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MANACLES, SHACKLES & HANDCUFFS
FROM AROUND THE GLOBE

The following pages include many different types of handcuffs, leg irons and neck collars, etc. Most are available both gimmicked and non-gimmicked. Also, you will find that most of these fetters require very different keys. Within these pages lie the very heart of a modern handcuff challenge act. In order to be able to accept challenges, the modern escapologist must first have both a working knowledge, as well as WORKING KEYS to escape from these handcuffs. Note: several of these handcuffs are available with variations. As an example, the Darby’s are available with a bar separating the cuffs, instead of chain and most S&W’s can be ordered in both the standard “satin finish” as well as “blue steel”. Enjoy...

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Check out a quick video-ad of the 19th Century Séance Handcuff (courtesy Edward Bain) by clicking here:
DarkArtsMedia
Get ready to be entertained and make sure you have your volume on!

19th CENTURY "SÉANCE" HANDCUFF

Looking for an addition to your Halloween Show?  How about this:  The performer displays an old looking pair of Mid-19th Century "Darby" adjustable handcuffs.  These are the type used in Houdini's era, and require a "screw-key" to open.  A spectator checks the cuff's lock mechanism, and assures the audience that the locking device is not gimmicked in any way (they're not!).  They are then locked on yourself, and the KEYHOLES ARE SEALED WITH A WAX SEAL to prevent tampering with a key, or pick.  You then demonstrate that the cuffs are VERY solid by trying to pull your wrists apart SHARPLY.  The Darbies are indeed secure.  You then step behind a curtain, and almost immediately reemerge WEARING YOUR JACKET NOW TURNED INSIDE-OUT!  But the cuffs are still locked on your wrists, and the wax seals are undisturbed!  DUE TO THE FACT THAT THESE CUFFS ARE GIMMICKED TO ALLOW YOUR TWO STILL-CUFFED HANDS TO QUICKLY UN-ATTACH & REATTACH TO EACH OTHER, many strange things are possible:  Magically "link" up with a wicker chair or metal ring; have the cuffs attached to a post that you are locked to, and then magically cause tambourines to rattle, horns to blow, etc., (ala' Davenport Bros.) and yet when the curtains are opened (or lights turned back on) you are still locked to the post!  DO THE SPIRITS RETURN?  Antique finish only.  Created by Mark Cannon.   
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SÉANCE HANDCUFF©

The performer (you) allows a spectator to check and verify that a modern handcuff's lock mechanism is not gimmicked in any way (they're not!).  They are then locked on yourself, and the KEYHOLES ARE SEALED WITH EVIDENCE TAPE, etc., to prevent tampering with a key, or pick.  You then demonstrate that the cuffs are solid by trying to pull your wrists apart.  Of course, you can't.  You then step behind a curtain, and almost immediately reemerge WEARING YOUR JACKET NOW TURNED INSIDE-OUT!  But the cuffs are still locked on your wrists.  The evidence tape is undisturbed!  DUE TO THE FACT THAT THESE CUFFS ARE GIMMICKED TO ALLOW YOUR TWO STILL-CUFFED HANDS TO QUICKLY UN-ATTACH & REATTACH TO EACH OTHER, many strange things are possible:  Magically "link" up with a wicker chair or metal ring; have the cuffs attached to a post that you are locked to, and then magically cause tambourines to rattle, horns to blow, etc., (ala' Davenport Bros.) and yet when the curtains are opened (or lights turned back on) you are still locked to the post!  Created by Mark Cannon.   
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MELT THRU-MANACLES©

Visual escape magic! The artist's hands are cuffed, and placed behind his neck.  He then magically "melts" them right through his neck, BUT THE CUFFS ARE STILL ON HIS WRISTS.  Next, he "melts" the cuffs through a mirror (one hand in front of the mirror, and one hand behind).  But after passing through the mirror, they are STILL cuffed to his hands.  He passes them through the mirror once more and then immediately escapes from one cuff.  Lastly, he visually--right in front of the audience-- escapes from the remaining cuff.  BUT HERE'S THE BEST PART:  Immediately after escaping from the last cuff, HE HANDS THE CUFFS OUT FOR EXAMINATION, WHERE THE AUDIENCE DISCOVERS FOR THEMSELVES THAT THEY ARE TOTALLY UNGIMMICKED!  Perform this one to music.  Created by Mark Cannon.       

  • Note:  The above text refers to the entire illusion system: handcuffs, special pedestal mirror, etc.  However, if you wish to only purchase the one specially gimmicked (not inspectable) handcuff, that too is available.     
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SMITH & WESSON MODEL 100 HANDCUFFS

The most popular and commonly used handcuff in American law enforcement today, adjustable and double locking.  (See the Handcuff Manipulation Training Kit listed elsewhere to learn the innermost workings, etc.).  Available standard and gaffed for quick release (bridge-jumpers).

  • Please specify standard or quick release.

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SMITH & WESSON MODEL 1900 LEG IRONS

These are the “real McCoy”. Currently used by American law enforcement for the transportation of dangerous criminals. Adjustable for a wide range of sizes.  Available standard, or gimmicked for quick release.  

