. He also really loves well used gear, as seen in his weekly edc videos, but he personally has a career in reviewing and trying out new edc stuff so he ends up changing his knives a lot. I almost never change my EDC, i believe that takes all the fun out of EVERY day carry. But it's fun to look at stuff i wouldn't buy and i have no problem with a dude posting whatever he wants about junk he likes. It's a free country
totally agreed with you
Amen
He never said he doesn’t have a right to post. You misunderstood the video
@@Ferien7 I think I understood, I just disagree that there's any problem with the guy's content. EDC is all just a hobby anyway, and some dude posting videos about pocket junk is neither here nor there, it's just fun content. I don't really understand why people would care one way or the other, if you don't like it just don't watch it lol
@@griff7749 looks you did misunderstand the video. He’s talking about the direction the edc community is going as a result of lifestyle influencers instead of people with a legitimate need for gear and educational video content about that gear.
Hey Killer, fellow prior active duty Marine here as well, LAAD Gunner from 2001 to 2011. Great episode and interesting take. I think one of the main tropes any content creator can fall into is keeping pace with their own personal collecting/enthusiast journey. Typically, as you collect anything, you slowly move up market because, as your means increase, you're able to access higher end products. Sometimes that leads to expensive custom modifications, or limited niche products, but often leads to purchasing more mainstream premium goods. As your viewership grows, you want your content to become more premium as well. You want your personal brand to be associated with other premium brands, etc. So, there's an evolution in your format over time. No one stays in the same space forever and who would want to really watch that. At the end of the day, which is the "truer" path, to target the same introductory audience at a standstill where viewers come and go (eventually outgrowing that space) OR taking folks along with your own personal journey as your own tastes and preferences evolve? It's tough and I try to blend a bit of both. I mainly do wristwatch content but also share EDC based content and yeah, I started out carrying a Leek, working my way up to Delicas and Mini-Grips, before getting into Sebenzas and Hizens. Naturally, as your enthusiasm grows, you can begin to appreciate higher end products. If you have the means, being a collector in any space leads to safe queens. No one starts own with vintage Ferraris and Porsches locked up in a garage but if you can get there, you will end up there. Same for wristwatches, if you can attain those grail level timepieces, you get them and baby them or worse pickup as an investment that you can appreciate as art. For the EDC space, it's interesting because many people who get to a space of being a "collector" will be able to eventually afford some grail level knives, pens, or pry tools. Even the most 'overpriced' gear is still relatively attainable, so there's actually quite an audience for upper tier stuff. There are some guys out in the woods of Europe destroying multi-thousand dollar Rockstead knives, it's wild. Man, either way, this video subject was extremely thought provoking, and I salute you for that. It make me feel like I need to pepper in more content about the journey, to enrich the segments covering the destinations. Semper Fi Brother!
Too long sir too long
I 100% agree I couldn’t see myself spending $200+ on something that’s just going to be sitting in a pouch and used maybe once a year. I rathe buy something decently priced, use and abuse it until I lose it or break it. His videos are good but it’s more of a show than anything else… but you’re on point!
Great video, as others mentioned Taylor did help me tuning in my carry and also helped me realize EDC was a thing. However I do appreciate some other channels of actually using the gear like Zac in the Wild, TA outdoor…
To make things short, let’s vote for whomever each person wants with their time, likes, money… the market will fluctuate in any given space, be it cars, edc, watches, real estate… new subscriber here X.
I carry and use a shirogorov F95, a McGizmo, Haiku, a Vero, prybar, a Koneg, mini arius and IWC, pilot watch, and I use them every single day. I work 80 hour weeks to be able to afford what I think are the best tools money can buy. I very much enjoy your videos and channel. You are super knowledgeable. But I watch Taylor’s channel because he has high end expensive custom gear which is what I like. I have worked hard for everything I have and life is short, so I enjoy them every single day. Again, wonderful channel and content. I always look forward to your videos, especially the truck EDC videos.
No offense, but it sounds like you just like to work to buy high-end shit that you probably don’t need but just want. And by want I mean mean to tell others you can afford nice shit as you break your body to get it.
Agreed. He always shows stuff that he didn't buy, that was sent to him. Then drops the price, and it's insanely priced.
Lotta good notes here X. Appreciate you for digging deep into “practical” vs “trinkets”. Thanks for another fire video!
Congrats on 50K brother! I think others have said this, but Taylor seems to be getting bored with the channel. When passion isn’t behind the production, it shows in the end product. I still enjoy his content because it exposes me to brands/products I wouldn’t have known about. I’m hoping your passion never fades Marine!
Thanks brother!
Some very good points made my friend. I’m into EDC as a hobby.. but I use everything I purchase. I like seeing those EDC videos where someone pulls out that beat up set of gear that they’ve been using the past six months. But yes.. does seem like Taylor Martin does only show off new stuff that was sent to him by different companies, and not every EDC guy is into the “High End stuff. That being said.. I use high end items only with certain tools.. I’m more prone to spend $250+ on a well made knife.. but then only spend $50 for a flashlight, wallet, or watch. I like some of the high priced brass, copper, Titanium pens as well.
