US made gear

[atlantic157]

I'm a EMT instructor at a small school outside of Ft. Lauderdale and like to give out "goodies" to the students throughout the class. I try to give them decent, usable gear, and I hate the cheap throw stuff at the uniform stores. I usually give out shears, Mini Mags, and pocket guides. Anyone have an idea where I can get some of the better quality/US made trauma shears? I have a pair that I was given about 10 years ago, but haven't found any like them locally. Thanks for the help,

James

[airwayguru]

For a few dollars more (20.00-25.00) you can get them the Benchmade Rescue Hook (depending on class size). But that is what I give out as prizes when I am at conferences and/or teach classes myself. I have given out a few as gifts.

But as for EMT Shears I would check out the following EMS supply companies:

Life Assist, Inc.
Galls
Buy EMP
EMS USA
North American Rescue (?)

I hope this helps a little bit.

[NinjaMedic]

You basically have three options with shears.

1 - the standard 7.25" EMS shears you can order anywhere although North American Rescue does make a set in black (http://www.narescue.com/liNARP-Trauma-Shears-C201.aspx)

2 - these (http://www.thefirestore.com/store/product.cfm/pid_1186_emi_multi_purpose_rescue_shears_holster_set_black/) multi-purpose shears which I despise

3 - these (http://www.thefirestore.com/store/product.cfm/pid_1857_shear_tech/) multipurpose shears which I dislike for the same reasons

And then if you want something nicer you have to step up to a German made product, the aptly named "Big Shears" (http://www.bigshears.com/)

[NinjaMedic]

You could also look at something like the Streamlight Stylus (http://www.streamlight.com/product/product.aspx?pid=52) which is the best penlight I have ever had.

[atlantic157]

I'll check them out, thanks for the heads up guys.