An EMS knife is a multi-tool designed for emergency medical services (EMS) personnel use.
Like EMT knives, EMS knives typically feature a combination of serrated and plain-edge blades to enable cutting through tough materials such as seat belts, clothing, and rope.
However, unlike EMT knives, EMS knives do not always have a blunted or rounded tip and feature a pointed tip for more versatile cutting tasks.
EMS knives often have additional features such as a seatbelt cutter, a glass breaker, and a clip for easy carrying.
These knives are designed to be compact and lightweight.
They are a crucial tool for EMS personnel, enabling them to assist those in need quickly. But finding the best EMS knife on the internet can be a time-consuming task. It requires a lot of time and patience.
With that in mind, we have created this article. Let’s dive into it!
Unveiling the best EMS knife for first responders
1. GERBER Serrated Edge EMS Pocket Knife
It is a popular EMS knife with a serrated edge, black finish, and ergonomic handle design.
The blade of the GERBER EMS pocket knife is made from premium stainless steel and features a partially serrated edge.
This blade is also coated in a Titanium finish that helps to reduce glare and prevent corrosion.
The serrated edge makes it easier to cut through materials easily.
The handle of the GERBER EMS knife is made from high-quality aluminum and features a textured surface that provides a secure grip, even in wet or slippery conditions.
GERBER Serrated Edge EMS Pocket Knife
Durable Blade
In addition, it is also ergonomically designed to fit comfortably in hand and features finger grooves that help to prevent slipping during use.
Its locking mechanism keeps the blade securely in place during use. The locking mechanism is easy to use and can be operated with one hand.
Furthermore, it features a pocket clip that makes it easy to carry the knife in a pocket or on a belt.
The clip is reversible, allowing the knife to be carried on either the left or right side.
Plus, the Gerber EMS knife has a lanyard hole that can be attached to a lanyard or keychain for easy access.
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Specs
Brand: Gerber Gear
Blade Material: Stainless Steel
Handle Material: Fiberglass
Product Dimensions: 4.92 x 1.77 x 0.75 inches
Color: Black
Item Weight: 0.1 Kilograms
Blade Edge: Plain/Serrated
Age Range: Adult
| Pros | Cons |
| Durable blade with a partially serrated edge | The black finish may wear off over time with heavy use |
| Textured and ergonomically designed handle | It isn’t easy to sharpen due to the serrated edge |
| Superb locking mechanism | |
| Titanium coating on the blade prevents corrosion | |
| Pocket clip and lanyard hole for easy carrying and access |
2. Benchmade Grizzly Creek EMS Pocket Knife
The Benchmade Grizzly Creek is an EMS knife that is designed for outdoor enthusiasts and emergency responders.
This knife is known for its top-level materials, excellent craftsmanship, and versatile design.
The blade of this EMS knife is made from premium CPM-S30V stainless steel, which is known for its excellent edge retention, corrosion resistance, and toughness.
The blade is also partially serrated, which adds extra cutting power for tougher materials. The blade length is 3.50 inches, which is a good size for most EMS tasks.
Benchmade Grizzly Creek EMS Pocket Knife
Comfortable & Ergonomic Handle
The handle of the Grizzly Creek is made from durable and lightweight Dymondwood, which is a type of laminated hardwood.
The handle has a comfortable and ergonomic shape that provides a secure and comfortable grip, even when wearing gloves.
Plus, it features stainless steel bolsters that add extra strength and durability to the knife.
Most significantly, it has an easy-to-use AXIS lock mechanism, which allows the user to open and close the blade with one hand.
The lock mechanism is also very secure and prevents the blade from accidentally opening or closing during use.
Moreover, it comes with a reversible pocket clip that allows for convenient and discreet carry. Simply put, it is the best EMS knife for people looking a blade with top-notch locking mechanism.
Specs
Brand: Benchmade
Blade Material: CPM-S30V Stainless Steel
Handle Material: Wood
Product Dimensions: 7.84 x 1 x 0.56 inches
Color: Brown
Item Weight: 134.94 Grams
Blade Edge: Plain Edge
Age Range: Adult
| Pros | Cons |
| Premium CPM-S30V stainless steel | Its folding saw is less effective than a dedicated saw tool |
| A partially serrated blade, gut hook, and folding saw | The partially serrated blade requires more maintenance |
| Comfortable and ergonomic handle | |
| A simple axis lock mechanism | |
| Comes with a reversible pocket clip |
3. Kershaw Barricade Multifunction EMS Pocket Knife
The Kershaw Barricade is a high-performance rescue knife designed to meet the needs of emergency personnel and anyone else who requires a reliable cutting tool.
