NCJ Number
217491
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 74 Issue: 2 Dated: February 2007 Pages: 68,71-76,78,80-84,86,88
Date Published
February 2007
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This article analyzes the benefits and drawbacks to arming patrol officers with rifles, suggests basic considerations for the deployment of officer weapons, and offers guidance on potential options as well as policies and practices.
Abstract
While the article makes no overarching recommendations about whether patrol officers should be armed with rifles, two recommendations are offered: (1) departments that deploy patrol rifles should plan and execute a comprehensive training program, and (2) departments considering deploying patrol rifles should seek the guidance of departments that have already deployed rifles. The advantages of arming patrol officers with rifles are identified as increased protection against superior firepower, greater deterrence power, enhanced response to active shooters, enhanced protection of the public, and improved response to the threat of terrorism. The disadvantages of deploying patrol rifles are also discussed and include a greater danger to the public, higher friendly fire casualties, budget constraints, increased training requirements, and potential political and public opposition. Departments should also consider whether to deploy rifles, shotguns, or both since a decision to upgrade weaponry does not necessarily have to mean an upgrade to rifles only. The advantages and characteristics of rifles versus shotguns are described, followed by a discussion of different rifle types, variants, and accessories. The article identifies ammunition types and modifications and discusses whether patrol rifles should be supplied by the department or purchased by individual officers. Guidance is offered concerning which officers should receive department issued rifles and policies concerning the rules of engagement with rifles are suggested. These policies consider the type of incident in which rifles may be used, the type of adversary, the incident environment, and issues involving officer discretion. Finally, basic training requirements are identified in the areas of classroom instruction, range training, and requalification. Endnotes