Abstract: A one-piece article having a uniform cross section includes a number of portions that interact to releasably grip a cylindrical object (18). Two jaws (14, 16) extend from a base (12) and are shaped to embrace the cylindrical object. The base (12) and one of the jaws (14) are rigid. A second jaw (16) melds into the base and has a gripping surface that closely follows the contour of the cylindrical object. The distal end (22) of the second jaw diverges from the cylindrical object and reverts back to the base, terminating in a free end (24). This free end serves as an actuator for releasing the cylindrical object. When the free end is pressed by the user in the direction of the first jaw (14), the reverted portion (26) pivots about a fulcrum (30) formed by an extension of the base to draw open the second jaw, thereby releasing the cylindrical object.

Abstract: A belt-mounted flashlight holder includes a belt loop subassembly and a cradle subassembly that are pivotally connected to permit the mounted flashlight to be rotated to any of several detented rotational positions. The cradle subassembly can accommodate flashlights or batons of various diameters within a reasonable range and includes a flexible removable jaw that is forced by a cam against the barrel of the flashlight so that the elastic restoring forces in the movable jaw provide the force that retains the flashlight in the cradle. The flexibility of the movable jaw and cradle permits the flashlight to break away from the cradle in which it is held if the flashlight is jerked by an assailant or if the flashlight becomes caught on an object. The cam includes a high spot that renders it stable in both the locked and released positions. The belt loop subassembly includes provision for mounting the flashlight holder on a wall or other reasonably flat surface.

Abstract: A protective sleeve that can be slipped over the knurled barrel of a flashlight or similar article to protect surrounding objects from the abrasive action of the knurling is composed of a resilient slip-resistant vinyl. When applied over the barrel of the flashlight, the vinyl sleeve provides a non-abrasive but slip-resistant surface for gripping. The inside diameter of the sleeve is less than the outside diameter of the barrel of the flashlight, and a household detergent is used as a lubricant to facilitate slipping the sleeve onto the barrel of the flashlight.