The right everyday carry knife is both compact and useful at a moment’s notice. Designed to be small enough for a keyring but strong enough to use everyday, the minimal Elko from James Brand fits that description. It packs plenty into its small aluminum frame — which weighs only 1.3 ounces and is just 2.6-inches closed — including a Sandvik 12C27 black stainless steel blade and a stainless steel pry tool that also acts as a bottle opener and flathead screwdriver. The Elko has a serviceable assembly for DIY maintenance. Available completely blacked out or with titanium scales.