A proper EMT knife is much more than a blade with a star of life on it. Rescue tools help a first responder gain quick access or assess a patient during trauma or medical emergencies. A proper EMT knife is also a rescue tool.
This article has put together a list of such items. These items range from a battery-operated pulse oximeter to a monster multi-tool with 16 instruments in 1. The commonality in these items is they all help with patient care in an emergency setting.
When selecting a proper tool an EMT or Paramedic, even a Medical First Responder, should think about what sort of job they do. Are they part of a trauma (911) rescue agency, or are they mostly part of a private medical transport agency?
A rescue tool/EMT knife should fill either 1 critical role or multiple roles. For example, a pocketknife that also has a seatbelt cutter and a glass breaker. Another key feature to look for is one-handed operation.
There will be times when a first responder will need to have a free hand but still needs to operate a tool such as an O2 tank wrench. The object of this list is to inform new and veteran emergency workers of the multitude of EMS friendly tools that are on the market.
Table of Contents
Best EMT Knives and Rescue Tools Quick List
We understand your time is valuable to you and you may not have the time to read through our entire article. So here is a list of our choices for Best EMTS Knives and Rescue Tools. Think of this as a TL:DR of this article.
- Gerber Hinderer Rescue Knife – Best EMT Knife
- Leatherman Raptor Trauma Shears – Best EMT Rescue Tool
- Madison Supply EMT and First Responder Belt Tool Kit – Best Budget Tool Kit
- StatGear T3 Tactical Auto Rescue Tool
- Leatherman – OHT Multi-Tool
- Benchmade Traige Rescue Knife
- StatGear SuperVizor XT
- Smith & Wesson 1st Response
- Turnout Tools Titanium Firefighter Multi-Tool
- Swiss Safe 3-in-1 Tactical Knife
Our Top 3 Picks for the Best EMT Knives and Rescue Tools
Gerber Hinderer Rescue Knife
Best EMT Knife
The Gerber Hinderer is the best EMT Knife. It is a knife you can carry every day and on the job. You get a knife, glass breaker, strap cutter, and O2 wrench in the handle. This is a great pure EMT knife with essential tools and Gerber quality.
Leatherman Raptor Trauma Shears
Best EMT Rescue Tool
This is my most used tool on the job. This is Leatherman’s mission specific EMT rescue tool. You get these 6 tools in one device O2 Wrench, Glass Breaker, Shears, Ring Cutter, Strap Cutter, and Ruler.
Madison Supply EMT and First Responder Belt Tool Kit
Best Budget Tool
Perfect for new EMTs and EMT Students. Madison Supply’s EMT Tool Kit has EMT shears, bandage scissors, forceps, hemostats, and tactical pupil light. All are contained in an easy-to-carry nylon pouch for your belt.
Why Do You Need an EMT Knife or Rescue Tool?
If you have made this far then you have learned that there are amazing tools on the market for EMTs, Paramedics, and other emergency responders. Rescue tools need to be easily accessible and quick and simple to use.
Having a personal tool, instead of only using the tools on the ambulance, allows the first responder to quickly access patients with tools that may not be on the rig.
For instance, most rigs are not stocked with a glass breaker; the shears are the cheapest on the market and might not retain sharpness long enough to completely trauma strip a patient.
For the exact same reasons you should own a personal stethoscope, it is a good idea to invest in a rescue tool that suits your job role.
For the exact same reasons you should own a personal stethoscope, it is a good idea to invest in a rescue tool that suits your job role. Does your unit run emergency rescue calls? Probably a good idea to have a Raptor.
Do you primarily do Medical Transports? You can probably get away with a less expensive tool, like the SuperVizor. Ultimately, the choice of rescue tool or EMT knife is up to the rescuer.
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My Ranking Criteria For The Best EMT Knives and Rescue Tools
When selecting the knives and rescue tools on this list I wanted to select them based on the following factors. I came to this criteria based on my personal experiences and by asking other first responders what they felt was important when choosing an EMT knife or rescue tool.
- Portability: The EMT knife or Rescue Tool should be small and lightweight enough to fit comfortably in a pocket or bag. It should be easy to carry around and should not take up too much space.
