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Special Interests - Groups & Societies => BOLD Chambers => Topic started by: Capt. John Fitzgerald on June 18, 2006, 12:01:36 AM

Title: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Capt. John Fitzgerald on June 18, 2006, 12:01:36 AM
Well, we seem to have covered the FIRST duty pistol subject pretty well and it looks like just about all of us have gone through several pistols during our various careers.  Now, out of all the different guns we have carried, which one(s) was your favorite?

For down and out tack-driving accuracy, I would have to go with the S&W 6" model 686 (at least the one I had).  Alway qualified as expert, but with that 686 I qualified distinguished.  I suppose I should mention that it wasn't quite an "out-of-the-box" gun.  I did have the action worked on a bit. 
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Jon Spurlock on June 20, 2006, 11:24:37 AM
Yep, I loved my 686 too.  It handled very well, and functioned flawlessly.  As a detective I carry a Glcok 27, and its not bad at all.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: gotzguns on June 20, 2006, 11:31:45 AM
i never had to carry a pistol but i thought i would post this. several year ago i bought a s&w mod. 10 that was made up for the hong kong police. i don't know what they did to those pistols but i can't miss with it. i own several other 38 pistols but this mod. 10 just doesn't miss. its my all around favorite plinker pistol. have put several thousand rounds threw it and it jst keeps going.  gotzguns
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: wspe61 on June 20, 2006, 06:43:54 PM
 :)

I shot better with several revolvers over the years; ( on the range) but I never stopped carrying my series 70 Gold Cup. It served me well , and I was very comfortable with it. Now it sits in the secure location waiting for my grandson when my wife decides he's mature enough... It was a fine gun.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Griff on June 21, 2006, 01:28:27 AM
Gosh that's an easy question.  My 1978 production Colt SAA, .45 Colt 4-3/4".  Carried almost everytime I was mounted.  Never felt undergunned.  Probably was, but...
When on regular duty, I liked both my Model 65 S&W and Colt Combat Commander.  Would hate to make a choice between those two.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Baron von Haltomstadt on June 21, 2006, 09:50:11 AM
This is a little harder than remembering the first duty pistol -

I still have an affinity for the 1st revolver I carried - a nickeled, .357 Magnum, S&W Hwy Patrolman (backed up by a S&W Model 39 9mm).

My favorite "showy" duty guns were a consecutive serial number pair of nickeled, 9mm, S&W, Model  59. I wore these as a pair for the 9 years I was on motorcycle duty. My most accurate (for me) was a 9mm, Glock 17.

As I conlude my 30th year, I am carrying a stainless, .45 Colt, S&W 625 and a .40 S&W Glock Model 22 (I believe in the superior ballistics of the .40 S&W, I just wish I could shoot it with as tight a groups as I got with the 9mm)

Not part of this topic, but related: My favorite off-duty carry pistols were a Colt New Service, in .45 Colt with the barrel cut to 3" and a .38 Spl, S&W stainless Chief's Special totally engraved. Both these have been sold long ago. My current favorites are: a .45 Colt, stainless, Ruger Vaquero, 3.5" barrel, and Birdshead grip and ( my latest) a blue & case hardened, .45 Colt, Uberti 1873 SAA, with 3" barrel./color]
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Forty Rod on June 21, 2006, 04:23:58 PM
Four inch Model 19 S&W for the very short time I worked with the Sheriff's Dept.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Texas Lawdog on June 23, 2006, 06:59:11 AM
My best first duty weapon was a First Series Model 66 Smith with a 4 inch Barrel. The Semi-autos included a Govt. Model 70 Series 45acp. A SIG P226, and a Glock Model 23. I was not a fan of Glocks until I bought my first one. I bought the Model 23 and took to the range for annual qualification, I shot the best score in over 32 years. That was 4 years ago and now I own a Model 21, a Model 22, a Model 23, a Model 27, and a Model 32. It took a long time for an Ol' Dog to come around.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Coal Creek Griff on June 24, 2006, 05:58:26 PM
My favorite duty pistol is the one I'm currrently carrying--a Kimber Pro-Carry HD (stainless 1911 pattern .45).  The ones they issue us have ambi safeties and night sights.  This is one fine gun!  I was very pleased that our department made this gun an option for issue.  We can choose between stainless or alloy Kimbers or Glock 21, 22 or 23.  Most detectives went with the Glock 23 or the alloy Kimber, but I am willing to put up with the extra weight.  It's a great gun.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Marshal Tac on August 01, 2006, 11:01:28 AM
My favorite duty pistol has to be my first semi auto duty pistol as well.. It was "old style" Sig P220 in .45 ACP. Two tone, nickled steel parts with the black frame. I shot this pistol so well, I thought I could never miss with it. Never qualified below "expert" (the highest score you could get), didn't matter if it was day or night. 

