call us: 888-392-5233

How to Choose the Top Automatic Knife for Emergency Situations

How to Choose the Top Automatic Knife for Emergency Situations

Posted by CT on Feb 20th 2025

Introduction: Why Automatic Knives Are Essential for Emergency Situations

When an emergency strikes, speed and reliability are everything. Whether you're trapped in a vehicle, facing a survival scenario, or assisting in a rescue operation, having the right tool at the right time can make all the difference. Automatic knives stand out as one of the best choices for emergency preparedness due to their instant deployment, one-handed operation, and durable construction.

Unlike traditional folding knives, which require manual opening, automatic knives deploy their blade at the push of a button. This makes them ideal for high-stress situations, where every second counts. Whether it’s cutting through a seat belt, slicing rope, or handling survival tasks, a high-quality automatic knife can save valuable time and effort.

But with so many options available, how do you choose the best one? The ideal emergency knife must be fast, durable, easy to use, and built to handle tough conditions. In this guide, we will break down:

By the end of this article, you'll know exactly which automatic knife best suits your specific emergency preparedness needs. Let’s start by exploring what makes an automatic knife the right choice for critical situations.

 

What Makes an Automatic Knife Ideal for Emergency Situations?

Not all knives are suited for emergency scenarios. In a critical moment—whether it’s a car accident, survival situation, or tactical emergency—the right tool can make a life-saving difference. Automatic knives stand out because of their instant blade deployment, single-handed usability, and rugged build quality.

Below are the essential characteristics that make automatic knives an excellent choice for emergencies.


A) Fast, One-Handed Deployment

In an emergency, speed is crucial. Unlike manual folding knives that require two hands or assisted openers that need extra motion, automatic knives deploy instantly with the push of a button.

Why This Matters:

Saves critical seconds when time is limited.
Can be opened with one hand, even if the other is injured or occupied.
Works in tight spaces where two-handed opening would be difficult.

Real-World Scenarios:

  • Car accidents – Cutting a seat belt while trapped in a vehicle.
  • Outdoor survival – Quickly slicing rope or fabric for first aid.
  • Self-defense situations – Immediate access to a sharp, ready-to-use blade.

B) Reliable Locking Mechanism for Safety

An emergency knife must have a secure locking mechanism to prevent accidental closing during high-pressure use. Automatic knives typically feature button locks or plunge locks, which ensure the blade stays locked in place until intentionally retracted.

Key Benefits:

Prevents blade collapse while cutting tough materials.
Allows for secure, high-pressure cutting without fear of failure.
Enhances user confidence in emergency situations.

Pro Tip: Look for automatic knives with secondary safety locks for added security when not in use.


C) Durable Blade Materials for Heavy-Duty Use

Emergency knives must hold a sharp edge, resist corrosion, and withstand repeated use. The best automatic knives use high-performance steels designed for tough cutting tasks.

Best Blade Steels for Emergency Knives:

  • CPM-S30V / CPM-20CV – Excellent edge retention, corrosion resistance, and durability.
  • D2 Steel – Tough and strong, ideal for cutting dense materials (requires oiling to prevent rust).
  • 154CM / VG-10 – Good balance between sharpness, toughness, and ease of maintenance.

Why Blade Steel Matters:

Ensures the knife remains sharp and ready to cut.
Prevents corrosion in wet or harsh environments.
Increases durability for repeated emergency use.


D) Compact and Easy to Carry

A bulky knife is less likely to be carried daily, making it useless in an emergency. The best automatic knives for survival and rescue scenarios are lightweight, pocket-friendly, and designed for everyday carry (EDC).

Ideal Carry Features:

Deep-carry pocket clips – Keeps the knife accessible but discreet.
Compact form factor – Small enough for EDC but strong enough for serious use.
Secure grip materials – G-10, aluminum, or textured polymer handles for wet/dry grip.

Best Use Cases for Compact Knives:

  • Firefighters & First Responders – Need a knife that’s fast to deploy and easy to carry.
  • Hikers & Campers – Need a lightweight, durable knife for survival situations.
  • Everyday Carry (EDC) Users – Want a compact, reliable emergency tool for unexpected situations.

E) Versatility in Emergency Use

An automatic knife should be more than just a sharp blade—it should be an adaptable tool for a variety of emergency situations. Many modern automatic knives include additional features for enhanced usability.

