Standard law enforcement firearms typically include semi-automatic pistols, often in 9mm, .40 S&W, or .45 ACP calibers. Shotguns, usually 12-gauge pump-action models, are also common for breaching and specific tactical situations. Patrol rifles, increasingly prevalent, are typically AR-15 style platforms or similar semi-automatic rifles, frequently chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO. Less frequently encountered, but still present in some agencies, are select-fire weapons like submachine guns or carbines, reserved for specialized units.
The selection of these specific firearm types reflects a balance between officer safety, public safety, and the practical demands of law enforcement. Pistols offer a readily accessible and concealable sidearm for everyday patrol duties. Shotguns provide increased stopping power in close quarters or when confronting barricaded subjects. Patrol rifles offer enhanced accuracy and range for situations involving active shooters or long distances. The evolution of standard police weaponry has been driven by advancements in firearms technology and a continuous assessment of the threats faced by law enforcement officers.
