Defensive Tactics - Lesson #5: Defensive Baton

A key function of police is upholding law and order. A necessary, yet unfortunate, aspect of this function is the use of force where required. The law regulates the use of such force: it must only be exercised where necessary and it must be both reasonable and proportionate to the perceived threat. The law demands that police officers be accountable for their actions when using force in a democratic society: police must be able to justify their actions.

The defensive baton is neither a lethal weapon nor is it an instrument of punishment. Its use requires skill in order to counter or stop an aggressive subject. The baton methodology is simple to learn and easy to understand. It provides efficient defensive impact weapon tactics without the need for long hours of training. The 
techniques are designed to work efficiently for all officers, whether male or female, small or large, fit or otherwise.

At the end of the lesson the students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate the proper means by which the baton is carried.
2. Identify the target zone on the body and the strike area of the baton.
3. State the 40/10 theory and the 90% rule.
4. Demonstrate the interview and combat stance.
5. Demonstrate three (3) types of strike.
6. Identify the four (4) components which must be in place when a baton strike is delivered.
7. Demonstrate baton retention techniques.