This is the original Hoffman designed Rescue 911 knife, made in Seki, Japan by Seizo Imai circa 1980s. Favored by law enforcement, paramedics, corrections departments, it is the safest and fastest method for cutting seat belts or harnesses and clothing, ropes or other fibrous materials adjacent to living tissue. The hook shaped blade is specifically designed for rescue applications. The handle is black rubber over stainless liners. The blade quickly and safely cuts ropes, lines, and cords up to 1 1/2" diameter. This design is safer to use than other rescue knives or scissors. It rescues strangulation or accident/fire/hostage victims whenever fibrous materials must be quickly cut away without cutting victim. It is designed to not be used to slash or stab so as to not be used as a life threatening weapon.