Which of the following is a hand tool commonly used in wildland firefighting?

The Pulaski is a hand tool that is frequently utilized in wildland firefighting due to its versatility and effectiveness in various tasks. This tool combines the features of an axe and a hoe, allowing firefighters to chop and clear brush while also digging and creating fire lines. Its design makes it particularly well-suited for managing vegetation, which is crucial when trying to control the spread of a wildfire.

While other options like chainsaws, shovels, and backpack pumps are also important tools in firefighting, they serve different purposes. Chainsaws are often used for cutting larger trees or heavy brush quickly but require fuel and maintenance. Shovels are essential for digging and moving smaller amounts of soil or debris, but they lack the chopping capability. Backpack pumps are effective for applying water or fire retardants but are not considered hand tools in the traditional sense. The Pulaski's unique combination of functions makes it a staple in the toolkits of wildland firefighters, which is why it stands out in this context.