How to Display Lapel Pins and Luggage Tags on Duty Gear
By Training Videos | UsingASPBatons | asp-usa.com | Published: 2026-10-26
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to attach and display lapel pins and luggage tags on your duty gear, patrol bag, or uniform for a professional, customized look.
Quick answer
Attach lapel pins securely to uniform collars, hat brims, or bag webbing using a locking pin back or clutch, and slide luggage tags onto bag handles or D-rings using the built-in strap. For duty gear, choose accessories that won't snag or interfere with movement.
Why placement matters on duty gear
Duty gear is built for function first—holsters, pouches, and bags are positioned for quick access and comfort. Adding a lapel pin or luggage tag can personalize your kit, but a poorly placed accessory can get caught on seat belts, door frames, or equipment. The key is to attach items where they are visible but out of the way.
Lapel pins work best on soft fabric areas like a uniform collar, the front of a cap, or the padded handle of a patrol bag. Luggage tags with a strap, like the Luggage Tag (Business Card Holder), are designed to wrap around bag handles or D-rings without adding bulk that interferes with zippers or pockets.
Choosing the right attachment method
Standard pin-back lapel pins can fall off during active duty. A die-struck brass pin with a locking clutch or rubber clutch is more secure than a simple pushpin. The Lapel Pin from ASP uses a metal clutch back that stays put on thick fabric.
For luggage tags, look for a fully enclosed holder with a slide-out drawer so your ID stays protected and doesn't catch on gear. The extra-wide leather strap on the Luggage Tag (Business Card Holder) is built to withstand repeated use and keeps the tag from spinning or flopping.
How to attach lapel pins and luggage tags to duty gear
- Choose a secure spot for your lapel pin: Pick a flat, stable area on your uniform collar, cap front, or bag webbing. Avoid areas that bend or flex a lot—the pin will loosen over time. For caps, place the pin on the front panel above the brim. For collars, center it on the left or right lapel point. Common mistake: pinning through multiple layers of thick fabric can bend the pin. Stick to one layer of fabric or use the clutch on the outside of a thin patch.
- Attach the lapel pin with a locking clutch: Push the pin post through the fabric from front to back. Slide the metal clutch over the post and press firmly until it clicks or locks. Give the pin a gentle tug to confirm it's secure. If your pin has a rubber clutch, replace it with a metal locking clutch for better retention on duty gear. Checkpoint: after a full day of wear, check that the clutch hasn't loosened. Re-tighten if needed.
- Position the luggage tag on your bag handle or D-ring: Open the wide leather strap on the Luggage Tag (Business Card Holder) and wrap it around a bag handle, D-ring, or MOLLE webbing. Thread the strap back through the buckle and pull snug. The tag should sit flat against the bag without dangling more than an inch below the handle. Common mistake: wrapping the strap too loosely lets the tag slide around and catch on zippers. Pull the strap tight enough that the tag doesn't shift when you grab the handle.
- Insert your ID or business card into the tag: Slide your card into the fully enclosed carrier through the top opening. Push it all the way in until it sits flat. The slide-out drawer design keeps the card protected from rain and dirt. For patrol bags, use a business card with your agency logo or a generic contact card instead of your home address. Checkpoint: if the card is hard to remove, gently push from the back of the tag to slide the drawer out. Never force it with a tool that could tear the holder.
Recommended accessories for duty gear display
- Luggage Tag (Business Card Holder): We designed this ID/business card holder for our Training Team members to use on their ASP training gear duffels, but it’s equally well-suited for everyday luggage, patrol bags, business cases, gym bags and more. It’s a fully-enclosed carrier with slide-out drawer that protects both your business card and your identity. Super-tough, extra wide leather strap holds the tag securely to your bag. The enclosed design prevents your ID from falling out during active use, and the wide leather strap keeps the tag from sliding or twisting on bag handles.

Luggage Tag (Business Card Holder) - Lapel Pin: Show your ASP pride with one of our beautifully-crafted Lapel Pins (equally at-home on a hat, coat, bag or shirt). Die-struck brass with the universally-recognized ASP Eagle, or with the addition of the “Certified” rocker for those who complete ASP Basic Certification. The die-struck brass construction and secure clutch back make this pin durable enough for daily wear on uniforms or gear without falling off.

Lapel Pin

