Does anyone have feedback on Expandable Batons, ASP or Monadnock, 19", 21", or 26"?

Question

Law Enforcment, or Private Security Contractors reply, all others please withhold your comments.

I need feedback from the perspective of low profile, concealed carry.

Answer 1

Many departments/offices have a "max length" rule for ASP batons (usually 21 inches is as long as your allowed),

This is due to the "intimidation factor" carrying a longer baton has on people (just like walking around with "fingerless" gloves -  which is a big no-no in most departments/offices).

The only exception to the "max length" rule is when you work a specific job in the department/office that would justify needing the longer reach (such as being apart of the mounted division of a department/office).

Answer 2

ASP is the better brand, and 19 inch is the easier to conceal.  Unless you are over 6'6" in height, the 26 inch baton is harder to conceal, and harder to handle, it's like trying to swing a baseball bat.

Answer 3

I carry a Monadnock 26 inch. I don't know about other areas, but 26 inch seems to be the standard for duty carry here. However, I can see it being too big for concealed carry. I think 21 inch would be far better suited for that.

I'm not a huge fan of batons, I have used them and if a situation comes up, I will use them again...However, I tend to go 6-12 months without using mine as a patrol officer. Other people may have different opinions.

Answer 4

I carry a 19' ASP, easy to control and not to hard to walk around with it on my belt.  

Answer 5

From a private-security standpoint I really like the 19" models. You can carry it in your trouser pocket if your carrier is not handy. Not many punks or wackos bothering the posts I was at, but was useful for smashing a window on a vehicle rescue and another time for accessing a fire hose. Plus some spots were in spider country, very helpful to use something other than a finger for dealing with cobwebs on exterior verifications. Unlike a wood baton or PR24, its strong point is that when collapsed it's small enough that you can always have it on you getting in the car, getting out of the car, in ANY chair, out of any chair, walking, running, any position. Protection wise a 19" in trained hands can be just as effective as a 26".

Answer 6

If you are going to carry a baton under a blazer, I would recommend the 19 inch.  I carry a 21 inch, but I am in uniform.  I have a Smith and Wesson as well as a Monadnock.  I purchased one and the other was issued to me.  Either brand would be decently priced.  However, ASP is definitely the best.  I must tell you that the ASP will cost you considerably more than any other brand.