(Part 2) Top products from r/BuyItForLife

So this is against the grain of most of the can opener recommendations I see here, but I really like OXO's smooth-edge can openers. My parents have the design with two arms, and I have this one with one arm. The two-arm one is better IMO, because the lid can get stuck in the one-armed opener after it's been taken off the can. But both are great openers.

Honestly all of the good grips stuff is super high quality and super comfortable to use. I own a few things from that line, it's all lasted beyond 5 years with only the most minor cosmetic damage (for example a tiny dent on a spatula handle because I accidentally left it in a hot skillet.) It's all really rust-resistant and the grips are super nice and super durable.

Plus, I like the smooth-edge openers a lot more than the traditional kind. If you've only used the more traditional kind of opener it can take some getting used to because it doesn't "feel" like it's cutting. But it takes the lid off in a much more pleasing and precise way and there's no sharp or rough edges on the can or lid that you can cut yourself on. Instead of cutting metal, I think they sort of peel it back and cut through the epoxy seal that glues the lid onto the can.

I've never heard of those mugs or bottles so I'm not familiar with them . . . But I recently just bought a Zojirushi mug that is 20 oz and I'm in love with it.

I've been able to put hot water in it before I leave for school (usually at 7am) and I have pulled it out still hot at 5pm for tea.

I have also left coffee in there with that time frame and was still able to enjoy a hot cup at 5pm until I left for home around 8pm.

It's also really cool because I've been able to lay it flat in my backpack on top of my books, laptop and binders and it doesn't leak at all. Which I was really paranoid about but after trying it out like that a few times I see now I have nothing to worry about.

In fact I've kind of gotten into the habit of showing it off by having my friends try to unlock it and test it's heat insulation.

Then I have them try to open it while the little mechanisn that allows you to lock the button that opens the mug's lid is locked. They can't so we undo the lock and it comes off pretty gently.

I usually tell them to hold it, and ask if they can feel any heat. Sometimes there's a bit of warmth but nothing that compares to what's inside. Then I take the entire lid off and tell them to hold their hand over it, and their usually surprised by the amount of steam coming off of it.

If you look at their reviews on Amazon you'll also see I'm not the only one who was impressed by it.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00HYOGUM2/ref=psdcmw_602608_t1_B00CHOUI86

The Sweethome has a list of dorm room essentials.

If you don't have one already, a microwave is a lifesaver.

Good bedsheets are nice to have and they have their recommendation in the link above. I don't know if there are Target stores in the UK, but I really like these Threshold cotton percale sheets. They feel great to sleep on and are affordable.

I really love my Zojirushi travel mug. It has a secure flip top cap, can be easily cleaned, and it's almost too good at insulating hot & cold drinks. You can use it as a regular cup at home and travel with it to class.

Most importantly, keep condoms around. I like Lifestyles Skyns. The Skyn Elite ones are thinner and have torn on me, so be careful.

One of my favorites is an electric griddle. I also have a cast iron one I enjoy, but I do like the fact I can cook "away" from the stove. There are a number of them out there, but the more real estate the better.

We also added a toaster oven like this http://amzn.com/B001L5TVGW I cannot speak to the BIFL, but it is built well and I use it for 95% of my baking (I can get a Calphalon 9x13 in there with no problem).

Speaking of Calphalon, I have been infinitely pleased with their cookware and bakeware. Their baking pans are amazing and should really last.

Cast iron pans are AMAZING for cooking almost anything in. Try to avoid cooking highly acidic foods in them, because that can break down the seasoning that builds up as you use the pan. In other words, use an enameled pot for dishes that have a lot of tomatoes. The best cast iron frying pan to get is the Lodge 12-inch skillet -- it's big and heavy, but not too big for your stovetop, and it provides a lot of room to fry in. They typically sell at Wal-Mart for between $16 and $19, depending on the Wal-mart you go to. It's very easy to find a used cast iron pan at yard sales, flea markets, Goodwill, etc; but based on experience I've seen those pans are usually the 10-inch size or smaller, and if you only have one cast iron pan then I'd suggest going for the 12-inch size. (TJ Maxx/Marshalls had a shipment of those Lodge cast iron pans earlier this year, with the 12-inch size going for $14.99; if you look in one of those stores you may still be able to find one.)

I'll admit to being biased in favor of cast iron, so based on my advice above for an enameled cooking pot, I'd likewise suggest a big, heavy, enamel-coated cast iron pot. The really expensive enameled pots like Le Creuset can run into the hundreds of dollars, and their owners swear it's worth the price; but for most folks, a less expensive brand of enameled iron pot will perform just as well for a fraction of the price. If you're near an Aldi's, with its own brand names for just about anything in the store, you can usually find a 5-quart enameled iron cooking pot for $20 to $30 in there. Wal-Mart sells a 6-quart enameled iron pot by Lodge for $50, which I think is a great price because Lodge is a very reliable and durable brand.

I absolutely adore my Breville BOV800XL toaster oven.

http://www.amazon.com/Breville-BOV800XL-1800-Watt-Convection-Toaster/dp/B001L5TVGW/ref=pd_sim_k_1

Costs a bit, but this was definitely my pick after searching around. Couldn't be happier. There's just two of us, and we do most of our baking/heating/broiling in this thing. Saves money, and doesn't heat up the whole kitchen when you just need a couple of chicken breasts or to broil a sandwich.

One caveat; If toast is important to you, this is not the greatest toaster in the world. It makes adequate toast at best. But as a small oven and a broiler, it absolutely rocks. Most powerful broiler you can buy in a toaster oven.

