Ka-Bar
The name Ka-Bar is synonymous with tough knives built for hard use. The company is also known for giving the consumer great value. Its K2 Rescue set offers you both. This rescue knife and screwdriver set allow you to cut a harness or tighten down a loose screw.
Ka-Bar K2 Rescue
The knife blade is fully serrated with a blunt nose hook style so you can slip the blade right next to the skin and not injure someone, yet quickly cut through most clothing material. So you don't lose the K2 Rescue in low light, its aluminum handle is safety orange. A nylon belt sheath that carries both the knife and driver bits keeps the K2 Rescue secure and close at hand.
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Kershaw
I am a big fan of the Kershaw Carabiner Tool because it's so versatile. First, let me say this is not to be used for rappelling, for it will not secure you. That said, the Carabiner Tool will allow you to hang a heavy pack. More than that, this tool conceals a sharp partially serrated blade, both flat and Philips screwdrivers, an emergency nylon cord, and a bottle top opener.
Kershaw Carabiner Tool
Because it contains so many useful items, I keep this tool on my travel pack so I always have a sharp knife and screwdriver with me. The Carabiner Tool is available in a number of colors for easy identification if you have several team members who use them.
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SOG Knives
SOG Knives has been creating fine knives for GIs and cops for years; the company also makes some of the finest and most innovative pocket tools I have seen. This year the company introduced the Micro, which is the smallest pocket tool in its line.
SOG Knives Micro Tool
Inside you'll find pliers, flat and Philips head screwdrivers, and a file. The best part is the tool only weighs a scant three ounces-less than your pocket change. While you won't be able to rebuild the squad car with it, you can adjust the settings on your rifle's scope, or fix those other little things you don't want to dig out a full sized set of tools for. The micro is even available in a number of colors: black, blue, green, and pink (pink must be the new tactical color for 2010).
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Spyderco
Spyderco has been one of the most responsive knife manufacturers in the business. In addition to providing knives to fit people's wants and needs for a good value, the company addresses the needs of the left handed among us. Several Spyderco models, including its Military knife, are specifically made for southpaws.
Spyderco Military LH
The Military is a fine knife, with a thin profile, four-inch blade, liner lock, and G10 grips. This knife rides blade forward, tip down so it can be drawn and opened in one swift move with the blade opening away from you to reduce the chances of cutting yourself.
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Scott Smith is a former federal police officer for the Department of Veteran's Affairs who currently serves as a reserve officer and is a contributing editor to POLICE.