X, dude. I think you fall below your own good standards here my friend. I think there’s space for everyone, I feel its disingenuous of you to say that you want Taylor to be better, I don’t think in your heart of hearts you really do, and I think there’s a taste of sour grapes about viewer numbers. You do you, let Taylor do Taylor, and let fans of both of you watch and enjoy without shit stirring and beef finding. And using his full name and channel name in your video title? I think you can do better, and are better than that. Taylor is a don whom we all owe a debt of gratitude. Some day others will say that of you too. Enough with the flame war already. Yours in appreciation and anticipation of more gentlemanly conduct befitting a military man, Al
Whomp whomp
Dude... I think you sound like a reasonable person... But "the community" is not made up of one type of person looking for one type of thing, or one type of content to digest. In my opinion, we are all divided up into users, collectors, and enthusiasts. Most of us are hybridizations of at least two categories. There is no right or wrong way to enjoy this stuff. "Expensive" gear has existed for a very... Very long time. It's also an extremely subjective word. There will never be a shortage of people assuming people who buy expensive things don't actually use them, and are therefore "unfit" to make recommendations (which is where this decades old EDC community narrative comes from). Some people enjoy chasing a rare item, and then using it. Some just want a cheap utilitarian "thing" they can use. Some people just like to cover the newest coolest stuff. Taylor isn't misleading anyone. As is the case with all content, we can pick and choose what we like to watch (or create). Taylor has his own space. I feel like we're fortunate that we have an overall healthy community that hasn't (so far) become the type of community where creators dedicate entire uploads to why some other creator isn't "good"... But now I'm a little worried. Anyways, hope this makes sense. My channel showcases things that are WILDLY expensive, as have many channels before mine. I also showcase things that are not expensive at all. Depending on who you ask, im either a shill for overpriced crap or a good resource for comparing things in various price ranges. Endless perspectives. Sometimes we like to talk about things simply because they exist. Few people may find value in these things, but the content isn't necessarily hurting anyone.
I hear you. But I’ve talked to current and former team members. They see what I’m saying. To each their own brother
Nicely put, good points
It’s ironic that you’re the only one who disagrees with him.
@@MarineXYou’re a clown.
I get both sides but I feel this video big time if your just show casing then your basically no different from a old school fishing and hunting TV show and really should not be taking serious with recommendations on the gear also all of these types of channels have done a lot to the community as far as driving up the price of the gear you don't have to believe this but it is true where old time content creators caused value for price up. It also causes other content creators to have to kind of do the same if they are going to grow. Think back to nuttinfancy I know a lot of people do not like him but he changed the way the industry moved because they knew he was going to use the heck out the gear so faults would be seen know it's almost like they can buy their way out of that but sending some free gear to the right people and I'm not saying anyone person I'm saying they have created a Culture for this to take place
Totally agree. I don't need a 500-800 dollar knife that can puncture a car hood and not need to be sharpened after. Can't see myself ever killing a car with a knife. Does it WORK for the kind of stuff I need to do. Medford might be well made, but again, I don't need to stab a tank and another American made 50 to 150 dollar knife would open a bag of concrete mix or cut string just as well or better.
Very interesting video. I don’t think that Taylor is particularly bad for the EDC community, he just doesn’t appeal to everyone anymore. Every creator takes a separate path and it’s awesome to see some of them find success and hopefully find joy in that success. There is still plenty of room for new people to innovate and fill the niche that is underserved. You’re a great example of that.
I have been watching EDC videos since 2013, and poorly making the occasional EDC video since 2015. I lost a lot of interest in it over the past year or so because on one end it got too expensive and then the other end kind of had this anti-elitist-elitism where if you use use anything higher end than a Bic pen and a utility blade, you’re an idiot with too much money. There just wasn’t anything interesting for me from most creators. Then there’s the typical EDC video that youtubers make, and most of those aren’t even interesting anymore because it’s all the same thing…minimal wallet, iPhone, AirPods, Apple Watch.
All of that to say, there’s plenty of room for new people to come in and knock it out of the park in the EDC arena. I hope they do because I want the content.
I think he is bad for peoples financial and mental health. He perpetrates this "spend spend spend" FMO kind of thing and I don't think it's healthy.
He has recently made a video addressing this and his approach to the channel, as well as his desire to make it better. I think like everyone eventually does, he got buried in work and wore himself down with the routine. He is actively trying to take steps to make the channel more fun and engaging now, both for himself and the viewers.
9 months later...hasn't happend.
Taylor was the one who actually got me into EDC a few years ago, back when I didn’t even know EDC was a thing. My current gear consists mostly from items he recommended in his videos years ago and I still carry them. His videos gave me an appreciation for EDC and how it can improve my daily life. I am thankful for that. I do wish his whiskey knife fight podcast with Jeremy does comes back one day, it was very entertaining. By the way congrats on your 50k subs X. I enjoy watching your channel and you often provide a different perspective compared to the mainstream EDC channels, which is brilliant. Here’s to the next 50k!
I sadly have to agree to certain points you made. His channel started out with "reachable" stuff. Especially in Europe some things are hard to come by, most of the US-handmade stuff will cost half a soul in shipping. So I stick to guys like you or Chris from PM101, guys that give me helpful inspiration into useful gear. Thanks for the good work that you are doing and all the best from the old country :)
Whats not good for the edc community is when youtubers start with good intentions for edc but after getting big they start flipping knives they get for free and sell for almost retail. That leaves a bad taste in my mouth. Why not give good discount for the people that got u to the point of getting free knives from companies? The rich gets richer I guess
Also, Taylor carries it for a week and reviews it like he carried it for years.