DTS has the return policy to make them awesome and they're definitely comfortable, but they're a bit pricey for me. I just found it silly to send back a pair of socks after I've worn holes in them with my caveman feet.

My most recent purchase was people socks and I've loved them. Three seasons with them and I am on my original 8 pair. They're definitely durable and a bit more reasonable on the wallet. I've hiked, worked and lounged in them and they still feel great.

http://www.amazon.com/4pairs-Socks-2pairs-X1pair-Mixed/dp/B009Y9QCCS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1462799529&sr=8-1&keywords=people+socks

71% merino wool

I have this kettle: Cuisinart PerfecTemp Kettle. It's great. I use it for coffee and tea. It doesn't have a temperature display exactly, but you press a button to select your desired temperature. But my favorite feature is probably to "keep warm" feature. Great kettle, well worth the money.

Sorry I'm a bit late to the party. I had a really good pair that lasted me 2 years(longer than any pair of earbuds ever) They were the best quality earbuds I ever had, and they stay in your ear really well, as they are designed with being active in mind.

They're usually 30 dollars, but right now are on sale for 16 on Amazon right here.

I know the name sounds sketchy and nobody has ever heard of them, but they're honestly great, durable headphones.

I bought these to use while I ride my m/c. They stay in place under a full face helmet.

http://www.amazon.com/MEElectronics-M6-CL-Sound-Isolating-Headphones-Players/dp/B0038W0K2U

Up near the ear bud, the last two inches or so of the cord is a pliable material that you can shape around your ear for a nice secure fit. They come with 4 or 5 different tips that help give you more secure fit depending on the internal shape of your ear. Sound quality is decent but not on par with Etymotic or Shure.

If you are having issues with them staying in place, Comply Foam Tips would be another good option to try. I have replaced all my earbud tips with these.

http://www.complyfoam.com/

You roll the foam tip like an earplug and it expands in your ear to seal out ambient noise and provide a snug fit.

I cook a LOT and really appreciate a good kitchen tool. Recently I got this pepper mill not thinking it would be anything but a cool pepper mill but after decades of buying the pepper corns in the cheap pepper mills at Costco, i decided to invest. Holy crap is this thing good! I can pepper my whole plate with one turn. When I am using it in the kitchen, I am amazed at how much pepper comes out with each turn. It is truly amazing!

Unicorn Magnum Plus Pepper Mill 9" Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0000CFB4N/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_JY8sECrb93RuD

My husband swears by thermos. It keeps things hot or cold for hours, it doesn't leak and they have some pretty nice looking ones. :) we wash it on the top shelf of the dishwasher and they are still going after 10 years. good luck!

Edit: he has a blue and silver of these.

I use a Thermos Backpack Bottle for all my hot or cold beverage needs. It keeps stuff hot of cold for hours. I doesn't leak. It has a little latch on the top so you can securely close it. I even put it in my purse with books and things! When you drink from it, it is like drinking from a cup, so you get the aroma of the beverage. It is fairly easy to clean. The only problem I have had with mine is that the color (mine was brown) came off and now it is just silver steel. It is steel inside and out. Feel free to ask me more questions. I am kind of passionate about this bottle.


http://www.amazon.com/Thermos-Stainless-Commuter-Bottle-Silver/dp/B000K604P0

Lodge cast iron.

I've gotten a 12 inch skillet ($20 at Target) and a 5 quart dutch oven with a 10 inch skillet lid ($33 on Amazon). I use them almost every day and they're my favorite tools in the kitchen, as well as my sturdiest.

I also got a Saddleback medium bifold wallet that's been perfect for the last couple years. I anticipate many more decades to come with it!

Going through this thread, I've remembered a couple more. I now have 2 Orion belts that I wear almost every day! The first is the hot dipped harness leather belt, and the second is the tan harness leather belt that I got for around $28 on Massdrop.

The last BIFL item I've gotten is a pair of Ex Oficio briefs this Christmas. They've been great so far...hopefully they hold up!

Thermos Sipp 16-Ounce Vacuum-Insulated Travel Tumbler, Stainless Steel

This one has worked out great for my girlfriend. I got her one and she loves it. Keeps the coffee super warm and can drink anytime.

Sorry, the correct answer was the Thermos 16-Ounce Stainless-Steel Backpack Bottle, Silver. All the great things the BIFL folks said are true. Easy to maintain/Bulletproof/ and amazing insulation (vacuum FTW).

I quite like the design, feel, and quality of Caran D'Ache. If you like, you can get their pen and pencil to look like a matched set. They're high quality instruments but don't cost anything near the overpriced fluff.

I also really like the Zebra F-701, which is even cheaper. It's more substantial than the F301 which I also like a lot, and keep around me everywhere. But the F-701 I keep in the same spot at my desk. Also available in both pen and pencil

I would not trust a 3 dollar anything with the safety of my face.

EDIT: I think I spent around $50 to get started with wet shaving. I used some spray shaving cream I already had.

EDIT2: The reviews for this seem favorable on Amazon. Though a lot of the lower reviews are along the lines of "I wish I got a better quality one", "too light", "you get what you pay for", and "arrived with manufacturing defect". Perhaps I would trust this with my face.

