Bean

Edward D. Bean started his company in 1882 when he filed patent #268,171 for his "hold open" or lock activating buttons. 

The Bean company was positioned to partner with many top manufacturers of police equipment and restraints. He eventually partnered with Tower, which produced his designs, leading to the Towers Bean Pattern, and the Lovell Arms Company in Boston, which marketed and distributed his designs.

Above and below, Bean Cobb handcuffs from the authors own collection. This is a beautifully crafted single locking adjustable handcuff with integrated swivels in the clevises, a single long link connection, and Bean lock activating buttons. It's fairly small. 

Above, note the dual rows of ratchet teeth on the swing arm.

Above, the matching set from the authors own collection. These shackles are the H & R version, as indicated by the flat link chain, as opposed to Bean made models which have a twist link chain that makes a distinctive muted sound as opposed to the more musical chain sound of some other designs. 

Above and below, close up detail of the lock case, removable lock mechanism, rotating keyway, and lock activating button. 

Below, the flat, fluted, two bitted key, replacement. 

 

Above and below, Bean Cobb leg irons from the authors own collection. These are relatively large single lock shackles with four locking positions, a fairly short twist link chain, and a flat fluted key. The shackles themselves are fairly delicate in profile. Note the blind pocket where the ratchet arm enters. These are true Bean examples indicated by the fine twist link chain as compared to the H & R model seen above. 

This pair is in working condition with fair to poor nickel plating. The exposed steel has developed a decent dark patina. 

Above, these numbers are engraved in the inside of the hinge/clevises. 

Below, close up detail of the removable lock case with it's rotating keyway and lock activation button. 

Above and below, Bean Prison or Patrolman handcuffs from the authors own collection. 

These are high quality handcuffs with Bean lock activating buttons and two single lock pawls. The key is a solid two bitted key, the clevises have integrated swivels, and they are joined by a single stout long link. 

Note the lock activating buttons adjacent to the keyholes. After unlocking, the bow can move freely in and out of the lock case; pushing these buttons moves the pawls into place. If the cuff is closed, when you push the button, naturally the cuff becomes locked.