Just seen his response on Instagram, pretty funny lol I agree though, edc has lost its practicality and is now a pool of products that you have to buy as soon as they drop or they're gone for good
Hey man just subscribed and excited to be here. I definitely understand where you are coming from. I think edc is different for everyone. Some people see it as survival gear, daily tools, art, or just cool things. You believe utility comes before anything else which is great. But someone might enjoy the art and craftsmanship of a maker, etc just like someone might value a designer bag or luxury vehicle. Different strokes for different folks.
There are many facets of edc and more exposure of all of them is great for the edc community as a whole. I understand that people can be divided about what edc is and what it should be, but accepting different points of view is better than tearing each other down. Especially in such a small community.
I think everything you listed could easily be a sub genre however. If you wanted to do videos about each of those aspects of it then by all means, but there is also a point where survivalist gear is not EDC. That is unless you believe everything could end at any second. If you want "Hip or Urban EDC" then absolutely do that. I think the issue is muddying the waters around where EDC came from and what it has mutated into because the origins and the people who still carry EDC like they have for 50+ yrs do not necessarily appreciate how their real daily preparation for going to actual work including military service to farming and usually labor related jobs is perverted to fancy hank's, $100 keychains, and matchy matchy gear people post online when they never use the gear. We have used ours every single day as the name actually implies.
The point is that things have gotten so far from the origin that I don't believe the actual origins of EDC are represented or discussed anymore on a regular basis and that is more the problem I see happening in this culture.
Totally agree with you, after listening to you i did realise that i had spent much more then i should have on EDC items, i do feeling creators like taylor or everyday minimilist show case their videos in such h way, like dark themes and and ambience that urges people to buy stuff that we don’t actually need, atleast this applies to me as i had felt , might not be for everyone to feel the same way but i get your point and do feel the exact same way.
Taylor is currently going through a transition I don’t know if you know this. Capt Rikki is his new videographer/editor and he’s pushing Taylor to do new things so I already know we’re going to start seeing new types of content from him. I hope this video of yours X gives him something to reflect on and consider when he does a video because we can all take advice and grow more no matter what stage in the game we are at. Sadly it’s not just Taylor trying to push high price items, the edc market itself is constantly rising from all brands and makers. Bladeshow ATL seemed like I couldn’t buy anything new for less than $200-300. I will always recommend civivi to anyone no matter that point they’re at!
Yup I am Glad Rikki is over there. I want to push him to mix it up because it is starting to come through on camera.
@@MarineX If the MESS that is his videography currently is due to this Rikki person, then that sucks.
His videos are unwatchable (for me) at this point. Just pathetic hipster trash.
90s MTV Style filming isn't what I'm looking for.
And those types of videos make smaller creators like me not want to create bc im not going to buy stupid expensive gear. Channels like yours make me want to do it again though. Thank you
Fella you should get back into it. The more content makers out there the more the community grows. The real people out there want to see genuine opinions on products there can afford 🤙
@@MoorlanderEDC I’ve watched your 5.11 videos, I appreciate your kind words my friend. They are encouraging for sure. I may have to get back on the grind.
Marine X, I have to agree with you. Taylor is charismatic and his video cinematography is really good, but so are you and your videos are great quality too. I've watched lots of BDEDC videos and I usually end up turning them off because, jeez, who can afford a $300 flashlight or a stupid $100 key chain. Lots of little trinket stuff. And top price stuff. I appreciate your videos because you understand that we don't have to have to best of everything but you still illustrate good quality stuff. I did break down and buy the nutsac sling bag though and I love it. Worth the dollars, I'll have it for the rest of my life. Keep up the great content!
That 'Nocluma Pineapple' (or whatever the hell it was called) flashlight is what did it for me. That tiny flashlight that Olight has a comparable size and brightness for a tenth of the price is what you want to brag about? You're bragging about being a complete dumbass for paying that much for that flashlight!!!
i agree with some of this rant. it's not his fault that stuff like the gbg sell out instantly. mighty pouches were already crazy limited run. Taylor might not have helped that hype machine though. any anyone who knows me knows how i feel about pocket trash. beyond the art aspect, many are literally anxiety tools. sure many are crazy expensive. but that doesn't change their utility. keep up the good work and keep making what YOU think is the best edc content for the community
If I may, I would appreciate using your phrase in the future as I really like the term "pocket trash" and the fact anyone asks me to pay for it is the most insane thing anyone has asked of me. I frequently see this "pocket trash" and am very confused by it as I am thinking "I can barely remember to take the stuff I need out of my pockets. . . . .that little thing would end up in the wash and I would never see it again! What purpose does it serve again?".
Hey X, I just started following you a little bit ago. I'm a chef and carry a back pack for awhile(laptop, pens, note books etc) ive found your channel very informative and helped me to choose a new bag and pocket knife Thanks, and keep up the good work.
Thank you, Mr. x i have been falling into his trap thinking i need to get the best gear, and it's so expensive, as you say you do not always need to go this way with buying a pen from big idea design cost me 150 pounds.i should have just got myself a cheaper pen as they write just the same its crazy how the videos are made more for buying these crazy items box cutter hundred pounds in price no showing of how the items really work its show and buy these expensive items and as i said i fell right into this but just recently got back to basics with cheaper items that work and do the sameand still look nice pieces of gear and i hate those videos where its all darker theme with very expensive gear so i thank you and wish you the best and you have most definitely helped me out with lots of better options i could go on and on talking about click Bate but edc from you guys make life more easier with good options so thanks marines x from Scotland uk.
Stay away from 'Big Idea Designs'. Overpriced beyond recognition.
