FAQ

• What is the difference between a Friction and Talon Baton?
  

  The Friction is an impact-closing weapon, meaning it must be collapsed by striking it on a hard surface. The Talon closes by depressing the button or end cap and pressing the tip into your hand or into an ASP scabbard. Talon batons should never be closed by striking on a hard surface—this may damage the precision internal components and void the warranty.

• Is an airweight baton as effective as a steel model?
  

  Airweight batons offer 45% weight reduction but retain 98% of the striking potential of steel.

• What kind of baton training is available?
  

  ASP offers instructor certification programs at no charge, as a service to the law enforcement community. For a list of upcoming ASP Instructor Certification (AIC) programs, visit the AIC Class Schedule page.

• Can I buy a baton?
  

  If you are not law enforcement, licensed security or in a similarly qualified role, possession or use of an expandable baton may be regulated or prohibited by law in some jurisdictions. If there is any question, check with your local police department. Buyers are responsible for knowing and adhering to all laws that may apply to the products purchased.

• How do I know if a baton attachment is compatible with my baton?
  

  All attachments include either “F-Series” or “T-Series” in the description. F-Series attachments are compatible with Friction Batons. T-Series attachments are compatible with Talon Batons. F- and T-Series attachments are not compatible with Protector or Agent concealable batons.

• What do I do if my Friction Baton opens too easily or will not stay closed?
  

  The retaining clip regulates the force required to extend the shafts of your ASP baton. Each clip is set at the factory to prevent unintentional opening. To allow the baton to open more easily, unscrew the baton cap from the handle and remove the retaining clip. Squeeze the sides of the clip closer together. Apply a light coating of oil to the inside of the smallest shaft. Reassemble the baton. If the baton opens too easily, reshape the clip so its sides are wider apart. See Video Here

• How do I retract my ASP Baton?
  

  If you have a Friction Baton, strike the tip of the baton sharply downward on a hard surface. Impact on a soft surface such as carpet or wooden floors may not release the shafts.
  If you have a Talon Baton, depress the release button or cap. Apply positive pressure on the tip until the baton is fully retracted. Do not strike the tip of the baton to close it. Placing the tip against a hand or inside a scabbard provides sufficient resistance to retract the baton. See Video Here

• What do I do if my baton is stuck open?
  

  Start by making sure the retaining clip is not broken. If your Friction Baton is stuck open, hold the baton at an angle and tap the sides of the tip on a hard surface. This will usually help to release the shafts. Then close the baton straight up and down. Do not close the baton at an angle.
  If your Talon Baton will not close, apply a very small amount of oil to the O-ring guides (see next FAQ).

• What maintenance is required on a Talon Baton?
  

  Talon Batons are designed to require little to no maintenance, other than keeping them clean and dry like any precision tool. If your Talon is not operating smoothly and needs lubrication, expand the baton and hold the tip upward. Place a small amount of gun-quality lubricant (such as Break Free) into the joints between the tube sections. Extend and close the baton several times to make sure the tubes are well lubricated. Wipe off excess oil.

• What do I do if my ASP scabbard holds the baton too loosely or too tightly?
  

  ASP scabbards can be adjusted to increase or decrease baton retention. To adjust the retention bar, rotate the back plate to access the hex key. Use the key to remove the screws from the back panel of the scabbard. Remove the retention bar. To increase retention pressure on the baton, bend the retention bar to create more of a bow inside the body of the case. To reduce retention pressure, flatten the bar to reduce contact inside the body of the case. Reassemble and secure the back plate, and re-stow the hex key for future use. See Video Here

• What makes ASP Plus Cuffs so strong?
  

  Plus Cuffs feature frames forged from 7075 T6 ordnance grade aluminum, permanently joined by 4140 heat treated spiral locking pins. Their exclusive design, materials and assembly result in handcuffs that are uniquely strong and precise, while also reducing weight.

• What makes ASP handcuffs different from others on the market?
  

  ASP handcuffs were designed with an extraordinary level of input from the field. ASP trainers surveyed instructors and officers around the world, and worked with our product development and manufacturing teams to incorporate the most desirable and demanded features into the design. ASP restraints are covered by over a dozen patents and boast features like dual-sided keyways, keyless double locks, replaceable/interchangeable lock sets, and much more (specific features vary by model).

