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    How to Escape Handcuffs in Seconds Using a Shim
    Handcuff Shim SKill guide

    How to Escape Handcuffs in Seconds Using a Shim

    Do you want to learn how to escape handcuffs in just seconds? In the event of unlawful detainment, here's a quick and easy way to break out of handcuffs using a shim!

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    How to Escape Handcuffs in Seconds Using a Shim


    Do you want to learn how to escape handcuffs in just seconds? In the event of unlawful detainment, here's a quick and easy way to break out of handcuffs using a shim! In this blog post, we’ll explain exactly how to use a shim to quickly and easily escape handcuffs. We’ll discuss the types of shims available, how to choose the right shim for your needs, and how to safely and effectively use the shim to unlock handcuffs. So let’s get started!

     

    What is a Shim

    Shims are ultra-thin pieces of hardened steel that work by sliding between the ratchet and teeth of handcuffs to release the lock. The shim is an incredibly quick and simple method to unlock handcuffs. This technique only works when handcuffs are single-locked, in which case you would need to pick them or use a handcuff key. 

    A proper shim needs to be:


    DURABLE - Hardened steel that retains its flexibility is a must.
    FLAT- Extremely thin construction is necessary to ensure it can fit between the ratchet and teeth of the handcuffs. This also makes them easier to conceal.
    LONG - Shims need to be long enough to fit all the way down the section of the handcuffs where the ratchet enters and separates them from the teeth.
    NARROW - Handcuff shims have to be narrow enough to fit down the small section of the handcuffs themselves, as It's only a few millimeters wide.

     

    The process

    1. Insert your shim between the ratcheting mechanism and the teeth of handcuffs.
    2. Push the shim as far back as you can deeper into the handcuffs until it won't easily go any further.
    3. This part can be uncomfortable, and you only get one or two tries if your handcuffs are very tight. While maintaining forward pressure on your shim (sliding it deeper into the handcuffs), you will tighten the handcuffs by a notch.
    4. This will slightly separate the ratchet and teeth and allow the shim to slide fully into position, keep in mind you need to be careful not to let the shim fall out of position, or the handcuffs can re-lock.

    What to do if you don't have a shim

    If shimming fails, the handcuffs are double locked, or you don't have a shim there are other methods you can use to escape handcuffs such as using a hidden key, or picking the lock which we will cover in a separate article.

    Please, remember to never attempt to remove handcuffs put on you by any police officer. The knowledge and tools here are only for the use of escaping illegal detainment in an emergency situation. If you are carrying shims or keys on your person when you are placed into handcuffs by police, you should say something or they may think you would attempt to use them for escape.

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