- Durability: The EMT knife or Rescue Tool should be made of high-quality materials that are strong, corrosion-resistant, and able to withstand heavy use. The construction should be solid and well-crafted, with minimal chances of damage to the blade, handle, or locking mechanism over time.
- Utility: The EMT knife or Rescue Tool should be capable of performing a variety of tasks, such as cutting, slicing, and carving. The blade should be sharp, durable, and easy to sharpen. Additionally, the pocket knife should have features like a locking mechanism to ensure safety and stability.
The Top 10 Best EMT Knives and Rescue Tools
1: Gerber Hinderer Rescue Knife
Best EMT Knife
The Gerber Hinderer Rescue Knife is Gerber’s Entry into the EMT Knife world is a testament to the brand. The Gerber Gear company was founded in 1939 and almost exclusively outfits hunters, skilled workers, and soldiers.
They design and engineer their products in the US and all products come with a lifetime warranty. This knife was designed by knifemaker and firefighter Rick Hinderer and is designed as a true rescue tool.
This rescue knife puts essential equipment in the palm of the first responder’s hand. The
Hinderer is designed to be operated with one hand and includes the following tools:
- 440A stainless steel partially serrated blade
- Easy-open thumb stud for spring-assisted opening
- Hook cutter (great for seatbelt cutting)
- Window punch
- Oxygen tank wrench in the handle.
These features make it an ideal tool for an EMT to have on hand when responding to emergencies. One potential use case scenario for the Gerber Hinderer Rescue knife is in extricating a patient from a car. When a patient is trapped in a vehicle, the hook cutter can be used to quickly and safely cut through a seatbelt, while the window punch can break the glass to gain access to the patient. The partially serrated blade is also helpful for cutting through other materials that may be in the way.
In emergency situations, time is of the essence. The oxygen tank wrench in the handle of the knife is a valuable feature that can help an EMT quickly access an oxygen tank and administer life-saving treatment to a patient.
Overall, the Gerber Hinderer Rescue knife is a versatile and valuable tool for an emergency medical technician to have on hand.
Pros
- One-Handed opening, even in turn-out gloves
- Lifetime Warranty
- Perfect for day-to-day rescue situations
- 5 tools in 1
Cons
- Price – The Hinderer is on the high end of knives and its price reflects its quality.
- Requires regular sharpening
- Heavy in the pocket
2: Leatherman Raptor Trauma Shears
Best EMT Rescue Tool
What list of rescue tools would not include the Raptor? The Leatherman Raptor is a compact and amazing tool.
The name Leatherman is well-known for its various quality multitools. Inside a typical Leatherman, one can find knives, scissors, saws, pliers, etc.
EMS providers have a need for specialized tools in their line of work and the Leather Raptor EMS tool fits this niche perfectly.
With the Raptor you get 6 tools in one, these exist in a nice compact package that is easily accessible and is able to fit into any first responders kit.
These medical shears are made from 420HC stainless steel. 420 High Carbon stainless steel is a high-quality material for bladed implements.
420 Stainless is the same metal used in surgical scalpels for example and the 420HC can be brought to a higher hardness than 420. This makes the blade very resistant to wear.
In fact! According to the Leatherman website, these shears come with a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty. The Leatherman Raptor is a dependable tool for first responders, EMTs, Paramedics, and even Military medical personnel.
With the Raptor, the responder gets 6 tools in one. These tools include a pair of 420HC stainless steel trauma shears, a strap cutter, a ring cutter, a 5 cm ruler, an oxygen tank wrench, and a carbide glass breaker. Read our full review of the Leatherman Raptor.
Pros
- Purpose-built for medical emergencies, with no extra unneeded tools.
- Made of high-quality materials.
- The blade stays sharp with regular use.
- The included sheath makes it an easy addition to an existing kit.
Cons
- Cleaning. These shears are difficult to clean.
- A two-handed operation is required to open shears.
3: Madison Supply EMT and First Responder Belt Tool Kit
Best EMT Budget Tool Kit
Compact and easy to add to any EMS kit. Madison Supply’s EMT Belt Kit includes Floride coated trauma shears, bandage scissors, tweezers, and a penlight that includes a pupil gauge.