EDIT3: Relevant? http://www.reddit.com/r/wicked_edge/comments/1itdrv/for_3_shipped_how_can_i_go_wrong/

I'll step in and talk about the Feather razor. In all honesty, it is not significantly better in function than a brass bodied razor from Parker, or the razor that often gets mentioned here the Merkur (neither inexpensive or uses better materials). Heck even the $3 razor I use for travel and it is probably less likely to break if dropped than the Merkur if dropped.

But I got the thing as a gift. One of those graduation/wedding/holiday gifts and it is still part of my everyday routine. Unlike other razors the blades are snug and you don't have to fiddle with alignment, The knurling has the best positive grip that I have found even when were, the stainless steel is machined unlike other stainless razors that are sintered and not in production at the time, it is not plated, and it gives a nice mild shave. It has to be about a decade old by now. Six Gillette Fusion refill packs of 8 would have cost the same as that razor and I doubt that I have spent $20 in blades since then.

Over all, all of the above should be mentioned in a BIFL on DE razors, however the thread you linked to with the Feather Razor was a lifetime warantee thread and I do not know how many other brands have this, and it specifically mentions their stainless version because I doubt that their $20 twist to open DE is covered.

Similarly your "$150 on a frying pan, so you can fry your grilled cheese to perfection." comment seems both out of context and misleading. Copper, stainless, and cast iron each use different materials and machining practices. My most used pan is a $10 (used) skillet that is around 70 years old, my next most used is a $200 stainless pot. These are not dorm room/get lost stolen/destroyed by roommate used to make a velveeta and wonderbread sandwich, but something this person will use for a lifetime. Heck, 80% of that thread was about how to take care of the least expensive of the BIFL cookware, cast iron.

Zebra F-701. Great pen, stainless steel. Nice balance and writes great. Plus its $5.

http://www.amazon.com/Zebra-F-701-Stainless-Ballpoint-Retractable/dp/B002L6RB80/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1410233699&sr=8-1&keywords=f-701+zebra

I would really recommend Meelectronics m6, I have had a pair for 3 years and are still going strong. I love the memory wire that goes behind the ear, it keeps the earbuds from getting pulled out.

They are $17 on amazon right now.

http://www.amazon.com/MEElectronics-Sport-Fi-Isolating-In-Ear-Headphones/dp/B0038W0K2U

I agree. For a long time I used these and I really like their slender shape. They have the same innards as the one posted by dbzpsycho1 above.

I recently switched to the all metal one that he posted. I bought two of them on Amazon and I refill them as needed. Even though they're slightly thicker they are indestructible which is great!

Amazon has a couple for REALLY cheap and they are good quality.. If I find the one I bought I'll link it to you, because it's fantastic and was like 6 bucks or something

EDIT: FOUND IT!!!!

My parents' house burned down around Thanksgiving and they asked me for pot & pan recommendations as they rebuild. Here's a list I sent them of things that ought to last forever but won't break the bank (no Mauviel, Staub, All-Clad, Le Creuset, etc). #1 on the list is a 12" Lodge skillet, just like the one we have. :)

• 12" cast iron skillet, along these lines: http://www.amazon.com/Lodge-L10SK3-Pre-Seasoned-Skillet-12-Inch/dp/B00006JSUB/
  
• 8-12qt stock pot. Here's a reasonably priced 10qt model: http://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-76610-26G-Classic-10-Quart-Stockpot/dp/B007HN67KU
  
• 2.5qt sauce pan (optional)
  
• 3.5qt chef's pan (not optional), similar to this (the rounded bottom/edges is critical): http://www.amazon.com/Cuisinox-Elite-Quart-Covered-Chefs/dp/B001BKKB3Y
  
• Stainless roasting pan (root vegetables, turkey, etc): http://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-MCP117-16BR-MultiClad-Stainless-Rectangular/dp/B0041Q409G
  
• 5-7qt enameled cast iron dutch oven (we use this as our primary soup pot. We only use our stock pot for pasta or when we're making soup for a really large crowd): http://www.amazon.com/Lodge-EC6D43-Enameled-Island-6-Quart/dp/B000N501BK
  
• Cuisinart electric kettle (this is SOOOOOOOOO much more efficient than either the microwave or the stovetop -- we never knew what we were missing until we bought it): http://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-CPK-17-PerfecTemp-1-7-Liter-Stainless/dp/B003KYSLNQ
  
• Measuring cups and spoons: http://www.amazon.com/Kitchenmade-Stainless-Steel-Measuring-Stackable/dp/B00IRQNHTK and http://www.amazon.com/Norpro-Stainless-Steel-Piece-Measuring/dp/B000P0W4MC
  
• Pyrex measuring cups (a 2qt and a 4qt)
  
• Nesting glass mixing bowls: http://www.amazon.com/Luminarc-Stackable-9-Piece-Bowl-Set/dp/B000V6W5ZG
  
• Large stainless steel (lightweight) mixing bowl. I'm not sure exactly how big ours is, but it's probably similar to this. We use it when we make salads for crowds, or any time we don't want to crowd whatever we're preparing. http://www.amazon.com/Thunder-Group-Mixing-Bowl-13-Quart/dp/B001E0HQSO
  
• Colander (pasta, veggies): http://www.amazon.com/Bellemain-Micro-perforated-Stainless-5-quart-Colander/dp/B00O97D0DO
  
• Strainer (berries, rinsing beans):http://www.amazon.com/OXO-Grips-8-Inch-Double-Strainer/dp/B00004OCLX

Looks like /u/Veritech-1 beat me to the punch on this, but I'd like to add another endorsement for Zojirushi coffee thermoses. I'm a coffee addict and a PhD student, so I spend a lot of time going from place to place with hot coffee in hand. I'm also very hard on my thermoses. Every one I've used eventually gets leaky, cracks, and so on. Not my Zojirushi. I fill it with hot coffee and shove it in my backpack every morning and it has never spilled. I once filled it and forgot it at home. When I came back from work, the coffee was still piping hot. Everyone who needs coffee on the go should own one of these.

