Splints & Litters

Splints, Litters & Field Immobilization Gear

SAM splints, traction splints, improvised litter components, and immobilization tools for managing fractures and serious orthopedic injuries in the field. Critical equipment for stabilizing patients between injury and evacuation.

SAM splints — the universal tool

SAM splints (aluminum core, foam-padded) bend to any shape, hold their position under load, and weigh almost nothing. One splint handles wrist fractures, ankle injuries, cervical immobilization, and dozens of other applications — which is why they show up in nearly every serious wilderness medical kit.

Beyond the splint — litter and evacuation

If the patient can't walk out, you need transport. Improvised litters made from poles and tarps work for short distances; commercial litter systems (Sked, North Atlantic, etc.) handle longer evacuations and steep terrain. Train on the construction before you need to deploy under real conditions.

Pair with full trauma response

Splints and litters fit into a broader trauma response. Pair with Trauma First Aid for the full kit, Bleeding Control for hemorrhage management, Airway & Breathing for respiratory issues, and Med Bags & Pouches for organized carry.

Stabilize. Immobilize. Evacuate. In that order.