James Milton Gill founded the company after purchasing the patent for a new handcuff design that would revolutionize the law enforcement profession. The inventor was George Carney. Carney’s innovation was the now familiar swing through self locking handcuff. Unlike other restraints of the day, this design was relatively lightweight and easy to carry. The new style handcuff also gave officers a significant advantage since it was easily applied and effectively restrained both hands. The combination of lightweight and ease of use greatly increased officer and public safety.