I guess it depends on what you see the need for. I personally don't need a hydrant wrench, as we carry them on the apparatus, plus the short length of the fire pliers wouldn't work on the hydrants we have in my district, not enough leverage.
The weakest point of any plier is the pivot point of the jaws. Slip groove types are the weakest, and do not hold up to lateral forces as well. A big difference between the two pliers is even though both are drop forged, there is a lot more metal in the Rescue Tool. The working ends of the Rescue Tool are one piece meaning greater strength than pieces which have modifications welded onto them. Any time you apply heat (welding) to a metal, you change the temper and characteristics of the metal.
Both tools are the same length, 10". So I guess it is a personal choice and what your more likely to need.
Permalink Reply by Mike on August 20, 2008 at 12:03am
None of my tools have ever broke! There is history of the Rescue Tools breaking. I have a new model available that is larger and has a larger hydrant tool. It is my Mod 5 They are available on the west coast at www.pocket-tool.com or in the east coast at www.btproductsinc.com
If anyone ever has a problem with a Pocket-Tool... I'll repair or replace it. When you use one of the Pocket-Tools, I Guarantee you'll love it! My son and I work hard to provide a quality Tool.
You know, I thought this was just another discussion about 'what tools do we carry'. Then I realised that it's really an advertising thread. Is that allowed here? Does Dave know? After all, there are paying advertisers...
Permalink Reply by Bill on January 11, 2009 at 5:26am
I have one of these....carried it for a while....now its burried somewhere with all the rest of the stuff that looked like a good idea that didnt work.....It doesnt sit right in my pocket. Tips down went through the pocket...tips up catches on EVERYTHING.....anyone wanna buy mine cheap?????
I looked at this and thought about it...but noted it didn't have cutters on it...so I opted for the 6 in 1 crescent tool...I went to a local Amish harness maker and had him make me a case for it so it doesn't poke me in the leg or catch on my gear...(cost me a whole $5.00....LOL)...I want a pair of cutters with me in case a suspended ceiling comes down on my butt....I also have to agree...this is a discussion page not a place for free advertising.....Stay safe and keep the faith.....Paul