A few years later, I was forced to go to a Glock 22 in .40.. Never shot that gun nearly as well as the SIG. Still shot expert, but the groups looked like a shotgun pattern instead of the one ragged hole I was used to... In 2000 the department transitioned back to the SIG P220 and I was very happy. My "new" Sig is a shooter, but it does not shoot quite as tight as my first one.

My first one is now equiped with a beautiful set of presentation wood grips and behind glass in a presentation case, hanging in a place of honor on my wall.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Capt. John Fitzgerald on August 05, 2006, 02:09:49 AM
Tac,
When my department went to semi-autos back in 80's I bought a Sig Sauer 220.  Carried it to retirement in '94 and still carry it today.  Recently picked up a new Springfield TRP (their tactical 1911 model).  Great gun, accurate, but it won't replace the 220.
CJF
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Doc Sunrise on August 05, 2006, 02:43:10 AM
My favorite duty pistol which is what I personally carry daily is my Sig 220.  I am anxiously waiting for my newly ordered Sig SAS 220 to come in with the DAK trigger system to replace it.  Man I have to tell you, after all the training, after all the shooting classes, after all the time on the range, that Sig 220 has never once failed, and it has consistently remained accurate.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Marshal Tac on August 05, 2006, 09:16:14 AM
Doc,
As the department armorer for these guns, I have never had one that failed due to a parts breakage or gun related problem that couldn't be traced back to either the ammo being bad or a worn out magazine spring... Their reliability combined with thier accuracy had built a reputation that has even converted some of our most die-hard Glockers to appreciate them... You will undoubtedly like that SAS DAK P220. I played with them at my most recent armorer's school, and learned that I could get some very smooth trigger pulls out of it, BUT it will take a little getting used to.... The re-set position for that DAK trigger is different. I recently handled one of the new Single Action Only P220's with the external safety, like the 1911. Boy was that a sweet gun! They got rid of the double action notch on the sear, the de-cock mechanism, and set the trigger up for a 4.5 pound release with only a little take up and NO creep... That gun is definatley on my "Gotta Have One" list.

Capt. John,
If you want a 1911 that is all SIG and is a fantastic shooter, take a hard look at their Sig GSR series of guns. I have one of the first generation GSR's in stainless steel, with the light rail, and out of 8 or 9 1911's I've owned, it is the most accurate and reliable out of the box gun I have ever owned. I have a couple of custom 1911's that cost twice as much that can hold thier own with it, but none of them can beat it, to include a Custom Springfield and a Wilson. I have not shot any of the newer "Revolution", second generation GSR's from Sig, but understand they are no sloutches in the accuracy department either.

My only complaint I have ever had about the P220 was related to the fact that the slides rusted at even the mention of the word moisture.... BUT Sig has recently fixed that too.... All of the new P220's are now manufactured with a stainless steel, one-peice CNC machined slide, just like the up-dated P226's/P228's/P229's. I might finally be able to retire my re-finishing set up and finally get to spend more time working on the department's Colt RIFLES instead! :) ::) ;D

Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: wspe61 on August 05, 2006, 08:15:02 PM


 8)


 Series 70 and 80 Gold Cup...........
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: SFT on September 03, 2006, 06:26:10 PM
Smith 586, best shooting, most accurate duty gun I was ever issued, in fact I bought it from the department shortly after going through auto transition.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Arcey on September 13, 2006, 06:32:47 PM
I bought my S&W Mod 64 when we transitioned to autos.  Me and another couple of old farts meet on Wednesday mornings for a bull session at an indoor range.  Shot the 64 last week and after knocking the rust off my DA pull I cut the middle out of a Q with it.  My old Mod 14 went this morning.  Same result.  I shot PPC matches with that one back in the mid seventies.  Don’t know why I still have it, I sold most everything else.  I do love the K frame Smiths.

