Is a baton classified as an offensive or defensive weapon?

A baton is typically classified as an offensive weapon because it is designed to be used to strike a subject in order to subdue or control them. While batons can be employed defensively in certain situations, such as blocking an attack, their primary function is to deliver force against an aggressor. This classification as an offensive weapon stems from its use in law enforcement to assert control or deter a threat through physical means.

In contrast, options such as "defensive weapon," "non-lethal weapon," or "assisting tool" do not fully capture the baton’s role as primarily a means of offense in law enforcement contexts. While it is categorized as non-lethal in certain situations—meaning it’s intended not to cause permanent injury—its offensive capabilities are what define its use in tactical scenarios. Therefore, the classification as an offensive weapon emphasizes its strategic application in law enforcement training and engagement.