Batons for Close Combat
A baton is a long, cylindrical or conical striking weapon wielded with one hand. Starting from the simple, unworked or only slightly worked wooden club, the baton is likely the oldest known close combat weapon. Batons are classified as impact and percussion weapons, as they do not penetrate the body upon impact.
Batons: From Club to Tonfa
Due to its simplicity, the origins of the baton cannot be precisely dated. In essence, even a simple, wooden and unworked stick can be used as a baton. However, such primitive variants of the baton are now referred to as clubs. Nowadays, batons are mainly used by the military, police, and security services and are widespread worldwide.
Types of Batons
The Tonfa is a baton extended by a cross handle, which can be made of metal, wood, or hard rubber. It is believed that the tonfa originated in China and was used there as a tool for moving millstones. The characteristic cross handle of the tonfa allows for additional handling options such as quick wrist spins. Furthermore, the weapon can also be used to protect the user's forearm.
Rubber batons, as used by the police, consist of rubber-coated hardwood cores. Upon impact on bones, they recoil, preventing the full force of the blow from acting on the target. Solid rubber batons were banned over time because they transmitted the entire impulse, causing severe injuries.
The telescopic baton is also commonly used by police forces. It consists of multiple, usually three segments that can be telescoped and extended as needed. The handle segment serves as a sleeve for the two inner segments. Telescopic batons are typically made of aluminum or steel. The handle is usually covered with rubber or plastic. Small baton for enhanced striking power: Kubotan
Questions: Batons
Are Batons Allowed in Germany?
Whether a baton is prohibited or allowed in Germany depends on the specific variant. In any case, the baton is considered a weapon under the Firearms Act (§ 1 para. 2). It is generally forbidden to carry batons at public events (§ 42 WaffG). In the case of telescopic batons, carrying them in public is considered an administrative offense. However, possession and acquisition are allowed for persons over 18 years of age. Carrying telescopic batons is only allowed with a "legitimate interest," which includes professional duties, sports, customs, and generally recognized purposes. Carrying for self-defense purposes is not considered a legitimate interest. Carrying tonfas is generally prohibited according to § 42a Weapons Act, but acquisition and possession are allowed. Again, the weapon may be carried within the framework of a legitimate interest. Furthermore, use in film, photo, or television recordings is permitted. Transport must be in a closed container. Another type of baton to distinguish is the so-called "deadly weapon." According to German jurisprudence, these are flexible, weighted striking devices at the end. The impact energy is potentiated by the sling movement to a considerable movement and impact energy. Due to this whip effect, severe and serious injuries can be caused, which is why such weapons are prohibited in Germany. The same applies to the steel rod made of spring steel, which is a flexible telescopic baton with an iron or lead ball at the tip.
What Accessories are Available for Batons?
If carrying is allowed, tonfas and rubber batons can be worn on specially designed belt holders, making them quickly accessible in case of emergency. For batons, if interchangeable, separate tips are available that are designed to break glass. Additionally, there are mirror attachments that allow the wearer to look around corners without exposing themselves to any potential danger.
