November 11th is Veterans Day in the United States. On this day we pay tribute to the men and women who have served the United States of America, celebrating their bravery and dedication to our country. There are plenty of vet-owned businesses out there, but the ones specializing in gear are especially relevant to us here at Everyday Carry. These professionals have spent years in the field, and few people out there know what makes a great piece of gear as much as they do.
To show our appreciation, we’ll shine a light on some remarkable men and women who have transitioned their military expertise into crafting tools and gear that serve practical purposes and embody the enduring spirit of service, duty, and excellence. And to all current and former servicemen and women, we thank you for your service.
Origin: The American Bison 6” Boot
Origin, founded by Marine Corps veteran Pete Roberts, is known for its dedication to crafting high-quality, American-made products. This dedication can be seen in premium items like the American Bison 6″ Boots. The leather is made from 100% Lakota Bison Hide and crafted with everyday use and comfort in mind.
R.Riveter: Baker Backpack
R.Riveter, co-founded by Lisa Bradley and Cameron Cruse, emerged from their shared experience as military spouses navigating the intricacies of job hunting amidst frequent relocations. Today, their mission is clear: to provide mobile, flexible income to military spouses. The Baker is a classic dual carry, mid-volume backpack crafted from 18 oz water-resistant canvas, full grain leather trim, and bridle leather handles. Each part was made by independent military spouses in their homes nationwide and shipped to R.Riveter’s FabShop to be assembled into a one-of-a-kind product.
Flags of Valor: Uniform & Leather Patch Hat
Flags of Valor is co-founded by combat veterans Brian Steorts and Joe Shamess. Their mission extends beyond crafting high-quality EDC gear; it’s a mission to create job opportunities for veterans and never to stop giving back to those who need help. The Uniform & Leather Patch Hat is a classic trucker cap-style adorned with a patch crafted from duty-worn military fatigues and leather. Purchasing a hat like this also helps their cause, as Flags of Valor donates 10% of the profit to Stop Soldier Suicide.
Clenzoil: Universal Gun Care Range Bag
The Clenzoil Formula for complete gun maintenance was developed in 1948 by Ellis Christian Lenz but was acquired in 2015 by James Albritton, an Air Force veteran. The Universal Gun Care Range Bag is a mobile armory maintenance system. It’s equipped with specialized compartments to organize firearms, ammunition, and essential cleaning supplies. But what really sets it apart is Clenzoil’s signature gun care products that accompany the bag, ensuring that every component of your firearm is immaculately maintained.
Medals of America: “The Big Traditional” Shadow Box
In 1976, Medals of America was created by army veteran Frank Foster and his wife Linda Foster. Their inspiration came about during their search for his father’s WWII medals. “The Big Traditional” Shadow Box can hold up to 15 medals with extra room for awards, badges, medallions, and patches. The frame is made of solid wood and a premium felt background that will hold your medals and insignia for years to come.
Resco Instruments: RTAC GMT DLC Stealth Watch
Resco Instruments was founded by military veteran R.E Smith, who had the dream of building a watch company for many years before finally being able to make that dream a reality in 2009. He aimed to craft sleek, simple, and rugged timepieces. The RTAC GMT DLC Stealth, with its Ronda quartz movement, embodies this mission with its beefy 44mm, black DLC finished case, 200M water resistance, and stealthy tactical styling. There’s no doubt that this piece was made to withstand the challenges of both military operations and everyday adventures.
ITS Tactical: Discreet Messenger Bag
ITS was founded in 2009 by Bryan Black with the help of brothers in the Naval Special Warfare Community. Throughout his time in the Navy and his love of gear and the outdoors, the idea for ITS was born. The exterior of the ITS Discreet Messenger Bag conceals a myriad of tactical features, including concealed carry compartments and organizational pockets, making it an ideal companion for those who value preparedness. Made with Weatherproof TPU 600D fabric, it features a quick-access FIDLOCK magnetic buckle and ambidextrous front pockets with magnetic and waterproof zippers.
GORUCK: GR0 Dyneema Backpack
For GORUCK it all began in 2008 when founder Jason McCarthy was in Special Forces and his partner Emily McCarthy was in the CIA. They started GORUCK out of Emily’s house in war-torn West Africa, and their mission was simple: build a rucksack with life-or-death quality standards and show people of all walks of life how to operate smartly and safely in some of the harshest environments in the world. The GR0 Dyneema is based on the GR1 but built for smaller frames and is perfect for minimalist everyday carry. Despite the pack’s smaller size, the highly durable ultralight Dyneema material helps it withstand everyday bumps and scratches, as well as protect all the items within it.
