Equipment ?'s

[arclight943]

First off, I'm new here - so, hello! Also, I am looking to get into an academy sometime next year after I graduate - so, I am researching equipment and have some newbie questions. Here goes:

Any thoughts on the SERPA holster system (I believe by Blackhawk Ind.), vs. standard "thumb break" type holsters? I like the idea of the finger release (although, I've never tested this or any other type of holster) - I am also concerned with weapon retention during a struggle - personal suggestions/preferences? Are any types of belt systems that prove more durable or more comfortable than the others (ie - basketweave leather vs. cordura) ? Maybe some suggestions on what is currently popular, which companies offer consistant / quality items. What about flashlights - can one get away with using a high quality compact LED, or are the xenon type bulbs more effective and recommended? Also, which telescoping baton did you go with? Monadnock, ASP, Casco? Sorry to pepper you all with what may seem to be basic questions, but there is a lot out there to choose from, so any insight into what works and what didn't (and why) would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

[InTheEnd]

Welcome to RP. Good luck with graduation and looking toward getting into an academy. The dept/agency that you attend will go over equipment and all issues dealing with the tools on and off the duty belt.

[Paul Hartwig]

I am a big fan of Safariland leather. Really solid and well bit. A bit more than a cheaper brand (duh) but it looks nice and is better built in my opinion. Don't skimp on your leather you wear it 8 plus hours a day you want stuff that will hold up and be comfortable. I have had gould and goodrich stuff and didn't like it as well. As far as the serpa system I have not used it so I cannot answet that. Duty holster go woth level 2 or up. Again I strongly suggest safariland but it is again personal preference.

I have bianchi nylon gear for bike patrol. Again probably the best out there. I didn't want my nylon colapsing when I removed a piece of equipment as cheaper nylon will. Bianchi is great and solid. That being said I can only wear it when on the bike per department policy. I wish we could otherwise but oh well. Cheak with yours when you start.

I would probably stay away from led flashlights for now. What I have seen is they are not as bringht as regular bulbs. I could be wrong I have not looked at them for ages. I have a stinger on my belt and a maglight for regular uses. I went with ASP for my expandable baton. No real reason just liked the style I got and the look.

Hope this helps some.

[squeeeg]

My academy has the equipment for us to use. We don't have to buy anything ourselves. Like the guys above said they will tell you everything that you need to get.

[arclight943]

Thanks a bunch, all. Yeah, I guess the academy will have all the equipment and info once I start - just wanted to get a head start and some opinions.

[mcsap]

Don't buy any police equipment until after you are hired , after the academy ( unless you are required to buy some of it for the academy) and after you find out what your department approves of you carrying on duty.