They are a device used to lock two hands together. It can be made of metal, plastic, or leather and usually have two rings connected by a hinge and is primarily used by law enforcement officers to restrain suspects or prisoners during transport or arrest.
Features 🔥
Handcuffs are a type of restraint device designed to restrain an individual’s wrists during law enforcement or security operations.
☑️ They are typically made from a metal alloy, such as steel, and feature two loops that can be locked together with a key or combination lock.
☑️ Lighter-weight models are available for those who will only be using them for short periods or do not have any physical limitations.
☑️ Most models come with both options of locking mechanism available and some even feature an additional third lock for added security.
☑️ Finally, consider how easily accessible the cuffs are; if you plan on using them in a high-traffic area, look for models that are easily accessible and come with extra keys or combinations.
These model is designed with a key-actuated lock and feature a double locking system, which can be engaged using the slot lock mechanism. The wrist opening measures 2.04 inches, the weight is 10.0 oz, and the distance between the cuffs is 2.00 inches. The material of construction is carbon steel with a nickel finish, providing durability and a sleek appearance. Moreover, they meet the NIJ Standard 0307.02 for quality and performance.
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Benefits 🤩
Handcuffs are a valuable security tool used in law enforcement, correctional facilities, and for personal protection.
✨ One of the most important benefits is that they can help prevent further injury or death due to physical altercations. When used properly, cuffs limit the range of movement for an individual, making it much more difficult for them to cause harm to themselves or others.
✨ In addition to their ability to keep people safe, it also provides police officers with a powerful deterrent against criminal activity.
✨ Finally, one of the most beneficial aspects is that it allows officers to detain suspects without having to resort to more severe forms of force like stun guns or pepper spray.
How to buy a better one? ✍️
When it comes to buying better handcuffs, there are a few important things to consider.
➡️ The first decision you must make is between chainlink or hinged cuffs. Both types of cuffs are common, and each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
🔰 Chainlink cuffs are often considered more secure because they cannot be opened as easily as hinged cuffs. They also tend to be lighter in weight and more versatile since they can accommodate larger wrists than hinged cuffs. On the downside, chainlink cuffs may be less comfortable for long-term wear due to their rigid design.
🔰 Hinged cuffs, on the other hand, provide superior comfort thanks to their flexible design. They come in various sizes, allowing for a snugger fit on smaller wrists. However, they can be opened more easily than chainlink cuffs if not secured properly with keys or locks.
🔍 When shopping, always look for high-quality materials such as stainless steel or nickel-plated steel that won’t corrode over time from sweat or moisture exposure.
💣 Additionally, look for features like double locks that prevent accidental release of the cuff and swivel rings that make them easier to use with chains or other restraints.
💣 Finally, don’t forget about comfort – some models come with padded inserts that help protect skin from irritation caused by long-term wear.
TOP 15 Handcuffs 🚀
Image
Product
Brand
Smith & Wesson S&W 100 STD Melonite Handcuff
Smith & Wesson
ASP Hinge Aluminum Bow Ultra Cuffs
ASP
Smith & Wesson M&P 100 Lever Lock Melonite
Smith & Wesson
Peerless Handcuff 730c Superlite Chain Link Handcuffs
Peerless
Smith & Wesson S&W 300 STD Handcuffs
Smith & Wesson
ASP Tactical Handcuff, Restraint Open Top Cases for Hinged
ASP
Monadnock Cuff Oversized Steloy Hinge Handcuff
Monadnock
Smith & Wesson S&W Model 1 Hinged Nickel Handcuff
Smith & Wesson
UZI Professional Handcuffs
UZI
ASP Ultra Handcuffs - Chain Cuffs
ASP
Smith & Wesson S&W 100 STD Nickel Handcuff
Smith & Wesson
Mtech MT-S4508 Handcuffs
Mtech
Mace Mts Nickel Plated Chain Link Handcuff
Mts
Hiatt-Thompson Hiatt - Oversized Hinged Handcuff
Hiatt
Peerless Handcuff Model 702b-6x 6 Inch Chain
Peerless
Monadnock Model 8220 Double Cuff
Monadnock
Fobus USA CU9G Single Magazine and Handcuff Pouch With Paddle
Fobus USA
1# Smith & Wesson S&W 100 STD Melonite Handcuff
Smith & Wesson handcuff (model 100 Slot lock Melonite) meets NIJ (National Institute of Justice) standard 0307.01. Their weight is 10 oz, their wrist opening is 2.04 inches, and the distance between the cuffs is 2.00 inches. S&W handcuffs come with two keys.
