When it comes to self-defense and everyday carry (EDC), your gear is just as important as your skills. Too many people spend thousands of dollars on a top-tier handgun, only to skimp on the belt, holster, or knife that supports their daily readiness. At South Carolina Gun School, we train you to be prepared for real-world situations — and that preparation starts with choosing the right EDC equipment.
Today, let’s break down the main three essential pieces of EDC gear: your belt, holster, and knife — and why cutting corners could cost you when it matters most.
1. A Good Belt: Your Foundation
Think of your belt as the foundation of your EDC setup. A flimsy department store belt isn’t built to handle the weight and movement of a loaded handgun. A good gun belt is designed to be rigid, durable, and supportive. It holds your firearm securely, keeps it where it’s supposed to be during dynamic movement, and ensures your draw is consistent and smooth. One way to test your belt is put it in your hands and try to make a fist, if your belt folds up like a taco it is not a good belt.
The disadvantages of a bad belt:
• Sagging or shifting gear
• Slower, inconsistent draw
• Increased risk of printing (your gun outline showing through your clothes)
• Faster belt wear and tear (costing you more over time)
A quality belt — like a reinforced leather belt or a modern synthetic belt with internal stiffeners — can make a world of difference. It’s not just about comfort; it’s about being able to fight effectively when seconds count. I like KORE Essentials, and I also can help save you some money and get a good belt because if you happen to get a KORE belt use code SCGS10 on checkout.
2. A Quality Holster: Retention, Access, and Safety
Your holster must check several critical boxes: it should retain your firearm securely, protect the trigger guard, and allow a smooth, efficient draw. A cheap, floppy, or ill-fitting holster can be downright dangerous.
The disadvantages of a bad holster:
• Poor firearm retention (your gun could fall out or be grabbed easily)
• Slow or fumbled draw under stress
• Inconsistent positioning on your body
• Increased chance of negligent discharge
At SCGS, we strongly recommend holsters made from quality materials like Kydex or premium hybrid designs that combine a rigid shell with a comfortable backing. Adjustable retention, good clips that secure to your belt, and proper ride height and can’t are all features to look for. There are some good quality leather holsters out there like Galco and some others, the main thing is making sure you have the right retention. I could sit here all day and list out the places to get quality holsters. Just make sure you do research and ask questions.
3. A Quality Knife: Versatile and Life-Saving
Now I know some might disagree with on this right here but there are some places where you can’t take a gun, but most of the time you can get by with a knife.. I would rather have something than nothing at all. A knife is often overlooked in the EDC conversation, but it’s a vital tool for both utility and self-defense.
A quality knife should be:
• Easy to deploy with one hand
• Sharp and durable
• Designed for real-world use, not just aesthetics
Whether you’re cutting seat belts in an emergency, defending yourself if you’re disarmed, or simply opening boxes, a good blade is non-negotiable. Folding knives with solid locking mechanisms or fixed blades in a discreet sheath are both strong options.
The dangers of carrying a cheap knife:
• Blade failure under pressure
• Deployment issues (blades that stick or snap)
• Poor grip and control in a fight
Just like your gun, your knife should be reliable when your life is on the line. Now there are many great knives out there just like with holsters that I can sit here all day and list out. I have a Tekto knife that is my main carry, as well as a Benchmade, Kershaw, and CKRT that I will bounce between. Again same here do your research and ask questions.
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Final Thoughts: Don’t Be “That Guy”
We see it all the time on the range: someone shows up with a great gun but a $10 nylon belt and a floppy universal holster. It’s not just embarrassing — it’s dangerous. Your equipment should enhance your ability to survive a violent encounter, not handicap you. When you invest in quality gear — belt, holster, and knife — you’re investing in your life and your loved ones’ safety. Train with purpose. Carry with confidence. And remember, at South Carolina Gun School, we’re here to help you build both your skills and your setup the right way. If you’re unsure where to start with your EDC gear, ask us! We’re happy to recommend proven equipment that we trust with our own lives.
Always remember,
If you’re not SHOOTING, you’re RELOADING,
If you’re not RELOADING, you’re FIGHTING,
If you’re not FIGHTING, YOU’RE DEAD!!!
TRAIN TO LIVE!!!