What are Handcuffs?
Handcuffs are restraint devices which are designed to lock someone’s hands together, making it difficult for them to escape, hurt themselves, or injure someone else. Law enforcement personnel have been using versions of handcuffs in prisoner restraint for hundreds of years; the modern handcuff emerged around the mid-1800s, and numerous new variations started appearing in the late 20th century. The concept of tying someone’s hands together to restrict his or her freedom of movement is probably ancient, given that it is so basic. Early metal handcuffs were simply made from two hinged loops which were designed to lock over the wrists. These handcuffs carried a distinct disadvantage, since they were not adjustable. Prisoners with thin wrists could wriggle out of them, while prisoners with thick wrists often experienced discomfort.
