Are Expandable Batons Legal to Carry?

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Are expandable batons legal to carry?

Batons and sticks are legal to own in many states, except in some states where civilians are not allowed to carry them for self-defense purposes.

In such states, you need to be a police officer or on-duty security guard with a permit to legally carry an expandable baton. There is no federal law that bans carrying a collapsible baton but it is illegal to carry a collapsible baton in a few states including California, Massachusetts, New York, and Washington D.C.

Importance of Expandable Batons

Are Expandable Batons Legal to Carry? if the answer to this is ‘YES’ in your state, here are some benefits of owning an expandable baton

As much as expandable batons are weapons and there should be laws guiding their use and ownership, we have several reasons why states allow their civilians to carry them.

Non-lethal- these self-defense tools allow you to protect yourself from an attacker without using lethal force. They are also safe for you because they hardly cause accidental harm. People can carry them as long as they do not use them to intently cause property damage or death.

Easy to carry- expandable batons can easily fit into a bag or large pocket when locked in the close position. They are very concealable and do not attract unless when deployed.

Simple- unlike other weapons like guns, expandable batons do not require ammunition or other accessories to use. You do not have to purchase ammo or even batteries.

Physical distance- expandable batons have an adjustable length. Other than stopping an attacker, they can be used to create more distance between you and an attacker for a safe escape.

No experience required- batons are not complicated and hence you do not need much training on how to handle a self-defense baton.  You just have to know a few common effective moves that you can easily use for self-protection.

 

Here are some Expandable batons for your consideration

 

(1) Smith & Wesson 24” Quick Release Baton

Smith & Wesson 24'' Quick Release Baton

 

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Smith & Wesson 24” Quick Release Baton is one of the best Smith and Wesson expandable batons, the baton features steel construction and push-button collapsing for easy retraction and deployment. It’s compact for easy carrying and rapid deployment.

Features

  • Made with 4140 steel
  • Rubberized grip ensures handling is secure and firm
  • Push-button collapse
  • 360-degree rotating synthetic  sheet

 

(2) ASP Talon Baton

ASP Talon Baton

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Features

  • Durable and lightweight
  • 3 sections
  • Uses two opposing discs that cam into an internal groove
  • Lockout is simple, stable, and secure
  • Positive expansion complements push button retraction
  • Talon locking mechanism
  • Push Button design

 

(3) Black Hawk Multifunction Tactical Baton Telescopic Flashlight

Black Hawk Multifunction Tactical Baton Telescopic Flashlight

 

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Features

  • Type III aircraft-grade aluminum alloy construction
  • Has a glass breaker
  • Multifunction Tactical Baton
  • Rechargeable 18650 battery
  • Weatherproof
  • Lightweight
  • Durable
  • 22 times brighter than old incandescent flashlights
  • Powerful Flashlight with 500 lumens of pure white light
  • The stun flashlight has a reach spanning further than 2 football fields

 

(4) Smith & Wesson 21” Steel Expandable Baton With Holster

Smith & Wesson 21'' Steel Expandable Baton With Holster

 

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Features

  • Weight: 1.06875lb
  • Blade Length: 12.8″
  • Made of seamless alloy steel
  • Overall Length: 21″ /26”
  • Handle Material: Thermoplastic Rubber
  • Blade Material: 4130 Seamless Alloy Steel Tubing

 

(5) Monadnock Autolock Expandable Batons

Monadnock Autolock Expandable Batons

 

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Features

  • AutoLock’s patented locking mechanism
  • Closes with a push of a button
  • Open passively or in a high-profile manner
  • Rotating shafts help maintain control of the batons during a struggle
  • Urethane material eliminates sharp edges and decreases the possibility of injury
  • Engineered to turn a subject’s pockets inside out, reducing the risk of getting stuck with sharp objects.

Are Expandable Batons Legal to Carry? Related Questions

  • Can I take a baton in my luggage?

No. You cannot carry a baton on an airplane, and not in the carry-on luggage either. As a weapon like guns and firearms, you need to pass your baton through your checked baggage. They must be declared to the aircraft operator.

  • Are expandable batons good for self-defense?

Batons are the most effective self-defense non-lethal weapons. These tools are easy to use and also concealable, and you do not require training or learning before you use them.

  • What is the best weapon to carry for self-defense?

Other than collapsible batons, there are other tools that you can carry and use for self-defense. These include a pocket knife, pepper spray, stun guns, flashlights, and tactical pens.

  • What is the best length for a baton?

The best baton should complement your body geometry. It should be approximately the length from the inner base of your forearm to the middle joint of your middle finger.

Conclusion

Always find out what laws stand in your locality, state, or region before purchasing or carrying an expandable baton. Some states may allow ownership but do not allow you to carry your baton around, whether concealed or open.