• What is the difference between single pawl and two pawl handcuffs?
  

  ASP Plus Cuff lock sets are modular and replaceable, to allow rapid field servicing and repair if ever necessary. Lock sets are color-coded—red for training, yellow for single pawl and blue for two pawl. Red training cuffs can be self-opened by rotating the wrists outward, to increase training repetitions and safety. Single pawl cuffs are the most popular, standard duty restraints, and may be opened using standard handcuff keys. Two pawl restraints feature a high-security design, with a stainless steel center dividing plate between the pawls. This makes shimming or picking virtually impossible, and requires a special key (included) to unlock the restraints. The included key will also open standard police handcuffs.

• How do you double lock ASP restraints?
  

  Plus Cuffs feature keyless, push-button double locking. Sentry Cuffs are double locked by using the pin of the handcuff key to slide the double lock bar into position.

• How do I maintain my ASP restraints?
  

  ASP restraints should be inspected regularly to ensure proper function. They should be kept clean and lubricated, and carried in a suitable protective case. Should the handcuffs become contaminated with blood or other bodily fluids, use an appropriate bleach solution (rinse and dry thoroughly) or autoclave sterilization. Avoid temperatures above 300°F (148.9°C). After sterilization, apply a small amount of firearm-quality lubricant to the pivot pins, cycle several times and wipe off excess oil.

• What kind of handcuff training is available?
  

  ASP offers instructor certification programs at no charge, as a service to the law enforcement community. For a list of upcoming ASP Instructor Certification (AIC) programs, visit the AIC Class Schedule page.

• What do I do if my handcuffs will not unlock?
  

  If your handcuffs will not unlock, start by checking the color of the lock set (applies to Plus Cuffs only). If the lock set is blue, it requires the special high security handcuff key that was included with the restraints. If the lock set is yellow (Plus Cuffs), or you are using Sentry Cuffs, and they will not unlock with a standard handcuff key, please contact us.

• Are ASP flashlights waterproof?
  

  ASP flashlights are O-ring sealed for a high level of water and weather-resistance, but they are not waterproof or intended for immersion/submersion.

• What does the charging indicator light mean on my rechargeable light?
  

  When the light is attached to power and charging, it will blink red. It will turn solid green once fully charged.

• What are the ANSI FL1 Standards and all those icons about?
  

  The ANSI (American National Standards Institute) FL1 Standards are the criteria for measuring performance of portable lighting. The ASP website, packaging and flashlight information materials feature icons that indicate the lumens (total light output), run time, impact resistance and water resistance.

• Is there a performance difference between the two “Dual Fuel” power sources?
  

  ASP rechargeable lights come with lithium-ion batteries that may be charged inside or outside the light (depending on model). Models specified as “Dual Fuel” allow the lithium-ion batteries to be swapped for disposable (primary) cells. For example, an 18650 rechargeable battery is interchangeable with two CR123A primary cells. This is intended mainly as a backup power option, and performance may vary when using primary cells.

• What kind of flashlight training is available?
  

  ASP offers instructor certification programs at no charge, as a service to the law enforcement community. For a list of upcoming ASP Instructor Certification (AIC) programs, visit the AIC Class Schedule page.

• My light doesn’t turn on, what should I do?
  

  The vast majority of ASP flashlights returned to us for repair need nothing more than fresh batteries. So, before returning your light, check that the batteries are fresh/fully charged and installed correctly (positive terminals towards lens). Also ensure that the cap is screwed on all the way. If you have checked all of these things and your light still doesn’t work, please return the light to us with a description of the problem, your contact information and return address.

• What type of batteries are recommended for my ASP flashlight?
  

  ASP rechargeable lights run on included 18650, 21700 or 10900 lithium-ion cells, depending on model. Dual Fuel lights may also accept disposable batteries—such as CR123A primary cells—sold separately. When choosing batteries for Dual Fuel use, select high-performance lithium cells for optimum performance.

• What is a PTC protection circuit and why should I care?
  

