The Use of a Police Baton

How to Use the Baton

• There are many types of police batons, but most are the same basic design. They are generally about 2 feet long, with a small handle for your hand. Holding the handle will pull the length of the baton parallel to your arm. Twisting your wrist will swivel the baton and allow it to be used to bludgeon the body. One of the most common ways to use the baton is to ram it into the stomach of a suspect after catching him. This will knock the wind out of him and force him to the ground. Police often use their baton to strike the head, arms or legs of fleeing suspects, which helps to slow them down. You can also grab the end of the baton furthest from the handle and use the handle to trip or catch any part of the body, especially the arms, legs and neck. You can use it in this position as a striking weapon for self defense. Most batons are made out of heavy plastic, but they have also been made out of wood in the past and even metal.
  
  

Legal Use

• Baton use is illegal, for anyone other than the police. The police can only use their batons to subdue a fleeing or resisting suspect or for self defense. If you have a police baton, you may have to obtain a concealed weapon permit, depending on your state's laws. Never ever use your baton to attack or harm other people aggressively. Only use it to protect yourself from aggressors. Never use too much force. If you kill someone who is attacking you, you may be charged with manslaughter or even murder. It is also possible that you could be charged with assault or battery. You will have to prove the person you attacked was a true threat to your personal safety.