My eBay S&W Handcuffs

Revolver Man · #1 01-12-2018, 04:23 PM

So I’ve always wanted a pair of S&W stainless steel handcuffs that were like my Dad carried. I have his in a shadow box with his badges and other police items. A quick look on eBay and I saw these. I like that they have the hidden rivets, unlike the newer ones. I placed a bid on them and won them, and had them shipped to my door for $16.94. I felt that was a good price for a pair of used S&W cuffs. They appear to not have been used much. The paw spring is very tight and strong. No sign of wear on the teeth. The exterior finish is a little worn, and they appear to be nickel. They weren’t advertised as stainless, I just liked that they were the older style without exposed rivets. I thought I would take a chance and see if any of you knowledgeable folks knew anything about their general time of manufacture. I know that the serial number tells us nothing, and there is no model number anywhere on them.

Thanks

-db- · #2 01-12-2018, 05:06 PM

Not sure you have a stainless set there. It's an older set but look like regular Model 90 cuffs. Stainless were Model 938 and the bows are marked with a stamped S to denote Stainless. Yours are still a good buy at the price you got them for.

JM4151 · #3 01-12-2018, 05:41 PM

You got a good deal on the handcuffs. The price is definitely great. If you ever see a pair of Aluminum S & W cuffs for under $150 grab them, they are very desirable and in demand.

Xfuzz · #4 01-12-2018, 06:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JM4151

You got a good deal on the handcuffs. The price is definitely great. If you ever see a pair of Aluminum S & W cuffs for under $150 grab them, they are very desirable and in demand.

Especially a boxed pair....

les.b · #5 01-12-2018, 06:56 PM

Very cool... I especially like that they look exactly like the ones I carried, and are described as "older style". Sort of like me!!

I have several sets of S&W cuffs, nickle (which I believe the OP's are), blued, parkerized (given to me by a Navy guy) and aluminum. I also have several sets of Peerless brand. I've never thought of photographing them, though. Maybe I'll try to round them up and get a shot.

Best Regards, Les

Old cop · #6 01-12-2018, 07:12 PM

I still have my Pearless cuffs, purchased new in 1968 and used throughout my 30 year career. Anyone remember those?

Fishinfool · #7 01-12-2018, 07:18 PM

I believe they are nickel plated. I have owned several pairs like them. Also owned a blued pair, but did not care for them, as they tended to rust with use.

Now you need a set of leg irons, a belly chain, and a black box and pad lock to complete the set...

Larry

viceunit · #8 01-12-2018, 07:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Old cop

I still have my Pearless cuffs, purchased new in 1968 and used throughout my 30 year career. Anyone remember those?

I still have my original issue (1979) Peerless, serial # 940655. We were required to memorize that in the academy as handcuffs could easily be switched in multiple arrest situations. They let me keep them when I retired.

mrchuck · #9 01-12-2018, 07:52 PM

Still have mine, and also ankle bracelets.

Housepuss · #10 01-12-2018, 07:57 PM

I've still got my original pair of Peerless cuffs from the early 70's and a pair of high security cuffs I believe are S&W. Those have a cylindrical key which were suppose to offer more security from lock picking.

SG-688 · #11 01-12-2018, 09:49 PM

I think somebody posted a serial number to year list once.

My nickel flush-rivet mdl 90's that I can approximately date:
#1317xx used from a trooper (I know - no date - but a neat low #)
#5725xx purchased new in 1970
#7124xx purchased new in 1976

I always wanted a stainless pair.

I liked the key location for the S&W better than the Peerless. Much harder to tell which way to turn the key....

kbm6893 · #12 01-12-2018, 11:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Old cop

I still have my Pearless cuffs, purchased new in 1968 and used throughout my 30 year career. Anyone remember those?

The NYPD issued me Hyatt’s I think. Maybe Peerless. I still have them. Rarely used them. They had a serial number that I still remember (201895) and with sometimes multiple arrests with multiple cops, most cops were afraid of the serial numbered cuffs getting lost. My S&W sets saw lots of use. Still have those too.