Key Features to Look For:

Glass Breakers – Essential for vehicle escape situations.
Seat Belt Cutters – Integrated cutting hooks for slicing through belts or straps.
Tanto or Serrated Blades – Better suited for piercing or cutting tough materials.

When These Features Matter:

  • Car Accidents: A glass breaker can shatter a window in one strike.
  • Rescue Scenarios: A seat belt cutter allows safe, controlled cutting without risking injury.
  • Survival Situations: Serrated blades cut through rope, wood, and synthetic materials more efficiently.

Conclusion: Why Automatic Knives Are the Best Choice for Emergencies

An emergency knife should be fast, reliable, and built to withstand harsh conditions. Automatic knives excel in these scenarios because they offer:

Instant one-handed deployment for rapid access.
Secure locking mechanisms for safe, high-pressure use.
Durable, corrosion-resistant blades that hold up in extreme conditions.
Compact and lightweight designs for easy everyday carry.
Additional emergency features like glass breakers and seat belt cutters.

Choosing the right automatic knife can mean the difference between a manageable emergency and a dangerous situation. In the next section, we’ll break down the key features to look for when selecting an emergency-ready automatic knife to ensure you pick the best tool for the job.

 

Key Features to Look for in an Emergency Automatic Knife

Not all automatic knives are built for emergency use. Some are designed for everyday carry (EDC), while others are optimized for high-stress, critical situations. To ensure your knife is reliable, durable, and effective when it matters most, it’s important to evaluate specific key features before making a selection.


A) Blade Length and Shape: Finding the Right Balance

Emergency situations often require quick, precise cuts, so selecting the right blade length and shape is crucial.

Best Blade Lengths for Emergency Use:

2.5" – 3.5" Blades – Compact, easy to carry, and legal in more places.
3.5" – 4.5" Blades – Better for heavy-duty cutting tasks like slicing rope or breaking down obstacles.
4.5"+ Blades – Suitable for outdoor survival and extreme rescue situations but may be less practical for EDC.

Ideal Blade Shapes for Emergencies:

  • Drop Point – The most versatile shape; strong tip and excellent slicing ability.
  • Tanto Blade – Reinforced tip for piercing tough materials (useful in rescue operations).
  • Spear Point / Dagger – Dual-edged blades for tactical and defensive scenarios.
  • Wharncliffe Blade – Straight cutting edge for controlled slicing (ideal for first responders).

Best for Vehicle Emergencies → Tanto or drop-point blades.
Best for Outdoor Survival → Larger drop-point or spear-point blades.
Best for Everyday Emergency Preparedness → Compact drop-point or Wharncliffe blades.


B) Blade Steel: Durability, Edge Retention, and Corrosion Resistance

An emergency knife needs a strong, sharp blade that can withstand heavy use. The steel type affects edge retention, toughness, and ease of maintenance.

Top Blade Steels for Emergency Knives:

CPM-S30V / CPM-20CV – Excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance.
D2 Steel – Very tough and strong but requires maintenance to prevent rust.
154CM / VG-10 – Balanced between sharpness, toughness, and ease of sharpening.
Sandvik 14C28N – Budget-friendly with good corrosion resistance and sharpness.

Blade Steel Considerations for Emergencies:

Corrosion resistance → Critical for outdoor, wet, or humid environments.
Edge retention → Ensures the knife remains sharp after repeated use.
Ease of sharpening → Important for survival situations where sharpening tools are limited.

Best for High-Stress Cutting Tasks → CPM-20CV or D2 Steel.
Best for Corrosion Resistance → CPM-S30V or VG-10.
Best for Quick Sharpening → 154CM or Sandvik 14C28N.


C) Handle Materials & Grip: Secure Hold in Any Condition

In an emergency, a firm, non-slip grip is essential—especially in wet, cold, or high-pressure situations. The best automatic knives feature ergonomic, textured handles designed for maximum control and comfort.

Best Handle Materials for Emergency Knives:

G-10 – Lightweight, extremely durable, and provides an aggressive grip.
Aluminum – Strong and lightweight, often with textured inlays for better handling.
Rubberized or FRN (Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon) – Enhanced grip in wet conditions.
Titanium – Extremely strong and lightweight but often more expensive.

