Which area should be distinctly avoided when applying strikes with the ASP?

When utilizing an ASP (Expandable Baton), striking a person in the head should be distinctly avoided due to the high risk of serious injury or death. The head is a sensitive area containing critical structures such as the skull, brain, and major blood vessels. A strike to the head can result in concussions, fractures, and other severe neurological injuries.

In the context of self-defense or law enforcement, the focus is often on neutralizing a threat rather than inflicting significant harm. Strikes to areas like the knees, while they can cause pain and incapacitation, are generally considered less lethal options, as are strikes to the stomach or liver. Prioritizing safety and minimizing unnecessary injury is crucial in both training and real-life application, making the head a location that should be avoided during the application of strikes with an ASP.