Pocket Knives

I look for two features in a pocket knife for patrolling. I want to be able to open the blade while wearing gloves or mittens or without splitting my thumbnail. I also need a fitting for tying on a lanyard or retaining cord. In the snow, a dropped tool is usually a lost tool. These two knives meet my requirements.

Victorinox One-Hand Trekker

The Victorinox One-Hand Trekker is a no-nonsense Swiss Army knife without the usual doo-dads like corkscrew and micro-scissors. A husky 3-1/8 inch serrated-edge blade is easily and safely manipulated. The other tools are sturdy and practical. A useful lanyard loop is attached. Find it at Target and Gad-Zooks.

Victorinox has a similar version with a black blade and the Soldier, Swiss Soldier, and German Army models, the latter now available at CountyComm. If you don't need the extra tools, consider the Sentinel with just the cutting blade.

Spyderco Rescue

Available in 93mm and 79 mm lengths, the Spyderco Rescue is easily opened and safe to use. It’s a tool, not a weapon, and unlikely to cause injury when cutting clothing and boots. The clip may be removed to insert a dummy cord or lanyard loop. The orange color is almost impossible to lose in the snow or bush.

Similar models are on the market: Spyderco Atlantic Salt and Assist I, Gerber E-Z Out, Kabar Rescue Blade K2K Folder, and Meyerco Rescue One.

Personal Locator Beacons

Technology is finding its way into the backcountry: the avalanche beacon, GPS receiver, cellphone, and personal locator beacon (PLB). The media have reported the use of personal locator beacons in dramatic and successful rescues but at least one instance of their abuse. Some experts have expressed concern that the devices will encourage over-reliance on their use.


ACR Electronics manufactures most of the units available in the United States. The devices are pricey but can be rented from PLB Rentals.

The New York Times recently published an article about PLBs.