I don't know why people use those classic style can openers now (when you have the option of buying any <$30 can opener). Get one of the "safe edge" or "side cut" can openers like this https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000079XW2/

I have one for the kitchen and one for the camping gear. The lid can even be reused since it will fit back on top of the can (doesn't really seal but kinda, better than a normal can at least). The blade doesn't have to be huge or do much in the way of puncturing, so it will last a lot longer. And since the blade doesn't get into the food itself, it doesn't get dirty and you don't have to wash it or put it in the dishwasher

Try https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-M50x-Professional-Monitor-Headphones/dp/B00HVLUR86 excellent quality, surprisingly good bass, replaceable cord, foldable I had those after my Bose broke and I'm extremely happy!

I've been using this one daily for five years. I honestly barely use my regular oven. I know that's not necessarily "BIFL," yet I hope it helps you.

Breville BOV800XL Smart Oven 1800-Watt Convection Toaster Oven with Element IQ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001L5TVGW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Y.NJyb0RBVZ2M

Ask and you shall receive: Dexter-Russell

Some things are a little ridiculous, but a good spatula is not one of them.


Edit: I made an assumption that you wanted a "spatula" like a pancake turner, which I believe is a misnomer. These, I believe, are true spatulas...

You can do this on the cheap to start. Pick up This razor (I just bought a 2nd one yesterday) and These blades. That way, if you decide strait razors aren't for you, your investment is < $15 and you're still good to go. If you like it, then pick up a solid BIFL one and it will, indeed, last you for life.
Keep an eye out at estate sales, garage sales, antique stores, etc. Many times you can get an excellent quality older razor for a few clams. If you're patient, this can end well, but if you decide that you would rather have a new one of quality, there are many options available.

You can buy the shaving soap, brush, shaving cup and even if you decide to go back to cartridge razors (although after a few weeks most of us wondered how we ever did cartridge razors to begin with), you'll find that the soap and brush is much nicer than the goop and shaving "cream" that people put a big price tag on and sell. It just feels so much better on your skin.

I'll add, however, I still keep a cartridge razor around for some of the more sensitive, non-facial areas of my body.

I would recommend this thermos I have been using one for awhile and it works great. Not sure what exactly you are looking for, but it is pretty solid.

Light My Fire Titanium Spork. Excellent reviews, and it's made of frikin' titanium.

EDIT: Weighs only 17 grams, and costs only $11. Pretty impressive.

[For that same $3....minus $.045] (http://www.amazon.com/Silver-Double-Shaver-Nonslip-Handle/dp/B0050HO9MI/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1407550882&sr=8-4&keywords=safety+razor)

I have a few of these (not the same exact brand, but they're all the same Chinese makes really and differ from one to the next even with the same brand). They're as BIFL as any Merkur, and honestly, I like them a lot...

Edit: this is the one I have. Sucks it's now a $6 add on item. I bought a few for like 2.75$ a few years back.

I've had this one for...I dunno, 5 years or so. Works as well as the first day I bought it, feels great in the hand, no sharp edges, etc etc:

http://www.amazon.com/OXO-Good-Grips-Smooth-Opener/dp/B000079XW2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1421811654&sr=8-1&keywords=oxo+can+opener

My best friend has been using this since before I met him in 1998.

People Socks are excellent. Pricier than Kirkland, but less expensive than Smartwool. I've found them to be very comfortable and durable.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009Y9QCCS/

C'mon OP...

• Bialetti Moka pot
  
  
• Lido 2 hand grinder
  
  
• Lodge cast iron skillets one large one small
  
  
• Lodge enameled cast iron dutch oven
  
  
• All clad copper core sauce pan
  
  
• Miele washing machine
  
  
• Miele C2 vacuum cleaner
  
  
• Vitamix 5200
  
  
• Duralex glasses - tumblers??
  
  
• Zojirushi NS-LLH05 rice cooker - only 1 left!
  
  
• Cuisinart Perfectemp Kettle
  
  
• OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Food Scale
  
  
• OXO Good Grips Cutting board
  
  
• Corelle winter frost dinnerware set
  
  
• Light my fire titanium fork-spoon-knife - spork?
  
  
• Darn Tough socks
  
  
• Exofficio briefs
  
  
• Felco 2 Secateurs
  
  
• Wahl Peanut beard trimmer
  
  
• Dualit Toaster
  
  
• P38 can opener??
  
  
• Zwilling J.A. Henckels knife set
  

Seki Stainless Steel Nail Clipper, still clips my nails like a boss and it has some nice weight to it, feels like BIFL quality.

Not the OP, but I have and love this one.

These are really good sounding especially for their price and they've lasted me well over a year. Cheap buds like skull candy tend to last me a few weeks at most.

Here are my favorites so far:

Victorinox 40520 8" Chefs Knife - very inexpensive, high quality chef's knife. Recommended by America's test kitchen.

CDN DTQ450X Thermometer - very inexpensive, high quality instant read thermometer. Recommended by America's test kitchen.