What to Look for in an Emergency Knife Handle:

Non-slip texture → Prevents loss of control, even with wet hands.
Ergonomic design → Reduces hand fatigue during extended use.
Lightweight but durable material → Ensures the knife is strong yet easy to carry.

Best for Wet or Slippery Conditions → Rubberized or G-10 handles.
Best for Tactical and Rescue Use → Textured aluminum or G-10.
Best for Heavy-Duty Use → Titanium or reinforced FRN.


D) Safety Features: Enhancing Control and Protection

Automatic knives deploy with the push of a button, so built-in safety features are essential to prevent accidental openings and ensure secure operation.

Key Safety Features to Consider:

Slide Safety Lock – Prevents unintended deployment.
Textured Deployment Button – Ensures firm, intentional activation in high-stress moments.
Strong Locking Mechanism – Keeps the blade secure during heavy cutting tasks.
Glass Breaker or Seat Belt Cutter – Additional emergency features for rescue scenarios.

Best for Tactical & First Responder Use → Slide safety lock and quick-access deployment.
Best for Everyday Carry (EDC) Emergencies → Simple push-button with secure detent.
Best for Vehicle & Survival Situations → Glass breaker + seat belt cutter combination.


E) Deployment Speed & Mechanism: Ensuring Rapid Accessibility

An emergency knife must deploy instantly when needed. Automatic knives are preferred because they eliminate the need for thumb studs, flippers, or two-handed operation.

Best Deployment Mechanisms:

Side-Opening Automatic – Traditional push-button opening with strong deployment.
OTF (Out-the-Front) Automatic – Blade extends directly forward for fast, one-handed use.
Double-Action OTF – Allows both opening and closing with a single switch for faster operation.

Best for General Emergency Use → Side-opening automatic knives.
Best for Tactical & Quick Deployment → OTF automatic knives.
Best for Repeat Use in Rapid Situations → Double-action OTF knives.


Conclusion: Choosing the Right Emergency Automatic Knife

The best automatic knife for emergencies depends on how and where you plan to use it. By focusing on blade length, steel type, handle materials, safety features, and deployment speed, you can choose a knife that fits your needs and remains reliable when it matters most.

For First Responders & Tactical Users: Look for a fast-deploying knife with a glass breaker and seat belt cutter for rescue and emergency situations.
For Vehicle Emergencies: A compact, secure-locking automatic knife with a strong tanto or drop-point blade is ideal for cutting seat belts and breaking windows.
For Outdoor & Survival Preparedness: Choose a durable, corrosion-resistant knife with a secure grip and versatile blade shape for handling a wide range of emergency tasks.
For Everyday Carry (EDC) Emergency Readiness: A lightweight, reliable automatic knife with a smooth opening mechanism and easy portability ensures you’re always prepared.

By selecting an automatic knife with the right balance of speed, safety, and durability, you’ll have a life-saving tool at your fingertips when it matters most.

In the next section, we’ll explore top-rated automatic knives for emergency situations, breaking down their features, strengths, and ideal use cases.

 

Top Automatic Knives for Emergency Preparedness

Selecting the right automatic knife for emergencies means choosing a blade that offers fast deployment, reliability, and durability in critical moments. The knives listed below are highly rated for emergency use, offering strong locking mechanisms, quality materials, and easy accessibility when seconds count.


A) Best High-End Automatic Knives for Emergency Use

These knives are built for tactical professionals, first responders, and serious emergency preparedness, featuring premium materials and advanced engineering for top-tier performance.

1. Benchmade Autocrat

  • Blade Length: 3.71 inches
  • Blade Steel: CPM-S30V
  • Handle Material: G-10
  • Deployment: Double-action OTF
  • Why It’s Great:
    Fast, ambidextrous deployment with a reliable double-action OTF mechanism.
    Premium S30V steel ensures sharpness, toughness, and corrosion resistance.
    Lightweight G-10 handle provides excellent grip and durability.
  • Best For: Tactical users and emergency professionals who need a high-performance OTF knife.

2. Microtech LUDT

  • Blade Length: 3.375 inches
  • Blade Steel: M390
  • Handle Material: Aluminum
  • Deployment: Side-opening automatic
  • Why It’s Great:
    Rapid push-button deployment with strong locking mechanism.
    M390 steel offers outstanding edge retention and rust resistance.
    Ergonomic aluminum handle ensures comfortable grip in high-pressure situations.
  • Best For: First responders and outdoor survivalists needing a dependable, one-handed deployment knife.

