Police Gear in the US

Over the past few years, officers in the US carry much more weight than they did decades ago. Compared to the 1950s, cops carry a much greater number of police gears today. In those days, police officers carried just few equipment like a handgun holstered in a holster, handcuffs, and a nightstick. Generally, holsters were attached to Sam Browne belts, thick leather belts with diagonal straps that crossed the right shoulder.

Nevertheless, as new gear and equipment were introduced, more alterations were necessary. It became increasingly difficult for the belt to adapt to the ever-evolving nature of police equipment. The late 20th century was marked by a decline in the use of the belt.

Most police officers today carry a duty belt with several holsters or cases for carrying firearms, ammunition, metal and plastic handcuffs, a portable radio, pepper spray, and a collapsible baton. If the officer’s car has a camera, they carry a video microphone transmitter as well. That’s a lot of load to move around with!

To make things worse, some divisions also require their officers to carry first-aid kits and emergency medical equipment, such as a defibrillator, in their vehicles or the police patrol van. It is for their safety so that they can respond to emergencies. Those who test for drunk drivers may also have to carry a portable breathalyzer.

In the US, even though many police officers carry all these police equipment and gears, they still need basic items like cell phones, pagers, flashlights, binoculars, tape recorders, portable scanners, plastic gloves, and extra weapons. Patrol cops may carry spare guns, confiscated knives, blackjacks, or brass knuckles. Even though US cops have to carry an extensive set of police gear, they are always prepared to face any challenges.

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