  Lithium batteries are stable in a wide range of temperatures. However, when used in devices such as high energy flashlights with a high rate of discharge, internal cell heat can build up. Using inferior batteries without protection circuits can result in explosive conditions. ASP lithium batteries incorporate a Positive Thermal Coefficient (PTC) device and pressure relief vent. If an ASP battery short circuits or discharges at currents above its design limit, the PTC causes the cell’s internal resistance to increase, limiting the amount of current that can be drawn and keeping the internal cell temperature within safe limits.

• Can I use an ASP 18650 rechargeable battery in other brands of flashlights?
  

  Older model ASP 18650 batteries were designed to only work with ASP lights. The newest generation of our rechargeable batteries (black with green caps) will work with any 18650-compatible flashlights. Check our Battery Reference Guide for more information.

• Can I use a non-ASP 18650 rechargeable battery in an ASP flashlight?
  

  Older model ASP lights were designed to only work with ASP batteries. Our newest generation of flashlights will work with any quality 18650 cells, though we recommend ASP batteries for maximum performance and safety (batteries from other brands may not have all of the built-in safety features of ASP cells).

• Can I use any charge cord with my rechargeable ASP flashlight?
  

  ASP rechargeable lights and batteries accept standard portable electronics charge cords, either Micro USB or USB-C, depending on model.

• What happens if I plug a charger into my rechargeable flashlight with CR123A batteries inside?
  

  The safety circuit will prevent charging current from passing through any batteries other than the compatible ASP lithium-ion, so the flashlight will not be damaged or present an improper charging danger.

• What is oleoresin capsicum (OC)?
  

  Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) is a natural substance found in the oily resin of Cayenne and other varieties of peppers. OC particles in a sprayed mist, fog, gel or stream are attracted to the eyes, mucous membranes and respiratory system. This incapacitates an attacker by inducing an immediate burning sensation and swelling of the eyes.

• How powerful is ASP Pepper Spray?
  

  ASP’s pepper spray formulation has 1.4% major capsaicinoids (MC), making them among the most potent OC products available.

• Can I practice using my OC Defender?
  

  ASP Metro and Sport Defenders feature interchangeable/replaceable insert canisters, allowing you to switch between “Heat” (the active formulation to be carried for self defense) and “Inert” aerosols for training and practice. ASP Defender LE sprays are available in both active OC and inert variants for law enforcement training.

• Is it legal for me to carry pepper spray?
  

  Possession or use of OC may be regulated or prohibited by law in some jurisdictions. We provide a general, state-by-state guide based on available information, but we cannot guarantee the accuracy of this data, so if there is any question, check with your local police department. Buyers are responsible for knowing and adhering to all laws that may apply to the products purchased. IMPORTANT: Pepper spray cannot be shipped to AK, HI, MA, NY, Puerto Rico or the Virgin Islands, or internationally. May be shipped to other locations via ground service only. If you are in a prohibited shipping location, click here to find your nearest ASP retailer.

• How do I know when to replace my spray, and why do I need to?
  

  For Metro or Sport Defenders, each Heat Insert has a recommended replacement date marked on the gold ferrule, near the white stem. For Defender LE sprays, the replacement date is printed on the canister label. Although the OC itself will not lose its potency, as with any aerosol product, canisters may lose pressure over time. Regardless of the date marked, we recommend replacing your Heat Insert once a year on a memorable date (as you might with smoke detector batteries). Inserts/canisters should be disposed of in accordance with the environmental regulations in your area.

• What is the safe temperature range in which to store my ASP Defender?
  

  Do not store your Defender in an environment where the temperature may exceed 120°F (50°C), such as an enclosed vehicle; the Heat OC Insert may leak from over-pressurization and fail to function properly. Do not store the unit in a cold environment under 32°F (0°C). This may cause depressurization and decrease the effective range.

• Can I bring my ASP Defender on an airplane?
  

  According to FAA rules at the time of this writing, yes. A single ASP Metro or Sport Defender is below the volume threshold (checked bags only) and has the required safety features: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/pepper-spray. However, since FAA rules and regulations change regularly, we err on the safe side by printing on our packaging that they are prohibited on commercial airlines. We suggest checking the TSA website before you travel.