After having people scream GLOCK at me for several years I reluctantly bought a G26 about a month ago.  I put magazine extensions on the mags so I could get all my hand on it.  It’s laying here on the desk right now with its little night sights glowing.  It seems just happy to be here.  Have to admit, I shot that little gun out of the box as well as I shoot the 5946 Smith I carried until retirement, I‘d put a few thousand through that.  Yeah, I bought the Smith when I retired.

This morning before we left the range, I looked at a G34.  I hope to be shooting IDPA with my son-in-law by next year this time.  He’s saving for a G23 and I match him dollar for dollar.  The boy shows allot of promise with borrowed Glocks.  I’ll need the G34 to keep up with him.  If it’s still there next Wednesday it’s going on lay away.

The department I worked for has switched to Glocks.  Sheriff’s Department here carries the things.  All but a couple guys at the gun shop carry them.  I haven’t shot everything on the market but after a few hundred thru the G26 and a box or two thru a pard’s G19, I’m pretty much convinced I’ll never do any better with anything else.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: fourfingersofdeath on October 31, 2006, 07:20:58 AM
Started with a Model10 3" heavy Bbl, full metal jacket Winchester loads. Finished with a Model10 3" heavy Bbl, 125 Gn Hollow point Jacketed Winchester loads. Carried a J frame occasionally when on escorts, but generally the Model 10 was the go.

If I could have picked? Toss up between the 45 Colt Commander and the Glock 26. I kinda think the ol' Colt would win.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/4fingermick/Handguns/Handguns%20that%20have%20moved%20on/5b596c9c-1.jpg)

Dang! That wind is playing havoc with my hairstyle!
 ;D Mick.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: John Barleycorn on November 16, 2006, 10:41:47 AM
That would have to be my current duty pistol the Sig P220 in stainless with night-sights, its an all round piece of German precision.  I added coco bolo checkered grips from Houge Grips and the Safariland level II midride keeps it secure. Our issued duty round is the Federal Hydrashok in 230gr. What would I add? a thumb safty buty thats just me a lot of officers dont want to have to think about flipping a safty in a life or death situation on the other side of the coin most officers that are killed by gunshot are shot with thier own weapon and a second or two for the perp to find that safty my be just the time you need to fight or flee for cover.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Captain Rob Page on November 26, 2006, 09:35:32 PM
  My Smith & Wesson 686 for several years and for 12 years my Sig P220, which I plan to use till I retire!
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Knight77 on January 20, 2008, 02:00:46 PM
My favorite wasn't the fanciest or the most powerful.  It was a 2 3/4" barrel model 66 loaded with Federal .38 +p+ ammo.  In the Federal Academy we shot full power ammo every day and by the time I graduated I could put those lil 110 grainers wherever I wanted.  I was very confident with that little gun.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Elmer Watson on February 02, 2008, 10:52:54 PM
My favorite was my last personally owned weapon before we went ro carring department issue only.  It was A blue S&W model 13 4 inch .357 magnum.  The front sight was adjusted for the 125 grain JHP .357 Reemington load so that it was dead on.  I never had to worry adjustable sights getting knocked out of kilter.  Then we went to issued S&W model 59's for two months.  Due to big problems we changed to model 66's as S&W could not refund the cost of the 9MM's.  Again problems showed up but our department armorers worked OT and fixed them.  I guess S&W was just turning out junk for awhile.  My old model 13 and my old model 36 somehow kept me company.  I never had to use them so I never had to explain to IA why I was carrying them.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Yul Catchum on March 27, 2008, 11:20:24 AM
I'd have to say my 4 inch S&W Model 28, the old Highway Patrolman was my preferred carry gun. It adjusted a few attitudes during its career.    My FAVORITE was my 5-inch Model 27 Nickle plated S&W that I ruined with a squib load.

