7.1. SR 02-01-1993 - Laserfiche WebLink

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. . . I feel that the purchase of MP 5 carbines can fill a niche not adequately filled by either handguns or shotguns. Shotcron Pros: As stated previously, shotguns perform admirably within their limitations. They fire a variety of ammunition including buckshot, slugs, teargas, and other special munitions. within 25 yards, 00 buckshot possesses excellent stopping power. Wi thin 75 yards, slugs provide accuracy and stopping power not available with handguns. Shotguns are extremely rugged and reliable; working with a minimum of maintenance. they will keep on Shotqun Cons: As with any tool, shotguns have a number of weaknesses that pose limitations on their usefulness in some situations. The shotgun by nature is less accurate when compared to a carbine (like the MP5). A 12 gauge shotgun firing rifled slugs will generally shoot five(5) inch groups at 50 yards. Compare this to one(1) inch groups at the same distance with a carbine. When 00 buck is used, the pellet dispersion beyond 25 yards is such that some pellets may miss the intended target completely, thus posing a threat to innocent by-standers in the area. Police officers and the cities that employ them are liable for every round that is fired. The powerful nature of rifled slugs may present an over penetration problem. At moderate ranges it is quite possible that a slug may pass completely through the intended target. In rural areas of the city this may not present a significant problem. In urban or residential areas it is a big problem. Shotguns are unwieldy to use in confined areas such as building searches. The shotguns used by our department are approximately 42 inches long. They are not equipped with flashlights and are a two (2) handed weapon. This poses a problem when searching darkened rooms and buildings. Shotguns are uncomfortable for most people to shoot. The heavy recoil associated with them results in flinching, jerking, and overcompensating on the part of the shooter. This has an adverse effect on accuracy. Because of the discomfort associated with the shotgun, many officers only train with it when mandated by the department. As a result, a large number of off icers are not confident using the shotgun, so it is often left in the squad when needed most.