-db- · #13 01-12-2018, 11:19 PM

From what I understand, S&W cuffs weren't sequentially serialed thus it's impossible to date them that way. Peerless, however, offers a historical service: How old are my Peerless(R) restraints? - Peerless Handcuff Company

dltvette · #14 01-12-2018, 11:32 PM

Revolver Man,
You got a great deal on a pair of S&W M-90 nickel plated handcuffs. The model 90's were manufactured through 1978.
If your looking for a stainless steel model introduced in 1961, there was a Model 936 that had a polished stainless steel finish and a Model 938 that was a standard stainless steel finish, and both has the letters S stamped on the jaw (bow, moveable arm).
Be careful, because collecting early Peerless handcuffs manufactured by Smith & Wesson and all the variations of the Smith & Wesson handcuffs can become an addiction.
Dave
Attached photos of my stainless steel M-936 & 938 showing the finish difference and the S stamping.
Also a photo of what an addiction can do to you.

opoefc · #15 01-13-2018, 01:22 AM

Dave, Thanks for posting the photos of your fantastic display of cuffs and restraints. I doubt if there's any therapy or recovery treatment to address your addiction ! Are you still seeking that elusive set of S&W Fur Lined cuffs ( pink fur?) , Model XXX ? Ed.

kennyb · #16 01-13-2018, 04:04 AM

I still have my peerless that I carried and used for many years

Revolver Man · #17 01-13-2018, 03:32 PM

Dave,

I really would like a set of 938’s. That’s what’s in my Dad’s shadow box. Any ideas on where to find some at a reasonable price?

Brad

scha · #18 01-13-2018, 04:12 PM

There is a pair of 938s on E-Bay at this time. Just do an E-Bay search on "Smith Handcuffs Stainless" and you should locate the auction. Hope this helps.

Steve

Muss Muggins · #19 01-13-2018, 04:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JM4151

You got a good deal on the handcuffs. The price is definitely great. If you ever see a pair of Aluminum S & W cuffs for under $150 grab them, they are very desirable and in demand.

I carry a pair every day . . .

03clyde · #20 01-13-2018, 04:28 PM

I'd still love to score a pair stamped NYSP to add to my collection of agency items.

KSDeputy · #21 01-13-2018, 04:45 PM

I have a new pair of those, good cuffs.

les.b · #22 01-13-2018, 05:55 PM

Here are my blues Smith and Wesson handcuffs that I picked up somewhere back in the 70s, I think.

I mostly used the nickle plated pair that I was issued. These may be the set that was given to me by a friend in the Navy.... One of their investigative units, 40 years later, details escape me.

I'll try to dig up some of the other sets that I have around here.

Best Regards, Les

SG-688 · #23 01-13-2018, 09:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by -db-

From what I understand, S&W cuffs weren't sequentially serialed thus it's impossible to date them that way. ...

Poking around after seeing this thread, I found similar statements and also that S&W duplicated serial numbers. So what did they do, stamp random numbers??? Put me down for 30% skeptical; don't doubt that numbers were not closely controlled.

New to me was a different location of the stamped rectangle under the key hole in early S&W cuffs. There was an attempt to date that by the pictures in catalogs and ads. I'm skeptical about that since S&W used the same firearm pictures for decades.

can you date S&W cufffs also could use a set of keys

S&W Handcuffs NYPD

Any significance to the handcuff Model 100 and the serial number.

I've surely read these threads at the time. Forgot most of it! dltvette is especially good and that -db- guy too.

Quote:

Originally Posted by dltvette

zignon,
The S&W Model 90 handcuffs, which you have, were introduced in 1952 and manufactured until approximately 1979. There were three variations of the placement of the "detent" (the indenture stamping that creates a dog to engage the pawl ditch on the jaw arm.
The early production examples have the detent between the keyway & the center of the body (lockset) of the cuff. (center cuff in photo)
The later production examples have the detent under the keyway. (left cuff in photo)
Then there was a variant version with the detent just off-set the keyway towards the center.
Unlike the Peerless handcuffs that can be dated by the serial numbers stamped on them, Smith & Wesson did not keep records of their handcuffs by the numbers stamped on them whether a serial number or requested identification number. Out of all the S&W handcuffs I have collected, I have never found a duplicate number within any model S&W handcuff manufactured.
Pictured below is a photo of the three M-90 detent variations I have encountered.
Left: Later version #244423
Center: Early version #4388
Right: Variant version #151521
Dave

-db- · #24 01-13-2018, 10:45 PM

It is my understanding that the numbers stamped on S&W cuffs were provided as a courtesy for agencies/end users to be able to catalog them for their own inventory purposes while S&W themselves maintained no records of the numbers. This would explain duplicates and the seemingly randomness of the numbers.

