Retractable Baton

posted on March 16, 2012
201231614583-ctdbaton_m.jpg

My recent discussions on Unarmed Defense and Pepper Spray got me to thinking about other useful items that can be carried for self-defense in lieu of, or in conjunction with, a handgun. One that seems particularly useful is a retractable baton.

Over the last dozen years or so, many police departments have swapped from nightsticks to retractable batons because of their size, weight and versatility. A baton is smaller and lighter than a nightstick, which allows officers to always have a baton on their belts for quick userather than having to remove it every time they climb into their cruisers.

This same lightweight and versatility makes a baton an excellent self-defense tool for civilians, where legal to carry. With a quick flick of the wrist, a baton can be expanded for either striking or blocking, or even just warning off a potential attacker, as most seek easy targets. Even in the hands of an untrained individual, a baton can be used to ward off both two- and four-legged attackers, without the need of lethal force

The problem with batons is that not every state allows their use by civilians. Surprisingly, more states allow concealed handguns than allow a person to carry a baton, and even in states where they’re legal, some cities restrict their use.

The ASP Baton from Cheaper Than Dirt is made of 4140 steel tubing, which is stronger than 4130 steel tubing, making the ASP Baton stronger, straighter and more flexible. It’s locks via friction and comes with a foam handle for user comfort. A baton is a handy tool for those wishing to supplement their self-defense plans with a non-lethal option, or for those who are uncomfortable carrying a handgun. Just make sure you check your local laws.

Latest

U.S. Arms Co. M4 UTAW angled dynamic right-side view shown with broken blocks ammunition military netting background leupold riflescope attached to top rail
U.S. Arms Co. M4 UTAW angled dynamic right-side view shown with broken blocks ammunition military netting background leupold riflescope attached to top rail

Review: U.S. Arms Co. M4 UTAW

U.S. Arms Co.’s origins can be traced back to 2016 with research-and-development efforts for military contracts, and the company came to market in 2019 with its M-905 Talon muzzle brake as a result.

Colt Partners With Georgia To Promote Responsible Firearms Ownership

Colt's Manufacturing is fully funding Georgia’s “Give It a Shot” program, which offers hands-on firearms training with certified instructors.

Favorite Firearms: A Testament To Service

NRA member Denis Kaup's father's war trophy from 1944 is his most beloved gun. What's yours?

Flat-Out Slick: Hornady’s Drag Variability Reduction Technology

Bullets in flight are subject to nature’s forces. Through the decades, manufacturers have developed bullets to somewhat counteract the effects of wind, gravity and atmospheric drag with a streamlined shape incorporating a boattail and long ogive terminating in a sharp point.

The Armed Citizen® May 12, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Aluminum: More Than Just "Aircraft Grade"

Aluminum has become the second most important metal in gunmaking after steel. An ever-increasing number of firearms, especially handguns and shotguns, utilize aluminum alloys for slides, frames, receivers and the like.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.