Post by Jeffrey on Dec 27, 2021 6:30:38 GMT -8
What exactly are trauma shears? Trauma shears are the specialized scissors you've likely seen on the hip of paramedics or ER nurses at hospitals. The best models share a few features that are critically important for emergency medical use:
1) They have blunted tips so they won't inadvertently stab or cut a patient.
2) Their blades are heavy-duty enough to cut through a patient's clothing to quickly gain access to a patient's wound area, or to enable the application of AED (defibrillator) pads.
3) They are made with materials that can withstand high temperatures so the entire set of shears can be sterilized in an autoclave (medical pressure cooker).
These shears are particularly important for wilderness first aid kits, as critical medical care may be too far away to be useful during a bonafide medical crisis. Moreover, these are not typically included in commercial first aid kits, so it's imperative to augment your kit with a pair of these. Prices vary widely, ranging from $10 to $100. Like many things in life, you get what you pay for. However, there are a couple standout models that I'd like to recommend:
Going for about $100 are the Leatherman Raptor shears, which not only fold up, but have a few built-in features like a dedicated seat belt cutter and an oxygen tank wrench. They also have a bulletproof 25-year warranty. Find them here.
For about $40, you can purchase the Carabiner-Shears, my personal favourite. While these don't have the additional features of the Leatherman shears, they do have one great feature of their own: a stainless steel carabiner built into the handle which I find super handy. These are built from high quality materials, and won't let you down. Find them here.
Finally, avoid the Chinese knockoffs of the two models listed above. Only purchase models from these specific brands, as the others are complete junk. In truth, I'd recommend avoiding all of the cheaper trauma shears out there, as they're often made from lower grade stainless steel, and the hinge pins will more than likely shear off when you need them most. Caveat emptor!
--Jeffrey