Abstract: Many tools and other items include a shaft. A restraining device is disclosed for restraining such an item when the item is not in use. In one embodiment, the restraining device includes at least one of: (i) a thumb-receiving surface for receiving a force by a thumb to pivot an arm open; and (ii) a finger-receiving surface for receiving a force by at least one finger to pivot the arm open. The restraining device may be used in restraining a reaching device in a rural mail carrier's vehicle. An apparatus is therefore also disclosed that, in one embodiment, includes a supporting body securable to a vehicle seat. The supporting body supports a tray for holding mail. The restraining device is connected to the supporting body.