Abstract: These and other advantages are achieved through the flanged, flat spring of the present invention. The spring comprises a single, C-shaped leaf element formed of a substantially flat base having an aperture therein for receipt of a detent button, a pair of flat spring legs radiating outwardly from the base in a direction generally opposite the direction of the projecting detent button, a pair of upturned feet attached to the legs, and a flange extending downward from each side of the base. The flanges increases the effective thickness of the spring, which results in a decreased bending stress and hence, a longer fatigue life. Therefore, the flanges increases the effective thickness of the spring without increasing the actual material thickness of the spring. In addition, the upturned ends of the legs provide a surface which can be more easily grasped to manipulate the spring within a baton tube.