Lodge 12" skillet - cheap and will last you forever

Bahco 7750 3/8" ratchet - 95% identical to Snap-On's 3/8" F80 ratchet at 1/3 the price

Allen Edmonds Fifth Avenue dress shoe - One of the most affordable full-grain leather, goodyear welted shoes. This is a classic captoe style with a bit of decoration that works everywhere. Not quite for "life" but could easily last you 10 years.

Older cast iron skillets. Wagner and Griswold and the ones to look for, but any U.S.A. made skillet that is machined smooth on the inside will do fine. Just learn to season it and take care of it so you can give it to your grandkids.

My personal skillet is older than my grandparents.

Edit: Use a steel spatula. I prefer this one:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002CJNBTO?pc_redir=1397965051&robot_redir=1

don't know about "for life" but I've had a Wahl Peanut for like a year and it's shown 0 signs of wear. I realize this is BIFL, but this seems like one of those products where it would certainly last long enough to warrant the $30.

Pre-ground pepper is as good as sand. You need to grind it at the time of use.

Get a 6 inch Unicorn Magnum (or 9 inch, if you can handle it)—these grinders are so efficient you can get the same amount of pepper from 1/2 turn as would take 5 turns on lesser pepper mills.

If you're not into the whole "nine inch black magnum" thing, then these OXO grinders are nearly as good.

America's Test Kitchen likes the Breville BOV800XL Smart Oven though it is expensive at around $250 USD.

The Hamilton Beach Set & Forget Toaster Oven with Convection Cooking was rated their best buy, and is significantly cheaper at $83 USD.

I've only used my roommate's cheapo toaster oven, and that one sucked, so I can't give any personal recommendations.

You could try something like this https://www.amazon.com/Japanese-Can-Opener-Ganji-Kankiri/dp/B001TV6A7G


Looks like it would last well.

I have a cuisinart one that I really like, I think this is it:http://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-CPK-17-PerfecTemp-1-7-Liter-Stainless/dp/B003KYSLNQ

I haven't had it long but it's good so far!

ok i will offer you two BIFL versions. the first one being BIFL on a budget and the second being a much higher dollar BIFL cost.

quality on a budget- http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000CF8YO/ref=cm_ciu_pl_B0000CF8YO_mo1ZWCPZP5I7S3B

http://www.amazon.com/Lodge-Color-EC6D43-Enameled-6-Quart/dp/B000N501BK/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1371857337&sr=1-1&keywords=lodge+dutch+oven

http://www.amazon.com/Victorinox-4-Inch-Fibrox-Straight-Paring/dp/B008M5U1UE/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1371857377&sr=1-1&keywords=victorinox+paring

http://www.amazon.com/OXO-Grips-Wooden-Spoon-3-Piece/dp/B008H2JLP8/ref=sr_1_2?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1371857407&sr=1-2&keywords=wooden+spoon

http://www.amazon.com/Lodge-L10SK3-12-Inch-Pre-Seasoned-Skillet/dp/B00006JSUB/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1371857459&sr=1-1&keywords=lodge+cast+iron

higher dollar items include-

http://www.amazon.com/Global-G-2-inch-Chefs-Knife/dp/B00005OL44/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1371857561&sr=1-1&keywords=global+knives

http://www.amazon.com/Shun-Premier-Chefs-Knife-8-Inch/dp/B003B66YKA/ref=sr_1_2?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1371857613&sr=1-2&keywords=shun+knives

http://www.amazon.com/Wusthof-Classic-2-Inch-Paring-Knife/dp/B00005MEGH/ref=sr_1_3?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1371857640&sr=1-3&keywords=paring+knife

http://www.amazon.com/Le-Creuset-Signature-Enameled-Cast-Iron/dp/B0076NOGPY/ref=sr_1_2?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1371857680&sr=1-2&keywords=le+creuset+dutch+oven

http://www.amazon.com/Lodge-L10SK3-12-Inch-Pre-Seasoned-Skillet/dp/B00006JSUB/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1371857717&sr=1-1&keywords=lodge+cast+iron


I own the cheaper BIFL items i listed and they have been AMAZING so far. you really cant beat the quality/ price ratio for the cheaper things i listed. if you want a better chef knife all the options i gave you would be excellent but just know that you could go crazy looking at all the different brands.

I was a skeptic and my wife was even more of a skeptic, but cast iron has taken over most of our non-stick kitchen duty.

You can read and learn all sorts of things, but if you're going to do one thing to make your cast iron experience better, then you should buy this:

pancake flipper

it's changed the way i cook. you need a really thin, rigid, metal flipper. Eggs. Burgers. onions. fish. actual pancakes. my cast iron is my favorite kitchen pan. If you're thinking about it, try to grab a cheap one at a garage sale.

I'm a lifelong fan of Audio Technicas, as are a lot of friends I know who do DJ work.

Gold Toe (100% wool) makes some and Wigwam (34% wool blend), although I can't attest to them since I rarely wear dress socks. Wigwam pretty consistantly get good reviews from what I have seen.

My current favorite budget wool work/hiking socks are People Socks (71% wool and USA made!)... but they might be a tad thick for dress shoes.

I've got one of these and it works really well. The lid seals with a silicon o-ring so I don't see it ever wearing out and leaking.

edit: here is a youtube video of a guy showing the seal mechanism. I'm not sure how the mechanism works on the contigo cups so I can't say whether this would actually be better.

I have these from Audio Technica:.
https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-M50x-Professional-Monitor-Headphones/dp/B00HVLUR86

Best headphones I've ever owned.