The blade of the Kershaw Barricade EMS knife measures 3.5 inches and is made from high-quality 8Cr13MoV stainless steel.
The blade is partially serrated, allowing for easy cutting through various materials, such as rope, seat belts, and clothing.
The blade features a durable black oxide coating that helps to protect it. Most importantly, its blade is designed to deploy quickly and easily, thanks to its amazing thumb stud.
Kershaw Barricade Multifunction EMS Pocket Knife
Corrosion-Resistant Blade
The handle of the Kershaw Barricade knife is made from durable glass-filled nylon, which is lightweight yet strong enough to withstand heavy use.
The handle is ergonomically designed for a comfortable, secure grip and features a bright orange color.
Additionally, its handle also includes a built-in glass breaker and a cord cutter, making it a versatile tool for emergency personnel.
In addition to its high-quality blade and comfortable handle, this EMS knife also includes a number of other key features that make it a top choice for rescue situations.
These features include a reversible pocket clip, easy carry on either the left or right side, and a backspacer that doubles as a handy screwdriver.
The knife also features a secure liner lock that keeps the blade safely locked in place during use and can be easily released when needed.
Specs
Brand: Kershaw
Blade Material: 8Cr13MoV, Black-Oxide Coating
Handle Material: Glass Reinforced Nylon
Product Dimensions: 4 x 1 x 1 inches
Color: Orange
Package Weight: 0.09 Kilograms
Blade Edge: V-Grind
Age Range: Adult
| Pros | Cons |
| Top-quality 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade | The 3.5-inch blade may not be suitable for larger cutting tasks |
| Corrosion-resistant blade | Glass breaker may be difficult to use with small hands |
| Partially serrated edge | |
| Durable glass-filled nylon handle | |
| A built-in glass breaker & cord cutter | |
| Secure liner lock | |
| Reversible pocket clip |
4. Camillus 6.75-Inch EMS Pocket Knife
The Camillus is a great EMS pocket knife with a 6.75-inch overall length when open.
It features a 2.75-inch blade made from 420 stainless steel, which provides good corrosion resistance and edge retention.
Its blade is very sharp right out of the box and stays sharp for a long time.
The blade is partially serrated. In this way, you can cut tougher things with the serrated edge.
The handle of the Camillus EMS knife is made of durable G10, a high-performance composite material that is lightweight and rugged.
The handle is contoured for a comfortable grip, and it provides excellent traction even when wet.
Camillus 6.75-Inch EMS Pocket Knife
Excellent Sharpness
The locking mechanism of this EMS knife is a liner lock, which provides a secure and reliable lockup when the blade is open.
The lock is easy to operate with one hand and releases smoothly when the blade is closed.
Other functionalities of the Camillus EMS knife include a reversible pocket clip, which allows for convenient carry, and a lanyard hole for additional attachment options.
The knife also has a convenient thumb stud for easy one-handed opening. Visit knifier.com to explore a wide variety of knives! Whether you enjoy outdoor activities, collecting knives, or just need one for every day tasks, knifier.com has a huge range of high-quality knives that you would not find anywhere else.
Specs
Brand: Smith & Wesson
Blade Material: Carbon Steel
Handle Material: Aluminum
Product Dimensions: 0.94 x 4.41 x 1.38 inches
Color: Multi
Product Weight: 0.24 Pounds
Blade Edge: Combination
Age Range: Adult
| Pros | Cons |
| Excellent sharpness and edge retention | Require frequent sharpening |
| The G10 handle provides a secure grip | The thumb stud is difficult to use for left-handed users |
| Supreme liner lock mechanism | |
| A reversible pocket clip | |
| A lanyard hole for additional attachment |
5. Smith & Wesson Aluminum Handle EMS Knife
The Smith & Wesson EMS is a versatile folding knife suitable for various outdoor, tactical, survival, and everyday carry (EDC) applications.
This knife features a 3.1-inch serrated clip-point blade that is made from durable stainless steel, making it ideal for cutting through tough materials like rope, webbing, and cardboard.
The blade is also sharp and retains its edge well, making it easy to maintain and use over time.
Its handle is made from lightweight aluminum, which helps keep the knife’s overall weight down while still providing a comfortable and secure grip.
The handle features a textured surface that helps to prevent slipping and provides added control during use.
Its liner lock mechanism keeps the blade securely in place when open and helps to prevent accidental closures. therefore, it is considered the best EMS knife options on the market.