Pros:
Military Discount for anyone US Armed Forces, Law Enforcement, or an Emergency First Responder
Trouble-free customers service
Well-built, quality construction
Effective pair of cuffs
The slide double-lock
Cons:
Simple design
Can take some effort to get used to the slide double-lock
These ASP restraints blades and handles are made of 7075 T6 ordnance-grade aluminum. ASP offers 3 black finish models of Hinge Bow Ultra cuffs, according to the colored light indicators (Green, Blue, or Yellow), which show instant lock status recognition, on the double lock slots. Locks (primary and double) are opened by a single-direction key turning. The unitized locks can be field-serviced when needed, or be replaced with a high-security set.
Video review
Pros:
Dependable pair of handcuffs with high-visuality indicators
Forged aluminum frames make Ultra Cuff rigid, yet lightweight
Highly resistant to shimming
Rounded and very comfortable frame edges
Flawless details
The bow bend is designed for different sizes of wrists, due to the flat contact area, the cuffs operate faster and more accurately
Smith & Wesson M&P 100 Lever Lock cuffs have typical S&W construction with an excellent durable black stylish finish. There is no need for a breaking-in period, as these cuffs work smoothly, just keep them clean and oiled.
Pros:
A professional look handcuffs, easy to use
Resistant to corrosion
Pleasant color and Melonite finish
The capability of double lock them effortlessly and easily with one hand: especially useful at night, no need to have a flashlight to put the key to a hole, just pull a lever
Durable materials
Cons:
The lever of the lock can be difficult to grasp and pull, especially wearing gloves
Ratchet tension, even after enough break-in period, rough and stiff on one of the cuffs
4# Peerless Handcuff 730c Superlite Chain Link Handcuffs
Peerless Handcuff developed a new 730c model of Superlite Chain Link handcuffs, with a weight of 5.2 oz that is almost twice lighter than competitors’ similar cuffs. The main materials of Superlite Chain Link handcuffs are Stainless and Carbon steel, and aerospace-grade Aluminum. The 730c model components are steel chain links and swivels, spun rivet unit, the smooth single-strand mechanism (with 21 locking positions and a push-pin double-lock) two keys included.
Video review
Pros:
Great handcuffs and chain of basic design
Lightweight
National Institute Of Justice Standard 0307.01 Certified
Reliable locking mechanism with smooth single-strand action
Stylish matt finishing
Lifetime Warranty in case of the manufacturer defects
Both models in Silver and Black ceramic finish are corrosion resistant
S&W STD Handcuffs are available in 3 models: two of them 300 STD are hinged one with Blued or Nickel finishing, and the rest one is 100 STD Blued. The main material of S&W STD Handcuffs is Steel and Nickel, these models are adjustable. The weight of the cuffs is 10 ounces, and the range between the pair is 2.00 inches. The retainers can open on the wrists at 2.04 inches. S&W handcuffs have two keys.
