HANDCUFFS KEYS

Hello Tribe! In this post, I'm going to show you the types of handcuff keys I carry in my escape and evasion kit. It's important to understand from the outset that my Plan A for escaping handcuffs involves using a handcuff key as a tool. However, there are scenarios where you might travel in non-permissive environments, and in such cases, having covert tools — items that are not handcuff keys but can still aid in escaping from these restraints — can be a better solution. These unconventional or improvised tools require more skill and make escaping more difficult. An example of this tools is the hair clip.

I will show you 3 types of handcuffs with the strong and weak points.

I will start first with the covert plastic key.

In the unfortunate event of an abduction, being prepared with the knowledge and tools to escape can be life-saving. One such tool is the covert plastic handcuff key.

Strong Points

1. Stealth and Concealability: The primary advantage of a covert plastic handcuff key lies in its inconspicuous nature. These keys are often designed to be discreet, easily hidden within clothing or even embedded in everyday items, reducing the likelihood of discovery by captors.

2. Non-Metallic Composition: Being made of plastic, these keys are not detectable by metal detectors. This feature is particularly beneficial in scenarios where abductors may use such devices to ensure captives do not possess any metal tools or weapons.

3. Ease of Use: Plastic handcuff keys are generally designed for simplicity and ease of use, requiring minimal training or expertise to operate effectively. This makes them accessible tools for the average person.

4. Lightweight and Comfortable: Their plastic composition makes these keys lightweight and easy to carry without discomfort, which is crucial in situations where a person may be held captive for an extended period.

Weak Points

1. Durability Concerns: Plastic is inherently less durable than metal. These keys may break under pressure or after repeated use, potentially leaving an individual without a viable escape option.

2. Limited Utility: While effective against standard handcuffs, covert plastic keys may not work on all types of handcuffs. In situations where different or non-standard restraints are used, these keys may be rendered useless.

3. Skill Requirement: Despite being user-friendly, successfully unlocking handcuffs without being noticed requires practice and a degree of skill, especially under stressful conditions.

The Russian BRS-1 handcuffs have the common key-way, so most universal handcuff keys will work. If you use plastic or polymer handcuff keys they may or may not work. For the majority of handcuffs that feature the common key-way, you turn the key towards your wrist (inwards). If you turn the key towards your wrist on the BRS-1 you will engage the double-lock. Under stress it is possible to over rotate a plastic key causing it to break in the key-way. If you are lucky only the key-flag will breakaway. If you are unlucky the key will break completely and block the key-way. You now have a double-locked handcuff with an obstructed key-way.

Conclusion

The use of a covert plastic handcuff key in abduction scenarios presents both significant advantages and notable risks. Its effectiveness is influenced by factors such as the nature of the restraints, the skill of the user, and the context of the situation. While it offers a potential means of escape, reliance on such a tool should be balanced with an understanding of its limitations and the risks involved. Preparation, awareness, and a cautious approach are key in leveraging this tool effectively while mitigating its drawbacks.

The Boot Lace Covert Handcuff Key: Strengths and Weaknesses

In the realm of escape and evasion tools, the Boot Lace Covert Handcuff Key presents an innovative approach to personal security and escape readiness. This discrete device is designed for those who prioritize preparedness in situations where traditional handcuff keys are not accessible or practical.

Strengths

1. Discretion and Concealment:

• The most significant advantage of the Boot Lace Covert Handcuff Key is its ability to remain hidden in plain sight. Integrated into boot laces, it avoids detection, making it an ideal tool for situations where carrying a conventional handcuff key is not feasible or safe.

2. Constant Availability:

• Since it's incorporated into everyday wear, like boot laces, it ensures that the user always has access to a handcuff key. This constant availability is crucial in unpredictable or high-risk environments.

3. Durability:

• Typically made from robust like lightweight metals, these keys are designed to withstand regular wear and tear, ensuring longevity and reliability.

4. Ease of Use:

• For those trained in their use, these covert keys can be as straightforward to use as regular handcuff keys, allowing for quick and efficient unlocking of standard handcuffs.

Weaknesses

1. Limited Applicability:

• The Boot Lace Covert Handcuff Key is specifically designed for handcuffs but there are many models of handcuffs that cannot be opened with this. Also has a limiting use in situations where other forms of restraint are employed.

2. Training and Skill Required:

• Effective use of this tool requires practice and skill. Without proper training, individuals may find it challenging to use the key efficiently, especially under stress.

