The HalliganTool also known as a HalliganBar, is a tool commonly used in the fire and rescue service for forcible entry. It was designed in the 1940’s by Hugh Halligan, a First Deputy Fire Commissioner for the New York City Fire Department (FDNY). The Halligan is a multipurpose prying tool consisting of a claw (or fork), a blade (or adze) and a pick. This heavy duty tool was designed to pound, puncture, pry, twist and cut all types of barriers, and has been given the nickname of “The Universal Key”. The Halligan tool has become so popular among the firefighting community that equipment manufacturers have developed versions of the same tool which carry the name of “PRO BAR” or “HOOLIGAN TOOL”.
A Halligan tool can be joined together with an axe or TNT tool to form what is known as “a set of IRONS”.
Specifications: Manufactured of heat treated high alloy steel for maximum strength. The Halligan is available in numerous lengths ranging from 24” to 42” and weights from 8 lbs. to 12 lbs.
Submitted by: Firefighter Justin Carson
Reference: Essentials of Firefighting, 4th Edition