Benchmade's Triage Knife. Photo: Scott Smith.
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All of our duty gear has become increasingly specialized, and we're expected to carry more just to have the new basics on hand. In response, the crew at Benchmade designed a knife to meet the varying needs of police, EMS, search and rescue, or any first responder. The Triage rolls a blade, window breaker, and clothing/harness cutter all into one true clip-it-style knife.
Unlike any knife I have seen, the Triage is built to be used in close contact with body parts and not be a threat to the victim, yet still be a defensive knife. Its N680 blade is a modified sheepsfoot blade that is rounded so it will slide under a shirt sleeve. If you fear cutting a victim with the blade, there is a cutting hook that will make short work of seat belts, clothing, and rappelling harnesses.
To ensure the blade stays locked Benchmade uses its patented Axis lock. This small spring-loaded bar locks into place, essentially making the blade and lock one piece. Of the locking systems on the market this is one of, if not the, strongest available.
You will find the textured G10 grips give you a solid grip in any conditions, yet they will not abrade your clothing. The clip is reversible with the blade up and it is screwed into the frame so you won't accidentally pull out a screw. At the tip end of the frame is the window punch, which fortunately doesn't protrude far enough to puncture your hand while you're using the Triage as a knife.
I found the Triage to be a nearly perfect knife for daily use. It carries easily, cuts most anything you encounter on a daily basis, and it gives you the tools to extricate someone quickly from a vehicle should you be the first responder on scene.
5.11 Tactical/Viking Tactics: Training Books
5.11 Tactical/Viking Tactics' training books. Photo: Scott Smith.
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5.11 Tactical has become a one-stop shop for police, EMS, and military equipment and clothing. Among its vast offerings, two items that could be easily overlooked in the 5.11 Tactical lineup are two books on training and shooting by retired Army Sergeant Major Kyle E. Lamb of Viking Tactics (VTAC).