The best knife for a firefighter delivers razor-sharp blades, rapid deployment, and tools built to handle emergencies. Durable, quick-access knives that resist corrosion and offer secure grip are vital gear for first responders.

Firefighters face unique challenges where every second counts—cutting seat belts, breaking glass, opening HVAC panels, or clearing debris

In this guide, we review the 10 best knife for a firefighter, covering rescue-ready blades, multitools designed for fire service, and rugged EDC companions. Whether you’re on the fireground or aiding at the wreck, these knives are trusted tools of the trade.

---

Tips for Choosing the Best Knife for a Firefighter

1. One‑hand Quick Deployment: Flippers, thumb studs, or assisted/opening allow fast blade access.

2. Blade with Seat‑belt Cutter/Glass Breaker: Rescue tools must cut seatbelts quickly and handle glass emergencies.

3. Strong Locking Mechanism: Frame locks or liner locks maintain blade security under stress.

4. Corrosion‑Resistant Steel: Choose 154CM, S30V, or 420HC for harsh conditions.

5. Ergonomic, Non‑Slip Grip: G‑10 or rubberized handles ensure control in wet or gloved environments.

6. Pocket Clip or Molle Sheath: Securely carry the knife to avoid losing it in motion.

7. Minimal Maintenance Needed: Field-serviceable knives with easy cleaning are essential.

---

10 Best Knife For A Firefighter

1. Benchmade Adamas 2750 – Best Rescue Folding Knife for Firefighters – Adamas rescue tool

The Benchmade Adamas 2750 is a heavy-duty folder with a 3.82-inch CPM-CruWear blade, G‑10 scales, and reliable Axis lock. Its rugged build meets MIL‑SPEC standards, and it features a rounded spine to minimize snagging. This knife excels in demanding rescue environments.

It deploys quickly via dual thumb studs and locks firmly under load. The deep-carry clip keeps it secure when moving through obstacles. Firefighters appreciate its hard-use durability and multi-environment readiness.

Strong, tough, and built like a tank—ideal for engine management or extrication. A trusted backup for structural and EMS roles. A tool ready for the worst.

Pros:

• Tough CruWear steel

• Strong lock

• G‑10 grip

• Dual thumb studs

• Deep clip

• Rescue shape

• USA‑made

Cons:

• Heavy

• Pricey

• Bulky in pocket

---

2. Gerber Myth Series Pocket Rescue Scissors – Best Pocket Rescue Tool for Firefighters – Gerber Myth rescue scissors

The Gerber Myth combines steel scissors and a folding rescue blade in one compact tool. With a blade for seat-belts and robust shear scissors, it’s designed to free trapped victims quickly. An included carbide glass breaker adds vital rescue utility.

No deployment delay—just open and cut or shear. The lightweight handle is easy to manipulate even under stress. Firefighters love the multi-action rescue readiness.

It fulfills canopy, belt-cutting, and rescue glass duties in one compact unit. A pocket powerhouse for quick access. Built for mission use.

Pros:

• Rescue scissors

• Seatbelt blade

• Glass breaker

• Compact

• Easy use

• Lightweight

• Solid steel

Cons:

• Niche tool

• No clip

• Not full knife

---

3. Spyderco RescueSharp (C07S) – Best Glass Breaker Pocket Knife for Firefighter – Spyderco RescueSharp

The Spyderco RescueSharp (C07S) is dedicated for emergencies, featuring a 3-inch H-1 steel blade, carbide glass breaker, and seat-belt cutter notch. The ceramic handle provides insulation when cutting hot belts or wire. It opens swiftly with a thumb hole and locks securely with a liner lock.

Engineered for tough rescue missions, this knife resists rust even in seawater environments. Fire professionals praise the high-contrast handle and intuitive tools. No frills, all purpose-built for rescue.

A certified rescue knife—compact, ready, and mission-focused. Deployable instantly with full rescue utility in one tool. Built to save lives.

