Closed Baton Mode - Striking

NOTE: You must watch the video in its entirety to progress and continue to the next lesson.

Closed mode strikes are effective to create distance. Once distance is created, the officer may wish to
expand the baton or transition to handcuffs.

When you are striking with your baton in the ‘closed’ mode you will strike with the end cap. Ensure your
thumb is over the tip.

When you have the baton in the closed loaded position, ensure to have your elbow tight against you and
the end cap always pointed at the suspect. The baton should be resting on your shoulder. Maintain a full
hand grip and a proper defensive stance.

• Weapon Side Strike:
  With a ‘weapon side strike’ your baton is loaded and ready. Using tactical commands you will tell the
  suspect to ‘Get Back’. If the suspect advances toward you or you are in fear for your life you will then
  perform a strike to the suspect’s upper chest area.
  The strike will be delivered at a 45 degree angle and straight down. It’s performed fast and with a quick draw back, in a stabbing motion. Once delivered, return to your defensive stance.

• Return Strike:
  The ‘return strike’ is performed in the same manner as the ‘open’ baton techniques. You will perform the weapon side strike and return in a backwards ‘stabbing’ type motion at a 45 degree downward angle.
  Always use tactical commands so your suspect and bystanders can hear you.
  You will then return into your defensive stance.

• Straight Strike:
  This strike is effective to create distance from the suspect when they advance towards you.
  When you are holding your baton in the loaded position ensure you have a full hand grip in the middle of the baton. This position will allow you safety from a knuckle compression injury when you strike the target area.
  This is a very effective strike when performed correctly. When you are ready to strike you will bring your weapon hand down, and at a 45 degree angle, aim straight for the middle or lower abdomen area.
  Do not turn your fist into a punch. The baton should remain straight up and down, not sideways as you strike the target area. It should be a hard, fast strike. Not a push.
  Again return to your defensive stance in the loaded position.