Handcuffing Techniques
Overview
The pawl is the spring-loaded gadget inside that engages the teeth of the jaw. As with most quality handcuffs, it is pretty stiff, meaning you will want to pre-load the cuffs before engaging the suspect’s wrist.
Handcuff Positions
There are two main handcuffing positions: front stack and rear stack.
- Front Stack: The person’s hands are cuffed in front of their body with wrists facing out. This allows more movement but is less secure.
- Rear Stack: The person’s hands are cuffed behind their back with wrists facing inwards. This restricts movement more but is more secure.
Officers choose positioning based on factors like flight risk and potential for violence. Handcuffs should be tightened enough to secure the person but still allow a fingertip between the cuff and wrist to prevent nerve issues from tight cuffs.
Proper Handcuffing Procedures
Handcuffing procedures often involve securing the non-dominant wrist first then quickly securing the dominant wrist to restrict the person’s movement. Rigid handcuffs allow for easier control of a struggling person compared to chain link cuffs.
However, handcuffing, especially in violent situations, can risk injury so officers must be properly trained on positioning and tightness. Search: Always conduct a proper search of the person you are handcuffing. Cuff first, then search. Never search first, then handcuff.
Rear handcuffing can be done in the “back to back” position which is less restrictive for some builds. Where necessary, two sets of rigid handcuffs can be joined to alleviate this pressure. Handcuffs are applied in violent circumstances and the prisoner struggles. This leads to overtightening and trauma to structures around the wrist like fractures, lacerations, and nerve injuries.
Types of Handcuffs
There are three main types of handcuffs: chain, hinged, and solid bar.
- Chain Handcuffs: Held together by a short chain, they are the most commonly used by law enforcement.
- Hinged Handcuffs: Permit less movement so are more secure and used for high-risk situations.
- Solid Bar Handcuffs: Allow variations in cuffing and can provide more rigidity.
Accessories can improve security or rigidity of handcuffs. The most popular handcuffs are inexpensive chain cuffs made of nickel, steel or aluminum. Hinged and rigid cuffs are more secure but bulkier to carry. Various accessories improve security like locks on the chain or hinge. Real handcuffs can be bought in the UK for police and licensed security use.