I found Taylor's channel when i started really looking to EDC, for work and play. I started with more budget baised items and gradually worked my way from a $25 knife, to a Chris Reeve. I think his tastes evolved. He started a journey and has gotten this fsr. We all start somewhere. Its really up to the person to go as far as they want to get in their EDC journey.
Same story with me haha. Started on the rat 2 , got a crk sebenza in magnacut, since then sold that and edc an ad10 or 940 now
Why did you buy a Chris Reeve? Was it because of the brand name or the quality you felt?
@@mitchblackmore5230 if we're being completely honest, both! I am not immune to the hype, but they hype is real. There are no other knives like a Chris Reeve. I think once you handle one you can feel and appreciate the craftsmanship. I own 2 so far.
Great content fella and definitely food for thought. Taylor's definitely created that out of reach by the average mortal content. I think the vast majority of his gear is past aspirational gear.
Ps. Jon Gadget's accent isn't a scratch on mine 🤙 similar but different
Just recently stumbled across your channel. I have watched a lot of your videos and find them very beneficial. I have a wife and 2 kids so edc on a budget is a must. Thanks for the great content and keep up the good work.
Legitimate, I had some cheap vg10 boker to now a custom modified 940 that cost me around 450$ total. It really makes me feel like my gear is not good enough, but now I understand after have used that much money. I'm happy with the edge retention of s30v with a good diamond stone fixed angle system. I use the upgraded worksharp adjust.
Absolutely agree. My stuff is used and very well loved. I'm not a grail collector, nor can I afford $1000 watches or $500 knives that I'll never use or carry. Hell, I refused to carry knives over $50 because I'd be heartbroken if I lost it or damaged it.
That FB group is absolutely toxic as fuck too. There are some good people there, but holy fuck there are some gate keeping, elitist assholes over there. If you're not carrying $5k worth of "grail/safe queens", you're a scumbag, low life "poors".
I have found some cool stuff from his channel that I still use and carry today. But some of that stuff... never. Never ever.
Well said. And I don't have a fb for this reason.
Haha so true on that elitist bs. A bunch of nerds who collects expensive knives. Literal pocket jewelry. CRK owners buying multiple knives that are supposed to be “buy one and use it for life “ kind of knives. It makes 0 sense
@@Phaminator525 The problem with this behavior with any item has always been. . . ."Do you even know how to use it?". Do you know how to care for it? Do you have any idea about the most basic knife safety or are these just for looking at in a nice case? As a woman I regularly go to "man sales" or "husband sales" and they are actually listed as that online like I don't know my way around power tools or any tools for that matter and am completely incapable. I have bought many things on incredible deep discounts from people who wanted a "collection", but had no idea how to actually use the collection and the same goes for some people with knives. When you don't know how to open/close your knife and it doesn't have a scratch on it, but you have had it for an extended amount of time I know all I need to know about the level of skills the person has with a knife and the amount of use their items have.
You may judge them as elitist, but many times these behaviors cover up some real inadequacies in their lives. Healthy people don't normally behave in that manner and use what is available to them instead of purchasing things to become "special" or have a complete collection and it can hide things like deep debt to do this to marital problems/loneliness or unhappiness in their career. It's why these types of "collections" end up on the market second hand so frequently. No one at work, socially, or romantically ever likes dealing with an A-hole who acts like they know what they are doing, but doesn't have a clue.
I actually think I saw your videos first.. I came across EDC while researching prepping gear during covid, as a lot of us did. I personally like watching everyones stuff. I think it's interesting seeing different people's point of view when it comes to gear. On one hand I like to see high quality stuff, but at the same time, I - like you - want to see budget options as well. EDC at first, to me, was ridiculous haha - but after watching guys like you, and gadget - starting thinking about it as essential things - and that's where I started really getting into it, and shopping around (watching different channels) finding gear that I would ACTUALLY use every day. So I like seeing everyones stuff to give me ideas of items I want to buy/use - always from a practical sense. I think EDC for everyone is different, and to me - it's usefulness/preparedness -- for instance, I have like 4 knives, and they all have a purpose, I don't have 30 that I switch out, etc - but that is more for the hobbyist I presume. I may purchase multiple items, to put in different kits and such; car kit, travel kit, outdoor kit, etc. I like the grab and go options, but I also have my legit - items I bring with me every day. Anyways - I just went off the deep end there - but long story short - I really appreciate and enjoy your genuineness, insight, and ideas. I think watching people who come from different backgrounds is interesting. I love learning, and you can't learn watching the same thing every day - reading the same book, watching just one channel, etc etc. So thank to all you guys! Keep it up!!
as an example - as I started watching all the edc stuff, I thought multi-tools were just ridiculous.. then I finally pulled the trigger on one, and LITERALLY carry it to work every day - and im a restaurant operator. So great gear (expensive, or cheap) can really make a difference in your life. So again - thanks for you content, and keep it up!
Man I’m really enjoying your content. Such a breath of fresh air. I’m not hating on anyone, but I can definitely feel where you’re coming from. A lot of the gear reviews I watch seem to be saturated with overpriced and unnecessary items and give off a keeping up with the joneses vibe. Thanks for offering your perspective.
I totally get where you are coming from. Still watch his content and enjoy it although knowing it’s likely 95% of what’s shown I can’t afford and more driven towards the hobbyist. Would be good if he mixed it up a bit. Another UA-camr I think is similar is everydaycarry as most items look like they never see daylight and are mostly in a pouch or for Instagram you hear it will get pocket time but never actually see any of that so you can decide if that’s the product for you. Thanks for keeping it real.
