I have other security batons but I wanted a baton where I'm not so close to an attacker I can smell their bad breath. Two of my other batons when fully extended I have to strike with a sledge hammer to get them to retract because I've broken cement getting them to retract into the handle. The pros for the NEXTORCH are the 39 inches length I can strike before hand to hand fighting. The button for retraction is absolutely wonderful, press it and the baton will ease back into the handle. Cons: the first I would like a lanyard hole somewhere in the handle so I can keep the baton secured to my wrist, just a personal preference. The second is the baton needs a universal clip so I can secure it to my utility belt or tactical vest. Absolutely love this baton five out of five stars!!!!!