Which type of motor skill is primarily used for handcuffing?

Handcuffing primarily involves fine motor skills, which are the precise movements of smaller muscle groups, particularly in the hands and fingers. When officers handcuff a suspect, they must manipulate a small object—the handcuff—accurately and quickly. This requires a high level of coordination and dexterity, which are characteristics of fine motor skills.

In contrast, gross motor skills involve larger muscle groups and movements such as running or jumping. Complex motor skills involve the combination of various movements that require a degree of planning and coordination but are not as precise as fine motor skills. Given the necessary dexterity and finesse involved in properly applying handcuffs, it is clear that fine motor skills are the most relevant to this specific action.