5 Weapon Accessories Every Police Officer Should Own
As an officer, you may never fire your weapon except on the range, but it needs to be in top working order in case you do. It’s kind of like a skydiver’s parachute; you don’t need it unless you truly need it. Whether it's your primary duty weapon, back up gun, or off-duty firearm, some essential accessories can give you the edge if you find that you need to use it.
Many law enforcement agencies provide specific accessories for your weapon and other necessary police gear. They may limit your choices for weapon accessories. Usually, this is for uniformity reasons so that if one officer is injured or killed and you’re using the same weapon system, then you can pick up that firearm and use it. So, if you want to make any modifications to your weapon, check with your agency’s armorer first.
Extra Ammunition
Most law enforcement agencies typically issue multiple high-capacity magazines and enough duty ammo to fill each one. Usually, you shoot up old ammo once or twice a year, depending on how often your agency provides firearms training and qualifications. Try to stay on top of replacing your ammo routinely because the older your ammunition is, the more likely it is to fail.
There are stories of sergeants who kept an enormous amount of ammunition in the trunk of their car. When their shift responded to active shooter situations, they handed out extra rifle ammo and magazines like candy. Note, a supervisor like this is a good one to have.
Speed Loader
Some people like speed loaders, and others have never used them. There are a variety of speed loaders for different weapons. They are commonly known as speed loaders, strip clip guides, spoons, magazine loaders, or strip clips.
You’re most likely familiar with speed loaders for revolvers. Many departments don’t use revolvers anymore, but some agencies allow their deputies or officers to carry them. It’s impressive to see a deputy speed-load a revolver and shoot their rounds before others can load half of a semi-automatic firearm magazine with .40 caliber ammo.
Some of these speed loaders are used for shotguns and rifles as well. They may not be for everybody, but, once you get used to them, they can help reduce your reload time.
A Well-Stocked Gun Cleaning Kit
A gun cleaning kit is a must-have for every officer. There are so many items that you can add to your cleaning supplies, but there are five essential elements for a basic weapon cleaning kit. These include:
1. Gun Solvent
Gun solvent is crucial because it keeps the metallic components of a firearm from rusting. A dirty, rusty gun can malfunction and decrease your accuracy. Solvent also extends the lifetime of your firearm by protecting the internal parts. Gun solvent dissolves harmful residues such as lead, copper, carbon, and plastic.
2. Cleaning Rods
Cleaning rods are integral for maintaining your firearm. You must make sure that you get the correct size for the gun you carry. These rods are often made from stainless steel or aluminum and may come in pieces. Cleaning kits usually come with patches to use with this cleaning tool. The patches attach to the end of the rod so that you can clean the internal surfaces of the bore where ammunition residue collects.
3. Rod Accessories
Rods come with several end accessories that usually screw into the rod. There are patch holders and different bore brushes that run through the inside of the barrel to clean it or lubricate it.
4. Cleaning Patches
As previously mentioned, patches work with the rods to clean the internal parts of the gun, particularly the bore. Most cleaning kits come with cotton patches. They come in a variety of sizes for different firearms. Once you attach the patch to the cleaning rod, you can dip it in solvent and clean the inside of the gun barrel.
Patches are also great for cleaning other parts of your weapon and can be purchased separately in varying quantities. They are also used to spread gun oil on the internal components of your gun.
5. Gun Oil
Gun oil is essential so that all of the mechanisms in the firearm operate smoothly. A little oil goes a long way, so make sure not to over-lubricate your gun. Lubricant prevents the internal components from overheating or jamming. It also can penetrate rust to release parts and actions that are stuck. Many oils prevent rust and make cleaning your firearm easier.
Keep a well-stocked gun cleaning kit with at least these basic components. A clean weapon will work best when you need it.
Red Dot Optics
These optics are excellent for close or moderate ranges. The dot sizes vary, but the larger dots are easier to sight and get on target. When shooting average distances, the dot covers less of your target so you can see it better. For this reason, smaller dots are better for moderate distances.
These optics don’t have magnification built in, so this is the reason that they’re known as optics instead of scopes. They are fantastic training tools for inexperienced shooters. Many police departments are adding them to their firearms to give officers a needed edge.
Night Sights
Anyone who’s ever shot a night qualification knows how valuable night sights are. Some brands make three dot self-luminous night sights that make a considerable difference in acquiring your sight picture and seeing your target at night.
Without night sights, you’re pointing and shooting at your target without lining your sights up on it. It’s also difficult to see the end of your gun. If they are that helpful on the range, imagine how incredible they are if you need to fire your weapon at night.
The right firearm accessories can quite literally mean the difference between life and death for an officer. Your gun only works when you need it if you maintain and clean it frequently. Night sights and red dot optics make finding your target easier, especially at night when you’re more likely to need your gun. These gear essentials protect your firearm and help you shoot better.
