Types of Security Batons: Expandable, Side-Handle, and Straight

Key Takeaways – The three main types of security batons are expandable (collapsible), side-handle (PR-24), and straight (fixed) – Expandable batons are the most popular choice for modern security officers due to portability and concealment – Side-handle batons offer excellent blocking and control capabilities but require more training – Straight batons are the simplest design but less common in modern security work – Your BSIS baton permit covers all three types — but your employer may specify which to carry – Proper training is essential regardless of which baton type you choose

Choosing the right baton is one of the most practical decisions a security officer makes. But before you can choose wisely, you need to understand the different types of security batons available, how each one works, and when each type is the best tool for the job.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the three main baton types used by security professionals in California: expandable (collapsible), side-handle, and straight batons. We’ll break down the features, advantages, disadvantages, and ideal use cases for each.

A Brief History of the Security Baton

Batons have been used by law enforcement and security personnel for centuries. The earliest versions were simple wooden clubs. Over time, baton design evolved to improve effectiveness, safety, and portability.

Today’s security batons are engineered tools made from materials like aircraft-grade aluminum, steel, and polycarbonate composites. Modern designs prioritize both officer safety and subject control, with training programs built around each baton type’s unique handling characteristics.

Understanding this evolution helps explain why there are multiple baton styles — each was developed to solve a specific problem in the field.

Expandable (Collapsible) Batons

What Is an Expandable Baton?

The expandable baton — also called a collapsible baton, telescopic baton, or ASP baton (after the popular manufacturer) — is the most widely used baton in modern security and law enforcement. It consists of two or three telescoping shafts that extend with a quick flick of the wrist.

When collapsed, an expandable baton is typically 6–10 inches long. When fully extended, it reaches 16–31 inches depending on the model.

How It Works

To deploy an expandable baton, the officer grips the handle and flicks the wrist sharply downward or to the side. The internal shafts lock into place through friction. To collapse it, the officer typically strikes the tip against a hard surface (the ground or a wall).

Pros of Expandable Batons

• Portability — Compact when collapsed, easily carried on a belt or in a pocket
• Concealment — Doesn’t draw attention when holstered, which can be important in customer-facing security roles
• Psychological deterrent — The sound and visual of the baton extending can de-escalate a situation before contact is needed
• Lightweight — Typically lighter than side-handle or straight batons
• Versatile — Effective for strikes, blocks, and leverage techniques

Cons of Expandable Batons

• Blocking limitations — Less effective for defensive blocking compared to side-handle batons
• Collapse risk — Under certain conditions, an expandable baton may partially collapse on impact
• Requires practice — Smooth deployment requires training and muscle memory
• Less reach — Shorter models may offer less reach than a full-length straight or side-handle baton

Best Use Cases

Expandable batons are ideal for:

• Plainclothes or low-profile security assignments
• Mobile patrol officers who need compact gear
• Event security where visible weapons may cause alarm
• General-purpose security work

Side-Handle Batons (PR-24)

What Is a Side-Handle Baton?

The side-handle baton — commonly known as the PR-24 (named after the original Monadnock model) — is a straight baton with a perpendicular handle attached about one-third of the way from one end. This distinctive T-shaped design gives the officer multiple grip options and enhanced control.

Side-handle batons are typically 24 inches long and made from polycarbonate, aluminum, or hardwood.

How It Works

The side handle allows the officer to grip the baton in several ways:

• Standard grip — Holding the side handle with the long end running along the forearm for blocking
• Forward grip — Holding the side handle with the long end extended forward for strikes
• Reverse grip — Holding the main shaft for extended reach
• Spinning techniques — Rotating the baton using the side handle for momentum and strike power

Pros of Side-Handle Batons

• Superior blocking — The forearm position provides excellent defensive coverage
• Control techniques — The side handle enables joint locks, come-along holds, and takedowns
• Versatile grip options — Multiple grips allow adaptation to different situations
• Strong defensive tool — Widely regarded as the best baton for defensive applications
• Retention — The side handle makes it harder for a subject to disarm the officer

