Benchmade Triage Knife

Benchmade Triage Knife, 915SBK

Benchmade recently released their Triage Knife.  This is an extremely interesting tool for anyone who may encounter an emergency situation.  Specifically designed for EMT’s and other rescue personnel–whether in the military, civilian, or any other realm–the Triage knife is actually three tools in one.  It has a knife blade, a seat belt cutter, and a glass breaker. 
The knife blade is a modified sheepsfoot which means it has a rounded front part of the blade that isn’t sharp.  The advantage to this configuration is that a sheepsfoot blade is much safer to work around flesh with.  It allows you to press the blade into tight spots without actually stabbing or piercing a person.  From there, you can twist the blade slightly and pull back and away from the person and the blade cuts clothing, straps or nearly anything else that may need to be cut.  The blade is N680.  N680, to quote right from the Benchmade site, is, “A chromium-molybdenum conventionally produced stainless steel with the addition of vanadium and nitrogen. Excellent corrosion resistance properties, especially in salt water. Good hardenability and high obtainable hardness. High wear resistance and ability to preserve keenness.”  The key here is that it is corrosion resistant and has high wear resistance and stays sharp.  This is a great main blade.
The Triage also has a hook shaped strap cutter blade that swings out by using a small thumb stud.  When not in use, neither the strap cutter or the thumb stud interfere with the normal use of the knife.  It is well configured and doesn’t interfere with your ability or comfort in using the knife.  The strap cutter is incredibly sharp and is easy to use. 
Finally, the Triage has a small carbide glass breaker installed on the base of the handle.  Don’t worry about the size–if you rap smartly on a piece of car window, this glass breaker will shatter it.  It works just great.
The Triage is available in black or satin finish blades and with or without serrations.  It is also available with an orange handle.  The full set of variations is still not completely available from Benchmade but should be released over the next few weeks.  The Triage is a fantastic knife to carry or keep in a car for an emergency. 

SPECIFICATIONS:

Blade Length: 3.50″
Blade Thickness: 0.130″
Handle Thickness: 0.530″
Blade Material: N680 Main Blade; 440C Safety Cutter
Blade Hardness: 57-59HRC Main Blade; 58-60HRC Safety Cutter
Blade Style: Modified Sheepsfoot Main Blade; Hook-Shaped Safety Cutter
Weight: 5.10oz.
Pocket Clip: Reversible, Tip-Up, Deep Carry
Lock Mechanism: AXIS
Overall Length: 8.20″
Closed Length: 4.70″
Sheath Material: Sold Separately
Class: Black