Gear Review - Rescue Hooks

While these product have been in use in the military and emergency setting in the past they were only introduced at the 2010 National Athletic Trainers' Association Convention.  These knives were developed to cut clothing, shoes, seat belts, etc. in emergency situations.  The Benchmade Knife Co. exhibited these to athletic trainers as a different tool to remove tape and in worse case scenarios to remove clothing in an expedient manner.

I had a chance to evaluate these products at the exhibits and actually purchased one.  The one I choose is the Houdini Pro which which works like a pocketknife.   The hook blade folds out of the way. It also has a LED  light and a spring loaded glass punch for breaking glass.  While my need to break glass is not something I have run into in my 25 years as an athletic trainer, I did find a use for the punch end.  Newer version of  Riddell helmets have a quick release component that allows faster removal of the facemask.  All that is needed is a pointed object to press the release pin.  The punch on the Houdini Pro fits this bill.

  

Houdini Pro - Benchmade Knife Co.

Here is a video of a hook knife in action.

I had a chance to use this tool throughout the last year and have a very favorable impression.  It cuts the tape off with no problems, including the heaviest tapings that athletic trainer devise for maximum support.  A tool that is design to cut through leather combat boots has no problems with moleskin, Elastikon, etc.  The one caveat with all these hook knives is that it is important to do your cutting with the blade perpendicular to the skin surface.  I would advise letting your athletes use these knives as they could end up slicing their skin if used improperly. 

Here is a picture of the various styles that they offer. I also have the 8 EOD and the 8 Hook.  Out of the three I still prefer the Houdini Pro.

Benchmade has a well earned reputation in their industry for high quality knives.  They come with a lifetime warranty and a lifetime free sharpening. They run aroung $40.00 apiece, but last year they offered an NATA member discount.  Enjoy!