I see what you’re saying man. I love Taylor’s videos but not because I take gear advice from the stuff he recommends. I like to see all the Gucci gear and the “best” of the best high end enthusiast stuff. For the stuff I actually carry, I don’t really need help picking it out. My edc: I use an elastic band for wallet, $20 stream light, Milwaukee fastback, Esee 3 with a belt sheath, and a paracord keychain I made myself. I carry that everyday and I love them all and it’s all extremely affordable. So I am more like you, where I carry very practical stuff, but maybe where we differ is that I really like all the pimped out high end gear and just enjoy his channel for what it is, even though I’ll never buy gear like that because I don’t want to.
I don't have anything against Taylor & his channel but I definitely see your point. I'm not an EDC enthusiast but ran across his channel randomly & thought about the real value of carrying a small & inexpensive & replaceable compliment of pocket tools. His channel is just like the growth of so many other channels in other genres (like overlanding / off-road vehicle camping)...they grow & then they just become celebrity influencers with the most expensive gear that 90% of their viewers can't possibly afford & nothing but time to travel, shop for or given more gear, & have fun living their dreams (I know making videos is a lot of work & shooting & releasing video schedules can be exhausting) I eventually lose interest in the big celeb UA-cam accounts because it is just more of same...they outfit themselves with crazy expensive & exotic gear & do things & go places that are really unrealistic.
I like his videos, and a couple other channels. It shows me some of the stuff that’s out there and gives me ideas and sometimes I’ll even look for a more generic version or make my own. I have common sense though and don’t get the urge to buy every new shiny thing flashed across the internet. I’m a fan of laid back content. Those high energy characters are exhausting and they constantly act like what they’re shilling is the best thing you need right now ever! Subbing to your channel now. Easygoing no nonsense content.
I love both of your content. You're content is great for the braking down and how something is used. His stuff is for people that are already in the hobby and want to elevate there EDC game.
As a periodic viewer of your channel, and one of the less-common FEMALE viewers, I've really appreciated the USER info you include, vs. presenting another "advertisement". If I want to buy a gift for someone, consider purchase of a household item, or even an EDC-type item for myself, it means a LOT to learn about items from someone that's willing to go beyond the "stats", or "what's popular". I even appreciate those ultra-budget reviews, as there are times when that stuff is "good enough" for intended purpose or can at least be improved enough by sharpening or whatever. And knowing that something that looks good on paper and is from an established company did NOT work out for you as well as you'd hoped, is MUCH appreciated as a way of avoiding a costly mistake of my own! :D Cheers! :D
Why did you put "female" in all caps?
I agree with you to a point. Yes, indeed, some of the EDC gear is crazy expensive and it becomes unpractical to use out of fear of messing up a 500+ dollar knife. That being said, it's like every hobby in life you can invest in it as much as you are willing to spend. Why should a person be discouraged on spending their money on high-end stuff. I feel Taylor fills that space very well. I get to see gear I wouldn't buy but it's cool to see. I don't feel he encourages people to buy expensive gear. He indeed is probably the biggest EDC creator, and as such, he has evolved the quality of the products he is able to acquire.
You hit the nail on the head. I got into this with most most functional shit i could fine, then got sucked into buying higher end show and tell shit. I'm getting back to basics. Love your videos.
You make an excellent point here. One of the main reasons I have fallen away from the EDC community is that so much EDC “gear” has become high-end, boutique, hard-to-get, and name-droppy. If your load-out is worth $2000 +, are you really using it, or just keeping it pretty so you can brag about it on a UA-cam video?
You dropped the ball and went the lazy route. Damn. Smh
I personally left the Best Damn EDC group, they are all posers there. If you have an Olight, everyone insults you, if you have a ganzo knife, everyone spits on you again. It is important that everyone has expensive things that do not have a scratch on them, they only use them for Instagram. I totally understand what you want to say
A couple yrs ago I almost got kicked out of the FB group because I showed the Ozark Trails axis lock that came out at Xmas. Then everyone started showing them and the Admins got pissed and started muting posts. 😂😂😂😂
I like to see the top end, custom and edc color themes. It shows where the community is heading and nice to see the really expensive stuff. Ive spend around 300 total on flashlight/knife/wallet all titanium theme so i dont have access to the really cool things.
I am sooo glad that someone else who loves EDC has been feeling this way lately. well said sir.
I agree with what your saying. I'll watch his videos every once in a while just out of curiosity I can't see myself paying $150 for a bolt action pen or $200 for a flashlight. It's not to say i don't appreciate quality product because I do and when ever I can I but American made products. My knife is a Spyderco Lil Native, my multitool is a Leatherman Skeletool, my flashlight is a $14 light from Amazon that I saw reviewed on Gideons Tactical channel years ago. Point being my EDC is quality and practical! Great video.
To be honest, I like seeing top notch gear. There are videos about budget gear, and there are videos about top tier gear. It’s all about how much your into the craft. I appreciate both types of videos. I like it when I learn about new brands in these videos. I’m not rich or anything, but I really like high quality gear, even if I have to save for it. I like your content also btw! Keep up the good work!
Taylor is a great guy (have met him personally) and I admire the fact that he makes a living doing EDC reviews. However, some could call him a “shill” for promoting certain items from certain manufacturers. But that is the nature of the beast in the internet world. Now I’m oldish and was doing EDC long before the phrase was coined. That said, I’ve gotten some good ideas from Taylor. Except the titanium pry bar. I’ve never needed a pry bar and the $55 one I bought thanks to Taylor has remained unused.