My most accurate was my 4 inch model 64 (?) the stainless 38 caliber version of the Model 10. Tacks, I tell ya. It drove TACKS !
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Handsome Dave on April 18, 2008, 10:34:48 PM
My current is my favorite, SW99 .40 cal. S&W/Walther Hybrid. Sucker is ACCU rate
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: aryfrosty on July 13, 2008, 06:48:33 PM
Cap'n, I got into this post late so try to overlook me if I re-cover old ground. When I began in 1971 it was "run what you brung". I had a beautiful Colt *.357mag* 4" for several years. In 1991 the PD bought our first issue guns, which were Beretta 96D Centurions. In 1993, becaue we had officers too dumb to appreciate the Berettas we went to Sig P-229s. I retired in 1995 and the agency is still carrying Sigs. The biggest...only...change is that they went to a LaserMax guide rod system. Now that I'm "old and I' nervous and cast from the service I carry anything I like. Usually it's a M-342 Smith or a Detonics CombatMaster if I dress up. Regards
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Angel_Eyes on September 30, 2008, 04:16:11 AM
If only we could have!!! As you probably know, us British police were issued with a 15" wooden 'truncheon' which, along with a facility to talk your way out of trouble, was the only weapon of self defense we had. (Mind you, I was incredibly fast over a short distance!)
Having said that, I did carry a rather sturdy 5-cell flashlight as well!!

Regards, UKshooter.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: IT KIDD on October 12, 2008, 11:04:47 PM
pards, now with a  florida ccw on hot day, most of the year in southwest fl, carry and love my glock md. 36, .45 acp!! had el paso leather make me a double 1876 set shoulder holsters for my .45 black powder frame, 4 3/4 colts.  feels good to have a colt .45 single action under each arm while going to church on sunday!!  el paso saddlery makes a quality single action shoulder single or double!!
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: aryfrosty on November 12, 2008, 11:46:48 PM
I knew this post would get me in trouble.  ;D  Every time I read the answers I come up with another favorite. I could write on here for a while. Looking back over the years I know one of the best I ever carried was a satin ncikel Combat Commander. It was accurate and easy to carry.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: dek on May 22, 2009, 06:24:19 PM
Retired federal agent. Issued Ruger Speed Six, stainless in 1984 and carried .357 mag rounds from whoever got the
contract that year. In 1992 we converted to Glock 19s. When I retired in 2004 I was carrying a Glock 26 which is
what I still carry. I will say that my favorite was the Ruger with the standard grips and the Tyler "T" grip adapter. It was
powerful, supremely accurate, felt great in the hand and worked flawlessly with the Safariland speed loaders.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: pasayten jack on August 15, 2009, 11:27:31 PM
A quality 1911 platform is my favorite and what I carry today. I've been carrying a Les Baer Premier II for about the last four years and carried a Colt Series 80 for about four years before the Baer.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Shotgun Franklin on August 16, 2009, 09:32:01 AM
A S&W M 28, 6" barrel, highly tuned. Shot a Rape Suspect at 80 yards, he was shooting at me at the time.
I also like either one of 2 matching Colt SAAs, 5 1/2', blue, tuned. My SASS guns when playing. My favorite carry guns.
Gangbangers hate those SAAs. For some reason they're scared to death of'm?????

BTW, I have to carry a Glock at my current job. I hate it. I ground off most of the finger groves to fit my paw better. I hate that Glock.
I need a new extra mag and they want $30 for one. Oh, did I mention that I hate my Glock.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Ol Law Dawg on August 16, 2009, 11:40:04 AM
First gun? 4" Colt Diamond Back, $108 new. Oh yea, that was back in 1969. Last gun was a state issued Glock Mdl 30, which I  carried until I retired last April. Favorite gun WWII Colt 1911A1 Army issue. Got it at a County Attorney's auction for $75, it had been used in an armed robbery. Still have every gun I carried for the past 40 years except the Glock.

Have fun and stay safe......
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Buffalo Bruce on December 24, 2009, 09:11:58 PM
I started with a Mdl 15 Combat Masterpiece. Realized that wasn't enough gun, bought a Mdl 19 4" Combat Magnam. In those days (late 60's -early 70's) we carried the 110gr Supervel (1700fps) This lead me to my favorite a 6" Mdl 27 which was backed up by a .380 PPK/s. In the mid 90's we went to the .40 Glock which was OK. I wore the 27 on my last day on the job. Nothing like it with the dress blouse and full Sam Browne belt.

My current favorite (after a week at Gunsite) is a Kimber 1911.

