ASP Baton

[Santi]

Saw it on CutleryShoppe catalog, and thinking about geting one for use in a car as a "just in case" weapon self-defense tool.

But wondering if it's really good?
Easy to work?
Easy to break?

What size should I go for?

Any other comments welcome.
Many thanks.

 

[Dragon1]

I also have a question...

In the store, they list airweight, chrome, electroless nickel, and federal batons.

What's the difference?

 

[gadgetman]

I've got a 21" one that I can't legally carry (felony). It's easy to work, but retracting the thing is easier if you have a mallet (so you don't scratch the finish near the seals) to hit the side of the section joints to loosen them. I've heard of people breaking them (practical tactical forum), but I've never hit anyone with mine. The 21" is pretty short extended, the 26" is a better length, but is about an inch longer closed. If you can legally carry it in your car, go for it. I have a Maglite for that sort of thing, if it ever comes to that, though I can't see needing it unless I'm outside the car when it's in my hand.

I bought the training tape too, but there was some discussion about ASP's technique in the practical tactical forum. Do a search for more info.

Airweight is aluminum. It's lighter to carry, but may bend when you hit something hard.

Chrome is actually black chromed steel, the standard finish.

Electroless Nickel is the non-corrosive finish for marine environments. It's a dull silver color.

I forgot what federal is.

gm

[This message has been edited by gadgetman (edited 11-02-2000).]

 

[feverdoc]

in my state of tennessee it is a felony to carry one as it is considered a lethal weapon but a civilian can become certified to carry one legally by taking a four hour trianing course....i have a carry permit for concealed carry and i still need to take a four hour course to carry an asp baton legally!.....i use a mag light for the same purpose and dont have any liability with a flashlight in my car as a backup to my handgun and cutlery...you might want to check your state's laws before you carry one even in your car.....feverdoc

 

[jrollins]

I have a 26" Electroless and when my dad saw it he said he wanted one, so I ordered a 21" airweight for him. I might keep the airweight if I like it and order another

You can call ASP and they will give you a list of trainers in your area. I haven't had time to call them yet, but soon...

They are very nice, but it's funny how you can get in so much trouble if you carry one while someone with a big steel pipe or a wood stick wouldn't have any problems(unless they hit someone with it, of course). I suppose the concealability argument is there, but still... I find the regulation of inanimate objects rather strange - wether it be guns, knives, sticks or anything else. I suppose registering cars makes sense, although I have problems with the statement that driving is a privilege and not a right. Appointment to a public office is a privilege, driving is an activity that anyone can do. But lets not go there now... Now you see how strange I am when tired - more than half the post is off-topic! Yep, I'm wierd. Goodnight

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John Rollins Jr KD7BCY
http://jrollins.tripod.com/
http://www.geocities.com/jrollins.geo/