Bro, you got bamboozled, a full size pry bar costs less 😂. His shit is for office dudes to feel manly . NONE of his stuff is used , total collector of man jewelry.
@@hellbillyBobword bro 😂
When I first got into EDC I found taylors channel and it was a big help when I was looking at gear. My only issue is he's not relatable anymore, I remember watching one of his videos where he said he couldn't understand spending so much money on a knife etc, and now all I ever see on his channel is gear and carries that are SUPER expensive. No hate on the guy at all he's been a real help and has had great success but as far as relating to regular dudes that have a budget its not there anymore.
Sir, I discovered Mr. Martin before discovering you. I can tell you that both of you are worth watching, imho, for very different reason. I am a traveler, I am an expatriate, I am a collector, I am a professional, I am a prepper... I am, as anybody out there, many thing... so I take ideas from you for hard use uber practical stuff, while I take from Best DAMN edc some cool idea more usable in some instances, while excessorize me give me the "toy for big boy" stuff I may be willing to invest... but then deep into my backpack there is an E&E and Survival kit I developed while watching Ranger Bushcraft and survival... all this to say that every one of you cover a niche of the EDC space that may or may not overlap... you don't cover it all, nor Mr. Martin does, never found a channel that cover it all... we need you all to stay ahead of the curve, we need you all to see different perspective of the same topic... take care
And I was just saying to myself….”when did pocket knives start costing $200 dollars !?”
That’s crazy, I just started watching your content because I was over his and it feeling redundant, I didn’t even know you made this video until I clicked on your channel but I agree with the over priced edc, if I’m spending $200 on a folder that’s not a every blade I’m going to use because I intend to use what I carry everyday
Love BDEDC, but his channel really has changed from a "carry" channel, to a "collector" channel. Seeing all the Chris Reeves, and titanium tools is neat, its for aesthetics and is visually pleasing. I watch him for entertainment, and you for information.
Thank you for making this video. I strongly agree with your well supported criticisms. I was onto the sales propaganda of Taylor Martin pretty quickly. I mean, great marketing, but he's definitely more about serving himself, which as a content creator, that's all well, good & fine, but if I'm looking for useful EDC info, I'm looking to Zack in The Wild, Maxlvledc, and even Jon Gadget provides more substantive content. Anyway, well done. You earned a follow from a former Ain't Ready for the Marines Yet guy. Cheers!
I get it. You make some very good points. At some point, a channel’s focus can change to “form over function”, where the majority of the content becomes more about pocket jewelry, than good tools that come in handy day-to-day, for the average Joe. I think a channel’s success has a good part in influencing that, as the more popular they are, the more income their channel generates, and the more sponsorships they get, which leaves more disposable income for those higher dollar items, and the more quality “free stuff” they get, as those manufacturers want to get their product into the spotlight. Channels will either succeed or fail, as they evolve. For the viewer, it becomes a simple question as to whether you want content that’s not relevant to you clogging your feed or not.
I agree with your take. When I was interested in an everyday pocket knife, Taylor drove me AWAY from modern knives because I thought they were all ridiculously expensive and tough guy tactical crap. So I just bought a Case Trapper.
I really appreciate your content, man.
Other prep channels don't grab my destroyed attention span.
I completely agree. I like Taylor, but he has gone for shiny vs useful (and damn sure outpaced affordable). I bought his TPT Slider and feel like the HART 2 pack I got from Walmart makes me happier. I even lost one and am bummed, but I'll go get another 2 pack for 8 bux.
I completely agree with you
I'm turning 27, but have been into the EDC community since the early Cutlerylover/Nutnfancy days in the 2000s.
I find EDC channels have simply been successfully infiltrated by ecommerce influencers. Started finding them increasingly unrelatable, and caught myself being in a cycle of buying the newest sprint run Spyderco or release from WE Knives, never being satisfied or able to recapture the joy of my early days in the hobby where I maybe had 2-3 decent quality knives and a bunch of cheap (but fun) folders.
Now the majority of my collection is in storage and I rotate a few Alox Victorinox knives as my consistent every day carry carry, and happier than ever in the EDC hobby. The knives I have out get used, are practical, beautiful (in my opinion), will last a lifetime and don't break the bank.
I chuckle when I see the extremely staged pocket dump pictures of $1,000+ worth of gear that probably barely gets used
Strongly agree. Taylor , Mike from LLOD and Talon got me into EDC. In the beginning the channels felt very organic and simple but over time they morphed into $75-$100k truck load outs. Not hating on the success, the content just doesn’t speak to me anymore. Evolution within a channel is fine but when it comes to EDC, I think Zack is the sweet spot. He actually uses his gear daily and is very relatable. Also, Taylor’s wrists are way too thick for most of the watches he wears. Ok, that was hating 😂
Can someone tell me why you would spend $80.00 on a box cutter?when you can get one for 7.00 or in that area..and im referring to the i think its called tpt from big idea
I totally see your point of view and it’s valid to a degree. I’ve followed Taylor for ages. He has definitely figured out the UA-cam algorithm and is making money on views and endorsements. Taylor is definitely profiting from the bougie field of the EDC community. There is nothing wrong with that in my opinion. I personally like most of his content. I like the pocket dumps because it gives me ideas to change up my carry. His channel and his merch sales definitely benefit from all the collaborations he does within the creator portion of the EDC. I think Taylor’s main issue he gets more views from showcasing gear than instructing on gear. That is something you do well with on your channel. To be honest, I don’t buy the $450 dollar flashlight. My Olight and Amazon lights work just fine. If you don’t like the content, don’t watch it. There are really some excellent UA-camrs out in EDC community.
