The question of what handgun police officers use is far more complex than a simple answer. There's no single "police handgun." The firearm used varies significantly depending on several key factors, including:
- Local Police Department Policies: Each department establishes its own standards based on budget, officer feedback, and perceived effectiveness. This means neighboring departments may use entirely different handguns.
- State and Federal Regulations: Certain jurisdictions may restrict or mandate specific types of firearms for law enforcement.
- Officer Preference (to an extent): While departments dictate the model, officers often have some say in the specific features and customization options within the approved model.
- Technological Advancements: The landscape of police handguns is constantly evolving, with newer models offering improved features like enhanced ergonomics, reliability, and ammunition capacity.
Common Handgun Calibers and Models Used by Law Enforcement
While the specific make and model vary widely, some calibers and firearm types are prevalent among police departments across the United States:
Calibers:
- 9mm: This caliber has become extremely popular in recent years, largely replacing .40 S&W and .45 ACP in many departments. It offers a good balance of stopping power, manageable recoil, and higher magazine capacity.
- .40 S&W: For a period, the .40 S&W was the dominant police caliber, valued for its perceived increased stopping power compared to 9mm. However, its higher recoil and lower magazine capacity have led to a decline in its popularity.
- .45 ACP: This larger caliber is known for its substantial stopping power, but its significant recoil and lower magazine capacity have resulted in its decreased use in many agencies.
Common Handgun Manufacturers and Models:
Many reputable manufacturers supply law enforcement agencies with handguns. Some of the most frequently encountered brands and models include (but are not limited to):
- Glock: Known for its polymer frames, reliability, and ease of maintenance, Glock handguns are extremely common among police officers across various departments. Models like the Glock 17 (9mm), Glock 22 (.40 S&W), and Glock 21 (.45 ACP) are frequently seen.
- Sig Sauer: Sig Sauer pistols are another popular choice, recognized for their accuracy, reliability, and comfortable ergonomics. Models like the P320 and P226 are often favored by law enforcement.
- Smith & Wesson: A long-standing and trusted name in firearms, Smith & Wesson provides various models suitable for police use, such as the M&P series.
- Beretta: Beretta handguns, especially the 92FS, have a long history of service with law enforcement agencies.
Factors Influencing Handgun Selection
Police departments consider numerous factors when selecting a service handgun:
- Stopping Power: The ability of the round to incapacitate a threat.
- Recoil: The force felt by the shooter upon firing.
- Accuracy: The consistency of bullet placement.
- Reliability: The firearm's ability to function without malfunctioning.
- Capacity: The number of rounds the magazine can hold.
- Ergonomics: The comfort and ease of handling the firearm.
- Cost: The initial purchase price and ongoing maintenance expenses.
- Training Requirements: The ease of training officers on the chosen firearm.
The Evolution of Police Handguns
The types of handguns used by police forces have dramatically evolved over time. Early models were often larger, heavier, and less reliable. Modern advancements in materials, design, and ammunition have led to smaller, lighter, and more accurate handguns with greater stopping power and reliability. This ongoing evolution will continue as technology progresses and new research becomes available.
Conclusion
There's no single answer to "What handgun do cops use?" The choice varies greatly by department, budget, and other considerations. However, understanding the factors that influence handgun selection provides a clearer picture of the complexities involved in equipping law enforcement officers with the tools they need to perform their duties safely and effectively. The information presented here offers a general overview; contacting individual police departments for specific details about their chosen service firearms is advisable.
