Bingley: When it comes to emergency axes/ multi-purpose tools, IMO , the new category leader is the Ontario SPAX-16. This awkward looking tool is actually an evolution of an earlier aircraft rescue crash hatchet. It’s 13” long, 2lb.s of axe, curved spike, pry bar, hammer, rudimentary shovel and manhole lifter ( with the spike and top of tool as lever) . But what really makes it really unique is the odd looking cutout in back of the axe head. This cutout enables turning gas and water cocks on & off and opening and closing most fire hydrant water valves. Note, this tool is standard kit on Marine 1.
For a light strong pry bar, my ( admittedly expensive) my choice is an 8oz., 12” long, titanium nail puller, by Stilleto Tools. Stronger and much lighter than its steel contemporaries. I wrap self-adherent silicon tape around the shaft to improve the grip. I tape a Double thickness of Gorilla tape to each end to prevent it cutting thru my pack.
Couple these two tools with a Knipex, 8”” rod, wire, fence & grill cutter, ( Again it costs a bit more, but it beats the competition all hollow with its compound hard steel cutting edges). Optional is a 6” to 8” adjustable pliers-wrench like a Robotool or Vise-Grip. ( I tend not to exercise this option . But my fire rescue friends tell me I’m wrong.) Also add a Gerber LMF II 5” insulated , half serrated bladed knife with electrically insulated handle and steel glass breaker- hammerhead end AP. Add a 4-way silcock key ( wrench ), a 50’ -100’ Hank of 550’ or 750’ para cord, about 20’ of flat-rollled 2” gorilla tape, goggles that seal the eye, and a good pair of leather or nomex work gloves, Add an XCaper fire escape mask and N-95 masks and a good 3AA weatherproof headlamp with lithium batteries and you got yourself a good urban-rural rescue and shelter, fire wood kit. And for the capability ,it is actually packable without adding too much weight. I’m also assuming you carry on your person, a good multi tool. My choice is a LM wave +..
If I can only have two and weight and size are of the essence, I take the LM Wave+ and the 4 - way silcock key. If I’m working urban and can carry a little more , I add the gloves, googles and XCaper escape mask.