How to Use Large Trauma Shears for Emergency Gear Access
By LOYAL TO THE MISSION | Published: 2026-10-25
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to use large trauma shears to quickly access emergency gear, cut seatbelts, and handle tough materials in tactical situations.
Quick Answer
To use large trauma shears effectively, grip firmly, slide the rounded tip under the material, and use a smooth, slicing motion. Keep them accessible in your emergency gear for quick deployment.
Why Trauma Shears Beat Regular Scissors
Regular scissors struggle with thick materials like seatbelts, webbing, or heavy clothing. Large trauma shears are built with a serrated lower edge and a rounded tip, letting you cut through tough materials without risking injury to the patient or yourself.
The soft-grip, non-slip contoured handles provide control, even when your hands are wet or gloved. This makes them a reliable tool in high-stress situations where speed and precision matter.
Choosing the Right Trauma Shears
When selecting trauma shears, look for stainless steel construction for durability and corrosion resistance. The serrated edge is essential for gripping materials, and a rounded tip prevents accidental punctures.
Consider the handle design—contoured, soft-grip handles reduce hand fatigue and improve control during prolonged use. A clothing lift lip helps separate fabric from the skin, making cutting safer and easier.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Large Trauma Shears
- Position the Shears: Hold the trauma shears with a firm grip, placing your thumb and fingers through the handles. Position the rounded tip flat against the material you need to cut, ensuring the lower blade is in contact with the surface. Check that the shears are not upside down; the serrated edge should be on the bottom.
- Slide the Tip Under the Material: Use the clothing lift lip or the rounded tip to gently slide under the material, lifting it slightly away from the skin or object. This prevents accidental cuts and makes cutting easier. If the material is stuck, do not force the tip; reposition and try again.
- Cut with a Smooth Motion: Apply steady pressure and use a smooth, slicing motion to cut through the material. Let the serrated edge do the work, and avoid sawing back and forth, which can cause tearing. For thick materials like seatbelts, use a longer, continuous stroke rather than short, choppy cuts.
- Maintain Control and Safety: Keep your non-cutting hand away from the blade path. After cutting, close the shears and store them in a secure, accessible location within your emergency gear. Regularly check the shears for damage or dullness and clean them after each use.
Recommended Product
- Large Trauma Shears: The NAR Trauma Shears from North American Rescue are made from premium-grade stainless steel with a serrated lower edge that cuts through the toughest materials. This ensures reliable cutting performance on seatbelts, webbing, and heavy clothing, making it a dependable tool for emergency gear access.
Large Trauma Shears
