JG Darby 1940's and 50's

Massive thank you to Ian Mccoll for being able to create some fantastic keys for my JG cuffs.
They were only manufactured for such a small window of time which makes them even more special for me.
The keys are great and work so smoothly. Awesome job - Thank you

I love the false back-strap ones. One day I hope to have one in my collection again, preferably in my size lol. They just are meaty and probably one of the most hardy darby handcuffs you can get.

I have recently acquired a set. They are the new favorites in my collection. These were made in different sizes? I am curious about any information anyone might share.

They are basically 2” by 2 1/2.”  If anyone else has a set for which they could provide measurements, I would appreciate it.

I have a J+G False Backstrap Darby that is stamped "1952." Mine measures about 2" x 2.25". I havent had many J+G darbys through my hands in my years of collecting, so I cant say for sure how many different sizes there are or if they are all around the 2 x 2.5 measurement. Hope this helps.
-Richard Knip-

My JG1943 Is the same as Richard’s 2 x 2 1/4. Ron J

It would seem then, that they mainly came in a smaller size. I thought they would have wanted ones a tad bigger. Maybe everyone was just skinny enough that they didn't need a larger size cuffs for active military personnel from either side? I've never seen a large one as of yet. I have purchased my first 1943 which I should receive in a day or two, to replace my 1950s pair that has all the markings ground off.

These 50s I will be selling to someone are about (internal measurements using a vernier calliper): 2.3 inch x 1.9 inch and are cripplingly tight on me. I can get them to close but good god!

I have my 1943. These feel a tad bigger, just a tiny bit. They are less uncomfortable. These are 2.38" x 1.94"

silentbd wrote: ↑

Oct 11, 2024

I have my 1943. These feel a tad bigger, just a tiny bit. They are less uncomfortable. These are 2.38" x 1.94"

I’m guessing you purchased these from Chris. Ron J

I did indeed. I have not done my video or collection picture yet. I am hoping to later today. I have given them a small bit of cleaning and waxing, as well as lubricating but they were already pretty nice to start.

I saw them on eBay, they looked pretty nice. I have one from that year. I made an offer on the set on eBay from 1952 and it was accepted. It will be a while before I actually get them though. Ron J