Overall I don’t think Taylor is bad for the EDC community. There are so many other great channels out there, you just have to look.
BTW keep doing what you do, I like your channel.
I agree so much with this video you nailed it I know people who have left the EDC world because the prices of flashlights knives gear has just skyrocketed and then you get somebody that doesn’t have money. Oh shows a cheaper night for Gerber and mtech Swiss Army knife then you get guys out there to make fun of them so they leave the EDC community because they can’t afford this nice gear, great video and I agree to 100%. They need to come down in the prices on knives and gear. Or a lot of people will leave the EDC world.
As someone just getting into edc gear, you are my go to for all killer, no filler. God bless 📿
Great video. I appreciate that you weren't necessarily coming for Taylor and the you gracefully articulated you opinion while still giving him his roses. That said, it's hard not to agree with you. The Best Damn EDC should definitely mix it up...kind of feels like Apples WWDC / Release Events--repetitive and faintly bland. While I personally have the means to pickup most of the niche/exclusive buys that the BDE reviews, there are a lot of gems out there that are being overlooked at at lower price points, as well as more functional. Echoing some of the other commenters, Taylor, obviously, has a market and a specific type of follower but the personal touch, the everyday utilitarian aspects, like the shots of him actually using the merch and the balance in monetary values of said items is not or is no longer apart of the BDE package... and it should be.
Gidions tactical is my favorite channel for knives and some other gear with testing in the videos.
Thanks for the video and God Bless Texas!
I might start carrying an EDC toolbox, so i can fit more stuff that im not going to use on a regular basis, might even add a hydration pack with an additional bbq grill...and just keep adding to it. But i wont use it, cause i dont want to dirty it.
I agree with your message here. Taylor Martin has basically "priced himself out" for me. Another thing as well is that he doesn't seem to enjoy doing UA-cam anymore. He has mentioned that about himself before, yet continues to do UA-cam because he has the following and its job to him now and not a passionate calling.
I rarely watch him anymore and find it difficult to finish one of his videos.
Totally agree… I’ll watch a video and then he starts talking about getting back to this or that, changing his mind, etc… and next thing I know I stopped watching, or I have no interest in a $400 flash light lol
Disagree. Because of Best Damn EDC, I found you channel. I’m sure I’m not the only one that can say that. Not all channels are the same and not everyone has the same needs or wants. It great for the hobby to see all side of it. Maybe it’s not what you’re interested in, but obviously other are. Not sure how criticizing other reviewers is good for the hobby…
I hear ya. But he'll be fine. I'm pushing him to be great like he's always been. Everything in life won't be one big fluff session. Sometimes your peers push you
I think there's a general lifecycle to not just EDC but many practical gear/skill focused genres. I used to watch 'This Old House' and seeing Bob Villa diagnosing problems with houses and fixing was great...until it turned into 'This Old Product Showcase' and the houses were more and more being converted to very high-end homes---in my possibly faulty recollection, they were for people who wanted a project that would become a statement about who they are. And the more it cost to transform the house, the better. Add in all the subfloor heating and greenhouses and potting sheds and basement home theaters and so on.
Seems like EDC is kind of heading in that direction too--or at least some of it is.
One version that I think is keeping things real: the guy who does the historical re-enacting videos with recipes and building dug-out canoes and so on. He's owner/somehow connected with a company that sells re-enacting gear and clothes, but he's not hawking such at every chance. (And just seems like a decent guy, btw.)
So it doesn't HAVE to go to 'This Old Product Showcase' or the EDC version of that. There are ways to keep things grounded and genuine.
I'll still watch Best Damn EDC and also Marine X, but I think your criticism of BDEDC is not wrong. I might've said it differently (maybe not targeting Taylor Martin so directly?), but I think you're raising good issues. One of the things I like about Marine X is that you'll call stuff out--the 10 things you don't need to carry, was great.
Thanks for sparking a discussion.
At least he’s better than excessorize me. I watch them both but excessorize me puts something up and I’m like oh that’s cool let me check it out. Then it’s a $4000 dollar fidget spinner or something.
I love how you mentioned Jon Gadget, it’s refreshing to see a dude in the game who is simply passionate for it. He constantly showcases gear that you can tell has been used for years if not decades and touches on budget gear, where creators like Excessorise me and BDEDC are just showing stupidly expensive gear to get affiliate clicks.
I like Jon Gadget's show because his items are all accessible and relatively affordable but very practical and useful. Excessorizeme yeah is just a jewelry show. I also like MaxlevelEDC who goes over a lot of EDC gear but much of his gear is accessible.
Agreed Marine X all of his stuff looks new. Also wondered if he returns the items he buys on those “challenges” he does.
Right on Marine X . I think your assessment is fair and accurate. Well said X. Battalion. I think you two should box.👍🇺🇸
Ok so my 2 cents. First, I agree with the person that commented on Zac in the Wild. Love his content because it's "real world" stuff. I'm a fan of shit that gets used even though I do own some stuff that is more for my Insta edc pics and some gear that I just collect. As for Taylor's content. I do think he wants to do more real stuff but got caught up in the business side of edc. Now he has obligations. I do follow him and enjoy some of his content but honestly I prefer real world knife and gear reviews. I'm ok with different price points because everyone's budget is different. I've come to realize that the edc community can be snobbish and elitist which sucks but it is what it is. Up to each of us to decide what and who we like. Keep doing you though because I do like your content and it provides good, unbiased info.