Pros:
Resistant to rust
Fit perfectly pouches
Meets NIJ standard 0307.01
Foldable and restrictive handcuffs cycle well
Тon-reflective Blued finish is scratched resistant
6# ASP Tactical Handcuff Restraint Open Top Cases for Hinged
ASP produces Handcuff Open Top Cases for Chain or Hinged Restraints in 4 color models: Black, Basketweave, Ballistic, and ASPTec. ASP has taken care of easy access and comfortable and safe storage of the cuffs, manufacturing black leather handcuffs cases (with black snap closure) that allow officials, who need to restrain offenders, to react efficiently and quickly. The restraint Open Top Cases are corner-stitched, that’s why even the wear of repeated cuffs retrievals will not cause detaching of the front part from the back one. The open bottom is a necessary extra space for the handcuff hinges or chains. These cases fit on any standard duty belt (up to 2.5 inches in width) due to the pull-through retention strap on the case’s backside.
Pros:
Made in the USA
Tested for durability
Easy to clip onto the belt
Possibility to take the cuffs from the case with a quick grab
Secure retention emergency key system: a small pocket on the cuff case back securely keeps the pentagon-style key, included with the handcuff case, placed in such a way to be unreachable for others
Monadnock 3154-H is an oversized Steloy Hinged Handcuff with Nickel finishing. Hinge handcuffs give the officers more control than chain ones while using them. Monadnock produces high-end tactical equipment for a very long time to provide law enforcement officers with the finest obtainable gear. Hiatt-hinged handcuffs are not only lightweight but sturdy as well due to the material Steloy, which is a combo of aluminum and steel.
Pros:
Lightweight (221g)
Trustworthy materials
The actual wrist hole is bigger than usual, at the same time they fit on small wrists at the smallest setting
8# Smith & Wesson S&W Model 1 Hinged Nickel Handcuff
Smith & Wesson designed Model 1H-1 as a universal hinge handcuff with a pin-lock. S&W hinged Handcuffs are made of carbon steel, which ensures cuffs’ durability and sturdiness, with nickel color finishing. These retainers open 12% larger and close 11% smaller than standard handcuffs. The wrist opening equals 2.40 in, and the length between the cuffs is 2.00 in. The total handcuffs weight is 12.0 oz.
Pros:
Well-made cuffs operate smoothly
Strong hinged connection
Adjusts from small to large wrists automatically
The hinge mechanism is more secure than the chain, as no easy way to reach the keyhole once cuffed, so it is difficult to pick or wiggle hands out of them
Cons:
Difficult to find a suitable cuff case for these handcuffs
UZI proposes 2 models of professional chain handcuffs, depending on the finish: Black and Stainless Steel. These models come with 2 keys. UZI Professional Handcuff is a plated double-lock with 20 locking positions retainer (0.7 lbs weight), which needs to be lubricated with light oil from time to time.
ASP Ultra Chain Handcuffs are produced in 6 models with different pawl designs: Overmolded stainless steel, 3 Pawl, Green, European; Overmolded stainless steel, 2 Pawl, Blue, Security; Overmolded stainless steel, 1 Pawl, Yellow, Tactical; Aluminum,3 Pawl, Green, European; Aluminum,1 Pawl, Yellow, Tactical; Aluminum, 2 Pawl, Blue, Security.
ASP employed special technology to meet a new standard for police duty handcuffs to be lightweight due to the particularly designed frame from aluminum. ASP Ultra Handcuffs have a high contact bow face, each of which is cast to shape and profile trimmed with precise machining. ASP manufacturer engraved with the laser on the handcuffs a unique serial number and the manufacture date.
Pros:
High flexibility of releasing due to the both-sided keyways
Safe controlling
The smooth-edged bow
Hardcoat anodized with a matte black finish
The light indicators in Green, Blue, or Yellow colors recognize the instant lock status
The main material of handcuffs is nickel-plated carbon steel with a nickel finish. Smith & Wesson 100 STD Handcuff has a double locking system, operating due to a slot lock as well as a key-actuated lock. The main measures are standard and the same for Smith & Wesson handcuffs: 2.00 in is the gap length between the retainers, 2.04 in is a wrist opening, and their weight is 10.0 oz.
Mtech USA produces 4 models of Handcuffs with chains (3 types: silver, black, and pink/silver) and one with a rigid bar (silver), all patterns come with two keys. These cuffs work with a regular standard handcuff key as well. Mtech proposes the Handcuffs series, made of durable carbon steel, with a double lock.
