For example, if an agency switched firearms because of reliability problems, you wouldn't want to buy the model that had problems. Keep in mind, too, that some law enforcement agencies like to be "progressive." This means that a new handgun or caliber might be adopted even though there was absolutely nothing wrong with the firearm previously authorized.

The 9mm S&W 6906 was once a widely issued service pistol for police officers. Pre-owned law enforcement pistols in serviceable condition are generally very reasonably priced and make excellent weapons for legally armed civilians.

A good way to determine how law enforcement officers feel about their issued handgun is to ask them if they would purchase the same make, model and caliber for personal use. Some officers may recommend their issued firearm but not in the caliber or the particular model variation they are issued. You should ask if the issue gun is flawlessly reliable.

BUY THE BEST AMMO
The most important decision you will ever make once you purchase a handgun is to select the ammunition you should use for practice/training and personal protection/home defense. Civilians should use the same factory-made, hollowpoint ammunition that law enforcement officers use because it produces the best stopping power and is less likely to overpenetrate or ricochet. Brand-name factory-manufactured ammunition is also the most reliable ammunition you can use. (To my knowledge, New Jersey is the only state that prohibits legally armed civilians from using hollowpoint ammunition while carrying a concealed firearm in public. Remember, it is the obligation of every legally armed citizen to know the law.)

Many law enforcement agencies require their personnel to use factory-manufactured hollowpoint "service" ammunition when they qualify. This makes a great deal of sense because you should train (to some extent) with the ammunition that you intend to use in your personal defense weapon. You can get different results if you practice with less potent FMJ ammunition and use higher-velocity ammunition for personal protection. Of course, you should always test-fire your firearms with the ammunition you use for self-defense to make sure the guns function reliably.

Well-made revolvers chambered in substantial calibers are not commonly used by law enforcement officers today but can still be good choices for personal protection and home defense. Shown is an S&W .45 ACP Model 625 revolver with a three-inch barrel.

Firearms training and knowledge of the law are just as important for a legally armed citizen as they are for law enforcement officers. By the time the average rookie cop or federal agent graduates from a basic-training academy, he has probably fired 2,000 rounds of ammunition and qualified on a judgment course and a timed course of fire. When was the last time you were tested under pressure and fired that many rounds?

My definition of a good handgun is one that is flawlessly reliable, extremely accurate and easy to reload, disassemble and maintain. A good handgun must also be able to fire a projectile that is capable of delivering effective stopping power. If every handgun you use for self-defense has these qualities, you should consider yourself well armed. Remember, ensuring your personal protection is a package deal that includes the right firearm and ammunition, receiving some meaningful training, practicing as often as possible and observing the law.

Editor's note: The author is a retired U.S. Customs Agent and former New York police officer.