NCJ Number
127949
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 18 Issue: 1 Dated: (January 1991) Pages: 40-43
Date Published
1991
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article presents the specifications for the semi-automatic pistols of Smith and Wesson, Glock, Ruger, Colt, Sig Arms, Springfield, Beretta, and Browning.
Abstract
The specifications presented for each type of pistol are barrel length, overall length, overall width, overall height, weight empty, finish, magazine capacity, action, sights, sight radius, trigger pull, riflings, G/L/R, A turns in B inches, and materials. A narrative commentary notes the growing popularity of semi-automatic pistols as standard police issue. This is because the semi-automatic allows access to a variety of ammunition possibilities and achieves quicker reloading than a revolver. The once common complaint about semi-automatics jamming has been eliminated through new firearm technology. Points to consider in the selection of a firearm are whether the round has the desired stopping ability and whether it is safe for urban applications in crowded areas. Other points to consider in the selection of a firearm are the magazine capacity, the action, and the training required to make the conversion from the revolver to the semi-automatic. There is no "perfect" semi-automatic for all law enforcement agencies. The choice must be made in accordance with each agency's community environment, the personnel who will use it, and the applications for which it is intended.