Pros:
Made in the USA
Double-lock cuffs guarantee human safety on both sides of the retainers
Durable construction
Cons:
Quite small, they hardly fit large wrists
The cuffs do not come with keyholes on the same sides, so they won’t be quickly applicable to the work environment
The cuffs had no oil on them and they were very discolored
Mace Mts Handcuff is made of carbon steel. It is Nickel plated retainer with chain linking. These handcuffs weigh 8.8 oz. The main measures are: 2.0 in is a wrist opening, 9.0 in is a maximal overall length, and 2.8 mm is a jaw thickness. The pawl comes with two standard keys.
Pros:
Heat-treated makes the cuffs extra strong and durable
Hiatt-Thompson oversized handcuffs link with a solid hinged connection, which is more durable than the cuffs with the roller chain. These handcuffs feel comfortable in the hands and are easy to grip and carry.
Pros:
Reinforced holding power due to the heavy-duty solid hinges
Hinged models ensure better subject control
Good security
Nice looking
Solid well-built construction
Cons:
The finish is slightly rough, dull matte, and expected smoother one
Peerless handcuffs (model 702b-6x) with nickel finish have a 6-Inch chain between cuffs. The chain handcuffs operate due to the double locking and come with two keys.
Pros:
Made in the USA
Lifetime Warranty for Manufacture flaws
The additional links reduce wrist, arm, and shoulder tension for larger people
⚙️ Clean, disinfect, lubricate, and function check ⚙️
Cleaning, disinfecting, lubricating, and function-checking your handcuffs regularly is an important part of keeping them working optimally.
✔️ To begin, start by thoroughly cleaning all parts of your cuffs with warm, soapy water. Use a soft brush or cloth to remove any dirt or debris from the chain links and cuffs themselves. Pay particular attention to the hinges as dirt and grime can build up here easily.
✔️ Once you have finished cleaning, rinse off any soap residue with clean water. Then pat dry with a soft cloth or towel.
✔️ After cleaning you should disinfect them to kill any remaining bacteria or germs which may be present. Use a household disinfectant to spray the cuffs and chain links until they are fully saturated. Leave for around 10 minutes before wiping away any excess solution with a damp cloth.
✔️ It’s also important to lubricate them regularly, as this will prevent them from becoming rusty over time and ensure that they move smoothly when being used. Put a few drops of silicone-based lube on the chain links and hinges. Using a soft cloth or brush, spread the lube across all areas until everything is evenly coated – this will help to keep your cuffs in top condition for longer.
✔️ Finally, you should carry out regular function checks to make sure that they are still working properly.
FAQ ❓
How do handcuffs work?
🟪 Handcuffs are restraining devices used to secure a person’s wrists together. They typically consist of two metal rings, known as cuffs, which are connected by a hinge or a chain. Here’s a general overview of how they work:
✔️ Application: To apply handcuffs, the person wearing them, often a law enforcement officer, opens the cuffs and places one ring around each wrist of the individual being restrained.
✔️ Locking Mechanism: Handcuffs have a key-actuated lock mechanism that is engaged to secure the cuffs. When the cuffs are closed around the wrists, a spring-loaded locking bar snaps into place, preventing the cuffs from being opened without the key.
✔️ Double Lock: This mechanism ensures that the cuffs cannot be further tightened or tampered with once they are locked. It helps to prevent injury or discomfort to the person being restrained. The double lock is usually actuated by a small pin or lever located on the handcuff’s side, and it provides an additional layer of security.
✔️ Key and Keyholes: To unlock handcuffs, the authorized individual uses a specially designed key. The key is inserted into the keyhole located on the side of the handcuffs and turned, retracting the locking bar and allowing the cuffs to be opened.
Why is this device important?