Pros:

• H‑1 rustproof

• Glass breaker

• Belt cutter

• Thumb hole

• Ceramic grip

• Liner lock

• Lightweight

Cons:

• No serrations

• Narrow blade

• Higher cost

4. Leatherman Raptor Response – Best Multi-Tool Shears for Firefighters– Leatherman Raptor Response

The Leatherman Raptor Response is a purpose-built EMS tool featuring 420HC stainless steel shears, a ring cutter, strap cutter, and glass breaker. Designed with input from paramedics and firefighters, it folds compactly and fits into pockets or on a belt. The handle scales provide grip even when gloved or wet.

Perfect for extrication, cutting through clothing, or responding to trauma scenes. The Raptor opens quickly with one hand and locks securely during use. It also includes a pocket clip and holster for easy carry.

For first responders who need more than just a blade, this tool offers everything in one place. Built tough and field-proven. An essential piece of firefighter gear.

Pros:

• Medical-grade shears

• Multi-function tools

• Folding design

• Belt holster

• Compact carry

• One-hand open

• Durable steel

Cons:

• Not a traditional knife

• Pricey

• Sheath adds bulk

---

5. SOG Trident AT – Best Assisted Opening Knife for Firefighters – SOG Trident AT tactical blade

The SOG Trident AT is a rescue-focused folding knife with a 3.7-inch D2 tool steel blade, a seat belt cutter built into the handle, and an assisted opening mechanism. The AT-XR lock provides ultimate strength and ambidextrous safety. It’s rugged, fast, and specifically built for emergency response.

The Trident opens with one hand in any condition, and the GRN handle stays grippy when wet or gloved. The integrated line cutter works without deploying the main blade.

Speed and strength meet safety in this purpose-built rescue knife. Great for vehicle rescues and structural work. Always ready when seconds count.

Pros:

• Assisted opening

• D2 steel blade

• Built-in cutter

• Strong lock

• Glove-ready grip

• Ambidextrous

• Rescue-oriented

Cons:

• Slightly heavy

• D2 needs oil

• Clip is tight

---

6. Kershaw Barricade – Best Budget Rescue Knife for Firefighters– Kershaw Barricade safety knife

The Kershaw Barricade offers tremendous value with a 3.5-inch partially serrated blade, glass breaker, and dedicated seatbelt cutter. Made with 8Cr13MoV stainless steel, the blade deploys fast with SpeedSafe assisted opening. Its bright orange handle enhances visibility in low-light conditions.

Built for emergencies, it includes all the tools firefighters need without a high price tag. The liner lock adds strength, and the deep carry clip ensures accessibility.

Affordable, functional, and ready to respond—this is the knife every firefighter should keep in their gear bag. All the features at half the price.

Pros:

• Serrated edge

• Glass breaker

• Belt cutter

• Assisted open

• High visibility

• Lightweight

• Budget-friendly

Cons:

• Softer steel

• Plastic handle

• Basic lock

---

7. Ontario RAT-1 – Best Tactical Folding Knife for Firefighters – Ontario RAT-1 dependable folder

The Ontario RAT-1 is a tactical folder with a 3.6-inch AUS-8 steel blade, ergonomic nylon handles, and a dependable liner lock. It offers a quick thumb-stud deployment, a full flat grind for slicing, and a reversible deep-carry clip. Its rugged, no-nonsense design makes it ideal for firefighters in tactical roles.

The large blade handles heavy tasks like cutting hose, tubing, or rope. Durable and easy to maintain, the RAT-1 is known for its field-tested performance.

A firefighter’s backup knife that can go from rescue to daily utility with ease. Built like a tank. Trusted worldwide.

Pros:

• Large blade

• Durable steel

• Smooth deploy

• Reversible clip

• Great ergonomics

• Sharp slicer

• Budget value

Cons:

• Non-assisted open

• Handle a bit wide

• No glass breaker

---

8. Cold Steel Recon 1 – Best Heavy-Duty Knife for Firefighters– Cold Steel Recon 1 fire-service folder

The Cold Steel Recon 1 is a beast of a folder with a 4-inch S35VN blade, G-10 handles, and the bombproof Tri-Ad lock. Designed for high-stress scenarios, it withstands abuse without fail. Its textured grip remains secure even in wet or hazardous conditions.

