ASP has determined that a small number of Ultra Plus Handcuffs have internal lock sets that may malfunction under certain circumstances, and is offering replacement parts for affected restraints, at no cost. These parts are easily user-installed.
Background:
This issue relates to a very small percentage of removable Ultra Plus single pawl lock sets from specific/known production runs between 2022 and 2023. The polymer in the housings of the affected lock sets had material and/or molding issues that may cause the polymer to crack when a key is rotated in the lock with significant torque.
As a result, the Ultra Plus Cuffs may malfunction. In most cases they will prevent the cuffs from being engaged; in very rare cases they may not stay engaged, and there is a risk of a subject being released.
All available information suggests that the incidence rate of this failure is less than half a percent. However, ASP standards and practices dictate that even one failure is unacceptable. Production was stopped as soon as the problem was identified, and any remaining at-risk parts were destroyed. Material, production and quality control changes were made as necessary.
Resolution:
ASP will, at no cost whatsoever, replace any lock sets that fall within the known at-risk dates and lots. These include those in-use by agencies and/or officers in the field, and those still in our distributors’ inventory.
How to identify at-risk lock sets and request replacements:
If you have one or more pair of ASP single-pawl Ultra Plus handcuffs (easily identified by the yellow keyless double lock button), follow these simple steps to remove the lock sets, then:
- Look at the middle of the black polymer shell. If you don’t see both a “P” and a star symbol on one side, your lock set is not in the affected group. You can re-insert them in your handcuffs. If you do see both a “P” and a star, your lock sets should not be used and should be discarded/destroyed.
- If your lock sets are affected, simply fill out the appropriate form below. Use only the form that applies to you—either end user or distributor—and your replacement lock sets will be sent out promptly. Allow 10 to 14 business days for delivery.
- Insert the new lock sets in your handcuffs and check all functions.
Thank you for your understanding. There is nothing we at ASP take more seriously than quality, performance and officer safety.