Yep, it is a good thread to read. Our department was BYO .38 revolver, carried only department issued Remington Hollow Point ammo. Yep, dump pouches, clarino leather (the real shiny pia stuff). Walkies if one was available. Plastic night sticks, which usually stayed in the car, used the Maglite instead and leather slapper in uniform pants leg pocket. Air Force type hats. I had Colt Trooper, switched to a S&W 66 4 inch which I still have shoot regularly. It's a different world now.