  • Please specify standard or quick release.

SMITH & WESSON HANDCUFF/LEG IRON COMBO

Genuine S&W Transport Handcuff & Leg Iron Combination set.  The handcuffs are the "Model 1" version, and the leg irons are the same as listed above.  A chain connects the two.  Looks great for any escape.  Highly recommended.
  • Please specify standard or quick release.
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SMITH & WESSON MODEL 110 EXTRA LARGE HANDCUFFS

These S&W handcuffs are normally used on prisoners with extremely large wrists. In fact, they even fit on most ankles. Remember Houdini’s ploy of having several cuffs locked on his arms, so that after unlocking the first few, the last ones (those locked high on his forearms) would simply slip off? Well, this standard, ungaffed handcuff is perfect for locking high up on the forearms, due to their size. And, of course, since it’s not tricked, it can be completely inspected.
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SMITH & WESSON HINGED HANDCUFFS—MODEL 300

These handcuffs are unusual in the fact that a hinge separates the cuffs, rather than chains. This makes it extremely difficult for the prisoner (or escape artist!) to reach the other keyhole and open the lock. A real challenge! They are adjustable, double locking, and fold flat. Available standard only.  
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MAXIMUM SECURITY SMITH & WESSON MODEL 104

Used primarily for transportation of dangerous criminals, these S&W’s DO NOT UTILIZE A STANDARD HANDCUFF KEY! The key is smaller in diameter, and has a hook-shaped bit. A super challenge to pick.  
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SMITH & WESSON MODEL 1 HANDCUFFS

This is S&W’s new larger range handcuff. Somewhat similar to the more common model 100, but it has a much wider range of ratchet teeth, thus allowing it to be used on those with very large wrists.

GIMMICKED FLEX-CUFS©2007

Flex-Cufs™ are the original flexible "Riot"- type cuff that were designed for use by police officers when dealing with a large volume of prisoners.   These are the type made from a Teflon™ material, and utilize a one-way, metal "bit" to lock the position of the cuffs.  Normally, they are meant to be used only once, since they are designed to be CUT OFF.  However, YOU can use these SPECIALLY-GAFFED Flex-Cufs again and again, because you can escape from them WITHOUT CUTTING THEM!  Here's the presentation:  You cross your wrists in front of your body, and your assistant locks one of these Flex-Cufs on your wrists VERY TIGHTLY.  A SPECTATOR THEN PULLS ON THE CUFFS VERY HARD, AND SATISFIES HIMSELF THAT THEY ARE INDEED SECURED.  (This part is VERY convincing).  However, you immediately escape without the use of cutters, or tools of any kind, and show the cuffs to be still in one piece (no switching of cuffs).  Ideal for use inside of a mail bag, crate, etc.  Sold in pack of 10 only.  Includes illustrated instructions.  Packaging may vary.   

 
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AUSTRALIAN HINGED SAF-LOK HANDCUFFS

One of the most anticipated handcuffs in recent times, the new hinged Saf-Lok MK V is now larger and heavier than its' chain counterpart.  With all the great features and quality that Saf-Lok is known for, it also utilizes the same key as the MK IV.  We've shown it here, compared with the MK IV, to give an idea of the size difference.  Comes with box and two keys. 
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AUSTRALIAN SAF-LOK HANDCUFFS

One of the most respected handcuffs in the world, the Saf-Lok MK IV is known for its’ extreme maximum security. Its’ high security is due to the fact that rather than a standard lever lock, like most handcuffs of the world, it utilizes a PIN TUMBLER LOCK, like those found in most modern padlocks. This is one reason the Marshall’s Office use this cuff for transportation of dangerous criminals. If you do a challenge handcuff act, sooner or later you are going to be confronted with the Australian Saf-Lok. So, be prepared.  
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PEERLESS MODEL 700 HANDCUFFS

Peerless handcuffs are one of the most commonly used handcuffs in the USA today. Beautifully nickel finished and solidly built. The main exterior difference between Peerless and S&W is the placement of the keyhole, and double lock system. The interior locking system though is quite different. (See the Handcuff Manipulation Training Kit listed elsewhere to learn the innermost workings, etc.). Available standard and gaffed for quick release (bridge-jumpers).

  • Please specify standard or quick release.

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PEERLESS MODEL 703 LEG IRONS, STANDARD OR GIMMICKED

Used in Penitentiaries across America. These leg irons are of very high quality. They are available both standard and gimmicked for quick release (bridge jumpers).

  • Please specify standard or quick release.
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PEERLESS (STYLE) HANDCUFFS—STANDARD OR GIMMICKED

These handcuffs are not actual Peerless, but a close look alike. They are listed here because they are a less expensive alternative to Peerless.  They are available both standard and gimmicked for quick release (bridge jumpers).

  • Please specify standard or quick release.
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PEERLESS (STYLE) LEG IRONS—STANDARD OR GIMMICKED

These leg irons are not actual Peerless, but a close look alike. They are listed here because they are a less expensive alternative to Peerless.

