How to clean your handcuffs?

Handcuffs are restraints, generally metallic and connected by a chain with the purpose of restraining the hands. They allow for partial or total reduction of an individual's movements. In France, the use of handcuffs is primarily dedicated to law enforcement (police officers and gendarmes) only in cases where an individual poses a danger to them, to those around them, or to prevent a risk of escape.

Table of Contents:

• How to maintain your metal restraints?
• Some additional tips

Good maintenance involves, first of all, their storage method. It is strongly recommended to use a suitable holster such as the handcuff holder from the GK Pro brand available on vetsecurite.com. Although handcuffs are designed and manufactured to withstand impacts, it is preferable to avoid any drops or hitting hard surfaces to ensure proper functioning. Additionally, if your handcuffs are exposed to moisture, it is important to dry them, particularly the internal locking mechanisms (you can use a hair dryer if necessary).

Regular maintenance is essential for you to be able to use them durably. To do this, it is preferable to follow the directives of the manual provided with the handcuffs. Additionally, we recommend the special Otis 085 3-in-1 oil, which will allow for cleaning, protection as well as lubrication. This oil primarily intended for weapon maintenance is also suitable for maintaining your handcuffs. Your metal restraints should be lubricated as needed depending on storage, frequency and environment of use.

Each pair of handcuffs consists of two distinct parts, the single strand, removable, which engages through the ratchet in the double strand. The ratchet is operated using the serrated strand while allowing adjustment of the tightness. Once adjusted, it is possible to activate a double lock using the tip present on the keys by pressing on the double lock pin. This additional security prevents the restraints from tightening further and thus avoids the risk of injury. To unlock the mechanism and open the handcuffs, the use of the flag key is required.

To properly maintain your handcuffs, we recommend lubricating the important areas (indicated with a red arrow). We then recommend operating the single strand, locking the restraint, activating the double lock and finally unlocking the handcuffs. Repeat this action on the second restraint and don't hesitate to repeat the operation several times on each of them. Finally, remove any excess oil from the handling surfaces with a cloth so that the devices are not slippery.

Furthermore, during this health crisis period, make sure to properly disinfect your handcuffs after use.