Resistors that tolerate against surge are  used in power supplies, automotive, industrial equipment, consumer and power supply.
 
Pulse means the overload of large power and with long duration(large energy) whereas surge means overload like ESD, of high voltage and with short duration. Anti-pulse resistors are unlikely to be damaged even if large power is instantaneously applied.

 
Among SMD type resistors, thick film chip resistors, like compact Microhm NBS Series, are generally stronger against pulse than metal film chip resistors. Thick film chip resistors with special construction are strong against pulse or surge.  Metal plate chip resistors for current sensing apply metal plate for resistive body. This achieves the strong resistance against pulse or surge.

On the other hand, leaded type wirewound resistors that wounds metal resistive wire around the insulator are stronger against pulse than film type metal film resistors or carbon film resistors that have metal resistive film formed on the top of insulator. Solid type ceramics resistors that applies ceramics resistive body, are extremely strong against pulse. Anti-surge resistor means a resistor strong against instantaneous high voltage like ESD.