Writing a Handgun Optics Policy

If your agency is allowing officers to use red dot sights on duty pistols, then it needs to have a policy that covers issues such as training, equipment, and qualification protocols.
If your agency is allowing officers to use red dot sights on duty pistols, then it needs to have a policy that covers issues such as training, equipment, and qualification protocols.
There were far too many products on display at the Sands Convention Center and Expo in Las Vegas to adequately capture it all, but as I zoom along at 300 miles per hour about 34,000 feet above sea level en route home, here are some of the things that immediately spring to mind as having a lasting impression on me.
The Newington (NH) Police Department has transitioned to the SIG Sauer P320 (9mm) as its official duty pistol. The full-service law enforcement agency is responsible for protecting the citizens of Newington and the Pease International Tradeport, home to SIG Sauer Worldwide Headquarters.
SIG Sauer announced that the Lloyd Harbor (NY) Police Department has adopted the SIG Sauer P320 9mm pistol as its official duty pistol. Lloyd Harbor Police Department serves the Village of Lloyd Harbor in Huntington, New York.
The Indiana State Police have adopted the SIG Sauer P365 as their back-up duty firearm for their full complement of troopers.
The contract calls for the replacement of existing .40-caliber duty handguns with 9mm Glock pistols by 2021.
“I’m honored to partner with this world-renowned brand,” said Norris. “The values that I have built my life and brand on—tough, real, constant and powerful—are echoed in everything that Glock does and creates."
When evaluating the different calibers, the agency's firearms selection committee found newer 9mm rounds had comparable ballistics to .45s, but the smaller caliber allows each trooper to carry more ammunition.
In past March issues, POLICE has covered how to transition from revolvers to semi-automatics, awards for outgunned officers, and the first national tactical standards.
FN America released the FN 509 MRD pistol, an optics-ready duty pistol at SHOT Show 2019. The company says the new FN 509 MRD was designed specifically for agencies considering miniature red dot optic-equipped pistols for their officers.