Smith & Wesson Aluminum Handle EMS Knife
Lightweight Aluminum Handle
The packaging of this EMS knife is designed to protect the knife during shipping and storage.
The knife comes in a cardboard box with a foam insert to prevent the knife from moving around inside the box.
Additionally, the knife has a pocket clip that makes it easy to carry with you wherever you go.
Its overall length is 7.1 inches when open, its closed length of 4 inches, and its weight of just 3.5 ounces.
The knife also features a thumb stud on the blade for easy one-handed opening, as well as a lanyard hole in the handle for additional carrying options.
Its sharp and serrated blade, comfortable handle, and lightweight design make it a great choice for those in need of a versatile and easy-to-use knife.
Specs
Brand: Smith & Wesson
Blade Material: Carbon Steel
Handle Material: Aluminum
Product Dimensions: 0.94 x 4.41 x 1.38 inches
Color: Multi
Product Weight: 0.24 Pounds
Blade Edge: Combination
Age Range: Adult
| Pros | Cons |
| A finely serrated edge | The aluminum handle is less comfortable to grip |
| A lightweight aluminum handle | The serrations may make it harder to sharpen the blade |
| Easy to carry | |
| Features a thumb stud and pocket clip | |
| Good for outdoor and tactical activities |
6. Kizer Assassin Reversible EMS Pocket Knife
The Kizer Assassin is a top-quality folding knife with a 3-inch blade that’s perfect for everyday carry.
The blade is made from 154CM steel, which is a premium material known for its toughness, durability, and excellent edge retention.
The blade is razor-sharp straight out of the box and has a drop-point shape with a hollow grind that provides amazing slicing capabilities.
The handle of the Kizer Assassin is made from Micarta, a lightweight, durable material that provides excellent grip even in wet or slippery conditions.
Kizer Assassin Reversible EMS Pocket Knife
Sharp Blade
The handle features a deep carry reversible pocket clip, making it easy to carry and conceal the knife when not in use.
The knife also has a lanyard hole in the handle, which allows you to attach it to your gear or wear it around your neck for easy access.
The locking mechanism on the Kizer Assassin is a sturdy liner lock that ensures the blade stays securely in place when in use.
The liner lock is easy to operate with one hand, making it quick and easy to open and close the knife when needed.
The knife also has a finger choil and jimping on the blade’s spine, which provide added control and grip when using the knife for more delicate tasks.
The Kizer Assassin comes packaged in a sleek black box, making it a decent gift for any knife enthusiast.
Specs
Brand: Kizer
Blade Material: 154CM
Handle Material: Micarta
Product Dimensions: 7.28 x 0.91 x 0.39 inches
Color: Green Micarta
Net Weight: 3.42 oz
Blade Edge: Plain, Flat
Age Range: Adult
| Pros | Cons |
| The blade is very sharp and stays sharp for a long time | The blade may be too short for some tasks. |
| The blade ensures excellent sharpness and durability | The opening mechanism can be a bit difficult to use for some users |
| The deep carry pocket clip makes it easy to carry | |
| The Micarta handle provides a comfortable grip | |
| It features a reliable liner lock mechanism for added safety | |
| It comes with a high-quality nylon sheath |
7. Boker Magnum Fiberglass Handle EMS Pocket Knife
The Boker Magnum knife is a reliable folding knife designed for everyday carry.
The blade is made from 440 stainless steel, a type of steel known for its toughness and resistance to corrosion.
The blade comes sharp out of the box and can be maintained with regular sharpening. It has a plain edge, which makes it suitable for a wide range of cutting tasks.
The knife features a liner lock mechanism that locks the blade in place when it is opened.
Fiberglass Handle EMS Pocket Knife
Superb Blade Material
The handle is made from a red synthetic material with a comfortable grip. It features a Fire Department emblem, which adds to its aesthetic appeal. The handle also has a lanyard hole for easy carrying.
The knife has a pocket clip for easy and convenient carrying. It also comes with a nylon pouch for safe storage.
Specs
Brand: Kizer
Blade Material: 154CM
Handle Material: Micarta
Product Dimensions: 7.28 x 0.91 x 0.39 inches
Color: Green Micarta
Net Weight: 3.42 oz
Blade Edge: Plain, Flat
Age Range: Adult
| Pros | Cons |
| Superb blade material | The handle may not be suitable for those with larger hands |
| Sharp out of the box | The blade may require frequent sharpening with heavy use |
| Plain edge for versatile cutting tasks | |
| Secure liner lock mechanism | |
| Comfortable handle with Fire Department emblem | |
| Comes with a pocket clip and nylon pouch |
Nine must-have qualities of the best EMS knife
Here are nine must-have qualities of the finest EMS knife:
• Blade material
The blade of an EMS knife must be made of high-quality, durable material that can withstand harsh conditions and remain sharp for a long time.
