The Leatherman Raptor is a pair of industrial strength medical shears combined with additional features geared towards the needs of a First Responder or Combat Medic. I’m not an EMT or Active Military but I often include a pair of Maratac Combat Shears in my EDC. They’re great for tough cutting tasks and they save me from dulling the blade of my carry knife on those jobs.
While at the NRA Convention this weekend, I spotted a pair that were on display.
I had never handled the Raptor in person and I was surprised at how heavy and substantial the tool felt. That’s good and bad. It definitely felt like a well built tool. On the other hand, it’s going to add additional weight (roughly 5 ounces more than the Maratac Shears) to my bag. That doesn’t sound like a lot and it isn’t but it all adds up. I try to save ounces here and there when I can.
Still, the Leatherman Raptor does add other capabilities through the inclusion of the additional tools including a strap cutter, ring cutter, carbide glass breaker, oxygen tank wrench, and a ruler. Those are good things to have in anyone’s carry, especially the strap cutter and glass breaker, in the event of an emergency.
Besides that, I really like how the Raptor folds up into a nice tight form factor. It also includes a removable pocket clip and a lanyard hole.
Leatherman also includes a carry holster. Lots of options for storing this tool for pocket or bag carry.
Based on reviews from First Responders and EDC enthusiasts on various sites, the 420HC (High Carbon) Stainless Steel shears are very heavy duty and have no problem cutting through heavy clothing, leather, zip ties, seat belts, etc. I had read early concerns before launch about whether the Raptor can be autoclaved (for decontamination). According to Leatherman, you can do that but based on the feedback they received from combat medics, that wasn’t a huge requirement. I wonder about that so maybe some First Responders here that have tried the tool can chime in.
The Leatherman Raptor retails for $80, but it can be had for less. I will probably pick one up at some point because I like that you can clip it anywhere and despite the additional weight, the added functionality makes it a good addition to my EDC.
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