• What do I do after discharging my Defender?
  

  After activating any Defender, the insert (Metro or Sport) or complete canister (LE) should always be replaced—even if you don’t think you emptied it—as you won’t know how much remains. Discard in accordance with local regulations. For Metro and Sport Defenders, after removing the used insert, unscrew the Defender nozzle tip and wash it thoroughly in warm, soapy water. Run hot water through the dispersion port to remove any remaining OC oils. Place the new Insert stem first into the Defender. Do not push on the Insert once it is inside the defender. Screw the cap into the body. For Defender LE/law enforcement use, follow agency policies.

• What do I do if I come in contact with OC?
  

  Remove contact lenses and contaminated clothing immediately. Flush the contaminated area with large quantities of cool water. Expose the affected region to fresh air. Wash hands, face and hair with soap and water to remove the Capsicum oils. ASP Decon can also be used. Do not apply salves, creams, oils or lotions, as they can trap the irritant agent on the skin and result in blisters or burns. Continue washing with soap and water until the irritant oils are eliminated. Wash contaminated clothing. Consult a physician if irritation persists.

• What kind of OC training is available?
  

  ASP offers instructor certification programs at no charge, as a service to the law enforcement community. For a list of upcoming ASP Instructor Certification (AIC) programs, visit the AIC Class Schedule page.

For more information, visit our Training Programs page.

• What is the AIC Instructor Certification (AIC) Program?
  The AIC certifies provides Instructors with the skills and certification necessary to train officers in field use of the ASP Expandable Baton, Tactical Restraints, Performance Flashlights and OC.
• Do I have to pay for AIC Certification?
  No. Armament Systems and Procedures proudly provides ASP Instructor Certification classes completely tuition-free to qualified law enforcement personnel and agencies.
• What requirements do I have to meet to attend an AIC class?
  Applicants/candidates should be currently certified as instructors (defensive tactics, etc.) within their agencies, or have attended an ABC (ASP Basic Certification) course prior to attending AIC training.
• What will I be required to do during AIC Training?
  The AIC is a multi-day, hands-on, intensely physical instructor training program. There is also classroom instruction that develops a conceptual framework for the use of force by law enforcement personnel.
• By attending an AIC class, am I automatically certified?
  No. All ASP training is competency based. In fact, it is rare that all participants in a class are certified. This is one of the few training programs in the world in which attendance does not guarantee certification.
• Who designed the ASP Instructor Certification Program?
  The core program is based upon principles developed by ASP CEO Dr. Kevin Parsons, an internationally-recognized and respected expert in use-of-force training. The program is continuously updated and refined by the ASP Training Cadre based on Instructor input and ASP Trainer Evaluations.
• What is the conceptual framework for ASP training?
  The ASP program uses the Confrontational Continuum® as its model for the response of law enforcement personnel to the actions of an assailant.
• Why are ASP techniques so effective?
  ASP training employs fundamental techniques which are trained to a level of competency. As a result, the program is easily mastered, readily retained and may be effectively implemented during even the most dynamic confrontation.
• Is ASP training court defensible?
  Yes. No training program can assure that an agency will not be sued. However, field evaluations have demonstrated that ASP training reduces the number of injuries sustained by both officers and assailants, and reduces the number of lawsuits filed for excessive force. The ASP program is based upon extensive input from the nation's most senior police trial attorneys.
• Who instructs the AIC program?
  ASP Instructor classes are conducted by Certified Trainers who have been selected as a result of their individual skill level and have received specialized instruction regarding the technical and operational aspects of the ASP Baton, Tactical Restraints, Performance Flashlights and OC?
• Can I receive AIC Certification if I've never instructed a class before?
  Probably not. AIC training is designed for individuals who have either completed the ASP Basic Certification course or are already instructors in another discipline. An individual with no background in defensive tactics or training will have difficulty mastering the skills necessary for AIC Certification during an ASP training course.
• How do I register for an AIC Program?
  Click here for a list of upcoming AIC training sessions to register online. Individual agencies can also sponsor an AIC program. The procedures and requirements for conducting a training course are outlined in a manual that is available from ASP.
• Can my agency sponsor AIC training?
  Yes. Armament Systems and Procedures will conduct an AIC program when a minimum of 15 agencies in a regional area request training. Class size is restricted to 40 participants.
• How do we schedule an AIC?
  Contact our Training Coordinator, or ask your ASP regional Director.
• What should I do to prepare for my AIC training?
  Aerobic conditioning exercises including running, cycling and swimming are excellent preparation for the fitness demands of AIC training. Product specific skills, instructor training techniques and use of force concepts will be taught in the class.
• What do I receive when I'm ASP Certified?
  ASP Instructors are awarded a certificate, identification card, the distinctive Instructor Strike Force lapel pin and an Instructor challenge coin.
• Do I have to pay for a yearly update to stay certified?
  No. There is no charge for ASP training. The frequency of recertification is based upon the agency's perception of instructor competency, rather than a defined time frame.
• Is my certification revoked if my agency purchases a competitive product?
  No. There is no connection between ASP training and product sales.
• Do I have to pay the company to certify my officers?
  No. ASP has no requirements for officer certification payment.
• Do I have to order my training materials from ASP?
  An ASP Basic Certification (ABC) package is available. It includes a lapel pin, mouth guard, identification card, certificate, training manual, information sheet and training critique. The package is sold at a minimal charge to cover costs. However, for those agencies that do not wish to use the package, ASP will provide the training protocol—which the agency may duplicate freely—at no charge.
• As an AIC Instructor, who am I certified to train?
  ASP Instructors can train field level personnel through the ASP Basic Certification Program (ABC).
• Is there a training level beyond AIC?
  Yes. Individuals who are certified to train instructors are classified as ASP Instructor Trainers. There are 100 of these positions worldwide. Each Trainer has been selected through a rigorous screening process, and then must have successfully completed a grueling ASP Trainer Certification (ATC) course. ATC is widely considered the most challenging training program in law enforcement, and in fact no ATC has ever had 100% of candidates pass. This is a reflection of our uncompromising standards when it comes to anything that impacts officer safety.
• Why does ASP provide training at no charge?
  Armament Systems and Procedures feels that it has a responsibility to the law enforcement personnel that it serves, to provide quality training in the use of its products. The use of force is perhaps the most significant issue faced by modern police agencies, and to us, officer safety is paramount. By giving back to the profession that we serve every day, we live up to our motto: Protecting Those Who Protect.

