Which type of knife is considered better suited for SAR work?

A fixed-blade knife is typically regarded as the most suitable for Search and Rescue (SAR) work due to its robustness and reliability. Fixed-blade knives have a continuous, solid blade that provides greater strength and can handle heavier tasks, such as cutting ropes, clearing brush, and other rescue-related activities. Their design allows for better control and prevents the risk of the blade folding during use, which is crucial in high-stress situations.

In contrast, other knives such as a chef knife or a Swiss army multi-blade knife may not be ideal for SAR operations. A chef knife is specifically designed for cooking tasks and lacks the durability and versatility needed for outdoor rescues. A Swiss army multi-blade knife, while beneficial for its variety of tools, may not perform as effectively in critical emergency scenarios where a single, strong blade is necessary.

Snapshot knives, intended mainly for general or everyday use, also lack the specialized strength and functionality required in SAR operations. Therefore, while a Swiss army multi-blade knife has several tools that can be useful, it doesn't provide the focused power and reliability that a fixed-blade knife offers for the demanding nature of search and rescue situations.