Buffalo Bruce
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: cleoleo on December 27, 2009, 04:30:22 AM
I got out of the service and went on duty in the late 60's on a dept. in So. Calif.  At that time  we had to provide all our own gear, including uniforms and side arm. My first handgun was an old used 4" Colt Trooper in .38 special.  As soon as I saved up enough, I  bought a 4" S&W Highway Patrolman .357 (N frame), which I carried for the remainder.  I am now retired, bailed out of "Kal-if-ornia",  and live out in the country in beautiful East Texas, where I was born. I'm still packing that N frame (now with stag grips and .357 mag. ammo), and have never felt "out gunned" as long as it's within reach.
And, God Bless Texas!
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Marshal Cy Clone on January 07, 2010, 09:41:44 PM
Its  a hard toss up between my 1911 and my sig p220.  I love em both..............but lately ive been cuddling up with a sig p225/p6 german surplus police issue that I picked up and its becoming my favorite off duty........

Marshal Cy Clone
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Eagle Eyes Jefferson on March 09, 2010, 11:41:35 AM
Let's see....favorite duty weapon would have to go to the most fun to carry and shoot.......SW model 629 .44 magnum w/4in. bbl. At the range everyone knew when I was qualifying......BOOM, BOOM!!!!!!!!! the looks on a bad guy's face when looking down that .44 barrel.......priceless    ;D
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Texas Lawdog on March 09, 2010, 04:25:51 PM
EE, I carried a factory nickel Model 58 41 Mag. at the last PD I worked at before I went to work for the County. Night Quals were like a 106 mm Recoiless rifle going off. The range was open air, but it has a sheetmetal roof, LOUD!
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Jed Cooper on March 31, 2010, 04:12:49 PM
For 30 years on my dept, we had to carry issue. That said, my favorite was a nickle S&W mod. 19 4 inch. Went through several wheel guns before we went to auto loaders. IMHO real guns ain't made of aluminum, or plastic. If I had my druthers it would be a 1911 hands down. A guy don't need a lot of rounds if he hits his target.    Just my thoughts,   Jed     
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Texas Lawdog on March 31, 2010, 04:37:44 PM
+1
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Lawful Larry on April 17, 2010, 04:21:08 PM
I  started out with a S&W model 10 and didn't much like it.  So I swithced when the sheriff approved us to buy our own weapons.  I went out and got a Sig 226 and fell in love with it.  I was very disappointed when the sheriff went to an issue gun.  But it turned out just as well.  It was the  H&K USP 40 and it was love at first sight.  I ended up retiring 5 years later and this was my retirement gun.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: rodeo kid on April 22, 2010, 12:58:26 AM
I worked 16 yrs as a Deputy Sheriff and 8 yrs as a District Attorney Invest. in Oklahoma. Retired since 1992. Carried a 4" Colt Python when in uniform and a Browning Hi-Power when working plain clothes. Back up to both was a Colt Cobra. I loved them all and still have them but my favorite was my Python, it saved my life.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Cuts Crooked on May 01, 2010, 11:49:02 PM
<sigh> Like Larry I started our with a S&W Model 10, unlike Larry, I LOVED that gun! Mine was the 4" HB with factory sites. You ever have a gun you felt like you couldn't miss with? Well that one was mine! For some reason that gun would hit absolutely anything I pointed it at! I miss that gun. It was followed by a Security Six, that was pretty good but not in the same class as that Model 10.

