The other day I happened into a conversation between two chiefs. Their discussion seemed more like they were plotting against their officers. One had heard, read or fantasized about officers carrying prohibited items. If they would regulate these items, then he would never be sued. I nearly lost my mind with these two: they worry about getting sued? They should worry if their officers are given the ability to protect themselves and work with a tactical advantage. Let's take a look at a few points.
Back-up weapons or secondary guns are a reality of life.
To force my way into their conversation I made this observation. I noticed that both of these executive survival tacticians had two pens in their shirt pocket. I asked why they each carried two pens. One said if the other is out of ink and the second guy agreed. I had to pose a few questions to them: What happens if the service weapon is disabled, broken or whatever? What are your officers going to do then? I recommended that they obtain a copy of a great policy on secondary weapons. It covers familiarization, the need for the weapon to be recorded with the department and sets guidelines for caliber and selection. I told them of my use of a secondary once and how it made the difference during a felony arrest.
One additional point is that the departmental or academy firearms instructors can be invaluable to you here. Proper handgun selection (make, action, caliber, and recommended loads), proper carry (vest, ankle, or waistband) and training will make this easier for all involved. Some of the younger officers may not be fully familiar with all of the new weapon systems (firearm, sights and loads) plus new carry systems; here is where the firearms instructors should excel. Granted, I adore my ankle rig for Smith and Wesson 642. It is a sweet set-up for those special moments in life.
Knives and multi-tools are needful things.
Recently, I was asked by a chief if I regulate knives, for he would not allow them. I told him I allowed them and have guidelines for carry. I said I felt a Scottish claymore was a tad too big because it inhibits getting in and out of the car. He was not amused but I do allow folding belt knives as long as they have the officer's payroll number on them. This is a safeguard on evidence dropping and identifies the equipment. Mankind really advanced once the cave dudes got knives made of metal, why regress?
Going back to this chief in question, I asked him if he carried a pocket knife. He replied yes, and proudly showed me his multi-blade stockman type knife. I had to ask why then, are you carrying one but you prohibit your officers with a "no knife" regulation. I told him that I felt he was setting his staff up for failure. Daily, a knife is used for some mundane task-cutting crime scene barrier tape if nothing else. My edged weapon nemesis asked what I carried to which I replied, "A Cold Steel Voyager." He asked why I carry this type of knife observing that it could be a weapon. My reply is two fold. I like apples and they may need peeling and I do not want to hurt anyone - just make them turn me loose.
Off-duty carry is a cop multiplier.
Another sterling conversation I got into was with yet another chief: He did not encourage his officers to carry off-duty. After I nearly lost my mind with him, we came to this discussion. He felt that cops are on duty only eight hours a day. I volleyed back to him, "What would you do if you had an officer that was a criminal off-duty?" He then started back to this universe. I explained to him my outlook that he is dictating whether or not an officer can protect themselves or their loved ones. Maybe he had not made any cases with some real creeps or worked outside of his charmed little world. I can cite several cases I personally know where off-duty carry interrupted crimes, assisted on duty officers and protected the officer and family.
Again, off-duty carry is another area where the expertise of the firearms instructors should be tapped. Proper off-duty mindset and preparedness is a real necessity. We must prepare, equip and train for the unexpected and never hope we need to respond - but be ready if called upon. Keep doing your job, train hard and train smart... I will keep trying to spread the word to the bosses that they should facilitate you and not inhibit you.
