Proper Grip
Proper grip is an important part of my handcuffing technique. On the Outside Technique, the top cuff is applied first. On the Inside Technique, the bottom cuff is applied first. Your thumb indicates the top cuff when the cuffs are properly held. Confusing? Remember, police recruits with little or no handcuffing experience learned and performed the technique after about 20 minutes of demonstration. The Advanced Stacking Technique is very easy to learn and highly effective in the field.
When you watch the popular police shows on television or see an officer handcuffing a suspect observe the handcuffing technique. You may notice that some officers first look to the area of their cuff cases to see how the handcuffs come out of the case. As if checking to see how he or she must manipulate the handcuffs for proper grip and if the cuffs are in the right direction to be applied. My technique keeps officer's eyes focused on the suspect and not looking at the cuffs.
Did officers at any time loose grip of the handcuffs because one cuff did not cycle completely around the wrist and must now be cycled by fingers? My technique limits this from happening. Proper grip keeps your hand on the handcuffs which means never losing CONTROL of the subject. Control is our rule for safety and preventing unnecessary assault on peace officers.
Proper Grip / Key Things To Remember
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Back of your hand is always up. |
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Hold cuffs as if looking through gun sights. |
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Thumb indicates top cuff. |