Colt Army 1909 45 Colt

[.357magger]

Even during the days of carrying just a handgun, a night stick, extra ammo, and a pair of cuffs, many officers wanted to lighten their load. So, they went to .38 special revolvers.

New York State police carried the New Service in .45 Colt, as did the RCMP.

Of particular note is that both agencies, when using the New Service, issued Sam Browne belts as well. The New Service was Colt's largest revolver frame up until the introduction of the Anaconda in the 1990s.

It's a BIG revolver and cops, particularly older cops, know a thing or two about lower back pain from lugging a lot around on your belt. The Sam Browne at least put weight on the shoulder (although it provides too good of a point of attack in physical combat).

My 1920 Commercial New Service in 45 Colt compared below with both N Frame and K Frame .38 Specials.

 

[Muley Gil]

Of particular note is that both agencies, when using the New Service, issued Sam Browne belts as well. The New Service was Colt's largest revolver frame up until the introduction of the Anaconda in the 1990s.

It's a BIG revolver and cops, particularly older cops, know a thing or two about lower back pain from lugging a lot around on your belt. The Sam Browne at least put weight on the shoulder (although it provides too good of a point of attack in physical combat).

My 1920 Commercial New Service in 45 Colt compared below with both N Frame and K Frame .38 Specials.

I spent 25 years carrying .44 or .45 caliber handguns on a Sam Browne belt, minus the "dummy strap"". The next 15 years I was forced to carry either a Beretta 92 or a Glock 17, again on a Sam Browne.

I'd get off-duty and take off old SB and would float around the room for about 10 minutes.

 

[.357magger]

I spent 25 years carrying .44 or .45 caliber handguns on a Sam Browne belt, minus the "dummy strap"". The next 15 years I was forced to carry either a Beretta 92 or a Glock 17, again on a Sam Browne.

I'd get off-duty and take off old SB and would float around the room for about 10 minutes.

I hear you Brother.

People don't realize how heavy all that gear is. And when handheld radio came into the picture, the weight REALLY increased.

I have lower back issues to this day that my Dr attributes partially to lugging around a duty belt for 12+ years.

 

[AJ]

When I was assigned as a Guard Chief at a Marine Barracks, I was given a set of black leather gear to carry my 1911 in. Was told it was a status symbol. I wore it about a week and then went to a M7 Shoulder Holster. No back or shoulder problems!