My last set of very similar cuffs lasted about 4 years. I needed a new set after the last one's hinges got weak and started to pinch the skin around the wrists. These are sold by a different company, but look almost identical to my old pair, so I imagine they will last just as long. I don't even use handcuffs that much, maybe once a month if that. So, these are not for the heavy user or for a couple or person who wants something hardcore or more realistic. They are, however, great for beginners or those who need an escape safety net.

The package for these cuffs doesn't say what type of metal they are, but they feel and weigh similar to my last pair, which were nickle plated. Some people are allergic to nickle so keep this in mind. Nickle is not the strongest metal and can rust. Chrome plating is much better if you want a longer lasting pair.

These cuffs can function like real cuffs with a key. But they do also have a safety type mechanism that does not require keys to open. There is a small latch that will open the cuffs. There is also a "stop" option. Pushing a small latch to the STOP written on the cuffs will lock them and make it so they cannot be opened with the latch. Having it not in the position allows them to be opened with the safety latch. Two sets of keys are provided, but even if you lose them the cuffs can still be used.

In terms of size these will fit the average female and male. On larger wrists there may be more discomfort; but for some the slight pain is what they want. I didn't find these painful unless I wanted them to be. They are easy to put on and take off. When cuffing them a clicking is heard when tightening.

These cuffs are strong enough to withstand some tough play. They don't seem like they would bend or break with force. Keep in mind that they can be removed by the person wearing them without to much difficulty. This makes them great for solo bondage play. They met my expectations and needs as a simple cuff set. They are way to small for ankle cuffing so if you want to use them for that, these are not a good choice. The middle chain that connects the two cuffs allows for them to be cuffed around items like table legs etc. They are fairly flexible for movement.

To clean these if they get messy, just use water and soap. Be sure to dry them well though to reduce the possibility of rusting. I washed my past pair this way and didn't have any problems. I only had to wash them a few times though. To gain some shine, use chrome cleaner.

The cuffs do make noise so if you are traveling with them, you may want to put them in the package or a pouch.

The packaging is minimal. They come in a small cardboard box. It can be kind of hard to fold the cuffs right to fit them back in so the box closes.