I'll second the motion on the SAM splints, they work very well and are pretty much the standard. Both the US military and Red Cross have stopped using the air splints. The SAM splints do not have to be removed for X-rays, and that helps once you're at the ER. They also can be rolled or folded to fit into your FAK.

Treble hook foot & toes....ouch that hurts to think about.
How much are the ring cutters?

They don't have to be removed? how come?

They are penetrable by X-ray. Pete

I'll go thru my catalogs tonight and post the price and other info on the ring cutters in the morning.

Thanks.

Ring Cutters may be bought from Medco Sports Medicine, 1-800-556-3326 or www.medco-athletics.com. Item # 75730, page 95 of the winter 2003 catalog, $12.50 (US) each plus shipping. I'm sure the ring cutters can be found other places, I happened to get mine here. The catalog is very usefull.

Another plus for the Sam Split is that it can be utilized as a field-expedient cervical collar for suspected c-spine injuries. I doubt I'd ever put a purpose-made collar in my kit.

Maybe I missed it in the thread, but other than the obvious, what else would you use ring cutters for?
How often do you find yourslef or anyone, having to use them?

The 2 most common reasons to use the ring cutters are fracture and laceration. Even if the bone isn't broken the swelling can be a problem. The worst case for laceration is a "peel down" injury. Happens when you slip in the shower and reach to grab onto something and end up with your ring caught on the shower head and your body hanging. You can also get caught in the basketball net/hoop. That's why athletic trainers carry them. You won't need them often, but when you do, you'll want them. The only FAK I keep them in full time is the large "camping/group outing" kit.