ASP
ActiveOverview
ASP, Inc. (Armament Systems and Procedures) manufactures less-lethal tools for law enforcement, including expandable batons, handcuffs, OC spray, tactical flashlights, and training equipment. It holds a dominant position in the police baton market, with products used by professionals in over 100 countries and protected by over 150 patents. The company emphasizes innovative design, advanced manufacturing, and comprehensive training programs.123
History
ASP was founded in 1976 by Dr. Kevin Parsons, PhD in Police Management, who began as a police academy instructor in firearms and defense tactics. Over four decades, it has grown into the largest global provider of police batons and expanded into interrelated categories like restraints, OC products, and lighting. Key milestones include developing patented product lines and establishing industry-leading training, with Dr. Parsons serving as CEO and expert witness in over 500 cases.13
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Expandable Batons | Flagship less-lethal impact tools | $50 - $200 |
| Handcuffs and Restraints | Advanced peer restraints | $40 - $150 |
| OC Aerosol Products | Pepper spray for law enforcement | $20 - $80 |
| Tactical Flashlights | High-precision lighting | $50 - $250 |
| Training Equipment | Use-of-force training tools | $100 - $500 |
Manufacturing
ASP designs and manufactures products in Appleton, Wisconsin, using advanced technologies and in-house assembly lines, particularly for lights to ensure precision and quality standards. Product lines result from cutting-edge design and exhaustive field evaluations, protected by over 150 patents. No outsourcing to mass-production OEM factories is mentioned for core items.13
Notable Products
- ASP Expandable Batons - Legendary batons with over 60 configurations in mechanisms, sizes, materials, and finishes.
- ASP Handcuffs - Advanced handcuffs recognized as among the most innovative in the industry.
- ASP Tactical Lights - Flashlights assembled in-house for high precision and law enforcement standards.
- ASP OC Spray - Oleoresin capsicum aerosol products for less-lethal force.
- ASP Training Weapons - Equipment for police use-of-force and defense tactics training.
Reputation
ASP is perceived by law enforcement professionals as a trusted provider of reliable, innovative less-lethal tools, particularly its batons which have become genericized terms in the field. Enthusiasts and agencies in over 100 countries value its focus on quality manufacturing and training support. Criticisms are not prominently noted in available sources, though its specialized market may limit broader consumer feedback.23