All of this fits into an included belt pouch made of woven nylon. These tools are professional grade and durable.
These are perfect for shift use and are perfect for the first responder that encounters rescue calls on a daily basis. Madison supply offers a 60-day unconditional guarantee.
Each of these tools is easy to clean and functions great under trauma conditions.
Madison Supply is a great medical supply company and this kit is a great entry into the mobile needs of the first responder.
Pros
- 5 quality tools and a washable nylon pouch for field portability.
- 60-day satisfaction guarantee
- Pupil gauge is handy on penlight
- The pouch has adjustable height positions for comfort
Cons
- Bulky
4: StatGear T3 Tactical Auto Rescue Tool
The StatGear T3 is affordable and effective! It features a 440c stainless steel serrated blade for general cutting needs and a 440c stainless steel hook cutter for cutting through seatbelts and clothing in a safe manner.
The tool also includes a spring-loaded window punch that makes short work of automotive glass, as well as a 5-lumen LED emergency light.
This light is bright enough to illuminate tight spaces, but not too bright to use to check pupil responses. The knife comes with a heavy-duty nylon sheath.
This rescue tool has received praise in various media outlets such as Men’s Health, Tactical-Life, and JEMS.
This tool is great to use for one-handed operation. We do wish the knife felt more sturdy in our hands, especially after using the spring-loaded window punch the screws did require tightening. The 440c Stainless steel blade cuts very well but requires more frequent sharpening than higher-quality steel.
Pros
- One-handed operation
- Perfect for day-to-day rescue situations
- 4 tools in 1
- Very affordable tool
Cons
- No O2 Wrench
- Spring-loaded punch can malfunction
- Blade dulls and requires upkeep
5: Leatherman – OHT Multi-Tool
The Leatherman OHT makes this list due to it being designed to be operated with one hand. OHT stands for One-Handed Tool. This tool features 16 tools in 1.
Veteran first responders can attest to the fact that sometimes you have to fix things on the ambulance. Screws come loose, nuts need to be tightened, etc.
The OHT is perfect for many different circumstances.
The OHT is the everything tool that screams “it is better to not need a tool and have it than it is to not have a tool when you need it.”
This tool is something that can be carried in used outside of the rescue world as well. It is perfect for the responder that wants every possible tool with them at all times.
Here are the 16 tools in the OHT. As the name states each of these tools can be operated with one hand.
The OHT was almost the best tool on this list. It only lost to the Raptor due to the Raptor being purpose-built for First responders. If this tool had shears and a ring cutter then we would have chosen this over the Raptor.
Pros
- 16 tools in 1 device
- Leatherman Quality
- 25-year Warranty
- Solid Construction
- One-Handed Operation of all 16 tools
- Tools lock for a safer user experience
- Outside Accessible Tools: Many of the tools can be accessed without opening the OHT
Cons
- No shears or ring cutter
- No window punch
6: Benchmade Triage Rescue Knife
The Benchmade Triage is an amazing rescue knife. It features a blunted partially serrated knife. This is a dive knife made from corrosion-resistant N680 stainless steel. This is one of the best steels for knives.
The Triage features a strap cutter and a window punch. The blade has assisted opening and is easy to operate in one hand.
Benchmade knives are known to be your for life. This knife is covered by a Lifetime Warranty that includes sharpening service.
This knife is great for first responders due to its durability and one-handed operation. The strap cutter and window punch are invaluable tools to have in emergency situations.
The only thing keeping this knife from greatness is the lack of an O2 wrench. It is a Benchmade knife made from the highest quality materials. This knife is expensive and may be outside most people’s budgets. But if you did purchase this knife its probably the last knife you will need to purchase.
Pros
- Highest quality steel
- Blunted knife tip for increased safety
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Expensive
- No O2 wrench
7: StatGear SuperVizor XT
It’s simple and effective. The Statgear SuperVizor costs as much as an extra value meal and gives the rescuer access to 2 essential rescue tools.
With the SuperVizor, you get a steel glass breaker and a hook strap cutter. The product also comes with a sheath that attaches to any car visor.
