The 2018 heist film Den of Thieves thrilled audiences with its intense action sequences and realistic portrayal of law enforcement and criminal activity. A key element contributing to the film's gritty realism was the impressive array of firearms used. This post delves into the specific models and their significance within the narrative. Understanding the weaponry provides a deeper appreciation for the film's action choreography and thematic elements.
The Police Arsenal: Maintaining Order (or Trying To)
The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD) deputies in Den of Thieves are shown wielding a variety of firearms, reflecting the diverse equipment found within a real-world agency. While the exact models aren't always explicitly shown, careful observation reveals several key weapons:
1. Glock Pistols: The Workhorse Sidearm
Glock pistols, known for their reliability and durability, are likely the most prevalent sidearms among the deputies. Glocks’ ubiquitous nature within law enforcement makes their presence in the film both realistic and unsurprising. The specific Glock model is difficult to definitively identify from the screen, but the general shape and size suggest models commonly issued to law enforcement agencies.
2. Heckler & Koch MP5 Submachine Guns: Close-Quarters Domination
The MP5, a classic submachine gun, is featured prominently in several action scenes. Its compact size and high rate of fire make it ideal for close-quarters combat, a scenario frequently encountered during high-stakes operations depicted in the film. The MP5’s appearance emphasizes the preparedness of the LASD team for intense firefights.
3. Remington 870 Pump-Action Shotguns: Powerful Stopping Power
The Remington 870, a staple among law enforcement agencies, is another firearm visible in the movie. Its powerful stopping power makes it a formidable weapon for controlling potentially dangerous situations. The shotgun’s presence underlines the seriousness and lethality of the situations encountered by the deputies.
The Criminals' Cache: Tools of the Trade
The Merrimen crew, the film's master criminals, employ a similarly diverse range of weaponry, reflecting their meticulous planning and preparedness. Again, precise model identification is challenging, but we can identify some key weapon types:
1. AR-15 Style Rifles: Long-Range Firepower
Several members of the Merrimen crew utilize AR-15 style rifles, providing long-range accuracy and firepower. These rifles are popular among civilian and military users alike, and their presence in the film emphasizes the crew's access to powerful, readily available weaponry.
2. Handguns: Close-Range Engagement
While the specific handgun models used by the Merrimen gang are less clear from the film's visuals, a variety of semi-automatic pistols are deployed in the intense firefights. These serve as backup weapons and are essential for close-quarters combat engagements.
3. Shotguns (Possibly Remington 870): Close-range power
In addition to the AR-15 style rifles, the Merrimen crew likely also utilizes shotguns for close-quarters engagement, echoing the powerful stopping power of the LASD shotguns. Given the realism of the film's weaponry choices, the possibility of Remington 870 shotguns being used by the crew is high.
The Importance of Firearms in the Film's Narrative
The firearms shown in Den of Thieves are more than mere props; they are integral to the narrative. They highlight the power dynamics between the law enforcement and criminal elements, underscoring the risks and consequences inherent in the heist. The detailed depiction of the weapons adds to the film's realism and contributes to its overall suspense and excitement. The variety of firearms used showcases both the resources available to both sides and the preparedness for any scenario.
Disclaimer: This analysis is based on visual observation of the film and general knowledge of firearms used by law enforcement and criminal organizations. It is not an endorsement of any specific weapon or manufacturer. The handling of firearms should always be done under the guidance of trained professionals and in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations.