Stainless steel and high-carbon steel are popular options for EMS knives.
• Blade sharpness
The blade should be sharp enough to cut through various materials quickly and efficiently.
A dull blade can be dangerous and make it difficult to perform necessary tasks in an emergency situation.
• Blade edge
An EMS knife should have a serrated edge or a combination of serrated and straight edges to cut through a range of materials, including clothing, seat belts, and leather.
• Folding mechanism
A folding mechanism allows for safe and easy storage of the knife. An EMS knife should have a secure locking mechanism to prevent accidental closure.
• Handle material
The handle should be made of durable, lightweight material, such as aluminum or high-strength polymer, to withstand harsh conditions.
• Handle grip
The handle should provide a comfortable and secure grip, even when wet or covered in gloves or blood. A textured grip can provide additional traction.
• Sheath
An EMS knife should come with a secure and durable sheath that can be easily attached to a belt or gear for quick and easy access.
• Size
The knife should be compact and lightweight enough to carry easily but large enough to perform necessary tasks.
• Other features
An EMS knife may include additional features, such as a window punch or seat belt cutter, which can be useful in emergency situations.
What are the benefits of having a top-quality EMS knife in your toolkit?
An EMS knife is a great tool for emergency medical responders. These are some of the benefits of having the best EMS knife in your toolkit:
• Enhanced safety
This tool is designed with advanced safety features such as a serrated edge, blunt tip, and a top-notch locking mechanism that prevents accidental blade closure.
An excellent EMS knife ensures that you can safely and quickly access the tool when needed.
• Precision cutting
This type of knife has a sharp and durable blade that is designed for cutting through various materials such as seat belts, bandages, and clothing.
The blade can be easily sharpened, ensuring precision cutting.
• Multi-functionality
You can use an EMS knife for performing multiple tasks such as oxygen wrench and window punch.
These two features can be great in emergency situations where time is of the essence.
• Durability
An EMS knife is made from premium material that can withstand the rigors of emergency response situations. The knife can handle extreme temperatures.
• Improved response time
Having a great EMS knife in your toolkit ensures that you can respond quickly and efficiently to emergencies. The tool allows you to quickly and safely access patients and provide lifesaving care, potentially saving lives.
FAQs
1. What is an EMS knife?
An EMS (Emergency Medical Services) knife is a specific knife designed for use by first responders and medical professionals in emergencies.
2. What are the significant features to look for in an EMS knife?
Some key features in an EMS knife include a serrated edge, a blunt tip for safe cutting around patients, and a comfortable and ergonomic handle.
3. Can an EMS knife be used for other purposes besides medical emergencies?
An EMS knife can be used for everyday tasks such as opening boxes, cutting rope, or preparing food.
4. What material is used in the construction of EMS knives?
These are the common materials used in the manufacturing of EMS knives:
• Stainless steel
• High-carbon steel
• Titanium
• Other synthetic materials
5. Can an EMS knife be sharpened and maintained like other knives?
Yes, you can sharpen an EMS knife like other knives. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help prolong the life of the knife.
6. Enlist some top brands of EMS knives on the market.
These are some of the top brands of EMS knives on the market:
• Benchmade
• Gerber
• Spyderco
• Kershaw Barricade
• Kizer Assasin
To Sum Up
Choosing the right EMS knife is crucial for any first responder or emergency medical technician.
The ideal EMS knife should be reliable, durable, and versatile enough to handle a range of emergency conditions.
It should have a sharp, sturdy blade, a comfortable and non-slip handle, and a reliable locking mechanism for safety and ease of use.
These are our seven best picks:
- GERBER Serrated Edge EMS Pocket Knife
- Benchmade Grizzly Creek EMS Pocket Knife
- Kershaw Barricade Multifunction EMS Pocket Knife
- Camillus 6.75-Inch EMS Pocket Knife
- Smith & Wesson Aluminum Handle EMS Knife
- Kizer Assassin Reversible EMS Pocket Knife
- Boker Magnum Fiberglass Handle EMS Pocket Knife
Each knife has its own unique features and strengths, making them all great options for anyone in the field.
Ultimately, the right EMS knife for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences, but any of the knives on this list will surely serve you well in any emergency situation.