Ole Joe Clark · #25 01-13-2018, 10:46 PM

I almost laughed at the statement about collecting cuffs becoming an addiction. Especially on this forum.
Fortunately I have never felt those things around my wrists, I see folks sometimes that I think need them though. :-)

Have a blessed day,

Leon

S&WsRsweet · #26 01-14-2018, 08:45 AM

I got arrested once years ago , I didn't care much for being handcuffed but I was very polite and went along with it all ,the cop told the magistrate I was the nicest guy he had ever arrested mhim and me became pretty good friends and did a lot of hunting together .I use to pick on him and say yea I "let" you arrest me once that was ya freebie next time you are gonna have to run me down and catch me like a real criminal. He ran track in HS and college he didn't seeem to think it would be an issue lol.

dltvette · #27 01-14-2018, 04:02 PM

Revolver Man,
I only have one pair of the Model 938's and they are in the original box.
If you keep watching eBay you might find a pair. They might not describe them as M-938, so just check the photos closely.
If I had an extra pair I would be willing to help you out.
Dave

dltvette · #28 01-14-2018, 04:21 PM

[JM4151:If you ever see a pair of Aluminum S & W cuffs for under $150 grab them, they are very desirable and in demand. QUOTE]

JM4151, This is my favorite pair of Smith & Wesson Model 926 Lightweight Aluminum Polished Bright Handcuffs.
These were engraved by Smith & Wesson's Factory Engraver Domingos Joaquim . They are serial number 000730.
Hope everyone will enjoy these,
Dave

Xfuzz · #29 01-14-2018, 06:50 PM

Sir dltvette...

Dilly...Dilly !!!

les.b · #30 01-18-2018, 06:42 PM

Well, I found my aluminum S&W cuffs, not quite as spiffy as Dave's, no engraving on them, other than my name lightly scratched in on them somewhere. They were still in the Bianchi case that I used to carry them in when I worked plainclothes. I tried to carry them just hooked over my belt like I did with my steel cuffs, but the aluminum is not anodized, and it will rub off and leave a stain on clothes. These cuffs have been all over the country, from Atlantic to Pacific, from Maine to Texas, and Wahington State to Arizona.

They have a real low serial #, if that means anything....000385.

I guess these were from the late 70s, early 80s???

Best Regards, Les

dltvette · #31 01-18-2018, 11:10 PM

Les, nice M-926.
There were 2 models of Lightweight Aluminum S&W cuffs introduced in 1958.
Model 925 Lightweight Aluminum Nickel Finish (dropped from catalog after March 1966)
Model 926 Lightweight Aluminum Polished Bright Finish
Dave

les.b · #32 01-19-2018, 08:16 PM

Here’s the set that I was issued in 1975. I think.

They had a unique serial...easy to remember, 133661 !!!

Hard for me to photograph the Nickie. Apparent spots are just worn shines spots on the Nickie.

Best Regards, Les

cbore · #33 02-26-2018, 07:10 PM

Didn't know was a such big group of S&W handcuffs collectors. As a Jail Administror I carry a set of ASP (like the key hole on both side) or my old pair of Smith airweight.We use Peerless in the Detention Center. I have several new Smith in the box from the 70's will post pictures.

federali · #34 02-26-2018, 07:34 PM

23 years after I retired, I was cleaning out a little-used closet in my basement where I found two sets of S&W cuffs that were issued to me by my agency. I obtained the name of the current equipment manager and returned both sets of cuffs to my agency.

scha · #35 02-26-2018, 07:48 PM

One of the more interesting handcuffs is the Peerless 1912 handcuff that was marked "Mfgd by Smith & Wesson". When Peerless came out with the first swing through handcuff they did not have a production capability and they contracted with Smith & Wesson for production. Smith & Wesson actually manufactured Peerless handcuffs until around 1940.

dltvette · #36 02-26-2018, 09:39 PM

To add to what scha posted, the first Peerless handcuffs manufactured by Smith & Wesson was what collectors call the "Patent Model". This model was constructed with two right hand cuffs with a "curved" lock case connected by a single chain link. This model was stamped on the front, keyway side, MFGD. BY SMITH & WESSON PAT. FEB. 20.1912.

The second one with the MFGD. BY SMITH & WESSON stamping, was the Model 1 Version 1 example. There were 7 versions of the Model 1.
The Model 1 Version 1 were constructed with a right & left hand cuff connected by a single chain link. This lock case had a straight side opposed to two curved sides. The stamping MFGD. BY SMITH & WESSON is now on the back side of the cuff (opposite the keyway side), and it does not have the 1912 patent date stamped on it.

The third one with the MFGD. BY SMITH & WESSON stamping, was the Model 1, Version 2. This version was the same as the Version 1 and was stamped the same except this was first example to have a Peerless logo stamped on it. This logo was only used on the Model 1 Version 2 example, and was the early logo prior to the logo being registered. The logo had TRADE on top and MARK below.
This was the last example that was stamped, MFGD. BY SMITH & WESSON and the last example being joined together by one single chain link. Model 1 Version 3 and there after the cuffs were joined by two chain links.

