I have a definite weakness for metal cuffs. (We actually own metal ankle shackles, too) When they're locked onto your wrists, they don't say play or comfort but pretty much holler RESTRAINT. They're cold and serious and vaguely frightening in an exciting sort of way.

Spartacus is one of the great companies making BDSM gear and these handcuffs don't disappoint.

They're solid and substantial nickel cuffs. The real deal.

Like most metal cuffs they open with a key and close with a sort of adjustable ratchet effect. There is plenty of adjustment available for the average sized wrist, either male or female. Very tiny wrists or super large ones may create a problem but, for most of us, these will fit.

Once they're on your wrists the small connecting chain gives you a comfortable amount of movement while still holding your wrists fairly close together. Too much movement, however, will begin to feel uncomfortable and even painful if you press the metal against the bones in your wrist or wiggle enough to cause the metal to rub against your skin. A plus, to me, since it makes me feel more seriously restrained but some folks may feel it's a bit too much. We've tried cuffs with a long connecting chain and it lessens the "restrained" feeling for me when I'm allowed more movement.

I love the heavy feel, the snug fit and the realization that I am not getting out of these easily. I love the clank of metal when I'm trying to move around the house doing things with them on. I love the serious lack of movement that occurs when I'm cuffed to the bed, knowing if I squirm or pull too much it's going to hurt.

These are well made metal cuffs and we've never had a problem with either the cuffs themselves being damaged or the connecting chain. They come with two keys, which is nice if one is lost or misplaced.

These metal cuffs are smooth. I've noticed absolutely no rough spots on either the inside or outside of ours even after many uses, which is always a plus since metal is constraining and potentially uncomfortable enough without burrs or nicks in the metal to harm your skin.

Because you need a key to release them they aren't "quick" release and care should be taken in using them. If they're too tight or the position the restrained person is in is painfully uncomfortable one DOES have to fumble around with a key to get them off so don't use them in situations where quick release is desired. Remember to watch for signs of circulation difficulties any time you're using restraints. Numbness or tingling in the hands and fingers, discoloration and coldness are all signals that the restraints should be removed immediately!

I recently got to compare these with some more expensive cuffs. Verdict? As the wearer, I couldn't tell the difference.

Since these have lasted us years and years and there was virtually no difference between them and a pair twice their price I would definitely say don't be afraid to spend less and buy these.

Word.