3. Pro-Tech TR-5 Auto

  • Blade Length: 3.25 inches
  • Blade Steel: CPM S35VN
  • Handle Material: Aluminum
  • Deployment: Push-button automatic
  • Why It’s Great:
    Lightweight but strong aluminum handle provides excellent balance.
    CPM S35VN steel delivers great toughness and wear resistance.
    Safety switch prevents accidental deployment.
  • Best For: Law enforcement and emergency rescue teams who need a fast, lightweight automatic knife.

B) Best Mid-Range Automatic Knives for Emergency Situations

These knives provide high-quality performance at a more accessible price point, making them great for everyday emergency carry and vehicle preparedness.

4. Kershaw Launch 6

  • Blade Length: 3.75 inches
  • Blade Steel: CPM 154
  • Handle Material: Aluminum
  • Deployment: Push-button automatic
  • Why It’s Great:
    Ergonomic and lightweight, making it easy to carry.
    CPM 154 steel ensures long-lasting sharpness and corrosion resistance.
    Sleek design makes it a comfortable EDC emergency knife.
  • Best For: Everyday carry users looking for a reliable emergency tool.

5. Hogue EX-A01

  • Blade Length: 3.5 inches
  • Blade Steel: 154CM
  • Handle Material: G-10 or Aluminum
  • Deployment: Push-button automatic
  • Why It’s Great:
    Rugged construction, suitable for demanding conditions.
    Textured handle for secure grip, even in wet conditions.
    Strong locking mechanism ensures reliable deployment under stress.
  • Best For: First responders and self-defense carry.

6. Boker Kalashnikov Auto

  • Blade Length: 3.25 inches
  • Blade Steel: D2
  • Handle Material: Aluminum
  • Deployment: Push-button automatic
  • Why It’s Great:
    Affordable yet durable, offering great value.
    D2 steel holds an edge well for long-term reliability.
    Comfortable grip and smooth deployment make it easy to use.
  • Best For: Budget-conscious buyers who want a dependable emergency knife.

C) Best Compact and Lightweight Emergency Automatic Knives

These knives offer quick access in a smaller form factor, perfect for EDC, vehicle storage, and backup emergency tools.

7. Gerber Auto 06

  • Blade Length: 3.75 inches
  • Blade Steel: S30V
  • Handle Material: Aluminum
  • Deployment: Push-button automatic
  • Why It’s Great:
    Military-grade durability, built for harsh conditions.
    Tough, corrosion-resistant S30V steel.
    Integrated glass breaker for vehicle emergencies.
  • Best For: Emergency car kits and first responders.

8. SOG-TAC AU Compact

  • Blade Length: 3 inches
  • Blade Steel: Cryo D2
  • Handle Material: Aluminum
  • Deployment: Push-button automatic
  • Why It’s Great:
    Small, lightweight design for easy pocket carry.
    Cryo-treated D2 steel improves edge retention and toughness.
    Secure grip and rapid deployment make it ideal for emergency situations.
  • Best For: Everyday carry users looking for a compact emergency knife.

9. Buck Impact Auto

  • Blade Length: 3.125 inches
  • Blade Steel: S30V
  • Handle Material: Aluminum
  • Deployment: Push-button automatic
  • Why It’s Great:
    Classic Buck durability with modern automatic action.
    High-performance S30V blade for superior cutting ability.
    Lightweight and well-balanced for fast deployment.
  • Best For: Casual EDC and emergency preparedness enthusiasts.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Emergency Automatic Knife

Selecting an automatic knife for emergency use depends on your specific needs and budget:

For Tactical and First Responder Use:

  • Benchmade Autocrat, Microtech LUDT, or Pro-Tech TR-5 offer top-tier durability and rapid deployment.

For Everyday Emergency Carry & Vehicle Storage:

  • Kershaw Launch 6, Hogue EX-A01, or Boker Kalashnikov Auto provide strong performance at a mid-range price.

For Compact, Lightweight Emergency Readiness:

  • Gerber Auto 06, SOG-TAC AU Compact, or Buck Impact Auto ensure easy carry and quick deployment.