☑️ Handcuffs are important for several reasons, particularly in the context of law enforcement and security. Here are some key reasons why they are considered essential tools:
⏰ Restraint and Control: Handcuffs provide a means to safely restrain and control individuals who may pose a threat to themselves, others, or property. By securing a person’s wrists together, they limit their ability to escape, resist arrest, or engage in harmful actions.
⏰ Officer Safety: Handcuffs play a vital role in ensuring the safety of law enforcement officers and security personnel. They provide a physical barrier between the individual being detained and the officer, reducing the risk of physical altercations or assaults.
⏰ Public Safety: Handcuffing individuals who have been involved in criminal activity or pose a risk to public safety helps maintain order and protect the community. By securely restraining individuals, cuffs prevent them from causing further harm or fleeing the scene, allowing law enforcement to conduct investigations, maintain peace, and uphold the law.
⏰ Legal Process: Handcuffs are an integral part of the legal process. They are used during arrests, transporting individuals in custody, and courtroom proceedings to ensure the safety and security of all involved. Cuffing serves as a visual representation of a person’s temporary loss of freedom and their status as being under legal control.
⏰ Deterrence: The presence of handcuffs can act as a deterrent to potential offenders. The knowledge that law enforcement officers are equipped with cuffs can discourage individuals from engaging in criminal activities or resisting arrest.
How do handcuffs open?
✳️ Handcuffs can be opened using a specially designed key that corresponds to the lock mechanism of the handcuffs. Here’s a step-by-step process for opening it:
🔐 Obtain the Key: The authorized person, such as a law enforcement officer or security personnel, needs to have the correct key for the specific type of handcuffs being used. Each model of handcuffs typically requires a specific key to unlock it.
🔐 Identify the Keyhole: The keyhole is located on the side of the handcuffs, usually near the locking mechanism. It is a small, round hole designed to accommodate the key.
🔐 Insert the Key: Insert the key into the keyhole, ensuring that it is fully inserted and properly aligned.
🔐 Turn the Key: With the key inserted, turn it in the direction required by the specific handcuff model. Typically, the key is turned in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, depending on the design.
🔐 Retract the Locking Bar: When the key is turned, it engages the internal mechanism of the handcuffs, retracting the locking bar. This releases the tension by holding the cuffs closed.
🔐 Open the Handcuffs: Once the locking bar is retracted, the handcuffs can be opened. Gently pull the cuffs apart, allowing the individual’s wrists to be released.
📌 It’s important to note that different models may have variations in the exact process of opening them, such as the number of turns required or additional features like double locks.
What are such cuffs made of?
🤓 Handcuffs are commonly made of metal, specifically carbon steel or stainless steel. Here are the two most common types of materials:
🧩 Carbon Steel: Carbon steel is a sturdy and robust material used in the construction of many handcuffs. It offers high tensile strength, making the handcuffs difficult to break or bend. Carbon steel handcuffs are typically coated or plated with finishes like nickel, black oxide, or other coatings to enhance durability and protect against rust or corrosion.
🧩 Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is another popular material for handcuffs, especially in higher-end models. It is highly resistant to corrosion, which is particularly advantageous in environments where exposure to moisture or harsh conditions is likely. Stainless steel handcuffs are often finished with a polished or brushed surface for a sleek and professional appearance.
💥 In addition to the metal components, they may also include other materials to enhance functionality and user comfort. These can include rubber or foam padding on the inner surfaces of the cuffs to minimize discomfort and prevent injury to the restrained individual.
Are handcuffs adjustable?
😉 Yes, handcuffs are adjustable to accommodate individuals with different wrist sizes. To adjust, the authorized person can typically do the following:
🔷 Open the Cuffs: Start by ensuring the handcuffs are fully opened, allowing room to adjust the size.
🔷 Select the Notch: Identify the desired notch on the handcuff’s locking mechanism. Notches are often marked or numbered to indicate different sizes or positions.
🔷 Engage the Notch: Push the locking mechanism’s lever or tab into the selected notch. This securely locks the cuff in place, adjusting it to the appropriate size.
