Besides, obviously, a pistol, there is a ton of stuff that CC folks can choose to carry every day. There are different laws in different states, and that, of course, dictates some of the things we can and can't carry. The rest is pretty much determined by the balance what you feel you ought to have handy, and how much you're willing to lug around all day.
My list is at least one spare mag, a Benchmade folder, a cellphone, a 'keychain size' Fox pepper spray, and, maybe once a week, a Benchmade fixed-blade hangs around my neck on a break-away lanyard under my shirt, too. I want to add a small single-cell flashlight - thinking about a Fenix LT1 V2.0 - where the heck am I going to put it?
Anyway, I was just wondering what all of you consider to be your EDC gear?
I think one think folks are overlooking here are the legal defenses available to you in the event of a use of force encounter. Each state has criteria you must meet to be able to use the claim of self defense. In MN you MUST meet 4 criteria:
1. You were a reluctant participant. meaning you didn't have a choice in participating in the situation.
2. Reasonably in immediate fear of "death or great bodily harm". we all know what this means
3. No lesser force will do. i.e. your firearm was your only option
4. Retreat is not practical. pretty obvious as well.
Pay attention to #3. In MN you must meet all 4 of these or you can't even use self defense as a legal defense in court.
My point is this: If you are carrying OC/Pepper, baton, knife, or any other weapon while involved in a use of force encounter and use your firearm you may be sealing your prison cell. If you carry these items you are often legally obligated to use them before using your firearm in order to be able to use a claim of self defense in a court of law.
All states very, check your local legislation for details. I'm guessing all states have same or similar small print.
That all being said, the amount of ammo you carry can cause concern in a court room as well. You aren't on duty, and arent' expecting to get into a sustained firefight. A prosecutor will point that out if you are carrying same or similiar amounts of ammunition to an on duty police officer. I personally only carry what the gun can hold. If I don't down someone in 10 shots I have no business carrying a firearm. Use your best judgement here as it's not a "legal" issue, but an issue of perception in the event you wind up in a court room.
So.... with all that out of the way. When I'm not on duty I carry my XD.45, 4" compact. I wear it on the belt with underarmor over it and a polo shirt. The underarmor keeps it from printing. I usually also have cuffs. If i have a knife I make sure it looks like a utility style (leatherman is a good example) as to not be confused with something I could have used as a self defense weapon.
Good luck all. Pack safe, pack smart.
D