Cons of Side-Handle Batons

• Steeper learning curve — Requires significantly more training to use effectively
• Bulkier — Cannot be collapsed; must be carried in a baton ring or holder at all times
• Visibility — Always visible on the belt, which may not suit all assignments
• Weight — Generally heavier than expandable batons
• Less common — Fewer security companies issue them today, so finding training partners can be harder

Best Use Cases

Side-handle batons are ideal for:

• Corrections and detention facility security
• High-risk static security posts
• Officers who prioritize defensive capabilities
• Situations requiring suspect control and restraint techniques

Straight Batons

What Is a Straight Baton?

The straight baton — also called a fixed baton or nightstick — is the simplest and oldest baton design. It’s a single, solid shaft typically 18–36 inches long, made from hardwood, rubber, aluminum, or polycarbonate.

The classic “billy club” is a straight baton. While less common in modern security work, straight batons are still used in certain roles and settings.

How It Works

A straight baton is used with a simple overhand or underhand grip. Techniques focus on strikes, blocks, and jabs using the length of the shaft and the tip.

Pros of Straight Batons

• Simplicity — Easy to learn basic techniques; the simplest baton to pick up and use
• Durability — Solid construction with no moving parts means nothing to break or malfunction
• Reach — Longer models provide excellent reach
• Affordability — Generally the least expensive baton type
• Reliability — No collapse risk, no deployment mechanism to fail

Cons of Straight Batons

• No concealment — Cannot be collapsed or hidden; always visible
• Limited versatility — Fewer technique options compared to expandable or side-handle batons
• Weight — Solid construction can make longer models heavy to carry all shift
• Dated appearance — Can look overly aggressive to the public
• No deterrent effect — No dramatic deployment sound like an expandable baton

Best Use Cases

Straight batons are ideal for:

• Static security posts where the baton doesn’t need to be concealed
• Ceremonial or formal security details
• Backup or secondary baton kept in a vehicle
• Training purposes

Baton Comparison Chart

What Does Your BSIS Baton Permit Cover?

Good news: your California BSIS baton permit covers all three baton types. You don’t need separate permits for expandable, side-handle, and straight batons. However, your training course should cover the specific type(s) you plan to carry on duty.

At E3 Security Training Academy, our BSIS-certified baton training course covers the fundamentals of all major baton types, with emphasis on the expandable baton that most security companies issue today. Our hands-on training ensures you’re comfortable and confident with your chosen baton.

How to Choose the Right Baton

When selecting a baton, consider these factors:

1. Your employer’s requirements — Many security companies specify the baton type and model you’ll carry. Check before buying your own.
2. Your assignment — Mobile patrol officers benefit from expandable batons; static posts may be better suited to side-handle or straight batons.
3. Your training level — If you have minimal training, start with an expandable baton and work up to a side-handle baton as your skills develop.
4. Comfort and fit — Handle the baton before purchasing. It should feel balanced and controllable in your hand.
5. Quality — Invest in a reputable brand. A cheap baton can fail when you need it most. Popular brands include ASP, Monadnock, and Smith & Wesson.

Training Matters More Than the Baton You Choose

Here’s the truth every security professional needs to hear: your training matters far more than which baton you carry. An officer who has trained extensively with an expandable baton will always outperform an untrained officer with a “superior” side-handle baton.

Whatever baton type you choose, invest in quality, BSIS-approved training. Practice regularly. Maintain your skills with renewal courses every two years.

E3 Security Training Academy in Manteca, CA, provides comprehensive baton training for security professionals throughout the Central Valley — serving Stockton, Modesto, Tracy, Lodi, and surrounding communities. Our instructors teach you not just how to use a baton, but when to use it — and when not to.

Ready to Get Baton Certified?

Now that you understand the types of security batons and their strengths, the next step is getting properly trained and permitted. Enroll in a BSIS-approved baton training course and start building the skills that will set you apart in California’s security industry.

Explore baton training at E3 Security Training Academy →