A reliable emergency knife should be fast, secure, and durable, ready for any scenario. In the next section, we’ll cover how to properly maintain your automatic knife to ensure it performs flawlessly when you need it most.

 

Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Emergency Knife Ready

An automatic knife is only as good as its condition and reliability. In an emergency, the last thing you want is a knife that fails to deploy, has a dull blade, or suffers from mechanical issues. Regular maintenance ensures that your knife is always ready for quick deployment and effective cutting when you need it most.

This section covers essential maintenance practices, from cleaning and lubrication to sharpening and storage, so your automatic knife stays in peak condition.


A) Cleaning the Blade & Handle: Preventing Dirt Buildup

Over time, dirt, pocket lint, and debris can clog the deployment mechanism, slowing down or even preventing blade deployment. Cleaning your knife regularly ensures smooth action and reliability.

How to Clean Your Automatic Knife:

  1. Blow Out Debris – Use compressed air or a soft brush to remove lint and dust from the pivot area and inside the handle.
  2. Wipe Down the Blade – Use a microfiber cloth or paper towel to remove residue, fingerprints, and moisture.
  3. Deep Cleaning (If Necessary) – If the knife feels sluggish, clean the internals with a cotton swab and isopropyl alcohol to dissolve dirt and grime.
  4. Dry Completely – Always ensure the knife is completely dry before reassembly to prevent rust or corrosion.

Best Cleaning Frequency: After heavy use, exposure to dirt, or every few weeks for EDC knives.


B) Lubricating the Mechanism: Ensuring Smooth Deployment

A dry or dirty pivot can cause stiff deployment, increased friction, and eventual mechanical failure. Using the right type of lubricant keeps your automatic knife functioning effortlessly.

Best Lubricants for Automatic Knives:

Lightweight Synthetic Oils – KPL (Knife Pivot Lube) or TUF-GLIDE for smooth action.
Dry Lubricants (Graphite or PTFE-based sprays) – Prevents buildup while reducing friction.
Silicone-Based Lubricants – Offers extra moisture protection, ideal for humid environments.

How to Lubricate Your Automatic Knife:

  1. Apply a Small Drop of Oil – Place one or two drops of lubricant onto the pivot and firing mechanism.
  2. Work the Mechanism – Open and close the knife several times to distribute the oil evenly.
  3. Wipe Away Excess Oil – Too much lubricant can attract dust and clog the mechanism.

Best Lubrication Frequency: Every few weeks for EDC knives or after exposure to moisture/dirt.


C) Sharpening for Quick, Effective Cutting

A dull blade can be just as dangerous as a broken one—it requires more force to cut, increasing the risk of slipping and injury. Keeping your emergency knife razor-sharp ensures it cuts cleanly and efficiently in a crisis.

Best Sharpening Tools for Automatic Knives:

Whetstones or Diamond Stones – Provide precise edge control and long-lasting sharpness.
Ceramic Rods or Honing Tools – Great for quick touch-ups.
Guided Sharpening Systems – Ensure consistent angles, perfect for beginners.

How to Sharpen Your Knife:

  1. Match the Blade Angle – Most automatic knives have an edge between 20-25 degrees per side.
  2. Use Light, Even Strokes – Apply minimal pressure and maintain a steady angle.
  3. Finish with a Strop – A leather strop removes burrs and polishes the edge for smooth cutting.

Best Sharpening Frequency: Every few months for light use, or as soon as the blade starts feeling dull for heavy use.


D) Checking for Wear & Tear: Ensuring Long-Term Reliability

Even high-quality automatic knives experience wear over time, especially with frequent deployment. Regular inspections help catch minor issues before they become major failures.

What to Inspect:

Blade Play – A slight amount is normal, but excessive movement may indicate loose components.
Spring Tension – If the blade deploys slowly or inconsistently, the internal spring may be weakening.
Locking Mechanism – Ensure the blade locks securely when deployed.
Handle Screws & Frame – Tighten any loose screws with a Torx driver (T6 or T8, depending on the knife).

Best Inspection Frequency: Monthly for EDC knives, bi-weekly for frequent-use knives.


E) Proper Storage: Keeping Your Knife in Peak Condition

Storing your automatic knife correctly prevents corrosion, mechanical wear, and accidental deployment.