Currently required to carry issued Beretta 92D. A POS but barely adequit...and tough enuff to withstand the worst the job can throw at it. It's a miserable thing to shoot though with a DA only trigger and a 10# plus pull.  :P
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Texas Lawdog on May 02, 2010, 02:45:46 AM
You prolly need to carry that Smith as a Back up in case your slide cracks on that Baretta.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Crow Choker on May 30, 2010, 10:26:11 PM
My favorite duty pistol was one I purchased when starting full-time law enforcement (check out my first duty pistol on that post).The gun I purchased when starting full time may be considered my first duty one, but you'd have to put an asterisk by it. The gun was a blued 4" Mark III Colt Trooper, loved the heft and feel of her over the Model 66 S&W my new Chief of Police tried to talk me into, besides it was a COLT. After about six years carrying it in 1979, I sent it into Ma-Na-Port Arms, had it mag-na-ported and had a met-a-life finish put on it(love this finish-wears like a diamond, think it looks better than stainless steel). After gettin it back, I installed a set of Trapper springs and slapped a set of Pachmayr grips on it. Sweet shootin'. Carried that gun  the rest of my career, except when the city bought some Mod 66 S&W and I had to carry the Smith a couple of years. Liked the Colt better, still have it. If I were to wear a badge now, I'd strap 'ol whisperin death' back on, if not it would be one of my all metal Colt or Kimber 45 acp's-not a fan of the plastic/polymers. The Colt Trooper could shoot em all; 38 Spec wadcutters, 125 grain 357 Remingtons, 140 grain 357 Winchester Silvertips, 156 grain cast bullets over 13-15 grains of 2400, ate em all with authority and accurate. Probably why I like the grips and feel of my Dragoons and '60 Army C&B's over the '51 Colt Navy and Colt Model P frame, they feel more like my trusty Colt Trooper. Same thing with my old model Ruger Vaquero over my new model Vaquero, more heft-ya feel like yer holding onto something. In my opinion Colt should still be makin the Trooper, Python too.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: St. George on June 04, 2010, 09:58:33 AM
Beretta slide failures came about as a result of SEAL Team Six and 'hot' sub-gun ammunition.

The fix was an over-sized hammer pin and a cut in the slide that would wedge the errant slide, should there be a separation - and a correspondingly larger cut in the grip panel to acomodate the pin's head.

Beretta didn't do 'that' for civilian use until the M92FS came about.

Fired with standard GI Ball - they're no problem, whatsoever.

I bought a GI-issue one from Beretta, under a special program available to Army competitive shooters in the early '90's - the difference is - I bought mine to carry and use, while others bought them to put away and sell later.

Thanks to a fairly 'vigorous' shooting schedule at Fort Bragg - I wore out 5 barrels - but never the slide nor the frame - and we'd Magna-fluxed it to be sure.

Snipping two coils from the mainspring helped, too - but so did a spring kit - and no one I know ever shot them double-action unless the Course of Fire called for it and someone was looking hard.

What might I prefer?

The M1911A1 and the Browning High-Power of my earlier days - but I've never found fault with the M9.

Vaya,

Scouts Out!



Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: USBP1969 on March 23, 2011, 06:19:58 PM
Favorite of all I carried was an issue 4" Ruger Security Six with Hogue Nylon grips.  It was tough, reliable and it helped me win a bunch of matches over the years.

That said, If I could have purchased and chosen my own, it would have been a Model-58 S&W .41 Magnum with a custom low profile Patridge front sight.

KW
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Utah Bob on April 28, 2011, 09:28:37 AM
I carried on duty, at various times:
Model 10
Model 64
Model 39
Model 19
Model 686
Colt Det. Special
Model 36
Glock 17
Glock 19
Glock 26
Glock 21

My absolute favorite was the Model 19. Sweetest and most accurate gun I've ever fired.

But the best caliber one, and the one I'd rather have in a shtf gunfight, was the Glock 21. ;)
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Capt. Jack McQuesten on June 18, 2011, 07:11:53 PM
In my 30+ years on the job, I carried me quite a passel of duty guns......I started out with a S&W Model 28 "Highway Patrolman" and I must say that is still my most favorite revolver out of the many I carried. For autos, it would be a toss up between the Browning Hi Power or my Sig P228...
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Texas Lawdog on June 19, 2011, 02:59:37 PM
I enjoyed the Smith revolvers, 1911's, and Glock 9s and 40s.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Willie Dixon on June 19, 2011, 08:42:34 PM
My favorite, which I carried while doing LE for the USCG was my Kimber.  Luckily, we're laxed enough in the USCG that when I showed my "disdain" for the Beretta, and most double actions, my Gunner's Mate Chief asked me if I could do the advanced course with my Kimber.  I did, and from then on, I carried her through my career.

Now, going into the NPS as an LE ranger, I'm hoping they'll do the same.  Like posted before, if it's ever needed, you don't need 14 rounds if you know how to aim ;)
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Shotgun Franklin on June 19, 2011, 09:03:30 PM
I had to qualify with my Glock which, I mention this often, I hate. I shot a 94% so felt pretty good about that but I still don't like the gun.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Willie Dixon on June 19, 2011, 10:32:01 PM
I agree Shotgun,

there's something about that backstrap, lack of hammer, and especially that "plasticky" feel that makes me just don't like them.  I know they're great guns.

