Which tool is used primarily for forcible entry tasks?

The flat-head axe is primarily used for forcible entry tasks due to its design and functionality. This tool has a heavy, flat blade that can be used to strike surfaces effectively and create penetration points in doors or walls. The sharp edge of the axe allows for cutting through materials such as wood, while the flat side is useful for prying open barriers or breaking through weak points in structures.

This versatility makes the flat-head axe a critical tool in emergency situations where firefighters need to gain quick access to a building for rescue operations or fire suppression. It combines features of both a striking and a prying tool, making it an essential piece of equipment when trying to breach doors or windows efficiently.

Other tools like a hammer, screwdriver, or pry bar have their uses, but they may not offer the same level of effectiveness for forcible entry tasks. A hammer is primarily for striking but lacks the cutting capability, a screwdriver may be insufficient for larger or more durable barriers, and while a pry bar is useful for leverage, it does not have the same multi-functional capacity as a flat-head axe in the context of forcible entry.