what are "hinged" handcuffs and why would they ever be used...are they more secure than "regular" ones?

Answer 1

Good answers so far. The thing about hinged handcuffs is that the degrees of freedom for the hands is restricted by the fact that no rotational motion is allowed, and the wrists are kept at roughly the same distance from each other. When they are applied properly (with the keyhole away from the hands), they are virtually impossible to pick open and extremely difficult to open on one's own even with a key. With the standard chain-link variety, a dexterous prisoner might be able to reach the keyhole.

Furthermore, with the hinged cuffs, the ability to move one's arms and elbows are restricted. Unlike the standard chain-link, which allow the hands to move up and down the back (assuming handcuffed behind the back), the hinged cuffs keep the hands from moving up and down as the ability to rotate the wrists is not there. This has advantages as it doesn't allow a person to "step through" and bring the cuffed hands in from. Even if a prisoner could managed that, hands cuffed in front have the similar limitations on mobility.

In terms of the cuffs about the wrists, they are the same as regular cuffs, thus the risk of slipping out is the same for both. It's the limitations on movement that leads to greater security, which is sometimes needed if the prisoner is resisting the officers applying the handcuffs.

Hope that helps.

Answer 2

Hinged handcuffs do not have the chain between the cuffs, but rather a hinge. They are no more secure than what you consider 'regular' cuffs, since all cuffs meet the same specifications to be used by police. Which type is used depends on the preference of the individual officer. Some will carry both kinds.

Answer 3

Hinge Handcuffs

Answer 4

They're thought to be more secure because they use hinged connections between the individual cuffs, rather than the somewhat more vulnerable chain connection. Company called Peerless makes the most popular model. They're a bit harder to apply to a combative person, because the individual cuffs don't swivel via the chain attachments, but once they're on, they're a bit harder to mess with, and restrict movement a bit better. As to who uses them, it's generally a matter of personal preference, although they're standard issue with some agencies.

Answer 5

The first time i was arrested i was placed in regular chain handcuffs. The second time i was put in hinged cuffs i didnt know until my hands were cuffed behind my back and i thought man these a different and not in a good way when i was in chained cuffs i could find ways to minimize the discomfort. When i was in hinged cuffs i could only keep my hands one way and that was the way the officer cuffed them.

Answer 6

The are like regular hanfcuffs but have a hinge instead of a chain. They are more restrictive and may be used for more unruly prisoners.

Answer 7

Some officers use them, But in general there has been no benifit.

In corrections on high security there is a box that will go over the chain and the key holes of the cuffs

Answer 8

not connected by a chain but by a hinged link. they are much more rigid and much more uncomfortable. might be a little more secure. they are designed so that the prisoner can not get his hands in line to use a weapon or get his arms over some ones neck as easily. They also are usually a bit easier to put in a belt pouch.

Answer 9

They certainly are stronger and reduces movement.
The links have been known to break or become separated.
The hinged cuffs eliminate those possibilities. They also make additionally difficult to slip your legs through them in order to have your hands in front of you.

Answer 10

Hindged hand cuffs have a hindge instead of a chain in between each cuff.

I use hindged hand cuffs for more control on a resisting person and they are easier to apply.