NCJ Number
160307
Journal
Gazette Volume: 58 Issue: 1 Dated: (1996) Pages: 12-15
Date Published
1996
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Most police officers, administrators, trainers, and use of force experts in Canada agree that impact weapons represent a necessary force option, and several types of intermediate weapons on the market include chemical agents, aerosol irritants, stun guns, taser guns, and unconventional impact weapons.
Abstract
Although some police administrators believe Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) spray may replace the impact weapon, the only weapon that has stood the test of time as a viable, reliable intermediate force option is the impact weapon or baton. Because OC spray has a documented, significant failure to incapacitate rate and because that failure rate applies particularly to individuals most needing to be controlled, it must be viewed as a low-level force option on par with empty hand control tactics. On the other hand, the police impact weapon or baton is a multiple- level force option ranging from implied physical force to deadly force. The baton is primarily an impact weapon used to control resistant offenders. Advantages and disadvantages of various types of batons are noted. The author concludes that the expandable, straight baton offers the most advantages related to training, ease of use, portability, positive public perception, and deterrent capability. 4 photographs