Hiatt Alloy Darby Shackles

Here is a very good condition pair of Hiatt Darby leg shackles from their Alloy period. This set comes with one key and is listed at $180.

 

UPDATE: SOLD for $150. Glad to see these fetch a decent price. I have had two pairs of these alloy Darby shackles. One was $59.95 and the other was $65.99 so it appears these are becoming more collectable. 

After a lengthy history producing steel Darby restraints, Hiatt had seen decreasing demand for this heavy, clunky style of restraint. There was a changeover period where the majority of the market moved from prison and police to export markets, reenactment, collectors, and bondage enthusiasts. 

The export market was stymied by the new legislation which forbid the export of leg irons because they could be used by oppressive regimes. Regardless, the demand for these reliable cuffs which would not jam or malfunction when used in sandy or dirty environments still existed in the global market, and it was filled by Pakistani and Indian manufacturing. 

Hiatt moved from steel to this alloy during the 1970's.  They had reportedly ceased production of these restraints until  UK fetish group called Fetters approached them with a large group order and convinced Hiatt to produce another run of the classic Darby design. The handcuffs were also produced in alloy, with the model 115 adjustable Darby handcuffs and the 104 non adjustable being available as well. I do not believe Hiatt ever made an adjustable Darby leg iron. They did however produce at least two sizes of Darby leg irons, and it's unfortunate that the alloy production run was only available in the larger size, because the smaller size is perfect for bare ankles or slim ankles. 

The keys were also subject to change during this time, and vary from all-alloy to alloy with a steel threaded insert, to all steel as in previous iterations. The shackles were available in this plain alloy finish which has a sort of grey blue tint, nickel plating, or a matte black finish. 

Below, close up detail of the large chain links and the high quality heavy duty swivel. This swivel and chain are steel. 

Above, close up detail of the Hiatt makers mark, the tight fitting hinge, and the steel key. 

Below, close up detail of the steel key. Also note the hinge pin is steel too. I believe these are an older alloy pair as compared to the ones with all alloy keys and the ones with steel inserts in alloy keys.