Basically, you attach this tool to your ambulance visor at the start of your shift and you have easy access to a glass breaker if you roll up to a crash scene.
If by chance, you forget to take it off the visor after your shift, its low cost makes it easy to replace. The SuperVizor comes in multiple colors and there isn’t really any reason not to have one (unless, of course, you have a glass breaker on another tool).
Pros
- Very affordable, about the price of a large value meal at Burger King
- Easy to replace if lost or stolen
- Rubberized handle for good grip
Cons
- Easily replaced with other multi-tools
8: Smith & Wesson 1st Response
The Smith and Wesson 1st Response is another rescue tool that first responders should consider.
The Smith & Wesson 1st Response is a great choice for an everyday carry knife. It has been specifically designed to meet the needs of first responders, military personnel, and outdoor enthusiasts, and it comes with several features that make it a valuable tool in emergency situations.
One of the key features of this knife is the seatbelt cutter and glass breaker that are built into the handle. These tools can be used to quickly and safely extricate victims from a vehicle in an emergency situation. The textured G-10 handle also provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet or slippery conditions.
The blade is made from high-carbon stainless steel and is partially serrated, which makes it an excellent choice for cutting through a variety of materials. The black oxide coating on the blade provides extra durability and resistance to wear and tear, which is important when using the knife in demanding situations.
The ambidextrous thumb studs and liner lock mechanism make it easy to open and close the knife with one hand, which is essential in emergency situations where your other hand may be occupied. The stainless steel pocket clip allows you to keep the knife easily accessible at all times.
Overall, the Smith & Wesson 1st Response is a reliable and versatile knife that can be a valuable tool in emergency situations. Its features and design make it an excellent choice for first responders, military personnel, and outdoor enthusiasts. I would recommend this knife for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile EDC knife.
Pros
- One-handed operation
- Blunted safety tip
- Easy access to window breaker and strap cutter tools
Cons
- Difficult to sharpen
- Handle texture is prone to wear and tear.
9: Turnout Tools Titanium Firefighter Multi-Tool
The Original Titanium Turnout Tool is an essential tool for any new firefighter. This lightweight and versatile tool has proven to be a game-changer in emergency situations and is great for anyone looking to enhance their emergency response capabilities.
One of the standout features of the Turnout Tool is its durability. Made from a strong titanium alloy, this tool is built to last and can withstand high levels of heat and pressure. This is crucial when responding to emergencies involving gas, oxygen, or water, where time is of the essence and you need a tool that you can rely on.
Another feature that sets the Original Titanium Turnout Tool apart is its versatility. This tool is designed to work with a variety of gas and water systems, making it a valuable addition to any first responder’s toolkit. The medical oxygen valve tool allows you to quickly open or close oxygen tanks.
What we appreciate most about the Turnout Tool is how easy it is to use. Its simple yet effective design means that even new EMTs can quickly learn how to use it, and its compact size makes it easy to carry and store in our gear.
The Turnout Tool is also very affordable, especially for new first responders. It is easy to acquire and add to existing kits. Its durability, versatility, ease of use, and affordability make it a must-have tool for any first responder concerned with safety and emergency preparedness.
Pros
- Extremely durable
- Has specific wrenches for specific situations
- Easy to throw into a go bag
Cons
- Limited use outside of its specific niche
10: Swiss Safe 3-in-1 Tactical Knife for Military and First Responders - EMT Orange
The Swiss Safe 3-in-1 tactical knife comes in. Built with solid design, fast deployment, and versatile features, this knife is a must-have for EMTs and Paramedics who need a reliable knife in their line of work.
The Swiss Safe 3-in-1 tactical knife is built to withstand the demands of emergency situations. It features a high-performance steel blade that is 3mm thick, providing the strength and durability needed to cut through tough materials. The lightweight aluminum handle is easy to grip and maneuver, while the pocket clip allows for easy carry.
In emergency situations, every second counts. That’s why the Swiss Safe 3-in-1 tactical knife features an assisted opening with a flipper tab, allowing for a reliable one-handed opening. This means that responders can quickly access their knives when they need them, without fumbling with multiple hands or tools.