It's just growing up on SAAs, S&W police's, and my 1911 models... I dunno guess it's like Boss says in "Open Range:"  "I like mine with a little heft to 'em."
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: USBP1969 on June 20, 2011, 10:00:18 AM
"Now, going into the NPS as an LE ranger, I'm hoping they'll do the same."

I wish you the best of luck Willie in your new career.  During the nine years I was stationed at FLETC as a Firearms Instructor for the Border Patrol it was very difficult for folks to get into NPS, except for temporary seasonal positions.  Congratulations.

The federal Gov't tends to be very rigid when it comes to personally owned weapons and even different (read better) ammunition than that being issued by the agency.  I hope that you are successful.

I always preached that an LEO should be permitted to carry what he feels best to save his bacon as long as he can qualify with it at a minimum off and 80%.  Technically it might not be better, but he will shoot better and be more confident with the one he trusts.

kent
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Willie Dixon on June 20, 2011, 07:29:30 PM
I always preached that an LEO should be permitted to carry what he feels best to save his bacon as long as he can qualify with it at a minimum off and 80%.  Technically it might not be better, but he will shoot better and be more confident with the one he trusts.
kent

Amen, Kent.  That's my feelings too.  But if they want me to shoot steel shells out my Kimber, I'm definitely just going to ruin a Glock or Beretta. ;)
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: sheltonj on September 24, 2011, 07:02:36 PM
Carried several models and calibres.
My favorites are my current carry.

Handgun:
1. Custom 1911 .45 ACP; 5"
2. Glock .45 GAP G38 4"
Rifle
1. Rock River LAR, .223

Shotgun as an entry tool.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Tuolumne Lawman on February 04, 2012, 10:34:04 AM
Wow, now that's a tough one.. Probably a tie between a Para Ordnance P13 alloy frame and Glock 20 10mm.  I shot much better with the P13, but the Glock was my 17 shot (had +2 base plate) .41 magnum since I used top end loads.....  As far as best all around duty weapon, I LOVED and still do love, the 469 Smith.  I shoot it better than any other 9mm or 40 S&W I ever carried.  I mostly carried it as an off duty piece in patrol, but did carry it as a primary in detectives.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Eloy Santa Cruz on February 06, 2012, 12:13:45 AM
My favorite duty gun was my colt 1911. We were first issued the S&W Mod 19. Once off probation, I carried a 4" Python. The department began issuing the S&W 686 when it came out; a fine revolver but I stuck with my python for a few more years before I switched to my 1911. I carried it untill the department forced us to the Glock Mod 22 .40 cal. in the early 90's. Thankfully I still have my python and 1911.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Dave T on April 19, 2016, 10:24:13 AM
Starting up an old thread, but then I'm new to the forum.

When I became a detective in 1977 I bought a lightly used Colt Commander. There were no light weight Commanders back then. You either had a Commander, with an alloy frame or a Combat Commander with a steel frame. Anyway this one was from the late 1960s and was as close to stock condition as a used gun could be. Had my gunsmith work on it a bit and I carried it as a detective, a member of the academy staff and as the department's chief firearms instructor and range master.

(http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww224/desertarcher/1911s/IMG_9868.jpg) (http://s722.photobucket.com/user/desertarcher/media/1911s/IMG_9868.jpg.html)

It shows it's miles and round count but it never failed me in terms of reliability and function. Even persuaded a few outlaws to give up with it (LOL).

Dave
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Galen on April 19, 2016, 04:08:24 PM
S&W model 10 on duty and a 2" model 15 off duty. Don Hume border patrol holster / dump pouch with 6 rds. Got me to retirement!
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Bat 2919 on May 08, 2016, 08:02:37 PM
My favorite was also my first.  Went into the Army Military Police at 18 and Uncle Sam issued me my first 1911 and I've kept coming back to "Old Slapsides" all my life.  I had shot a few revolvers before that but never carried one.  Went into my first civilian department while still attending college,  They required .357 revolvers and I bought a S&W M19, carried it for a while but soon we had the powers that be convinced that one of these new fangled semi autos would really be OK.  Changed departments a time or two and had to buy a S&W 686, only to return to my 1911.  Found myself in the same boat coming into the department I've been with for the last 26 years.  I did still have the option of a revolver but went with a SIG 220, replaced it with a SIG 229 when they came out.  Not too long after that we (noticing a theme here) convinced admin that the 1911 really was acceptable. 

