The first item in this group of restraints is the American Handcuff Co “Auto Restraint”. This is used for transporting a prisoner by car, “automobile” as our U.S friends say. The leg-iron and connecting chains are shortened, allowing only a shuffling walk outside the car.
Next is the Hiatt “closeting chain”. This is designed for use when transporting a prisoner, for example, by train. It enables the prisoner to use the toilet with some privacy, yet be securely attached to the escort. The downside is that it gives a violent prisoner a formidable weapon!
Next is the Hiatt-Thompson single shackle and lead chain model 6010. This is more often used as a lead chain with the shackle around the linkage chain of the handcuffs worn by the prisoner as in the following picture.
In that later picture, the prisoner is wearing a pair of Smith & Wesson model 100 handcuffs fitted with the BOA Handcuff Co “Cuffmaxx” device. The next picture shows a closer view of those handcuffs.
The “Cuffmaxx” device is made in several versions to fit handcuffs made by Peerless, Smith & Wesson, Hiatt and the American Handcuff Co. This picture shows the device fitted to a pair of Peerless model 500 handcuffs. These handcuffs are permanently fitted onto a C & S Security body chain model.
The next picture shows a prisoner in the commonly used transport system (U.S.A.) where the handcuffs are secured to a belly chain with a Martin link.
A non-metallic alternative transport system is the Ripp emergency belt. This is a simple webbing belt closed with a pair of rings to make a friction buckle. Two short plasticuffs are threaded through suitably placed loops in the belt. After use, the cuffs are cut off and the belt is re-useable.
Three pictures follow of James in unusual handcuffs. Martin straight and bent handcuffs. Note the uncomfortable way that the straight ones hold the arms. The third item is a replica of the famous “Russian” manacle that Houdini used, from the Chris Gower collection.
