While any handgun can be used for self-defense, some are clearly better than others because of their caliber, capacity, method of operation and quality of construction. One type of handgun that is familiar to everyone is the so-called service pistol. This term refers to sidearms carried by law enforcement officers. These handguns have a solid reputation for reliability and serviceability and are almost always good choices for citizens who are licensed for concealed carry.

Civilians looking for a pistol that has been widely accepted by the law enforcement profession often choose a Glock. Shown is a Glock 17.

Police sidearms are usually inherently accurate in trained hands because they are manufactured with tremendous precision and the finest materials. They are also generally very ergonomic and fit a variety of hand sizes, especially those models that accept interchangeable grips. Modern-day "cop guns" are generally constructed to withstand the elements and are available with very effective night sights. Many manufacturers today offer pistols with an accessory rail designed to hold a small flashlight.

I believe money is no object when it comes to selecting a firearm for personal protection or home defense. I felt the same way during my law enforcement career when I carried various high-quality, name-brand personal defense weapons both on and off duty. My recommendation is that you purchase the best law enforcement-style handgun that you can afford.

One option is to buy a pre-owned law enforcement-style handgun in serviceable condition. Well-made, quality firearms generally don't wear out after a few years of service. Used law enforcement handguns that have been factory refurbished are also available for sale to the general public.

Members of the U.S. Coast Guard, including the elite Special Agents of the Coast Guard Criminal Investigative Service, recently adopted the SIG 229 DAK in .40 S&W as their DHS service-issued Personal Protection Weapon.

While there is nothing that prevents you from using a Ruger Blackhawk or Colt Single Action Army for personal protection or home defense, you will probably wish you were armed with something more modern if you find yourself in a situation that may require you to use deadly force. It pays to use a gun with which you can deliver excellent shot placement while operating it under stress. Remember, just like a police officer, you are personally accountable for every shot fired in a self-defense situation.

And despite the advancements in semiauto-pistol technology, there is nothing wrong with being armed with a double-action revolver, which is not commonly carried by police officers today. This is especially true if it is chambered in a substantial caliber. If you choose a revolver, my advice is to use speedloaders and practice combat reloading techniques with these devices.

It has been said that civilians who use the same guns as law enforcement officers have some advantage when they defend their actions in court. Generally speaking, police firearms are not "tricked out" or modified in any way that might make a jury believe the owner was out looking for trouble. There is also something to be said for adopting the position that if a particular handgun is good enough to protect the citizens of your community, it's good enough to protect you and your family.

Before you purchase a cop gun, you should take into consideration that police officers often are required to carry certain handguns in prescribed calibers while on and off duty. Legally armed civilians should try and ascertain the reasons why a law enforcement agency issues a particular handgun.