What Kind of Weapons Do Police Officers Carry?

Throughout my law enforcement career, I had the opportunity to interact with hundreds of police officers from different departments. One thing that stands out is the variety in the types of firearms that police officers carry. While the most common weapons are Glocks, there is a considerable diversity in the types of firearms available.

Common Police Weapons: Glocks

The Glock 17, particularly, is almost universal as the duty weapon of choice. However, some forces still allow officers to choose from other options, and SIGs are also seen in use. In my experience, different departments have different preferences, with the calibers ranging from 9 mm to 40. This variety reflects the evolving nature of law enforcement and the increasing number of options available today.

Other Common Weapons: Smith Wesson and Taurus

Other firearms that I have witnessed include Smith Wesson MP semi-automatic handguns and Taurus weapons. These calibers can range from 9 mm to 45. It is worth noting that the type of firearm an officer carries often depends on personal preference and the policies of their department.

The Spectrum of Police Weaponry

While the most common weapons are those that fire bullets, there are occasionally officers without firearms. This can lead to some extreme proposals like replacing police with social workers and sending them unarmed into dangerous situations. Needless to say, this idea is both unrealistic and ridiculous. Communities would never expose their staff to such risks, especially those who are not trained for self-defense.

Police Equipment Beyond Firearms

It is important to note that the focus of an officer's equipment extends beyond just the firearm. Other essential equipment includes:

Tasers Oregon City (OC) spray Nightsticks Vests Flashlights Portable radios Handcuffs Timepieces Notebooks and pens Smartphones

The availability of this equipment is governed by several factors, including the department's budget, the local laws, the policies of the agency, and whether the agency allows officers to carry privately owned equipment. Some agencies ensure that their officers are equipped with these items to maintain a balanced and efficient force.

One example is the equipment I was issued at my agency. We were provided with a Glock handgun, spare magazines, a nightstick, and a vest. Most officers carried a taser or OC spray. The mandatory items included a flashlight, a portable radio, a pair of handcuffs, and a timepiece. Within the past few years, the department distributed smartphones to all officers. My wife humorously noted the weight of my gear when I weighed my vest and equipment belt. I was carrying over 50 pounds of equipment, which explains my back issues. It truly highlights the importance of considering the weight and ergonomics of the gear that is required of law enforcement officers.