Police gear suppliers are stepping up to the concealed-carry challenge, creating shirts and pants that don't print and provide easy access to your weapon. These same companies are also creating footwear and packs that don't scream "cop," yet meet your needs.
April 16, 2012
Many of the fixed blades built for law enforcement are designed for heavy-duty applications: cutting seat belts and harnesses, hacking through underbrush, breaking windows, prying open doors (not recommended), or they can even be used to puncture liquid containers. These uses will generally destroy any pocket knife you might carry.
June 22, 2011
One of the fastest growing sectors of the law enforcement market is enhancements for the AR Series of firearms. The AR has become the firearms counterpart of Burger King's Whopper: You can have it your way, any way you want it, literally.
May 17, 2011
Duty lights have gone through numerous evolutions over the course of the last decade. We have seen the once standard one-size-fits-all flashlight morph into mission and unit specific lights.
December 29, 2010
Most civilian packs aren't up to the task of handling a cop's multitude of weapons, accessories, and random must-have items securely and without falling apart after some rough use. Read on for a selection of storage options that can fit a bunch and take a tumble with no trouble.
August 31, 2010
Scott Smith reviews the Voodoo Tactical Matrix Assault Pack, BlackHawk Warrior Wear Shell and Jacket, EMA Tactical Countdown Magazine and Grip, and Danner Striker II GTX boots.
July 30, 2010
There are as many styles of knives and tools as there are men and women in uniform. POLICE Magazine asked me to take a look at one item each from several of today's best known manufacturers.
June 24, 2010
We review the Pelican Products Hardigg FieldPak, 5.11 Tactical Scout Folder Knife, BlackHawk Tactical Ballistic Vest Carrier, and Tango Down AR Magazines and Rail Covers.
February 5, 2010
So what did I find from the major vendors for base layers? There are base layers from cotton, various polyester/Lycra blends, wool blends, and layers for cold or hot weather. The choices seem to be endless.
December 29, 2009
While giving waterproof jackets a "test wearing," I have had input from several members of my local department and from guys I shoot with. We have found that 5.11 Tactical, BlackHawk, Blauer, Elbeco, Fechheimer, Propper, The Force, Tru Spec by Atlanco, Under Armour, and Woolrich's Elite Tactical Series serve well in a wide range of conditions.
October 30, 2009
It took some searching and reading, but I managed to come up with cutlery and tools for duty that won't break the bank and won't break when cutting open a heavy-duty box.
August 21, 2009
Gloves have become part of a cop's daily uniform as much as a badge or belt. The reason for this is simple: A pair of gloves protects your hands from the elements, abrasions, cuts, and punctures from needles or other sharp objects.
July 22, 2009
The first thing I consider when looking at glasses is whether they will effectively protect my eyes. Don't buy eyewear where you buy your morning coffee. It is not going to protect you.
July 22, 2009
The S2Vs did not disappoint me. They were comfortable on the mixed hard surfaces I wore them on. And since we were in the freeze thaw of February, I was able to see how slip resistant the soles were.
May 1, 2009
So what makes a good duty light? It all depends on what you want to use it for. Obviously, you want it to illuminate an area or areas, but there are other considerations.
May 1, 2009