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EVERYDAY CARRY BLOG

Feb 22
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Being The Urban Prepper | Celebrating 15 Years with Cliff

By Featured, Video

🎉 Congratulations on 15 years, Cliff — you inspired countless people’s EDC passion. Here’s to many more. 🎉

Video Overview

A massive thank you to Cliff — aka TheUrbanPrepper — for sharing this rare and personal look behind the channel. In this video, Cliff reflects on what it felt like to spend three full days at Shot Show in Las Vegas as 100% The Urban Prepper — no day job, no dad duties, just fully immersed in the preparedness community he built from scratch in 2011. It’s honest, humble, and genuinely moving. If you’ve ever found yourself down a rabbit hole of bug-out bags, Altoids kits, and everyday carry content, there’s a good chance Cliff put you there. We are here for it.

15 Years of Impact

    • Started in 2011 — A hobby channel born at the dining room table, late at night, just Cliff and a camera
    • 321,000+ subscribers — A community built on practical, calm, non-fearmongering preparedness content

Shot Show 2025 — Three full days fully present as The Urban Prepper for the first time ever

  • Signature look — The Kangol hat, dark frame glasses, short beard — instantly recognizable to the community
  • Known for: Altoids kits, downloadable PDFs, family preparedness, urban EDC, organization systems
  • Mike from Last Line of Defense — Fellow creator and friend from the community
  • Matt from Magic Prepper — Met at Shot Show
  • The Tactical Rabbi — Community creator and supporter
  • Roman & the Mirror Safety team — 7-year partnership; helped Cliff access Shot Show
  • Goat Guns family — Watching since year one
  • Eric from Rule the Wasteland — Part of the creator community at the show
  • Uncle Poncho (Brother-in-law) — The man behind the camera for the entire trip

 

Editor’s Insight

If you’ve spent any time in the EDC or preparedness space on YouTube, you’ve probably crossed paths with The Urban Prepper. What Cliff built over 15 years is genuinely rare — not just a channel, but a community tone. In a space that can veer quickly into fear, politics, and tactical cosplay, Cliff stayed grounded. No camouflage. No fearmongering. Just practical, organized, honest content for regular people navigating real-world uncertainties.

This video is different from his usual format. It’s not a gear breakdown or a kit review. It’s Cliff stepping back and asking: what is this thing I’ve built? The answer, from 15 years of evidence, is a lot. Viewers writing in from Israel, Indonesia, Sweden, the UK. Families building their first bug-out bags because of a calm voice on the internet. A person at baggage claim recognizing him and saying thank you. That’s impact.

What makes Cliff’s journey resonate so deeply with the EDC community specifically is how much of preparedness overlaps with everyday carry philosophy. Both are about being ready before you need to be. Both are about systems, intentionality, and the quiet discipline of thinking ahead. Whether it’s a tourniquet in your bag or a PDF checklist in your notes app, the mindset is the same — and Cliff has been one of the most consistent voices advocating for it in a way that feels accessible rather than extreme.

The Shot Show segment of this video is particularly powerful. For three days, Cliff got to just be The Urban Prepper — no desk job, no rush hour, no code reviews. And what he found was that the community was real. The people who had been watching silently for years showed up in person: at booths, at baggage claims, in hallways. That’s rare for a creator who films alone at a dining room table most nights.

His honesty about the tension between his day job and the channel is also refreshing. He acknowledges the thought — what if I did this full time? — but doesn’t dress it up in fantasy. He’s a husband and a father first. That groundedness is exactly why people trust him, and exactly why this community has lasted 15 years.

Closing Remarks

Fifteen years is a long time to show up, especially when it’s squeezed between a corporate desk job, family life, and all the normal chaos that comes with being a person in the world. Cliff has done it with consistency, humility, and genuine care for the people watching. From all of us here at EverydayCarryBlog — and from a community that’s been quietly inspired by what you built — congratulations, Cliff. The next 15 years of the preparedness space will be better because you’re still in it. Subscribe to TheUrbanPrepper on YouTube and join the community that’s been growing since 2011.

Feb 22
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Police Officer Breaks Down Best Knives And Gear | Field Tested Ep. 3

By Gadgets, Tech, Tools, Video

Video Overview

A huge shoutout to the team at Blade HQ for putting together this one-of-a-kind episode! In Field Tested Ep. 3, they sat down with Bradley Nielson — a retired LAPD officer with over 20 years on the job — to walk through every piece of gear he carried throughout his career. From early-career issued equipment to the kit he personally bought, tested, and fought to get department-approved, Bradley is the real deal. Special thanks to Pro-Tech Knives for hosting the shoot and making the introduction. If you love honest, field-tested gear talk from someone who’s actually been there, this one’s a must-watch.