  • Please specify standard or quick release.
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DARBY NON ADJUSTABLE HANDCUFFS

These beautiful Old World style Hiatt handcuffs are the screw type used by Houdini, in his famous Scotland Yard Escape. They are available standard factory-issue or gimmicked. Additionally, They can be gimmicked for either quick release (bridge-jumpers) or to PASS INSPECTION and yet allow the performer to quickly escape. Note: also available with a steel bar separating the cuffs.  These manacles are very popular for theatrical productions such as Deathtrap.

  • Please specify standard, quick release or inspectable. Also, please specify antique or nickel finish and standard or steel bar.

DARBY ADJUSTABLE HANDCUFFS

These Old World style screw type Hiatt handcuffs are of the style commonly used by Houdini. Similar to the standard Darby cuff, with the exception of being adjustable to different sized wrists. Available in nickel or antique finish.  Available standard or gaffed one of three ways:  Quick Release (non-inspectable), "Pass Out" (inspectable prior to locking them on yourself - please see below), or Inspectable (Fully inspectable, including while they are locked on yourself). 

  • Please specify standard, Quick Release, Pass Out (see below) or Inspectable.
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DARBY LEG IRONS

These are the “old style” Hiatt screw-type leg irons that Houdini used. They are the mate to the Darby style handcuffs, but much larger .  They are available in both nickel finish and antique finish. Also, they can come standard or gaffed for either quick release (bridge jumpers) or to pass inspection and then escape.

  • Please specify nickel plated or antique finish. Also, standard, quick release or inspectable.

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DARBY HANDCUFF/LEG IRON COMBO

Authentic Hiatt Old World Darby style handcuff and leg iron combination. These irons unlock with a screw type key (separate key for handcuff and leg iron included). Available standard or gimmicked for quick release, or gimmicked to pass inspection. Also, available in nickel plated or antique finish.

  • Please specify nickel or antique finish and standard, quick release or inspectable.

DARBY NECK COLLAR

This beautifully nickel plated Old World Darby style neck collar is available two ways: standard or gimmicked for quick release.  Just like the matching handcuffs and leg irons, it uses an old style screw type key.  It features a swivel ring which can be used to connect it to chains, cuffs, etc.  Custom built by McColl.  Also available with a connecting chain.

  • Please specify standard or gimmicked.

DARBY NECK COLLAR/HANDCUFF COMBINATION

This beautifully nickel plated Old World Darby style handcuff and neck collar combination is available two ways: standard or gimmicked for quick release. The handcuffs and chain are authentic Hiatt’s, while the neck collar is a custom built McColl. These irons use the old style screw type keys. 

  • Please specify standard or gimmicked.
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DARBY NECK COLLAR/HANDCUFF/LEG IRON COMBINATION

This beautifully nickel plated Old World Darby style handcuff, neck collar and leg iron combination is available two ways: standard or gimmicked for quick release. The handcuffs, leg irons and chain are authentic Hiatt’s, while the neck collar is a custom built McColl. These irons use the old style screw type keys.

  • Please specify standard or gimmicked.
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FRENCH RIVOLIER "TWO LOCK" HANDCUFFS

Very unique in the world of handcuffs, for these French made manacles REQUIRE TWO DIFFERENT KEYS to open. First, in the single lock position, they use a barrel key. Second, however they are double locked VIA A SECOND WAFER DISC LOCK and key. These are currently in use in France, so escape artists better be prepared for the inevitable challenge!  

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FRENCH RIVOLIER "PUSH-BUTTON" HANDCUFFS

Brand new! Although they look similar to the above pair, THEY ONLY REQUIRE THE ONE BARREL KEY, BECAUSE THE DOUBLE-LOCK IS ACTIVATED WITH A "PUSH-BUTTON" ON THE SIDE OF THE HANDCUFF! So, the one key unlocks both the double and single lock.
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FRENCH RIVOLIER "SINGLE-LOCK" HANDCUFFS

Brand new! ESCAPE ARTISTS WILL APPRECIATE THIS ONE: Again, they are Rivolier manacles. But these actual, modern cuffs are designed to ONLY SINGLE-LOCK. Escape artists, think about the various ways to "attack" a handcuff………. And yes, it takes the same barrel key as in the other Rivolier models.

FRENCH RIVOLIER "POLICE TRAINING" HANDCUFFS

Brand new! MAGICIANS WILL LIKE THIS ONE: These Rivolier cuffs are designed for INSTANT "KEYLESS" RELEASE. Originally designed as a training tool for police officers, these handcuffs are immediately opened by sliding a button with your thumb! Please understand, they could never be passed out for inspection, but if you are doing a comedy magic act, where you wish to SILENTLY (no ratcheting sound) escape, and/or reinsert your wrists, then this cuff has merits.
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FRENCH RIVOLIER LEG IRONS

BRAND NEW! The Rivolier company has just released their very first "two lock" Leg Iron. These fetters are similar to their handcuffs, in that they require a barrel key for the single lock position, and a second key for the WAFER DISC mechanism, which is used as the double-lock. The bow is larger than the handcuffs, and features a "stop" system that prevents the bow from completely swinging through. Like the handcuffs, these come with a total of three keys: two wafer disc, and one barrel.
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