1. Optics/Sights

Definitions:

Zero- The adjustment setting on a sighting system which allows point of aim to be point of projectile impact.

Optic- A sighting device which uses either an etched reticle, a holographic image or a reflected laser image to aim a firearm.

a. Only sights designed for military/law enforcement use are authorized. Optics which are designed for hunting, sporting or for use on non-law enforcement weapons are not authorized.

b. Magnified optics are authorized for use.  Non-SWAT personnel are authorized to use fixed-power optical magnifiers in conjunction with their primary rifle optic.  Magnification shall not exceed 3x, or 3 power.  Authorized magnified optics are listed in the Authorized Weapons and Ammunition memorandum.

c. When using an electronic optic, the weapon system must have back-up mechanical sights.

d. Sights, both electronic and mechanical, will be zeroed at 50 yards and will be zeroed prior to use on duty with that firearm, with the exception of specialized SWAT weapons.

e. Zero will be confirmed during each Department range session. The agent will confirm the zero if their sights/optic become loose or is removed, the weapon is dropped significantly, the sights/optic is damaged or if the Agent has lost confidence in the zero.

f. Sights/Optics will not be adjusted other than on the range, with the exception of specialty SWAT weapons.

g. Agents are encouraged to carry extra batteries for their optic system.

2. Barrels

Agents shall comply with all state and federal laws concerning barrel lengths and modifications and have applicable documentation both on file with the Professional Standards Section as well as with their firearms at all times.

3. Stocks

a. All long guns, with the exception of specialized SWAT weapons, shall have a stock for mounting the weapon to the shooter’s shoulder when firing.

b. After market stocks should be installed by a professional armorer.

c. Stocks shall not interfere with the function of the weapon.

4. Slings

a. A sling is required for all long guns

b. Agents shall use a sling which does not interfere with the operation of the firearm.

c. Agents shall utilize their sling during any training or qualifying session.

d. Agents shall use a sling that allows them to secure the long gun in such a way they are able to use both hands to utilize their handgun, handcuff a suspect, take notes, or handle any other task that would require both hands.

5. Weapon Mounted Lights/Lasers

a. A weapon mounted light is required for all long guns.

b. Lights are not to be used for aiming the weapon.

c. Handguns must have an integrated factory light rail system in order to mount a light to the weapon. No aftermarket rails will be allowed.

d. No pressure switches are allowed for handgun-mounted lights.

e. Agents are required to follow the fundamental rules of firearms safety when considering using a weapon mounted light. They are encouraged to use a handheld light during area searches and other routine law enforcement work. The weapon mounted light has specific applications and its use should be limited to times in which the situation dictates the potential immediate use of the firearm in a low light situation.

f. Under normal conditions the handgun-mounted Light/Laser system should be activated using a two handed grip on the weapon. Activation will be accomplished using the support hand thumb. The exceptions to using the support hand would include injuries, K-9 operations, activating light switches, turning doorknobs or any other situation where the support hand is otherwise unavailable or physically incapable. In these circumstances, the strong hand index finger is used to activate the system. Agents must use extreme caution to avoid inadvertently engaging the trigger.

g. Lasers should not be used as a replacement for an Agent’s sighting system. Agents will treat their laser aiming system as they would an electronic optic and follow the same procedures listed for such sighting systems.

h. Light/Laser units shall be specifically designed for military/law enforcement use.

i. Agents are encouraged to carry extra batteries for their light/laser unit.

6. Magazines/Ammunition Management

a. For any weapon system using a box magazine, on-duty uniform Agents shall have at least three magazines for that weapon. Detectives shall have at least two magazines for their weapon.

b. Agents shall only use on duty magazines which have been shown to be reliable, and function properly in their weapon.

c. Agents are strongly encouraged to utilize a system for carrying extra ammunition/magazines when deploying a long gun. Examples of such would be magazine pouches and shotgun shell carriers, to include side saddles.

7. Triggers

a. Triggers must be designed for military/law enforcement uses. No competition triggers are authorized.

b. Triggers may not be adjusted for weight of pull. A certified armorer may adjust the trigger according to the “feel” or smoothness of a trigger press but must maintain the factory weight of pull.

8. Suppressors for Rifles

a. Agents shall comply with all state and federal laws concerning suppressors and have any applicable documentation both on file with the Department as well as with their firearms at all times.  

b. Any suppressor installed on a rifle must consistently bring the decibel level of the firearm to under 140dB.  

c. Any rifle suppressors deployed by Agents must hold a repeatable and reliable zero.  If they are removed from the firearm they must return to zero when put back on the firearm.

d. Agents deploying a suppressor must have the attachment installed by a certified gunsmith/armorer to insure proper alignment to prevent baffle strikes.  Agents are encouraged to use specifically designed guide rods when re-installing their suppressors on their firearms they have removed.  

e. Agents should not deploy rifles equipped to be suppressed without either the suppressor or a muzzle device designed to mitigate gas pressures created when firing the firearm.  

1. Agents shall receive written approval from Range Staff prior to modifying their firearms. The approved weapons modifications form shall be maintained by the Professional Standards Section.

2. Agents shall train with and qualify with their modified firearms prior to using them in the course of their duties.

3. Agents shall maintain their firearms and accessories in good working order.

4. Agents will comply with all state and federal laws concerning the modifications to any firearms.

5. The Range Master has the authority to allow or deny any modification/accessory to a firearm based on the needs of the department or performance of the individual agent.

6.  Personal non-issued accessories, when used by SWAT personnel in SWAT tactical operations, must also be approved for use by the SWAT Commander.