Posted by Steve Santini on May 09, 2001 at 12:34:33:
In Reply to: New collector needs advice and posted by Barry Miller on May 08, 2001 at 01:53:33:
Hello,
As a seasoned collector with over 20 years in the hobby, the best advice I can offer you is to 1) visit as many internet sites devoted to handcuffs as possible. (this will help you become familiar with what is out there), 2) buy as many books on the subject of collectible handcuffs and restraints as you can find. There are a number of good books available. One of them is "Manacles of the World" by Tom Gross. This is a very good book featuring many handcuffs in photo form and giving numerous historical points on the companies who made them, etc. Then there is a book out by Alex Nichols in the U.K. called "Handcuffs and other Restraints". This book is a small volume but offers a good sampling of various vintage restraints. "The Handcuff Patent Book" compiled by Ian McColl of Australia is a great companion if one is interested in actual patents filed for handcuffs and other restraints. This book features the original patent drawings submitted by the inventors and gives the reader a handy look into the interior workings of cuffs, etc. I myself have recently released a book called "Devices of Human Restraint". My effort is a pictorial study of all types of restraints used throughout history. While offering less historical background than Tom Gross's book, my effort does features over 100 restraints and describes their conutry of origin, approx date of manufacture, and how the lock on each functions. Of interest to you may be an up to date price guide for various vintage restraints I have included in the back. Alex Nichols has a web site (address not handy), Ian McColl's book can be purchased through Cannons Great Escapes online web site, and, unfortunately, Tom Goss's book is now out of print but I have heard for some time now he will release a second edition. As for my book; how to order it is listed on this message board. After reading materials, another way to get into this hobby is by talking to other collectors. This board run by Joe has got to be the most effective way for collectors to network and get in touch with each other. (Thanks Joe!) Should I personally be able to offer my assistance to you, (and even to help you build your collection), do not hesitate to e mail me at: odditorium1@home.com May I take this opportunity on behalf of all restraint collectors to welcome you to this rewarding and interesting branch of collecting. I hope you find it as stimulating as I have for the past 20 years! Good luck and best wishes, Steve Santini.: I am a brand new collector who was very fortunate to stumble upon this wonderful site! Would someone be kind enough to lead me in the right direction regarding how to find worthy collectables and how to know what to pay?
: Also, I am interested in buying anything you have of interest. Please let me know of your available collectables in the inexpensive price range so that I can afford to begin my collection with as many items as possible.
: Thank you very much in advance!