Blue Line Plus Cuffs Hinge: Aluminum Bow Buying Guide

Quick answer

Choose Blue Line Plus Cuffs Hinge with aluminum bow if you want a rigid, hinged restraint with ASP's keyless double locking for faster, safer cuffing. If you need more flexibility or reach, consider chain cuffs instead.

Why the hinge and aluminum bow matter

Hinge cuffs connect the two cuffs with a solid hinge rather than a chain. This limits rotation and gives you more control over a subject's wrists, which can be an advantage in close-quarters or high-risk encounters. The aluminum bow keeps the cuff lightweight while maintaining strength, so it won't weigh down your duty belt.

The trade-off is less flexibility: hinge cuffs can be harder to apply on subjects with limited wrist mobility or in positions where a chain would allow more reach. If you frequently deal with passive resistance or need to cuff around obstacles, chain cuffs may be more forgiving.

Keyless double locking: speed and safety

Blue Line Plus Cuffs feature keyless double locking: a color-indicated bar that you press with a fingertip to instantly double-lock the cuff. This eliminates the need for a key to engage the double lock, saving time and reducing fumbling during a struggle. Double locking is critical to prevent over-tightening and to keep the cuff from ratcheting tighter accidentally.

Because the bar is color-indicated, you can verify the lock status at a glance. That said, keyless double locking is a feature you must train with regularly to build muscle memory. If your team is accustomed to key-operated double locks, schedule transition training before field use.

When to choose hinge over chain

Hinge cuffs excel when control and limited movement are priorities, such as during transport or with combative subjects. They also reduce the chance of the cuff chain being used as a weapon or catching on gear. However, hinge cuffs require more precise positioning and may not fit all wrist sizes as comfortably as chain cuffs.

Chain cuffs offer greater reach and flexibility, making them easier to apply on larger subjects or in awkward positions. They also allow a wider range of motion, which can be beneficial for long transports. The downside is less control and the potential for the chain to be grabbed.

Decision rules for buying Blue Line Plus Cuffs Hinge

• Control vs. flexibility: Choose hinge cuffs if you prioritize control and limited subject movement; choose chain cuffs if you need more reach and flexibility for varied subject sizes or positions. Test both styles with your most common subject scenarios before deciding.
• Training for keyless double locking: Adopt Blue Line Plus Cuffs only if you can commit to regular training on the keyless double-lock bar; otherwise, stick with key-operated double locks until training is complete. Schedule a transition training session before field deployment.
• Aluminum bow weight and durability: The aluminum bow reduces weight without sacrificing strength, making it suitable for daily duty carry. If you prefer steel for perceived durability, consider other models. Check your department's approved equipment list for material restrictions.

Product facts

• Blue Line Plus Cuffs, Hinge (Aluminum Bow): Blue Line Plus Cuffs Hinge feature keyless double locking, engaged by pressing a color-indicated bar with a fingertip. This allows instant double-locking without a key, improving speed and safety during cuffing.

  

Who should buy this

Best for

• Patrol officers who want a rigid, control-oriented restraint with fast double locking.
• Agencies transitioning to keyless double locking with a training plan.
• Personnel who prefer lightweight aluminum cuffs for daily carry.

Not for

• Officers who frequently encounter subjects needing greater cuff flexibility or reach.
• Teams unable to train on keyless double locking before field use.
• Those who require chain-style cuffs for long transports or larger subjects.