👍 By adjusting to the correct size, they can effectively and comfortably restrain individuals with varying wrist dimensions. This feature is particularly important to ensure both the safety of the restrained individual and the security of the person applying the handcuffs.
What are the 3 types available?
🔰 There are several types of handcuff styles available, each with its unique design and features. Here are three common types:
📢 Chain Link Handcuffs are the most recognizable and traditional style of handcuffs. They consist of two metal cuffs connected by a short chain, which allows for some flexibility and movement between the restrained individual’s wrists. The chain link design provides a degree of comfort and flexibility, making them suitable for various situations.
📢 Hinged Handcuffs feature a hinge mechanism that connects the two cuffs directly, eliminating the chain found in traditional handcuffs. The hinge restricts movement more effectively, reducing the ability of the restrained individual to rotate their wrists or maneuver their hands. Hinged handcuffs provide added security and are often favored when stricter control or decreased mobility is required.
📢 Rigid Handcuffs also known as solid bar handcuffs or solid restraints, are constructed with a solid metal bar instead of a chain or hinge. They lack any flexibility between the cuffs, making them extremely restrictive and limiting the movement of the restrained individual’s wrists. Rigid handcuffs offer maximum control and are commonly used in high-security situations or when there is a higher risk of escape or resistance.
Conclusion 😉
Handcuffs are an essential tool for law enforcement, security professionals, and military personnel. Our buyer’s guide has provided all the information and product reviews necessary to help you find the best solution for your needs. Whether it’s a heavy-duty model with extra padding or something lightweight that won’t weigh down your pockets, we hope this article has helped you make an informed decision about which type is best for you. Thanks again for taking time out to read – stay safe! 🥰❤️🔥
Tatiana Kursakova
Professional shooter, traveller, survivalist
My love of guns is in my blood, since childhood I have spent hours enjoying the beauty of guns and adored going through their parts.
Tactical accessories are another passion of mine that I could write about endlessly - my house and garage are full of tactical gadgets, luckily my family shares my interests.
I'm infatuated with traveling that's why work at one place with a daily routine and standard schedule is not for me. I prefer copywriting and English tutoring as a freelancer. I live in a male family among constant talks about cars, guns, hunting, fishing, and, of course, dinosaurs 😊.
My husband is an obsessed hunter, and my two sons are fans of «Demolition Ranch» of YouTube blogger Matt Carriker. They are my best consultants about weapon and all-around ammunition topics. All together we share a love for adventures. Every camping or mounting hiking trip is a "small survival", giving irreplaceable experiences. Nothing can be better than the satisfaction of observing wild nature.
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I’m just curious, what is everyone’s favorite type of handcuffs? I’m interested to hear about other people’s preferred handcuff choices and their experiences with different brands and models.
I have a pair of Smith & Wesson M&P 100 Lever Lock Melonite, but they have a unique feature. Instead of the traditional small hole for the double lock, each cuff is equipped with a small lever near the chain that can be easily pulled to engage the double lock. This feature is quite convenient as it eliminates the need to take out the key every time I want to activate the double lock. It’s a small but useful innovation that enhances the usability of the handcuffs.
I use Monadnock Cuff Oversized Steloy Hinge Handcuff, but I’ve modified it to enhance their comfort. I added a rubber guard to the handcuffs, which not only makes them more comfortable to wear but also acts as a protective barrier.
Louis Hughes
9 months ago
I recently obtained certification to carry handcuffs for my job, although I’m not a law enforcement officer. I thought about reaching out for recommendations.
I carry two pairs of Smith & Wesson M&P 100 Lever Lock Melonite, and I love them. They have proven to be reliable and efficient for my needs. Additionally, I always keep two pairs of ASP Hinge Aluminum Bow Ultra Cuffs attached to my spotlight handle for easy access.
Camden Johnson
9 months ago
Hello there! I’m looking for a second set of handcuffs and would appreciate some suggestions and your experience of using them. Thanks!
