Years back, I picked up one of the under $5 knives (can’t remember the brand) to hang in my hay room to cut hay strings with. It came apart on me, fortunately I wasn’t cut, but could have been. There are several decently made knives that I’d recommend such as the Byrd line from Spyderco in folders or go with a Mora. All under $20 and well made.

Actually I have for using EMT shears rather than a knife. Then there are others, who have not flamed me, who wonder why I am always so defensive.

Jeanette Isabelle

Standard disclaimer......lol.

I own and carry one. It is my second one too.... the first one I broke (the clip broke-I tried to modify it)...it wasn't the knife's fault or its quality. I've bought 2 so far spaced far enough apart to say they were different. The second one had a slightly different design but still 'the same' as the first...small changes.

I like both and will buy more as needed. It does hold an edge. It works. I don't feel bad if it breaks or is lost. I have 'handed it off' not expecting to get it back but did. It is a nice 'disposable if needed' knife. I have tightened it up when needed. I also have no problems 'going for a swim' with it. If I need to be somewhere where I'll be in/under water or drenched its fine (I have taken it 'swimming'). All around I say go for it.

OK..I guess I'll post an opposing view..

my Dad grew up in a series of orphanages during the Depression, and worked for a time in the construction industry...he always admonished me to obtain the best tools I could afford, and to save for their purchase rather than an impulse buy...that their purchase would be a lifetime investment

life occasionally does not allow "do overs" like a childs game...

that is the reason I ride with a Shoei helmet rather than a HJC...

carry a Glock rather than a High Point

and on those occasions I know I will be in locatons where I cannot legally carry under Florida law, my EDC Benchmade Axis Lock is replaced by the Sebenza and a flashlight with a $55 drop in light module..

I can recall lots of occasions where I swallowed hard and dug deep to come up with the dough for quality gear. Provided I did my homework and didn't buy on impulse, I enjoyed years of use from good equipment that often made a critical difference.

Consider climbing ropes for instance....Is that an area where you want to cut corners and save a few bucks?

Good gear isn't always expensive, but when it is, and you get real value, not just bling, pay the price. You will be glad you did.

I do not want to hijack the thread, but what size EMT shears do you recommend. I am building my Christmas list and CountyComm has a couple of different sizes..... Thanks.

Standard Disclaimer...

Same here. The moms in our homeschooling group are surprisingly freaked out even by the most traditional Swiss Army knife. It's less hassle to pull out the EMT shears.
-Blast

At least one authority in high angle rescue advocates using shears rather than a knife. They are more controllable and precise in a setting where very bad things can happen if you nick the wrong rope.

EMT shears are sensible for hiking, climbing, camping, diving, etc. However, for everyday carry in an urban environment, they're not practical for me. A pocket knife is less obtrusive and at least keeps me in the game whenever I need a blade. A sharp knife is one of those things that may not be perfect for every scenario, but it does get the job done in a lot of scenarios.

I believe the standard size is 4" which is what I use.

Jeanette Isabelle