Firefighters-Whats you favorite knife on the job?

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Wallywalsborn

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Apr 26, 2013
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Im looking to go to school to be a firefighter when I get out of high school. While I was running today I got to thinking "man, are there knives that would fit that job more than other knives?". So, are there knives better built for firefighting than others??? Also if you are a Firefighter whats your go to knife and do you have any advice for a possible future firefighter???

Thanks again!!!

Wally
 
I would choose something tough, yet cheap - I've broken or lost more knives at work than I care to remember! My current favorites are the RAT 1 or Utilitac II; both can be had for under $30, have good steel, retain a good edge and have solid lock-up. I would also recommend a good multi-tool; I like the Leatherman Wave, but the Wingman is a good compromise.

Good luck to you - I'm coming up on 30 years and haven't stopped loving it (OK, there have been times I didn't like it).
 
I'm a firefighter and right now I'm using a Spyderco Assist. Been using it for a few years and it's been excellent. But the best knife I think for our job would be the Hinderer XM-18. It was actually designed by a firefighter (Rick Hinderer). It's expensive but it's probably the best you can get. I want one but right now you can only get it in S35VN steel which I'm really not a fan of. It is available however in Duratech 20CV which is an M390 variant which is my favorite blade steel ever. You can find them second hand in 20CV but marked up huge.
 
It has evolved over time of course, but right now a Manix 2 in pants pocket, a Charge Tti on belt, and a Sog Toolclip in turnout pocket. The toolclip has been there forever.
I've fared a bit better than Charlie Fox, I've only ever lost one on a fire in 26 years on the job, but I still remember it well, an airSog in October 2000....
 
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