Articles - Weapons

The advantage of a semi-auto weapon over a bolt gun is obvious. Follow-up shots are much quicker and the felt recoil is much less. Another advantage of the AR platform .308 weapons system is the familiar layout of the selector, mag release, and charging handle.

Trouble finding an officer is typical of off-duty incidents. That's the first thing we must understand in order to prepare ourselves for the unexpected off-duty encounter: They can happen at any time anywhere.

Which brings me back to the caliber debate and leads us into this discussion of the FNH USA SCAR 17S, a .308 caliber patrol rifle. There are agencies and jurisdictions where the extra range and penetration of the .308 rifle is a necessity.

Just 10 years ago when law enforcement agencies went out to purchase long guns, they rarely looked at anything other than shotguns. Today, the AR and other military-style rifles dominate the market.

All sworn law enforcement officers carry at least one handgun. Smart ones carry more than one, if they're allowed to. That's why so much of the handgun market is focused on providing cops with handguns.

The first and foremost reason people use any form of mounted optics is they provide a fast, accurate sight. Second, be they red dot or truly telescopic, sights have shrunk in size, making them better suited for duty.

POLICE Magazine reviews the Boyt Tactical Hard Sided/Soft Case Combo, Propper Lightweight Tactical Pants, Tru-Spec by Atlanco 3 In 1 Jacket, and (as a Web exclusive) iTAC Defense RDS1 Red-Dot Sight.

Once again, the editors of POLICE Magazine offer you our annual holiday gift guide. Note: We've allowed some inflation this year. The price limit for 2010 is $350 (Yes, we know. That's a substantial gift).

ArmStar's futuristic new stun weapon could make hands-on engagements with suspects really one-sided in your favor.

SIG Sauer has developed a new line of SIG 220 .45 ACP pistols: one model with a full-size SIG 220 grip and one with a shorter grip that is considerably more concealable.