My Everyday Carry Load

Keeping things light and simple has been the driving principle in my philosophy of everyday carry.  As you can see, I attempt to carry only the essentials.  Whether in a suit at work, or in jeans/shorts when not at work, this has been my typical load for several years.  Of course, individual items will be switched out from time to time.  So here's what I'm carrying today:

• Glock 26 - Extremely comfortable to carry IWB and most important; a very concealable, reliable and accurate companion.
• Timex Expedition Chronograph - Stylish and Bold.  I love this watch, especially since it was a gift from my kids.
• Esterbrook J Fountain Pen - A vintage pen that is more than 60 years old.  I have several vintage fountain pens that I rotate routinely, but this is definitely a favorite.
• Moleskine Softcover Notebook (not pictured) - This has been, by far one of the best notebooks I have ever used.  The Private Reserve ink I use with my fountain pens works exceptionally well with the paper. 
• Black Leather Wallet by Stafford - Nothing fancy here, except to say that this particular wallet  wears well and has improved with age.
• SRM (Sanrenmu) 710 Knife - I just started carrying this knife and have found it to be perfect whether wearing a suit or in other attire.  I've been able to get the edge on this super crazy sharp.  I will most likely post a review on this knife in the next couple of weeks.
• Motorolo Droid 4 - I very much like the Android platform.  This is a recent acquisition; switching from the HTC Incredible.  So far I've been satisfied with the change. 
• Braided Lanyard with Keys - On the ring is a Victorinox Classic and Fenix E01Light.

Perhaps in another post I will comment on the content of my two ready bags that I keep in the car at all times.  In the meantime ~Keep it Sharp.

EDC Carry - Vintage Fountain Pen

There are some things from the past that I really appreciate; and, at least from my perspective, helps me to slow  the pace of life down.  One of those things that have helped me to keep this perspective is a fountain pen.  Now I know that for most of us, thinking about such an utilitarian item seems inconsequential, particularly with the advent of netbooks, laptops, tablets and smartphones; however, part of my EDC includes a vintage fountain pen. So, let me try to convince  you (or at least peak your interest) that there is a nostalgia and nobleness related to carrying and using a fountain pen. While there may be a stark contrast in carrying say an Esterbrook J vintage fountain pen with a Glock 26, there is also a synergism that exists which complement one another.  There is a feeling that is difficult to describe when using a fountain pen, and can be understood only after writing with one.  In fact, most who use a fountain pen on a daily basis regard all other writing instruments as ink sticks.  While my preferred personal notebook is a black softcover Moleskine, my black Esterbrook J (which boasts a 9048 writing nib) writes exceptionally smooth on most papers with nary any bleed through.  The ease in keeping the pen filled with ink is accomplished through a lever filler and bottled ink; so; since I keep bottles of ink in a variety of colors at home and work, I never have to be concerned about running dry.  There is a style and elegance in writing with such a vintage instrument with some who will claim that their penmanship has vastly improved and is attributable specifically to using a fountain pen.  I have received many astonished looks when I pull out the Esterbrook to sign papers or while I take notes.  A conversation starter for sure, my vintage Esterbrook J fountain pen is a classic EDC that will never go out of style and does not disappoint.  Incidently, the Esterbrook J is more than 60 years old. ~Keep it Sharp.