Law enforcement agencies generally avoid firearms categorized as “destructive devices” under the National Firearms Act, such as fully automatic rifles, short-barreled shotguns and rifles, and suppressors/silencers (outside of specialized units). They also typically refrain from using antique or obsolete firearms, homemade or “improvised” weapons, and firearms chambered in uncommon or hard-to-source calibers. For example, while a police department might issue a 9mm pistol, they would likely not issue a .22 Hornet rifle due to logistical and practical concerns.
The selection of service weapons for law enforcement is driven by factors like reliability, safety, suitability for the intended purpose, ease of maintenance, and cost-effectiveness of ammunition and parts. Standardization ensures officers are proficient with their issued firearms and simplifies training, logistics, and procurement. Historically, police weaponry has evolved alongside advancements in firearms technology, transitioning from revolvers to semi-automatic pistols and adopting specialized weapons like patrol rifles for specific scenarios. This careful selection contributes significantly to officer and public safety.