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National Handcuff Day

Learn about the origins of handcuffs on the day that George A. Carney was issued a patent.

Saturday

February 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEFebruary 20

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCareers

SUBCATEGORYFirst Responders

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Celebrate National Handcuff Day on Feb. 20 and get ready to honor one of the earliest forms of restraint! This day commemorates the invention of handcuffs, which have been used as a form of law enforcement since at least the 5th century BC. Since then, handcuff designs have evolved over time to become more sophisticated and secure, but their purpose remains unchanged - to keep people safe by restricting their movement. So take some time out of your day to recognize this important tool and all those who use them!

TIMELINE

National Handcuff Day Timeline

Metal Handcuffs Introduced

In the Middle Ages, metal handcuffs began to replace earlier forms of restraints, which were often made from rope or animal hides.

Wrist-Restraining Handcuffs Patented

W. V. Adams was granted a patent for a new style of handcuffs that placed the restraint over the wrists, rather than the fingers or thumbs.

Carney's Swinging Handcuff Patent

George A. Carney was awarded a patent for his design of a "swinging bow" ratchet - type handcuff.

Modern Handcuffs Design

James Milton Gill patented a new handcuff design, featuring a single strand rather than double strand. This model is still widely used today.

Special Handcuffs Developed

In the late 20th century, several new types of handcuffs were developed to meet specific needs, such as hinged handcuffs and leg cuffs.

National Handcuff Day Established

The first annual National Handcuff Day was celebrated, honoring the importance and history of handcuffs in law enforcement.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Handcuff Day

Make your own handcuffs

Making handcuffs is easier than you might think. All you need is a few pieces of string, a couple of paperclips, and some washers to make your own homemade set.

PLAY

Play handcuff tag

One person is "it" and everyone else has to try to get away from them by running. If the person who is "it" catches someone else, they handcuff them with their homemade handcuffs.

Go out for handcuffs

Check out your local police supply store and buy a real set of handcuffs to use on National Handcuff Day. You may even be able to find some novelty handcuffs if you're lucky.

TAKE

Take a handcuffing class

See if your local police station offers handcuffing classes for civilians. This is a great way to learn about proper handcuffing techniques and safety protocols for using handcuffs.

HOST

Host a handcuff party

Invite your friends over for a night of handcuff fun. Play games like Handcuff Charades or Truth or Dare, or just hang out and have fun with the handcuffs.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Handcuff Day

They have a long history and deep cultural significance

Handcuffs date back centuries and are thought to be derived from ancient Chinese shackles used for torture and punishment. But though their purpose has evolved over time, they still evoke strong emotions among many people - which is why National Handcuff Day is so important!

Handcuffs can be a symbolic representation of strength and empowerment

Although the use of handcuffs may seem intimidating, it can also serve as a reminder that we are all in control of our own destiny. Handcuffs are a symbol of protection and security, and connecting with this empowering mentality can help motivate us to reach our goals and create positive change in our lives.

Handcuffs provide an element of fun to any activity

Whether you want to use them for adventure activities like paintball or airsoft, or just for some silly role playing fun, handcuffs can add an exciting twist to almost anything! Plus, they make great props for themed photoshoots or cosplays - the possibilities are endless!

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