Photos 1 & 2 are the Patent Model
Photos 3 & 4 are Model 1 Version 1
Photo 5 is the early logo on the Model 1 Version 2

Dave S&WCA LM #836

scha · #37 02-27-2018, 08:25 PM

Dave, thanks for the additional details about the 1912 Peerless handcuffs marked "mfgd by Smith & Wesson". As a small time handcuff collector I was aware of most of this information. I would like to know if you have specific dates when each version of these cuffs was manufactured. I have heard various dates that most "1912" model cuffs weren't made until "1915" or so. Thoughts? Thanks Steve

dltvette · #38 02-27-2018, 09:57 PM

scha,
I do not have definitive documentation when S&W manufactured the first handcuffs for Peerless. This is what I know:
On October 4, 1911, George A. Carney filed for his patent on his swing-thru arm handcuff. On February 20, 1912 patented number 1,017,955 was granted.
James M. Gill, Springfield, Mass. Police Commissioner, purchased this patent from George Carney, and on June 22, 1914, the Peerless Handcuff Company was incorporated in Springfield, Mass.
After James Gill met with Joseph Wesson and the patent was reviewed, Carney did not have an adequate lock system designed to have the handcuffs properly function. Joseph Wesson then designed an improved lock mechanism and case, and on October 6, 1914 his application was filed with the patent office. His patent number 1,161,562 was granted on November 23, 1915.
I believe sometime around October 1914, or soon after, production began, prior to Joseph Wesson's patent being granted. The first handcuffs only have the Feb. 20, 1912 patent stamped on them. If they would have waited to start manufacture after Joseph Wesson's patent was granted, they probably would have both dates on them. This first example incorporated Joseph Wesson's lock system.
The first piece of documentation I have is a parts, production operation & price list for Peerless Handcuffs manufactured by Smith & Wesson dated March 1917. This was for the Model 1, Version 3. The first pair with the cuffs joined together by two single links.
So, prior to this March 1917 document, the Patent Model, Model 1, Version 1 & Model 1, Version 2, all with a single chain link joining the cuffs, and the MFGD BY SMITH & WESSON stamping were manufactured.
Hope this helps a little,
Dave

okiegtrider · #39 02-27-2018, 11:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Old cop

I still have my Pearless cuffs, purchased new in 1968 and used throughout my 30 year career. Anyone remember those?

Still using the same set of Peerless since 1984. Like me, they are a little rusty, but still on the job.

4506517 · #40 03-04-2018, 02:49 PM

Carried daily, enjoyed by many.

These two pair of blued 300s have seen a lot of use. Kind of neat to see the differences between both of them.

Not real big on the way S & Ws lock, but I like the smaller size as it restricts mobility better.

sigp220.45 · #41 03-04-2018, 03:42 PM

I managed to hang onto this blued set for 8 years in the Air Force and 25 years in the FBI. It was a challenge sometimes during a big round up to get ‘em back, but I always did. I gave each of my kids one of my duty guns when I retired - my daughter got my Model 36 and I put these in the presentation case with the gun.

My favorite part of the first Lethal Weapon film is after Riggs cuffs himself to a suicide jumper and then jumps with him into a rescue bag. As the uniformed LAPD officer leads the jumper away, Riggs says - those are my cuffs. I want them back.

dltvette · #42 03-04-2018, 06:10 PM

4506517,
Nice pair of Model 300 Hinged handcuffs. These were introduced in mid-1991.
The Model 300-1 you show, were introduced in 2011.
The very first S&W Hinged handcuff was the Model 200 & the Model 210 (oversized hinged cuff). These were introduced in 1990, but only lasted about one year before taken out of production. It featured a one-way folding hinge, folding inward, opposite the key-way side. This was a weak design and was prone to being "snapped apart" by the restrained subject.
Shown are photos of both M-200 & M-210.
Dave

les.b · #43 03-04-2018, 08:22 PM

Here's a pair that I found in my desk at work...forgot that I had them. Peerless. We bought several pair to use in a training course that we were putting on years ago.

Somewhere I have a set of leg irons from the same program.

Best Regards, Les

lawandorder · #44 03-04-2018, 09:13 PM

I had seen cuffs that were personalized before and one or two sets that were engraved so wanted to have the primary set I used from 1976 untill I retired last year done up as a memento.

A local fellow does some engraving and was able to fix me up. If I can ever get around to replacing the photo hosting site will put an image up.