Kimball handcuffs · OnlyCuffs Archive Search

Gordon 06 Sep 2024

KIMBALL HANDCUFF
THE FIRST U. S. HANDCUFF PATENT

The Kimball handcuff is the first American handcuff to be patented Aug. 7, 1860.
Patent No.29,495 WM. H Kimball. There are 2 models. A 16 oz. model and 12 oz. model.
To compare the 12 oz. model to the 16 oz model, it has more of an oblong shape, with the bows being
more rounded. The wrist size is about 1/4 "smaller. The keys are not interchangeable. The 12 oz. model key
has a hole in it, but not the 16oz. model. Knowing this it can help to make a quick identification of the
model.
To see a discussion about the Kimball handcuffs, refer to the Forum Gallery Jan. 15, 2014.

Mark Lyons O--O Cuffs 06 Sep 2024

#2

Wow!

I never knew that there are 2 models. Even more interesting is that you have both variations!
Not that I can't imagine what a hole at the tip of a key looks like, but I would like a pic of the ends in a side-by-side photo, if you would be so kind.

Curious if the key to the 16 oz model with no key chain hole is typical. I know that mine is the 12 oz version.

Are the threads different in each model? Why are they not interchangeable?

Here is a link to the 2014 conversation. Kimball photos

Gordon 07 Sep 2024

#3

Gordon wrote: ↑
Sep 06, 2024
KIMBALL HANDCUFF
THE FIRST U. S. HANDCUFF PATENT

IMG_2254.JPG The Kimball handcuff is the first American handcuff to be patented Aug. 7, 1860.
Patent No.29,495 WM. H Kimball. There are 2 models. A 16 oz. model and 12 oz. model.
To compare the 12 oz. model to the 16 oz model, it has more of an oblong shape, with the bows being
more rounded. The wrist size is about 1/4 "smaller. The keys are not interchangeable. The 12 oz. model key
has a hole in it, but not the 16oz. model. Knowing this it can help to make a quick identification of the
model.
To see a discussion about the Kimball handcuffs, refer to the Forum Gallery Jan. 15, 2014.
Click to expand...

Mark, I was mistaken, the keys are interchangeable. For others that caution about the key being left in the cuff.. Do not worry . It takes 2-3 turns before the key touches the frame and then it starts to pull back the bolt.

Mark Lyons O--O Cuffs 08 Sep 2024

#4

Gordon,

I too, was mistaken. At first, I thought the keys you referenced had different sized screw holes and /or threads.
That would not make sense to me.
I don't see the need for a pic as I asked you for.
Is one of these cuffs new to you?

My 12 ounce also has the key chain hole.
Do you think the 16 ounce cuffs were sold with a holeless/solid key?
Maybe they were arrest and prison models and did not want the key to be carried on a keyring for added security.

Gordon 10 Sep 2024

#5

Mark It has taken me awhile to realize that there are 2 different models and then
find the differences
I agree with your thoughts about the keys