Best Storage Practices:

Keep It Dry – Store in a low-humidity environment to prevent rust.
Use a Protective Pouch or Case – Protects against dust, dirt, and scratches.
Avoid Leather Sheaths for Long-Term Storage – Leather absorbs moisture, which can lead to rust.
Cycle the Blade Periodically – If the knife isn’t used frequently, deploy and retract the blade every few weeks to keep the spring in good condition.

Best Storage Conditions: Room temperature, low humidity, and in a protective case or pouch.


Conclusion: Keeping Your Emergency Knife Ready at All Times

An automatic knife is a lifesaving tool in an emergency, but only if it’s properly maintained. Following these steps ensures your knife is always sharp, responsive, and reliable when you need it most.

Clean the mechanism regularly to prevent dirt buildup.
Lubricate the pivot and internal components to maintain smooth deployment.
Keep the blade razor-sharp for effective cutting.
Inspect for wear and address issues early to avoid mechanical failures.
Store the knife properly to prevent rust and accidental damage.

By dedicating just a few minutes to maintenance every month, your automatic knife will remain a dependable emergency tool for years to come.

In the final section, we’ll recap the key takeaways from this guide and help you decide which automatic knife is best for your emergency preparedness needs.

 

Conclusion: Choosing the Best Automatic Knife for Emergency Preparedness

An automatic knife is more than just a cutting tool—it’s a critical emergency asset designed for quick deployment, reliability, and versatility in high-pressure situations. Whether you need to cut through seat belts, handle survival tasks, or react to unexpected threats, having the right automatic knife ensures you're always prepared.


A) Recap: What Makes an Automatic Knife Ideal for Emergency Situations

Instant Deployment – One-handed operation ensures fast access when every second counts.
Reliable Locking Mechanism – Secure blade engagement prevents accidental closing during use.
Durable Blade Steel – High-performance steels like CPM-S30V, 20CV, or D2 provide long-lasting sharpness.
Compact & Lightweight Design – Easy to carry without sacrificing cutting power.
Additional Features – Some models include glass breakers, seat belt cutters, and textured grips for added functionality.

Each of these elements contributes to a knife’s overall effectiveness in emergency situations, ensuring that it performs flawlessly when needed most.


B) Selecting the Right Automatic Knife for Your Needs

With so many options available, choosing the right automatic knife depends on your specific emergency preparedness goals.

For First Responders & Tactical Use:

  • Benchmade Autocrat, Microtech LUDT, or Pro-Tech TR-5 → High-performance knives built for extreme durability and rapid deployment.

For Vehicle Emergencies & Rescue Situations:

  • Gerber Auto 06, Kershaw Launch 6, or Boker Kalashnikov Auto → Compact, high-strength knives with quick access and emergency features.

For Outdoor & Survival Preparedness:

  • Hogue EX-A01, SOG-TAC AU Compact, or Buck Impact Auto → Tough, corrosion-resistant knives designed for harsh conditions and extended use.

For Everyday Carry (EDC) Emergency Readiness:

  • SOG-TAC AU Compact, Kershaw Launch 6, or Buck Impact Auto → Lightweight, dependable knives that fit seamlessly into daily carry routines.

Each of these knives provides a reliable emergency solution, ensuring you’re ready for whatever situation arises.


C) Long-Term Preparedness: Keeping Your Knife Ready for Action

Choosing the best automatic knife is only the first step—keeping it in peak condition ensures it will always be ready when you need it.

Regular Cleaning & Lubrication – Prevents dirt buildup and ensures smooth deployment.
Blade Sharpening & Maintenance – Keeps the knife razor-sharp for efficient cutting.
Routine Inspections – Checking for blade play, spring wear, and lock function ensures long-term reliability.
Proper Storage – Protects the knife from moisture, dust, and accidental damage.

A well-maintained automatic knife remains a dependable emergency tool for years to come.


D) Final Thoughts: Be Prepared, Stay Ready

Emergencies are unpredictable, but having the right tools ensures that you’re always one step ahead. A high-quality automatic knife provides a fast, reliable, and durable cutting solution that could make all the difference in critical situations.

Whether you’re a first responder, an outdoor survivalist, or an everyday carrier, investing in a top-rated emergency automatic knife means you’ll always have a trusted tool at your fingertips.

What’s your go-to automatic knife for emergency situations? Let us know which model you trust the most and why!