I currently own a set of Smith & Wesson S&W 100 STD Melonite Handcuffs and another Peerless Handcuff 730c Superlite Chain Link Handcuffs. I must say, the Peerless ones have a smoother operation. My Smith & Wesson handcuffs, which are about 8 years old now, still function well. Ultimately, the choice between the two brands comes down to personal preference.
I would advise avoiding lever-lock handcuffs. While they can be great when dealing with a fully compliant subject, there is a significant risk of accidentally activating the lever and prematurely locking them up if the person being restrained is even slightly resistant or squirming during the cuffing process. It’s better to opt for handcuffs with a different locking mechanism to ensure safer and more reliable restraint, for example, Smith & Wesson S&W Model 1 Hinged Nickel Handcuff that has a pin-lock mechanism.
During my time working at a county jail, I was provided with a set of Peerless Handcuff Model 702b-6x Chains that I had to carry. However, I preferred using my own set of Smith & Wesson M&P 100 Lever Lock Melonite. The feature of being able to double lock from both sides was quite convenient. Dealing with challenging individuals during the cuffing process doesn’t always yield perfect results, and having that extra control is valuable. I primarily worked in the booking/intake area, and it was not uncommon to encounter situations where the use of force was necessary, resulting in the need to reapply the handcuffs daily.
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I’m just curious, what is everyone’s favorite type of handcuffs? I’m interested to hear about other people’s preferred handcuff choices and their experiences with different brands and models.
I have a pair of Smith & Wesson M&P 100 Lever Lock Melonite, but they have a unique feature. Instead of the traditional small hole for the double lock, each cuff is equipped with a small lever near the chain that can be easily pulled to engage the double lock. This feature is quite convenient as it eliminates the need to take out the key every time I want to activate the double lock. It’s a small but useful innovation that enhances the usability of the handcuffs.
I use Monadnock Cuff Oversized Steloy Hinge Handcuff, but I’ve modified it to enhance their comfort. I added a rubber guard to the handcuffs, which not only makes them more comfortable to wear but also acts as a protective barrier.
I recently obtained certification to carry handcuffs for my job, although I’m not a law enforcement officer. I thought about reaching out for recommendations.
In my opinion, the Smith & Wesson S&W 100 STD Melonite Handcuff is the gold standard. I find brands like Peerless and ASP to be less preferable.
I carry two pairs of Smith & Wesson M&P 100 Lever Lock Melonite, and I love them. They have proven to be reliable and efficient for my needs. Additionally, I always keep two pairs of ASP Hinge Aluminum Bow Ultra Cuffs attached to my spotlight handle for easy access.
Hello there! I’m looking for a second set of handcuffs and would appreciate some suggestions and your experience of using them. Thanks!
I currently own a set of Smith & Wesson S&W 100 STD Melonite Handcuffs and another Peerless Handcuff 730c Superlite Chain Link Handcuffs. I must say, the Peerless ones have a smoother operation. My Smith & Wesson handcuffs, which are about 8 years old now, still function well. Ultimately, the choice between the two brands comes down to personal preference.
I would advise avoiding lever-lock handcuffs. While they can be great when dealing with a fully compliant subject, there is a significant risk of accidentally activating the lever and prematurely locking them up if the person being restrained is even slightly resistant or squirming during the cuffing process. It’s better to opt for handcuffs with a different locking mechanism to ensure safer and more reliable restraint, for example, Smith & Wesson S&W Model 1 Hinged Nickel Handcuff that has a pin-lock mechanism.
During my time working at a county jail, I was provided with a set of Peerless Handcuff Model 702b-6x Chains that I had to carry. However, I preferred using my own set of Smith & Wesson M&P 100 Lever Lock Melonite. The feature of being able to double lock from both sides was quite convenient. Dealing with challenging individuals during the cuffing process doesn’t always yield perfect results, and having that extra control is valuable. I primarily worked in the booking/intake area, and it was not uncommon to encounter situations where the use of force was necessary, resulting in the need to reapply the handcuffs daily.