Fifthed. I've had mine for a few years now and it's still awesome.

I thought spending $15 for some nail clippers was a bit much. Another Japanese company, got these:
https://www.amazon.com/SS-106-Stainless-Steel-Fingernail-Clipper/dp/B000F35R00

and they work awesome. My old nail clippers actually did break, some nail clippers that I bought in Utah on vacation in the late 80s as a kid.

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to your future! I have been using this thermos for 5-6 years, every weekday. Keeps hot warm for 6+ hours (and cold a bit longer, ive read) ...also doesnt spill if properly dried before filling

http://www.amazon.com/Thermos-16-Ounce-Stainless-Steel-Backpack-Bottle/dp/B000K604P0/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1416543556&sr=1-1&keywords=nissan+thermos+stainless+steel

Not good for slamming all your coffee in the morning though. I use a small stainless mug for a cup every couple hours

Edit: too hot to drink out of the thermos for first 4 hours. Mug necessary!

This is a really old thread, but I recommend this one: http://www.amazon.com/OXO-Good-Grips-Smooth-Opener/dp/B000079XW2

I had pretty much the same problem as you. I had a can opener that had been going strong for 20+ years, but it was all metal and was getting rusted. I eventually threw it out and got another metal can opener. I tried to open a large can with it, and it basically crapped out on it. Frustrated that I had already thrown away my 20 year old can opener, I decided to get one that I would be able to keep for 20 more years again.

I honestly don't know if it will work well for shaved heads, but i use a peanut mini clipper for my beard and even haircuts. Has lasted me more than 4 years of regular use and maintenance.

Wahl Peanut - Amazon $41.88

I've had the Seki Edge for a few months. I have every reason to expect that it will last forever. Even the cheap ones have lasted me for 10+ years. This one is much better quality though. The reviews on Amazon seem very accurate to me, check out what other people are saying.

Most likely problem: You are using the wrong spatula.

Once teflon pans went mainstream, a lot of stores stopped carrying proper spatulas for anything but teflon. You want something like this: http://www.amazon.com/Dexter-Russell-2-5-Inch-Stainless-Walnut-Pancake/dp/B002CJNBTO

Why? The sharp stainless cuts the food off the pan, allowing carbon to build up and smooth the surface of the pan. After a period of use the pan becomes smooth and the non-stick properties develop to the point where you could use a plastic spatula, but don't.

Don't use a silicone or other plastic spatula that was designed to protect teflon. Don't use a thick rigid BBQ/commercial griddle turner designed to work on large very flat surfaces instead of a 10" frying pan. Use a thin, flexible, sharp stainless steel spatula that was designed for small pans with metal surfaces.

I used to have to write down logs every hour and I liked writing fast. I always used these and have never had a problem. Plus they are refillable. http://www.amazon.com/Zebra-Pen-Retractable-Ballpoint-1-pack/dp/B002L6RB80

After the initial investment, if feels like I am shaving for free. It really is dirt cheap, and gives you an incredibly close shave.

This super cheap razor is what I started off with.

Don't skimp on the blades though, a lot of people swear by feather blades.

You'll also need shave soap and a shaving brush. All this stuff can also be found at most pharmacy places.

http://www.amazon.com/Silver-Double-Shaver-Nonslip-Handle/dp/B0050HO9MI/ref=sr_1_2?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1395517741&sr=1-2&keywords=safety+razor

This is a three dollar safety razor. It is of the same exact quality as Merkur's or anything you can name. I spend about 10 dollars on blades a year... 16 bucks for 100 ... http://www.amazon.com/Treet-Platinum-Stainless-Double-Blades/dp/B00F7ZL6ZG/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1395517827&sr=1-1&keywords=treet+razor+blades

I spend the remaining savings on George F Trumper shaving cream and face lotion. The combination of the razor, blades, cream, and lotion is the only way I don't get razor burn, and it's cheaper than any other option here.

Try the Ganji Kankiri https://www.amazon.com/Japanese-Can-Opener-Ganji-Kankiri/dp/B001TV6A7G
Two pieces of metal. No gears or twisting parts - just a handle and a blade. Incredibly easy to clean and use. Sure, the can lid can get a bit jagged after, but I know I will not be buying a new can opener for the rest of my life.

The Wahl Peanut has lasted me for 8 years of full-time international travel. I have replaced the blade twice.

I prefer the corded version as it's much more powerful than the cordless.

The Breville. It's attractive, durable, and large (inside). You can cook a medium pizza for christ sake.

http://www.amazon.com/Breville-BOV800XL-1800-Watt-Convection-Toaster/dp/B001L5TVGW

Yes. My other half owns a Gillette for that and more. I believe these are the blades we use.

I got a pair of these for Christmas decided to use one for my beard. Both are working quite well.

http://www.amazon.com/Wahl-Professional-8685-Classic-Clipper/dp/B00011K2BA

http://www.amazon.com/Thermos-16-Ounce-Vacuum-Insulated-Tumbler-Stainless/dp/B0039SLSU6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1346296049&sr=8-1&keywords=thermos+sipp

best one. NO cap to open to drink. Spill proof.

Edit: cleanable.

https://www.amazon.com/Unicorn-Magnum-Plus-Pepper-Black/dp/B0000CFB4N/ref=sr_1_27?ie=UTF8&qid=1466042588&sr=8-27&keywords=pepper+grinder+black
Had it for about 3 years now. Still working as well as the day I got it.