Gear & Items

Knives

Body Armor & Carriers

Medical

Optics & Lights

Rifles (Law Enforcement Only)

  • Colt M16A1 Patrol Rifle — Apply Today
  • AR-15 Patrol Rifle (Smith & Wesson / Colt / Bushmaster) — Apply Today

Handguns (Law Enforcement Only)

Editor’s Insight

Bradley Nielson isn’t a YouTube gear reviewer reading specs off a box. He’s a 20-year LAPD veteran who personally bought most of his own equipment, fought departmental policy to get better tools approved, and carried all of it in real-world, high-stakes situations. That context changes everything.

The evolution of his gear is a masterclass in how professional standards improve — but rarely fast enough. When Bradley joined the force in 2002, he was handed a Level 2A soft armor vest and a used Beretta 92 that had already logged 15 years of service. No rifle, no meaningful medical kit, and a flashlight he’d carry in one hand while holding a pistol in the other. The equipment gap between what was issued and what was needed was enormous — and officers paid out of their own pockets to close it.

What stands out across every category Bradley covers is the word “fight.” He fought to get better body armor approved. He fought to get medical kits issued. He fought to get red dot optics on duty handguns at a time when almost no department in the country was doing it. He didn’t just buy gear — he became an advocate for it, tested it in the field, documented results, and pushed policy change from within. That’s a different level of investment than most people ever make in their equipment.

The knife section is a great entry point for EDC enthusiasts. While most civilians think of knives as cutting tools, Bradley’s perspective highlights their real-world utility: cutting seat belts, working locks, cutting clothing during medical response. His progression from a throwaway Smith & Wesson folder to Pro-Tech’s beautifully crafted Malibu and the head-turning Staccato collaboration knife reflects a broader truth in EDC — quality pays dividends every single day.

The medical kit evolution is arguably the most important part of this video. The original sealed trauma kit Bradley was issued is almost shocking by today’s standards — Vaseline gauze, rubber gloves, and a dressing, sealed shut so officers couldn’t even check the contents. The progression to CAT and Soft-T Wide tourniquets, chest seals, and the custom Tough Products carrier reflects hard lessons learned — from North Hollywood in 1997 and the military experience in the early 2000s. The tools in the medical section of this video are available to civilians and, honestly, should be part of every prepared person’s kit regardless of occupation.

The firearms progression tells a deeper story about how departments think about officer safety over time — from six-shot revolvers to high-capacity 9mm pistols with red dot optics and integrated compensators. Bradley’s passion for the Staccato XC is clear, and the detail about its LAPD Metropolitan Division-specific engraving is a reminder of the culture of pride, identity, and craftsmanship that runs deep in law enforcement and military circles alike.

For those inspired by Bradley’s story, the best gear in this video — the knives, the tourniquets, the plate carrier, the optics — is available to all of us. If you want to carry the rest of it, there’s a link in the gear list with your name on it.

Closing Remarks

A massive thank you to Blade HQ for producing Field Tested Episode 3, and an even bigger thank you to Bradley Nielson for sharing 20-plus years of hard-earned knowledge so openly. Not many veterans are willing to walk through every piece of kit they ever carried and explain the “why” behind each upgrade. The gear in this video tells a real story — one of professional dedication, personal investment, and a relentless drive to be prepared. Subscribe to Blade HQ on YouTube for more Field Tested content, and stay tuned here for more real-world EDC breakdowns from people who’ve actually been in the field.

Feb 21
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7 Best Travel Sling Bags

By Bags, Travel, Video

Video Overview

HICONSUMPTION puts seven travel sling bags to the test in this hands-on roundup, covering everything from ultra-compact everyday options to more capable 8-liter carries. They highlight how slings have become the go-to alternative to backpacks for travel — low-profile, quick-access, and easy to manage on the move. Each bag is assessed for build quality, organization, carry comfort, and real-world usability. Big thanks to HICONSUMPTION for the thorough breakdown and for sharing their hands-on findings with the carry community.

Items and Gear Mentioned

Editor’s Insight

Travel slings have hit a sweet spot in the carry world, and this HICONSUMPTION roundup shows exactly why. Each bag in the lineup solves a slightly different problem, so picking the right one comes down to how you actually travel.

