We have said it before, ingenuity is an important part of our job. We should always be thinking of ways to make ourselves more effective on the fireground. One of the ways of doing that is by evaluating ways to modify our tools to increase their usage on the job. Many of the tools currently found on every fire apparatus in the world have their original roots as firehouse creations. Fortunately for us there are a few reputable tool companies that have taken these creations and made them available to everyone. Firefighter Plunkett from a New York suburb fire department sent in a picture of his modified rex tool. The main benefit to this modification is that it makes the tool pocket size so it’s one less thing to carry. This particular modification allows for the tool to be utilized with a halligan and has both a slot for the adz and a collar for the pike. There are pros and cons to using the adz or pike depending on the situation. The nice thing about having the adz slot on the tool is having the ability to apply lateral force (side to side motion) when working the tool behind the lock. Rex tool modifications are nothing new, in fact, there is now a commercially made “lil rex” that is very similar to the homebrew version here but with just the pike collar. Regardless if this particular modification is right for you or your company, the idea is to think outside the box. There are many great tools already available for our profession, but with some simple modifications, you may be able to make the suit your own needs. Modifying tools to suit company or personal preferences is a good thing. however, don’t forget the most important step, TRAIN WITH IT!
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