That's a nice razor, but you don't have to pay $73 to get BIFL quality. Old non-adjustable Gillettes can often be had from flea markets for under $10. Those things were made to last a lifetime.

Regarding blade cost - $.55 USD is really expensive. DE blades are typically around $.30 for Feather razor blades, much less for some others.

http://www.amazon.com/FEATHER-HI-STAINLESS-DOUBLE-BLADES-REMOVE/dp/B00BDM0XZG

http://www.amazon.com/Astra-Superior-Premium-Platinum-Double/dp/B001QY8QXM

I struggled a lot with earbuds, like many have done. Using Amazon reviews is mostly pointless. They are all mostly a crap shoot. Cheap earbuds at Walmart are usually worse, I wouldn't earbuds there. While quality of sound is usually biggest determining factor for price (you get what you pay for regarding sound quality), durability is difficult to ascertain. Higher price doesn't necessarily mean increased durability.

I use these at work - JVC HAFX1X Headphone Xtreme-Xplosivs

Music is not high quality, bass is completely lacking and the clarity is just not there. But they work well for podcasts/audio books, and since that is all I listen to at work, I could care less about audio quality. I only listen to them using one ear, so the other hangs in my top shirt pocket.

They are the most durable earbuds I have ever purchased, and since they get a lot of abuse at work, I use the JVC's exclusively at work. I have owned 3 pairs of these JVC's, first one's died a while back, losing sound in both ear buds eventually, 2nd pair is running ok now, and the Third pair is sitting in a box, brand new, never used, waiting for my 2nd pair to break.

For talking on the cell phone, I use these - MEElectronics M31P-BK

The M31P's are very sensitive (volume wise), so I have to turn the volume way down on my cell phone, and even then, it can be too loud, especially if the caller raises their voice while speaking on the other end. Music sounds phenomenal on my Ipod, I almost want another pair just for my Ipod & working out. But phone conversations are the only thing I use these for, as as they are also the first time I have purchased them, I cannot comment on durability. Construction is good, better than the JVC's from what I can tell. But appearances may be deceiving.

For working out, I use these - MEElectronics Sport M6

The Sport M6 is not very sensitive and I find it necessary to raise the volume at near max in order to enjoy music. Podcasts are fine. Very high quality construction. 1st time owning these, so I can't comment on durability.

MEElectroncs get rave reviews by most users, general consensus is they are superior to most others in the bang for your buck category. They have a wide range of sound quality which means wide range of price as well. The M31P's seem to be discontinued but you can find something similar on their website/amazon.

I like the Seiki Edge - but none of them are ever Buy for Life... they do dull over time, but you can get a good 5-6 years out of one of these Seikis.

I've been wearing my Audio Technica ATH-M50x headphones every day, several hours a day for over 2 years now. I recently replaced the pads but other than that they are still in brand new condition. They've been dropped, stepped on and tossed down more than a few times in anger but still work great!

It goes without saying to avoid the overpriced Beats brand.


I'm a fan of Audio-Technica ATH-M50x I have owned my pair for over a year and love them. I use them just about everyday.


Another brand worth mentioning is Sol Republic. They sound amazing but unfortunately the one headphone stopped working after only 2 years. So the quality may not be there.

Is it this one? If it is, did you happen to keep coffee in it for a while (~half a day?). I have the same problem. People on other forums tend to think that it's the non-stick coating inside that reacts with the stale coffee. IDK if it's true or not. Letting it sit in a baking soda solution, then washing it helped a bit.

The one I am constantly recommended is the Breville toaster oven.

http://www.amazon.com/Breville-BOV800XL-1800-Watt-Convection-Toaster/dp/B001L5TVGW

Unicorn Magnum Plus

Amazon tells me "You purchased this item on July 10, 2007." Because it is Cook's Illustrated's favorite pepper mill, and that's borne out in my kitchen as well. Super fast grinding, tons of capacity (I refill once or twice a year at most) and it has never come lose or fallen apart. I've literally had no problems with it.

Also nice: its grind adjustment is on the bottom, not the top, so you don't have to readjust it every time you refill.

One design flaw: the fill door turns to open the same way you grind; if you're not careful you might accidentally open it while grinding and dump some whole peppercorns into your dish. I've done that once myself. After I bought it, I wrote the company to suggest just reversing the way that door opens; I don't know if they've fixed it in the last eight years, but they never acknowledged my suggestion so I'm guessing not.

I just use a steel turner like a short order chef would use on a griddle:

https://www.amazon.com/Dexter-Russell-2-5-Inch-Stainless-Walnut-Pancake/dp/B002CJNBTO/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1484421202&sr=8-11&keywords=steel+turner

Just scrub up all the stuck on stuff with the turner and toss.

I use the Wahl Peanut. Never had a problem.

I used to absolutely love the Swedish Gillette blades but they stopped making them. These are my new standard: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001QY8QXM?pc_redir=1407539755&robot_redir=1

I highly recommend the Light My Fire titanium spork.

Light my Fire of Sweden's titanium spork. Got it at Natural Grocers for $11.79.

It is cheaper on amazon

IMO: Unicorn Magnum Plus Pepper Mill 9" Black

http://www.amazon.com/Unicorn-Magnum-Plus-Pepper-Black/dp/B0000CFB4N

Peanut

Seki nail clippers:

http://www.amazon.com/Seki-Edge-Stainless-Fingernail-Clipper/dp/B000F35R00/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1393816887&sr=8-1&keywords=nail+clippers

This one: https://www.amazon.com/Seki-Edge-Stainless-Fingernail-Clipper/dp/B000F35R00 made by a sword producer. I have one for a couple of years now, still sharp!

this?