None of the GI .45's I carried were made by Colt but I didn't get much choice about what Sam issued.  Every other hand gun I've carried I had to buy.  My first few 1911's were all made by Colt but the two I carry now Ultra CDP II (everyday) and TLE/RL II (in uniform) are Kimbers.   I'm almost ready to retire and may just pull the pin early if they ever do get around to issuing Glocks to everyone on the department.  Even at department pricing 650 (current authorized strength) Combat Tupperware pistols represent a significant investment, so I may just make it to the planned retirement date.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Ketchums Clayton on June 11, 2022, 10:37:36 PM
Every good thread could become zombie-like. :)

My favorite was my personally-owned, duly authorized Browning High Power MkIII in 40 S&W. Wonderful sidearm which I satill have, and yes, I removed and threw away the magazine safety (with our armorer's blessing).
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: DeaconKC on June 12, 2022, 06:53:40 PM
26 years with Illinois Department of Corrections, while working prisons, we were issued S&W Model 64s in .38 Special. Parole Agents carried Glock 23s in .40S&W. Over 6K rounds through mine with no malfunctions. Butt ugly and a horrible trigger, but a fine gun. They are transitioning to 9mms, so hopefully when they trade the 40s in, the dealer will call me as I put my number in the box.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Ketchums Clayton on June 13, 2022, 12:53:55 PM
Personally owned Browning High Power MkIII in 40 S&W. Carried in the NMSP and a municipal agency, including on SRT.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Kormak on January 04, 2023, 01:58:46 AM
Personally owned Browning High Power MkIII in 40 S&W. Carried in the NMSP and a municipal agency, including on SRT.
Classic. Have one in my collection and it's a BEAST. I've read about it and really wanted it few years back, but had no money then. Seen an article on it at gunicorns.com (https://gunicorns.com/) not so long ago and thought: "Hey why not" and ended up buying one
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Niederlander on January 04, 2023, 06:14:12 AM
Mine is Glock 21.  I know, they're ugly and have zero sex appeal.  What they do have is utter reliability, and I shoot it well.  In twenty six years of qualification, training, etc., the only trouble I ever had with it was weak magazine springs.  Changed those out and it went back to total reliability.  Besides, the serial number is my badge number, and it has the agency seal on its slide.  I think they charged me about $350 for it when I bought it from the agency.  It's been a pretty faithful companion!
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Pamlicoculture on October 05, 2023, 08:21:39 PM
I carried a pre-issued Glock-22 (.40 cal) for duty with a city police department, it was a little beat up but was reconditioned for me….  I trusted it’s reliability completely and still would.  I was medically retired in 2020, the gun was gifted to me by the agency in a custom made box and it’s the only semi-auto that I own….. I tote a revolver as a citizen today.   
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Major 2 on October 07, 2023, 09:24:53 AM
I closest I served, was 1st. two seasons of "Miami Vice" as a set builder & designer.

But I can relate to FAVORITE Duty Pistol, in that I have a few in my collection...

1st. is a 1919 Colt Police Positive in 38 Colt, that belonged to Cincinatti Motor Patrolman William Stackhouse.
 Bill served in the 1930's and I was fortunate to acquire his duty Revolver and Brauer Bros duty holster.
I bought it from the retired Chaplin of the Kissimmee PD through my friends LGS.   

next is my Steyr-Pieper - Model 1908/34. This gun is WW2 bring back, it was confiscated after Germany surrendered. 
When Salzburg, Austria was occupied by the 3rd Infantry Division all of the Austrian police were disarmed.
These guns were the side arm of the Salzburg Gendarmerie, this one brought back as war souvenir.

  I also have a modest collection of vintage duty holsters.
Title: Re: FAVORITE Duty Pistol
Post by: Coal Creek Griff on October 07, 2023, 11:57:43 AM
What great guns with great stories! Thanks!

Griff