A Halligan tool, also known as a Halligan bar or a pry bar, is a versatile multi-purpose hand tool primarily used by firefighters and law enforcement to gain entry through locked doors and windows, as well as to breach walls and ceilings during rescue operations. It consists of a long, stout, pointed steel bar with a wide, flat, curved claw-like end, and a tapered pick end. The tool is made with high-quality steel, and tested for tensile strength and durability. Halligan tools date back to the early 1900s, and their name is attributed to Hugh Halligan, a New York City firefighter who developed them to improve the effectiveness and safety of rescuing people from burning buildings. Over the years, the design has evolved to better suit various applications with added features like gas shutoff keys, modified pry bars, and bolt cutters. The hallmark of a Halligan tool is its versatility. It permits users to extract locks from doors, break through walls and ceilings, pry open jammed windows, damage structures, and punch holes in roofs and floors, among others. It enables emergency responders to carry out their tasks with greater speed and efficiency and save lives. While the Halligan tool is an indispensable tool in emergency response situations a forcible entry tool. The fire service has the durability and versatility to make it a valuable asset to firefighters, law enforcement officers, and search and rescue personnel.
How We Choose
To find the best Halligan tool, we evaluated a variety of factors including construction material and overall design. We also looked at customer reviews to see what people were saying about their experience with the product. With all of this information in hand, we were able to narrow down our list to only the absolute best Halligan tools on the market.
Council Tool Halligan Style Forcible Entry
The Council Halligan Pry Hammer is a force multiplier that can be used to break into vehicles, safes, and containers. The pry end of the tool has an angled head that can be used to gain entry into tight spaces.
The hammer also comes with a fork at the end for additional leverage when prying open doors or panels. This makes it ideal for accessing confined areas in cars and other vehicles where space may be limited. It's also great for breaking into sheds and other outbuildings where there may not be enough room to use brute force alone to gain access.
Leatherhead Tools Halligan Bar
The Leatherhead Halligan Bar is a great choice for homeowners who want to save some money while still getting a quality tool. This bar is made from high-quality steel that will last for years of use.
The handle is made from durable polypropylene, which gives you a solid grip when lifting objects with the tool. The 30" length also provides plenty of reach so you can get those hard-to-reach places quickly and easily. The price point on this one is pretty low too, making this an excellent value proposition if you're looking for something simple to get the job done without breaking the bank.
Halligan Tool FAQs
What Is The Main Job A Halligan Tool Is Used For?
The Halligan tool is a type of crowbar that is used to gain entry into locked buildings and vehicles. The tool was created by firefighter Edward J. Halligan, who was the captain of one of New York City's fire trucks in the 1930s.
The Halligan tool has two blunt ends, which are used to pry open doors or windows so firefighters can access a building or vehicle when normal methods do not work. In most cases, it does not matter which blunt end you use as both ends are identical. The tools also come with a pointed end called an “ice pick,” which can be used to remove window screws so you can break through the glass and enter the structure through the window opening.
What Material Is A Halligan Tool Made From?
The handle of a Halligan tool is made from either fiberglass or steel. Fiberglass handles are more lightweight and flexible than steel, which allows you to get into tight spaces.
The head of the tool is typically made from hardened forged steel, although some high-end tools use stainless steel, which is stronger but heavier. Tools with plastic heads may not be as strong as those with metal heads, but they are less expensive and lighter to carry.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Halligan tool remains a vital piece of equipment in emergency situations due to its versatility and robustness. Whether it's the fork end used to gain leverage when prying open a door, the adz end for penetrating or pulling apart objects, the pro bar that is perfect for wedging and splitting, each feature of Halligan bars has a specific purpose that aids in efficient and effective rescue operations. The squared shoulders of the tool provide additional grip and control, making it a reliable choice for forced entries through doors and barriers. Furthermore, when paired with fire hooks, these bars can easily breach walls and ceilings, making a critical difference in life-saving scenarios. Therefore, the durability, flexibility, and sheer functionality of the Halligan tools make them an indispensable asset in every firefighter's toolkit.