The Aer Day Sling 3 is a perennial favorite for good reason. It’s refined, compact, and built for daily abuse with a water-resistant exterior and a thoughtful internal layout. If you want one bag that works from the airport to the coffee shop without looking out of place, this is a strong starting point. The Alpaka Go Sling Mini V2 takes a more technical approach — X-Pac construction keeps it ultralight and weather-tough, and the minimalist form factor makes it ideal for quick trips where you’re only carrying the essentials.

The Bellroy Venture Ready Sling 2.5L is on the smaller end but punches above its weight with smart organization. Bellroy’s design DNA is all about clean access and a refined look that works in nicer environments. The Patagonia Atom Sling 8L goes the other direction — at 8 liters it’s the largest in the group, and it earns its size with serious capacity and Patagonia’s dependable build quality. Great for day hikes, beach days, or longer excursions where you need more than just your phone and wallet.

Black Ember’s Grip Sling 6L is arguably the most premium option here. It’s built to a higher spec with tactical-influenced construction that doesn’t feel overdone. The carry system is dialed in and the material quality shows. The Osprey Daylite Sling 6L is the practical, accessible choice — well-organized, comfortable to carry all day, and priced reasonably for what you get.

Rounding out the group is the Evergoods Civic Access Sling 2L X-Pac. Evergoods has been quietly building a loyal following among serious carry enthusiasts, and this bag shows why. The X-Pac construction is bomber, the form factor is deceptively capable, and the whole package feels intentional from top to bottom. Huge props to HICONSUMPTION for going hands-on with all seven — this kind of real-world comparison is exactly what the EDC community needs.

Closing Remarks

Whether you’re looking for a minimalist daily sling or a capable travel companion, this lineup covers the full range. Each of the seven bags earns its spot and brings something distinct to the table. Start with your use case — size, capacity, budget — and the right pick becomes clear fast. Thanks again to HICONSUMPTION for putting in the hands-on time so you don’t have to.

Feb 21
Love0

Tech We ALWAYS Pack (And Why)

By Gadgets, Tech, Tools, Video

Video Overview

This video dives into the tech gear that the creators always pack for work and travel, explaining why each piece is essential. They cover a range of devices and accessories that support productivity on the go, from laptops to chargers and adapters. It’s a practical look at how to build a reliable tech loadout. Shoutout to the creator for sharing this detailed breakdown — thanks for contributing to the EDC community with your real-world insights.

Items and Gear Mentioned

Editor’s Insight

The creators do a great job highlighting how tech EDC can make or break a day on the move. Starting with the MacBook Pro M2 Pro, it’s the powerhouse for heavy tasks like editing or coding, and the 16-inch screen gives enough real estate without sacrificing portability. Pairing it with the iPad Mini 6 is smart for lighter reading or note-taking when you don’t want to pull out the laptop.

The iPhone 13 Pro Max and Apple Watch Series 8 keep communication and health tracking seamless, while AirPods Pro 2 block out noise during calls or focus sessions. Power is a big theme here, and the choices show thoughtful layering. The Anker MagGo Battery Pack is a lifesaver for quick top-ups, especially with MagSafe compatibility. The Anker 3-in-1 Cube Charger and Nomad 65W Charger cover multi-device charging in compact forms, perfect for hotel rooms or coffee shops.

The Nomad ChargeKey is a clever addition for emergency charging without carrying extra cables. Satechi’s 3-in-1 Foldable Charger rounds out the options for Apple ecosystem users, folding small when not in use. Connectivity and storage are handled with Satechi’s USB4 Multiport Adapter and USB4 Drive Enclosure with 1TB SSD, providing fast data transfer and extra ports for external displays or drives. The Dock5 Charging Station is ideal for desk setups, charging multiple devices at once.

What stands out is how the loadout prioritizes versatility and reliability. Each item solves a specific pain point — low battery, missing ports, limited storage — without adding unnecessary weight. It’s a solid model for anyone building a tech-focused EDC bag. The explanations are grounded in actual use, which makes the recommendations trustworthy. Huge shoutout to the creator for sharing this with the community — your breakdown is a genuinely useful resource for optimizing everyday tech carry.

Closing Remarks

This video is a solid guide for anyone looking to upgrade their tech EDC. The picks are practical and explained with real reasons, making it easy to see what might fit your own routine. Start with the essentials like power and connectivity, then layer in devices as needed. Thanks again to the creator for the valuable insights — and for helping the community build smarter, leaner loadouts.

