Dalton Police Department Tests New Pistols

The Dalton Police Department recently began a testing and evaluation program on three new pistols as a possible replacement for the current issue Sig Sauer P229 .40 Caliber handgun.  The current Sig duty pistol has been in the department's inventory since 1998.

As part of this evaluation, a protocol was developed which involved accuracy, velocity, and reliability testing for each pistol.  A total of 500 rounds is fired through each pistol with 470 rounds being fired within a 2 hour time frame within no additional lubrication or cleaning allowed once the testing begins.

The three test pistols include the Smith & Wesson's M&P, Glock model 21 SF, and Springfield XD.  All three of these pistols are in .45 caliber.  Other pistol manufactures will be considered as this testing continues.

"In the past 9 years, there have been significant developments in pistol design.  We are now seeing pistols holding 10 to 13 rounds of the much more powerful 45 ACP ammunition in a grip size comparable to that of our current pistols", says Officer Chris McDonald, one of the department's firearms instructors who is assisting with the testing of the new pistols.  The ammunition capacity of the issued Sig pistol is 12 rounds.

All three pistols following 500 round reliability test.  From left to right, Glock 21 SF, Springfield XD 45, and Smith & Wesson M&P45.

Captain Mike Rogers, 32 year veteran of the Dalton Police Department and a Firearms Instructor since 1984, firing the Springfield XD 45 during testing and evaluation.

Officer Chris McDonald fires the Glock model 21 SF during testing and evaluation

Comments

[Doug Sullivan]

Dunno which is prettier - Captain Rogers or the XD.

[Doug Sullivan]

Dunno which is better looking - Cap'n Rogers or the XD. I want one in OD green (an XD, I mean).

[E.H. Tison]

I posted these comments previously but under the wrong topic, I'll give it another try. The .45acp is a good choice in almost any design. Smith&Wesson has an adjustable grip that will fit just about any hand and has a 14 round magazine in the works. The Glock 21SF grip while not adjustable, has slimmed down a bit and has a proven record. The Springfield XD has a comfortable grip and a grip safety if needed. The rear frame slide rails appear to be polymer rather than metal. Any of these should hold up well under the rigors of daily use. Here in sunny Florida I carry the S&W MP45 for duty as we have a generous approved weapons list. Good luck and stay safe.