When I’m looking for an everyday carry fixed blade, there’s a mental checklist I go through. Size—does it hit that sweet spot between being compact enough for EDC but big enough for actual work? Weight—is it light enough to carry without feeling like a brick but substantial enough to inspire confidence? Materials—can it handle tough tasks, resist corrosion, and sharpen up easily? And then there’s the carry setup—can I strap it to a pack, drop it in a pocket, or clip it to my belt without it being a hassle?

Benchmade’s new Dacia checks a lot of these boxes. On paper, it’s a real winner. It’s lightweight, rugged, and designed with both everyday tasks and outdoor adventures in mind. But after carrying and using it, I’ve got a few thoughts on where it excels—and where it stumbles.

Olight has always been a polarizing brand. You either love them for their bold designs and accessible products, or you critique them for not meeting the exacting standards of flashlight purists. I stand firmly in the "love them" camp. Diving into the flashlight world has been an adventure for me, and while I’m learning the finer details like CRI ratings and emitter types, I know most people care about three things: Is it bright? Is it durable? How often do I need to charge it? The Olight Arkfeld Pro delivers on all three, but it’s also packed with unique features that set it apart.

When I first saw the Arkfeld Pro, I was struck by its shape. A flat flashlight? It was so different from anything I’d seen before. We’re used to round flashlights because batteries are round, but Olight broke the mold here. The Arkfeld Pro is slim, flat, and feels more like a TV remote than a flashlight. And that’s not a bad thing. It’s comfortable to hold, intuitive to use, and pocket-friendly in a way most flashlights aren’t.