Learn more about ASP here.

• How do I purchase ASP products outside of the United States?
  

  ASP has distributors and dealers around the world. Check out our Dealer Locator to find one in your area.

• How do I become an ASP dealer?
  

  If you are interested in becoming an ASP dealer please complete the Dealer Inquiry form.

This original manufacturing warranty covers most ASP products for life. Sentry Batons carry a 1-year warranty. Expired or used Defender Inserts and depleted batteries are not covered by warranty. Product-specific warranty information is found in the clamshell card in the packaging; if you have warranty questions, please contact us.

For more information on warranty and repairs, click here.

Gift Card Terms & Use

ASP e-gift cards are redeemable online at checkout for eligible merchandise at asp-usa.com, and delivered by email with instructions for redemption; they are not redeemable for cash except where required by law and cannot be returned for a refund. Gift card value remains on the card until redeemed; unused balances retain value under applicable law and may not be subject to expiration or fees except as permitted by law. Gift Cards should be treated like cash — ASP is not responsible for lost or stolen card information. Use of the gift card constitutes acceptance of these terms.

Gift Voucher Terms & Use

ASP gift vouchers are promotional discount instruments (not gift cards) and are valid for up to the face value toward a single order at asp-usa.com. Vouchers must be redeemed in one transaction only; no residual value, balance, or credit is stored or carried forward. Gift vouchers are not for sale, not redeemable for cash, cannot be used to purchase gift cards or apply toward training program deposits, and have no implied warranties. ASP is not responsible for lost, stolen, damaged, or unauthorized use of vouchers. Use of a gift voucher constitutes acceptance of these terms and applicable ASP Terms & Conditions.

We take your privacy seriously, and follow the best industry practices in the storage and use of visitor and customer data. Click here to see our complete Privacy Policy.