The 3 ½” stainless steel blade and 5″ closed length make the Swiss Safe 3-in-1 tactical knife a compact and convenient tool for emergency responders. It can easily fit in a Swiss Safe knife holster, making it easily accessible and ready for action.
The Swiss Safe 3-in-1 tactical knife is designed to handle any emergency situation. It features a glass breaker, seatbelt cutter, and blade serrations, providing a range of capabilities that can be used to handle a variety of situations. From cutting through tough materials to breaking windows and cutting through seatbelts, this knife is ready for any emergency.
In emergency situations, having a solid grip on your tools is critical. The Swiss Safe 3-in-1 tactical knife features a handle texture for a rock-solid grip, ensuring that responders can maintain a firm hold on the knife at all times. The deep-carry pocket clip also allows for discrete carry, keeping the knife secure and out of the way until it is needed.
The Swiss Safe 3-in-1 tactical knife is a reliable and versatile tool. With its solid design, fast deployment, compact size, versatility, and secure grip, this knife is a must-have for anyone who needs to handle emergency situations.
Pros
- Great gift
- Easy access to strap cutter and window punch
- Identifiable EMT design
Cons
- Strap cutter not as sharp as others
- Blade needs routine sharpening
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is an EMT knife?
A: An EMT knife is a specially designed knife that is primarily used by emergency medical technicians (EMTs) for rescue operations, such as cutting through seat belts, clothing, and other materials during emergency situations.
Q: What are the features of a good EMT knife?
A: A good EMT knife should have a serrated edge for cutting through tough materials, a sharp tip for precision cutting, a sturdy and non-slip handle for a secure grip, and a durable blade that can withstand heavy use.
Q: Can EMT knives be used for other purposes besides emergency situations?
A: Yes, EMT knives can be used for a variety of purposes, such as camping, hunting, fishing, and everyday cutting tasks. However, they are specifically designed to meet the unique needs of EMTs.
Q: What are some of the best EMT knives on the market?
A: There are many high-quality EMT knives on the market, including the Benchmade Triage, Gerber Hinderer, and Leatherman Raptor. However, the best EMT knife for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Q: Are EMT knives legal to carry?
A: The legality of carrying an EMT knife will depend on the local laws and regulations of your area. In most cases, EMT knives are legal to carry, but it’s always a good idea to check the local laws before carrying any type of knife.
Q: How do I sharpen an EMT knife?
A: Sharpening an EMT knife is similar to sharpening any other type of knife. You can use a sharpening stone, honing rod, or electric sharpener to sharpen the blade. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and to use the correct angle when sharpening the blade.
Q: How do I care for my EMT knife?
A: To care for your EMT knife, you should keep it clean and dry, oil the blade and pivot points regularly, and store it in a safe and dry place when not in use. It’s also important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance and care.
Gerber Hinderer Rescue Knife
Best EMT Knife
The Gerber Hinderer is the best EMT Knife. It is a knife you can carry every day and on the job. You get a knife, strap cutter, and O2 wrench in the handle. This is a great pure EMT knife with essential tools and Gerber quality.
Leatherman Raptor Trauma Shears
Best EMT Rescue Tool
This is my most used tool on the job. This is Leatherman’s mission specific EMT rescue tool. You get these 6 tools in one device O2 Wrench, Glass Breaker, Shears, Ring Cutter, Strap Cutter, and Ruler.
Michael
Hey there! It's so great to meet you! My name is Mike, and I am thrilled to be able to share my extensive EMS experience with you. I am currently working as an EMT in Tucson and am also an EMT instructor at Pima Community College. I am passionate about teaching future first responders, and I created this site specifically to assist anyone interested in pursuing a career in EMS.
It's possible that you are here because you're considering becoming an EMT, or maybe you are already one. Throughout my career, I have tested out countless pieces of EMT-related gear and equipment, and I want to help guide you in making smart decisions when it comes to selecting the best gear for your needs.
I am here to offer my support, so feel free to reach out if there is anything you need. Let's work together to make sure you have the tools you need to excel in this rewarding field!