This knife is perfect for firefighters tackling debris removal, cutting gear, or breaching obstacles. The coated blade resists corrosion and glare in smoky or wet conditions.

When strength and reliability matter most, Recon 1 delivers. Built for extremes. No frills, all power.

Pros:

• S35VN steel

• Tri-Ad lock

• Large blade

• Ultra-durable

• G10 grip

• Corrosion-resistant

• Tactical grade

Cons:

• Heavy

• Large to pocket

• Not rescue-specific

---

9. CRKT M16-14SFG – Best Tanto Knife for Firefighters – CRKT M16 tactical responder

The CRKT M16-14SFG is a tactical rescue knife with a 3.99-inch partially serrated tanto blade made from AUS-8 steel. It features dual Carson flippers and CRKT’s AutoLAWKS safety lock system, essentially turning the liner lock into a fixed blade. Its G10 handle scales are textured for firm grip in any condition.

The M16’s aggressive tip and serrated edge make it excellent for prying and emergency cuts. Firefighters appreciate its strength, fast deployment, and built-in safety features.

Designed for high-stakes use. Aggressive, durable, and dependable. A first responder’s reliable partner.

Pros:

• Tactical tanto tip

• Serrated edge

• AutoLAWKS lock

• Dual flipper open

• Textured handle

• Strong frame

• Glass-breaker compatible

Cons:

• Blade shape less versatile

• Manual clean-up

• Bulkier frame

---

10. Boker Plus Strike – Best Auto Knife for Firefighters– Boker Plus Strike auto folder

The Boker Plus Strike is an automatic knife with a 3.25-inch D2 steel blade, aluminum handle, and push-button lock. The coil-spring mechanism deploys lightning fast for urgent situations. A safety switch prevents accidental openings.

Ideal for firefighters who need rapid blade access with minimal movement. It also includes a reversible clip and lanyard hole for versatile carry.

An excellent auto-folder for fire crews needing speed and strength. Legal in many states for duty carry. Powerful, simple, effective.

Pros:

• Auto-open

• D2 steel

• Locking switch

• Fast deploy

• Pocket clip

• Good grip

• Field serviceable

Cons:

• Legal restrictions

• Needs lube

• Hard to close one-handed

---

Best Knife for a Firefighter FAQs 

1. Should a firefighter carry a knife?
Yes. A knife is crucial for cutting seatbelts, PPE, ropes, or opening access points during emergencies.

2. What’s better: a rescue knife or a multi-tool?
A rescue knife is quicker to deploy. Multi-tools are useful but take longer to access.

3. What features should a firefighter knife have?
Seatbelt cutter, glass breaker, one-hand deployment, and a strong lock are essential.

4. Can I use my firefighter knife off duty?
Yes. Many of these knives are suitable for EDC or outdoor use.

5. Are automatic knives legal for firefighters?
It depends on your state. Many departments allow them with proper authorization.

6. Should I carry more than one knife?
Many firefighters carry a primary rescue knife and a backup EDC blade.

7. What steel is best for rescue knives?
D2, 154CM, S35VN, and 420HC offer a balance of toughness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance.

---

Conclusion

Choosing the best knife for a firefighter means selecting a blade built to save lives under extreme pressure. Whether you prioritize speed, safety tools like glass breakers and belt cutters, or overall strength, these 10 knives deliver dependable performance in every emergency.

From premium options like the Benchmade Adamas to budget-friendly workhorses like the Kershaw Barricade, there’s a perfect fit for every responder.

Prioritize rapid deployment, reliable locking systems, and tools that can stand up to real-world abuse. A firefighter’s knife is more than gear—it’s a life-saving companion. Equip yourself with a knife that meets your mission