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Fall brings updates aplenty from CRKT, Benchmade, The James Brand and more.

Just as you don't always have to reinvent the wheel, you don't always have to reinvent the knife or EDC. Some of the best brands in the business spend as much time improving upon existing products as they do developing new ones, and the sterling results speak for themselves.

Don't believe us? Just check out the top releases this month, any of which are updates and upgrades rather than brand-new items. As far as we're concerned, they make a pretty strong case for being part of your permanent collection.

Even a seemingly perfect knife can be improved upon. Exhibit A: this over-the-top upgrade to the already awesome Squid, which boasts edge-holding, wear-resisting Böhler M390 blade steel and, in a first for the Squid family, a liner lock for increased safety. Precise machining, a rounded spine and an IKBS ball bearing pivot system make the sequel extra sleek and smooth. It's bigger, too — the 2.68-inch blade is more than half an inch longer than its predecessor.

Not only does this svelte EDC knife have what it takes to be your new daily go-to from a material perspective — we're talking linen Micarta scales, a sturdy frame lock and a tough-as-nails D2 steel blade — but it also boasts a ball-bearing pivot for butter-smooth deployment that'll have you flipping it open over and over again just for the satisfaction factor alone.

Any time Benchmade upgrades one of its most historically significant silhouettes, people should take notice. That's the case with this Gold Class Mini Osborne, which boasts a gorgeous (and durable) Damasteel blade, a marbled "Arctic Storm" carbon handle, anodized bolsters that match the thumb stud and more. At $700, it's a hell of an investment, but we wouldn't be surprised to see this thing sell out thanks to collectors who know what's in front of them.

As you may have read on this very site, The James Brand's smallest knife punches well above its weight. Throw it on your keychain, and you've got a bottle opener, screwdriver and pry tool — not so mention a handy little Sandvik 12C27 steel blade — ready whenever you need it. This new edition from TJB's artist series features the serpentine style of UK artist Schoph Schofield, a bit of flair alongside all that function.

One of our favorite pen makers has done it again, with two new takes on the classic Side Click. More than two years after that pen's release, the brand has rolled out a streamlined, deeper-carrying version. As if that weren't cool enough, the Slim Side Click ($99) is also available with the outdoorsy treatment shown here. This beautifully speckled version features a cameo appearance by Bigfoot himself — and is available till October 30th.

As amazing as smartphones are, they often leave a bit to be desired when it comes to the flashlight function. Enter this keychain-sized option, which features three modes (0.1 lumens, 15 lumens, and 125 lumens) to provide all the quality illumination you need. Its craftsmanship is also admirable, precision machined from solid Mokume (a.k.a. woodgrain metal), with pineapple-inspired knurling, for superior style and durability.

Everyone can use a solid duffle bag in the rotation. They're perfect for short trips, gym visits and can even serve as commuter packs for traveling to and from work. This one from Helinox can handle all that and more — and we'd be remiss in our duties if we didn't point out how great the Blue Bandana colorway looks.