The extendable baton is a popular defense and intervention tool for law enforcement, security officers, and some civilians concerned about their personal protection. It offers a good compromise between compactness, deterrence, and effectiveness. However, not all models are created equal, and it’s essential to understand their strengths and weaknesses before purchasing one. In this article, we’ll explore the different criteria for choosing an extendable baton and analyze its advantages and limitations.
Selection Criteria
Manufacturing materials
The material of an extensible stick has a direct impact on its durability, weight and impact resistance.
- Toughened steel: Very strong and durable, but heavier. Ideal for professional use.
- Aluminium: Lighter but less resistant to repeated impacts.
- Reinforced polymers: Preferred for their lightness, but less effective in terms of striking force.
Opening mechanism
The system for extending an extensible stick determines its speed of deployment and its reliability.

- Friction Lock: Opens with a dry movement and locks by friction. Reliable, but may become difficult to close after intensive use.
- Button Lock: Operates with an unlock button. Easier to close but potentially less robust in case of violent use.
- Twist Lock: Requires a rotation to lock or unlock. Less common, but reliable.
3. Length and Weight
The choice of the length of an extensible stick must correspond to its use and to the morphology of the user.
- 16 inches (approximately 40 cm): Discrete and light, but reduced.
- 21 inches (approximately 53 cm): Ideal compromise between maneuverability and efficiency.
- 26 pouces (66 cm environ) : Plus de portée et d’impact, mais plus encombrant.
Weight should be considered to ensure effective handling without fatigue.
Handle and Ergonomics
A good handle ensures firm and comfortable support.
- Foam: Pleasant in hand, but can wear out quickly.
- Textured rubber: Good adhesion and durability.
- Grooved metal: Stronger but less comfortable over long uses.
Extensible Stick forces
Compact and Easy to Transport
When folded, the extendable stick is discreet and can be easily carried in a case in a belt, bag or even in a pocket for the shortest models.
The very act of opening an extensible stick produces a sound and a movement that may deter an aggressor even before the weapon is used.
Efficacy Decursive
Polyvalence
The extensible stick can be used for personal defense, crowd control, or window breeze in an emergency.
Ease of learning
With a minimum of training, it is possible to learn how to effectively use an extensible stick to defend oneself without necessarily mastering a martial art.
Weaknesses of the Extensible Stick
Variable equality
In several countries and regions, the wearing of an extensible stick is regulated or even prohibited. It is important to check local legislation before obtaining one.
Risk of Inappropriate Use

Without adequate training, an inexperienced user could seriously injure someone or injure themselves by mishandling the tool.
Limited efficiency in Restricted Space
In a cramped space, such as an elevator or a narrow corridor, the use of an extensible stick may be compromised due to the lack of recoil to strike effectively.
Fragility of Certain Models
Aluminium or reinforced polymer sticks may bend or break under violent shocks, reducing their lifetime.
Difficulty of closure
Closing lock models, in particular, can be difficult to close after several impacts, especially if the stick is of medium quality.

Conclusion
The extensible stick is a practical and effective defence tool, but its choice must be considered according to the intended use. It is essential to consider the materials, the locking system, the length and the handle before acquiring them. In addition, appropriate training is recommended to optimize its use and ensure safe handling. Finally, before buying an extensible stick, it is crucial to check its legality in your jurisdiction to avoid any involuntary infringement.
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— Tacti-Code (@stephanegamache.bsky.social) 14 mars 2025 à 15:07
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