Schrade S.W.A.T. SCBAT21H 21″ Collapsible Baton Reviewed

Marketing from Schrade

The Schrade SCBAT21H Baton is a compact, versatile, tactical and self defense tool, useful for any situation where non-lethal force is necessary.

Constructed from tough 4130 black seamless alloy steel tubing with an HRC of 46-47, and powder coated to resist corrosion, the Schrade S.W.A.T. batons are fashioned for quick deployment, ease of use, and reliable performance.

The baton opens and closes via a friction lock system. To open, face the tip of the telescoping rods outwards, and quickly swing the collapsed baton into play. To collapse and store the baton, force the tip into any solid surface.

A solid, weighted tip at the end of the baton maximizes the potential of every strike, allowing powerful, yet surprisingly quick motions… and the rubberized TPE handle makes for a rugged, comfortable grip… in all situations.

Designed for law enforcement, security and self defense – Crafted from premium materials… and built for a lifetime…
This is the Schrade S.W.A.T. SCBAT21H 21″ Heat Treated Collapsible Baton.

 

Manufacturer: Schrade, www.schrade.com
Model: SCBAT21H

Baton Material: Black 4130 Seamless Alloy Steel Tubing
Tensile Strength: 6638.78lbf (3011.3kgf)
Bending Strength: 4055.84lbf (1839.7kgf)
Overall Length: 21.0 inch (53.3 cm)
Handle Material: Thermoplastic Polyester Elastomer Handle Grip
Handle Length: 8.375 inch (21.27 cm)
Handle Diameter: 1.0 inch (2.54 cm)
Weight: 1.06 lb (17 oz)
Lock: Friction Lock Baton
Accessories: Black 1680 Denier Outer Shell Belt Sheath
Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty against any manufacturing defects
Origin: Made in Taiwan
UPC: 044356222327
MSRP: $50.00
 

The Review

When it comes to self-defense there are a lot of effective non-lethal options available from pepper sprays to stun guns, and even various forms of martial arts that can provide you with a tactical advantage over an attacker to render their advances ineffective. Impact weapons like a collapsible baton can also be a very effective non-lethal option. However, with any weapon it does require a certain amount of training to become skillful enough to use it effectively.

Schrade manufactures four rugged professional quality collapsible batons, each available in four sizes ranging from from 16″ to 26″. The Professional Series, S.W.A.T. Heat Treated Series, S.W.A.T. Lite Series and a line of heat-treated batons for Smith & Wesson. The model we’ll be focussing on in this article is Schrade’s S.W.A.T. 21″ SCBAT21H heat-treated collapsible baton.

Schrade’s batons provide an attractive, heavily-textured TPE covered handle grip for its superior non-slip properties even in the wettest of conditions. Thermoplastic Polyester Elastomer (TPE), sometimes referred to as thermoplastic rubber is made from a mix of plastic and rubber polymers providing both thermoplastic and elastomeric properties.

One of the more interesting features of Schrade’s batons is the interchangeable pommel. Out of the box each baton comes with the flat-round pommel weighing around 2.4 ounces. However, you can purchase two additional glass breaker pommels that are sold separately. The SCBATGB1 has a pointed glass breaker tip and weighs about 3.04 ounces. The SCBATGB2 also has a pointed glass breaker tip. But it also has a large round flared end and weighs about 7.04 ounces.

The entire Schrade S.W.A.T. line of batons are constructed from a rugged 4130 seamless black alloy steel tubing that has been heat-treated to provide an HRC of 46-47. The result is a baton that is both lightweight and ultra-strong with a tensile strength of is 6638.78lbf (3011.3kgf) and a bending strength is 4055.84lbf (1839.7kgf).

The SCBAT21H is crafted with two telescopic segments that extend out from the handle to provide the baton’s 21-inch length. Schrade also provides a solid, weighted tip at the end of the last segment to maximize the energy potential of each and every baton strike. The ample leverage that this design provides enhances the ability of the wielder to make quick and powerful motions.

Schrade batons are deployed by quickly swinging outwards, away from yourself while firmly holding on to the handle. The baton segments will then extend out and lock into place via its friction-lock mechanism. Please note… The harder you swing the baton open, the more difficult it will be to collapse.

Collapsing the baton can be achieved by firmly striking the tip of the baton against a solid and stationary surface to drive it back into the handle. However, be careful not to use any type of wooden furniture as it may cause serious damage to it. A concrete slab or brick wall would definitely be better suited.

To alter the amount of force required to open the baton, there is a retaining clip that needs to be adjusted in the pommel at the butt of the handle. To reduce the friction, simply compress the two clips together. To increase the friction, pull the clips apart.

Each baton comes with a heavy duty black nylon sheath with an attached belt loop capable of adapting to a MOLLE system for numerous carry options and convenient access.

Functional Testing

To test the SCBAT21, I chose to strike a tree stump and a steel cabinet. I was amazed at how hard I was able to strike the target material without bending the baton segments, and I did not experience excessive vibrations through the handle. The dents in the wood and metal were deep.

While I was putting the SCBAT21H through its paces, it was readily apparent how effective this baton would be in a defensive situation. It deploys very quickly and allows the wielder to distance themselves from the attacker by keeping a few feet between them. It also became evident just how much damage this weapon could inflict.

Final Thoughts

Schrade never ceases to amaze me with their ability to provide quality products at an amazing price. Designed from the ground up as a tactical non-lethal weapon for law enforcement and self-defense, Schrade’s tactical batons are compact, lightweight and reliable performers. They provide an exceptional value with a perfect balance between quality, durability and affordability. Whether you choose the 16″, 21″, 24″ or 26″ model, you’ll have a baton built for a lifetime. Personally, I am very happy with the size, weight and balance of the 21″ SCBAT21H.

Before making any baton purchase, it is important to consider state and local laws. Unfortunately, some cities and states have irrational, overreaching and in some cases unconstitutional laws on the books to limit, and in some cases prevent law-abiding citizens from defending themselves.

 
You can find this and other Schrade products here: http://amzn.to/2c0kjZF

About Taylor Brands and Schrade Cutlery

Founded by Stewart Taylor in 1975, Taylor Brands has been manufacturing, designing, and distributing high-quality stainless steel cutting tools and accessories since our inception. Taylor Brands owns and produces Schrade, Old Timer, Uncle Henry, and Imperial branded products, and are also licensed to produce multiple product lines under the world famous Smith & Wesson brand. In total Taylor Brands manufactures several hundred different products including fixed and folding knives, collapsible batons, tactical pens, handcuffs, tactical and survival accessories, and flashlights.