Idk man. I carry a full flytanium custom PM2 that ran me almost $400 everyday and use ut everyday and it looks brand new lol.
I was super excited for a more urban feel on edc, someone I can relate to…then this pops up..damn. I was like 3 videos in after discovering him and now I’m done lol.
Also, imaging going to all your friends to show them Taylor’s videos to get people to say bad stuff to share in your video lol and also to give Taylor advice on how to do what he’s doing better than anyone else lol CRAZYYY HAHAH
Love the video and your right u are a military man I will take your advice over his any day you go out you actually use the equipment that was sent to you or paid for it by you so your word will be much more valid then his any day keep the videos coming
I agree man I don’t think you tried to say anything in a negative way. I been clicking less and less to his videos. Big reason I got into gear was because of him but just gone overboard with prices. I get it you got a company to run with people that need the jobs. But thats why I prefer the smaller channels. They make content for us peasant folks lol. You have a good idea there about shouting out some of your favorite smaller channels give us some exposure to the community.
I don’t think X is hating. He is stating the obvious. I feel the same way about Martin. He has become a gear snob and shows un used items that a lot of people can’t afford. He has strayed away from being humble. He is more or less like Taylor shopping network. Keep up up the good work X yr the real
While the discussion of accessibility and non luxury gear can be talked about as an issue with Maurice Moves one thing which is a big part of why I watch him is the explanation of the thought process that he uses. He buys and then uses for quite a while expensive stuff since he’s got a job where a bunch of the stuff helps him make money or reduces friction.
Marine X, don't take this as hate. I stopped watching best damn edc yrs ago, when he showed his mechanics toolbox full of knives.
I do check on you now and again, if you $ee what I'm saying. Keep up the good work!
I was all about all the fancy shit but I’ve just gone back to my leathermans and victorinox stuff never failed me
My edc is an lt Wright genesis 3 a big ass knife but I rather be caught with it than without it. That's a must also 20 bounds or less most of the time.
You gotta do your own style . If it works for him , it works for him. Anyone making this kind of video about my channel , I’d take it personal (unless that’s what you’re aiming for) ✌🏻
This video is designed for him to take personal. And he has already been taking what I said into account. It got under his skin and he has improved. That was the goal to influence improvement. Similar to what I did to my fellow Marines when I was in the corps. He’s a big boy he can take it. He started UA-cam doing CNET and Pocketnow and made this work. So he can handle critique.
@@MarineXthis shit here is wack as hell son and I don’t even like TM . I have my own reasons but I just don’t watch and sure as shit don’t make videos like this for clout . UA-cam’s hard enough without dudes in your own community making vids like this . He’s found his niche , you find yours and keep it pushing . Anyway . All the best 🫡
@OGtalks to each their own my G. UA-cam is UA-cam. It’s a hobby for me. So keep doing whatever you’re doing for it to be hard. Because I don’t sweat UA-cam. I don’t even know what “hard” means when it comes to UA-cam. I think you said that because your thumbnails and titles can use some work. But I am not sure.
This was spot on. I was turned off by his stuff because it just seemed like a fashion show and nothing seemed practical or educational. I’m into this gear to learn new uses, or just uses but the photos are just so dumb like I don’t need a knife photographed in a pretty setting. Because of all this I have found minimalist edc stuff that has worked and been way better.and let’s be honest it may have started out as a passion but it just became a job and about the money and his content sells for sure. But I’d rather take advice and learn from the 2k subscribers then the thousands of millions type.
That guy shows knives,watches and tools no average working Joe can buy without sacrificing something...glad someone is calling him out...
I agree he definitely runs to the high end. Like you I am about function first. I watch to get info to make decisions about what is needed.
The most sought after value in edc is personality. I mean eberybody wants to make their kit stand out in the crowd. Some do it by buying stuff others can't afford, some by modifying reasonably priced pieces of gear. I personally like modifying because it's more fun.
I agree 100%. I started to feel like he was only showing expensive items and haven't watched many of his videos in the last 6 months or so. Also, One that I did watch he had two bags on him, literally stuffed with gear, and it all seemed new and unused, and all the crap like beads and fidget items just don't seem useful to me... Gimme a knife, flash light, multi tool, my Glock and maybe 2 or 3 other items and I'm good!
@Marine X - a partnership or quarterly video share with @Jon Gadget, showing what is available or booming either side of the pond would be good. And, if it is not available on the other side, you advise the next or equivalent.
Really disappointed with this post. I know this type of post is trending especially in the fashion and photography world and there was no reason for it. EDC can be both function and pocket jewelery and that's okay. A Omega Seamaster and Casio Pro-tek can serve the same function there's nothing wrong with aspiring for quality luxury gear that serves a function.
It's not so much the luxury aspect of things but the fact that the guy's a fruity beach who likes to hang around men and rub his a-cups against your arms during knife expos.
Pocket jewelry is just cringe though. But I get it. It’s a whole market. Selling titanium for the price of sterling silver or gold must be nice. Idk watches are different because they’re not really tools. They’re designed to be a piece like a necklace and they make the frame out of gold. But selling carbon fiber and micsrta and marketing supersteels as “longer lasting better toughness “ is goofy. Why do these pocket jewelry dudes bust nuts over magnacut when they couldn’t tell the difference between that and aus9
My daily watch recently has been the Casio F-91W. A 15$ at most watch..if Taylor saw it, I think he'd have a stroke.