Titanium Spork

Ganji Kankiri

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001TV6A7G/

https://www.amazon.com/Japanese-Can-Opener-Ganji-Kankiri/dp/B001TV6A7G

Zebra F-701 This is the BIFL pen.

F701

http://www.amazon.com/Zebra-F-701-Stainless-Ballpoint-Retractable/dp/B002L6RB80

http://www.amazon.com/MEElectronics-M6-CL-Sound-Isolating-Headphones-Players/dp/B0038W0K2U

Timberland Earthkeepers with People Socks

I should have clarified, I would also go with DarnTough over SmartWoool.

The cheaper/better options in my opinion are PeopleSocks. I personally found them to be much more comfy, offer more cushion, and same versatility as Darn Tough..

100% these, you can find them for $15 less online if you look.

Which mug? There's more than one, but the one I have will keep ice for longer than 3 hours.

Zojirushi SM-SA60-BA Stainless Steel Mug, 20-Ounce, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HYOGUM2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_rLEmDbJGVPSS1

I'll just leave this here

13EE with a high arch/instep and I swear by these.

this one is great.

Tried to hyperlink but not sure it worked

I bought one of these http://www.amazon.com/Light-My-Fire-Titanium-Spork/dp/B001E7S5BO I really like it. It's not uncomfortable to use unless you use a death grip to hold it.

The one I liked the most was a Thermos one, but then I lost one of the little pieces that was integral to the seal, and I gave up on drinking stuff on my way to work.

Japanese Can Openers is where it's at, no moving parts.

How does this compare to the Breville? http://www.amazon.com/Breville-BOV800XL-1800-Watt-Convection-Toaster/dp/B001L5TVGW/ref=zg_bs_289937_2

Other than the insane difference in price? Is it worth it?

Absolutely do not be tempted by this apparently cool looking Cuisinart model.

We have it and hate it. I don't know if it'll last for life (probably not, too much unnecessary electronics), but its interface was designed by utter incompetents. It doesn't do what you'd expect it to. For one thing you have to turn it off after you've poured it out; if you forget it keeps heating and since it's empty will hit its safety cutoff, beep and flash.

this review has it right, though I'd give it 2 stars.

Japanese Can Opener (Ganji Kankiri) with a bottle opener. It's big and red so hard to loose. https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B001TV6A7G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_wVw8Cb73HPG0V

I can't believe Thermos Nissan was so far down. I've used the backpack bottle for the past 5-6 years and the only issue I've had was losing them

Now just get some decent blades. Wilkson blades a trash. Hardly even sharp from the get-go, dull quickly, and cost too much when I do see them.

I'm an Astra man myself.

I can't recommend this thermos enough. Although it doesn't have a compartment, it does have a hook for your tea bag.


I rave about this thing to everyone I can. Keeps my hot drinks hot to the point it's almost dangerous. Doesn't matter if I'm at the office or skiing down a mountain all day. Also keeps my cold drinks cold in the blistering sun for at least 18 holes of golf.

Try these OXO smooth edge ones. I bought them about 6 yrs ago after having gone through about 3 openers in one month and being sick of it. I expect them to keep working for a long time to come.

Ahh. I have thicker Arab hair. I use a straight razor so I don’t think the aggressiveness of the razor affects me much.

they’re also dirt cheap

I only had bad experiences with Cuisinart. A toaster broke very quickly after it came out of guarantee. Then I had two of these Cuisinart kettles in a row. Of the first one the lid mysteriously opened while trying to cook a kettle of water. (The lid just opened between 80° and 90°C.) Exchanged it while under guarantee. The second one always had trouble to stop boiling... sometimes it stopped at 100°C, sometimes it just kept boiling and boiling for minutes unless you turned it off manually.

Last week I chucked it out and bought a kettle from another brand. Maybe Cuisinart was good in the past, but to me they've started making overpriced but nice looking bad products.

I've never felt like my own advice could be more applicable. I have a minor obsession with keeping my nails clipped. I've carried a pair of nail clippers on me every day for a little over the past 6 years and have gone through a few pairs. I would say I trim my nails at least a bit every day.

First pair was the standard cheapo ones you would get at the counter at CVS. I think these either broke or were lost. Fun fact, with a simple pair of nail clippers you can cut, strip, unscrew and reattach the starter cable of a '92 GTI.

The next pair was a similar OTC one, except this time with a rubberized "sport grip". I never used these during sports. These lasted me a while and eventually met their demise when I had to use them as a tool and took a big chunk out of the cutting edge.

After that I got a pair of the Tweezerman ones some other people had mentioned here. I got these last April and they died on me this July. I really liked the cutting edge on these, but the post part failed. If you look at it like a rivet, the "edge" part of the rivet that keeps the post from pulling through wore away until it did eventually pull through.

It was at this point that I figured it was time to step up my game and look for some BIFL clippers. I looked around and ended up settling on the Seki Edge. Holy crap these things are awesome. I was genuinely scared of them the first time I used them because I thought I would accidentally take a chunk out of my finger. The design of the lever part is so solid they are in a totally different class.

Of course after those showed up I figured out I was able to repair the Tweezerman ones by swapping the post from pair #2. They ended up being WAY better than stock and are now my daily driver which I use just to trim. I leave the Seki at home for when I'm doing a full blown cut.

And that is more than I ever thought I would type about nail clippers...