Handcuffs are restraint devices designed to secure an individual's wrists in proximity to each other. They comprise two parts, linked together by a chain, a hinge, or rigid bar. Each cuff has a rotating arm which engages with a ratchet that prevents it from being opened once closed around a person's wrist. Without the key, the handcuffs cannot be removed without specialist knowledge, and the handcuffed person cannot move their wrists more than a few centimetres or inches apart, making many tasks difficult or impossible.
Hiatt type 2010 handcuffs. c. 1990s.
A person handcuffed behind their back.
Hinged handcuffs used by Dutch police
Handcuffs which were worn by the suspects while being tried for assassinating President Lincoln.
Physical restraint refers to means of purposely limiting or obstructing the freedom of a person's bodily movement.
Handcuffs and chains from wrought iron as formerly used on prisoners; Wales, 19th century (museum exhibit)
Modern chain handcuffs made of hardened steel; Hiatt 2010
Modern steel legcuffs
Iron wrist shackles with chains and padlock; Germany c. 17th century