Ladies and Gents, Yeti, I don't know if this has been discussed elsewhere, but,

I have ASP batons,
they are illegal for a civilian to carry here in NY
In my limited experience, they loosen as they are being swung and can collapse on a thrust. I've heard that the Manodnoc is better in this regard though I have no experience with them.

Not germane to your question, but what about a walking stick or cane?
There was a time when a well dressed gentleman would never dream of going out without his walking stick, and they knew how to use them. There are autopsy reports to attest to their effectiveness. It is said that sometimes their sticks had metal tips and a glancing blow to the neck with the tip, even through an overcoat collar, would lacerate the carotid artery.
They, are the only weapon that doesn't need to be accessed or drawn to be used, they are already in your hands.
They are legal anywhere.
They are not viewed by other people or the constabulary as weapons.
They won't collapse on you at an inopportune time.
I like a good strong piece of hickory. I even get compliments on mine.
See www.canemasters.com.
Regards, Jim