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So, this happened this weekend.
Friend brought this axe on a backcountry camping trip Friday, and while unpacking his gear the blade sliced right through its own sheath and into his finger, leaving about a half an inch deep and 1.5 in length laceration. (this axe was one of the sharpest blades I've seen) Being that we were a 5 mile hike from any vehicle and 100 miles from any sort of hospital or even urgent care we decided I would use my suture kit (I am an MD) to stitch him up with some 3-0 Prolene.
Anyway, mainly wanted to get the word out that these axe sheaths are inherently extremely unsafe. There literally is zero backing in the sheath against the blade to prevent them from cutting out of it. Since camping by its nature takes people away from emergency services and enhances the danger of any sort of injury, I find this sort of safety profile totally unacceptable for a piece of gear.
On another note I can't believe I actually had to suture innawoods! I also was with two licensed physician assistants and since my FAK had most of the right equipment we all agreed it was the best option. Any questions about the episode, I'll be happy to answer.