3. Risk of Discovery:

• While designed for concealment, there's always a risk of the key being discovered during thorough searches. This risk is especially pertinent in high-security environments where footwear might be inspected.

• In the majority of the kiddnapping situations the shoes will be taken away.

4. Physical Limitations:

• In situations where the user is restrained in a manner that restricts access to their feet, the boot lace key becomes impractical, if not entirely unusable.

Conclusion

The Boot Lace Covert Handcuff Key is a testament to human ingenuity in the field of personal security and evasion. Its strengths lie in its discretion, constant availability, durability, and ease of use for the trained individual. However, its effectiveness is balanced by its limitations in applicability, the need for skill to use it effectively, the risk of discovery, physical limitations in certain restraint scenarios, and legal considerations. As with any tool designed for security and escape, it is essential for users to weigh these factors carefully and ensure they are trained and informed about its appropriate and legal use.

Universal Handcuff Key Strong Points of Using a Universal Handcuff Key

1. Standardized Design: Most handcuffs used by law enforcement and security personnel around the world have a similar locking mechanism. A universal handcuff key, designed to fit these standard models, can be an effective tool for unlocking a wide range of handcuffs.

2. Portability and Concealability: Universal handcuff keys are typically small and easy to conceal. This makes them a practical addition to an escape and evasion kit, especially in high-risk environments.

3. Empowerment in Dire Situations: Having a universal handcuff key can provide a psychological advantage. Knowing that one has the means to escape can boost morale and encourage clear thinking in a stressful situation.

Weak Points of Using a Universal Handcuff Key

1. Limited Effectiveness Against Non-Standard Handcuffs: In scenarios where abductors use non-standard or makeshift handcuffs, a universal key may be ineffective. This limitation can be critical if the victim relies solely on this tool for escape.

2. Skill and Practice Required: Successfully using a handcuff key under stress demands practice. Without prior experience, one might struggle to unlock handcuffs quickly and discreetly.

3. Risk of Detection: Carrying a universal handcuff key, especially in regions with strict security measures, can be risky. If discovered, it can lead to further suspicion or escalation of the situation.

4. False Sense of Security: Sole reliance on a universal handcuff key for escape can induce a false sense of security. It’s important to have multiple plans and tools for escape, as circumstances during abduction can be unpredictable.

Conclusion While a universal handcuff key can be a valuable tool in an escape and evasion kit, it should not be the sole reliance in an abduction scenario. Its effectiveness hinges on the type of handcuffs used, the skill of the user, and the overall context of the situation. Training in escape techniques, along with a well-thought-out plan that includes multiple escape methods, is crucial for improving one's chances of successfully escaping an abduction. As always, the primary focus should be on avoiding such situations through awareness and preventive measures.

The last handcuff key but the most efficient in escaping from many models of handcuffs is the "ADVANCED HANDCUFF KEY (AHK3-rf)" designed by OscarDelta AHK3-rf | OSCARDELTA.

The AHK3 works on the following handcuffs plus more that share the common key-way:

- ALCYON

- ASP

- CLEJUSO

- HIATTS

- HWC

- KYOUNG CHANG

- PEERLESS

- RALKEM

- RUSSIAN BRS-1

- SMITH & WESSON

- TCH

- UZI

- WALTER

- YUIL

The AHK3 also operates handcuffs that have a bent pin in the keyway that would otherwise block a standard handcuff key.

Very little pressure is required to operate handcuffs with a key - never force a key to turn!

'Tactical' handcuff keys are prone to breaking when such excessive stress/torque is applied.

This is a known issue with polymer handcuff keys that can result in a blocked keyway.

If the AHK breaks it has been designed to fragment into small parts that can be shaken free from the working parts,

so it should not block the keyway and therefore allow for a back-up key to be used.

When using the AHK we recommend that you use it to 'pick and sweep' the lock, taking care to feel for the

movement of the working parts. Gently rocking and tilting the key works best for some handcuffs and altering the depth

works for others. Attaching anything to the AHK to assist with turning the key can result in excess torque being applied.

The weak point that you can find in this handcuff key model is that being from metal can be detected by metal detectors.

I hope that this article will help you having a better understanding about the tools that you can use. Remember that tools are not having valor if you dont have also knowledge, the skills.

In the next article I will talk about improvised tools that we can use in non permissive environment to open handcuffs.

Stay safe all!