Feb 20
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15 Unbeatable Backpack EDC Essentials

By Bags, Gadgets, Tech, Tools, Video

Video Overview

Backpack EDC is all about carrying smarter, not heavier. In this video, the loadout focuses on remote-work essentials that still feel stylish and practical in daily life. From power and lighting to audio, organization, and writing tools, every pick supports real movement between coffee shops, coworking spaces, and home. The feature balance is solid: reliability, portability, and quality materials without turning your bag into overkill. Big shoutout to the creator for another thoughtful breakdown and clear real-world context. Thanks for sharing this with the EDC community and giving everyone a practical framework to build a better everyday setup.

Items and Gear Mentioned

Editor’s Insight

What this video gets right is the philosophy first: carry tools that solve repeat problems. That mindset is more useful than chasing trends. The featured lineup supports a modern remote workflow where your backpack is your mobile office, and every ounce matters. The Leatherman Wave Alpha sets the tone with practical utility, while accessories like the Root Co. tether and Aer Slim Pouch make daily friction disappear in small but meaningful ways. That kind of organization is where most setups either shine or fail. If cables and adapters are chaos, everything else suffers.

Power is another strong thread in this loadout. The Anker Prime 26K and Nomad 130W adapter give real flexibility for laptops, tablets, and phones without hunting for outlets. For people doing client work on the move, this is mission-critical, not optional. The same applies to the Satechi adapter and SanDisk SSD: they keep media and connectivity available when you need them, not later. I also appreciate that the video calls out practical caveats, like handling backup strategy for SSDs. That adds credibility and keeps recommendations grounded in real usage.

The carry comfort angle also lands well. Evergoods’ Civic Panel Loader in 24L is a strong sweet spot for daily gear, and details like panel loading and weather resistance matter more over months than they do in a quick unboxing. Likewise, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones and Olight Ark Pro reflect the same principle: pick tools that reduce stress in noisy or low-light conditions and help you stay effective. Even the analog additions, like the notebook sleeve and Analogue Pocket, are good reminders that productivity is not only digital.

If I were building from this list, I’d prioritize in layers. Start with core reliability: bag, charging, cable, lighting, and basic organization. Then add quality-of-life upgrades like premium audio, notebook systems, and specialty accessories. That sequence keeps cost under control while still improving daily performance immediately. The best EDC setups evolve through use, not one-time shopping sprees.

Huge thanks again to the creator for sharing this with the community. The pacing is clear, the recommendations are practical, and the focus stays on real-world function. For anyone rebuilding a backpack kit for remote work, this is a strong reference point: carry less, choose better, and make every item earn its space.

Closing Remarks

This is the kind of EDC guide that helps people make better decisions fast. The picks are useful, the reasoning is clear, and the workflow focus makes it easy to adapt for real life. If you’re refreshing your own backpack setup, use this list as a blueprint and scale up based on your daily needs. Start with power, organization, and reliability, then layer in the extras that match your work style. Thanks again to the creator for contributing thoughtful gear coverage for the community. We’re excited to see what your next loadout looks like and what new tools make the cut.

3D Printed EDC Gear - Printable Snap-Lock Keyring3D ModelsDIY
February 22, 2026

3D Printed EDC Gear – Printable Snap-Lock Keyring

Printable Snap-Lock Keyring — Strong & Lightweight by HamAndChris Why I Like It This is a solid, well-thought-out design. The barbed snap-lock closure is clever — easy to engage with…
EDC Blog
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Being The Urban Prepper | Celebrating 15 Years with CliffFeaturedVideo
February 22, 2026

Being The Urban Prepper | Celebrating 15 Years with Cliff

🎉 Congratulations on 15 years, Cliff — you inspired countless people's EDC passion. Here's to many more. 🎉 Video Overview A massive thank you to Cliff — aka TheUrbanPrepper —…
EDC Blog
Love0
Police Officer Breaks Down Best Knives And Gear | Field Tested Ep. 3GadgetsTechToolsVideo
February 22, 2026

Police Officer Breaks Down Best Knives And Gear | Field Tested Ep. 3

Video Overview A huge shoutout to the team at Blade HQ for putting together this one-of-a-kind episode! In Field Tested Ep. 3, they sat down with Bradley Nielson — a…
EDC Blog
Love0
7 Best Travel Sling BagsBagsTravelVideo
February 21, 2026

7 Best Travel Sling Bags

Video Overview HICONSUMPTION puts seven travel sling bags to the test in this hands-on roundup, covering everything from ultra-compact everyday options to more capable 8-liter carries. They highlight how slings…
EDC Blog
Love0

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