cuffs

[mysterious blue]

why do swat have plastic cuffs then metal cuffs?

[𝒞𝒶𝓈𝓊𝒶𝓁 Sinner]

Well, it's an actual thing used by SWAT. I do believe they carry metal handcuffs, but it is still a lot easier (weight, size, flexibility) to carry zipties rather than handcuffs, which makes it viable in large raids/arrests.

[Bruce Springsteen fan]

I could be wrong, but I'd say plastic cuffs are more popular now than say the aluminum ones they used in the 90's.

[Graywolf364]

Flex cuffs are cheap numerous and disposable. Metallic ones are not.

[Cursed Hawkins]

Originally posted by Graywolf364:

Flex cuffs are cheap numerous and disposable. Metallic ones are not.

Isn't it also just so people are comfortable with them on, I did hear that the metal cuffs could dig into skin if they were on too tight.

[Graywolf364]

Both can be painful if over tightened. And depending on the jurisdiction, complaining about cuff tightness sparks an instant use of force investigation.

[SGTsimo]

Cable ties are quicker and easier to put on. You can carry more (they are lighter).
You can put them on with one hand and cuff both hands at the same time.
There is less fiddling around as you dont have to double lock them.
Ones size fits all, where some people with small hands can get out of the tightest position of metal cuffs.

[Graywolf364]

Can't speak for Europe, but in North America almost all handcuffs use the same key. Obviously there are ways to mitigate access to the keyway, but universal handcuff keys are still naturally a security concern.

Contemporary polymer restraints (like ASP Tri-Folds) need to be cut off and are more resistant to some of the methods used to break earlier generations or improvised zip tie cuffs.

I'm also a big fan of Technora based restraints. They are smaller, more low profile and more secure than their polymer cousins.

[4C-6360 | Sam D.]

they already have to carry a bunch of equipment metal cuffs just add weight and they need multiple....plus some people can slip
cuffs and with zip ties you can make sure its tight and fit the shape of the wrist

[Cryptic]

because they actually use them now