Do you have a plan for a malfunction? Do you ever consider that your primary weapon might be taken away? Neither of these scenarios are fun to be in, but you can prepare as much as it depends on you to stay ready for all situations. When I served with a local sheriff’s office, I constantly thought about these things. If you are a LE you have no excuse anymore to not carry a BUG (back up gun) unless your department prohibits it. BUG’s are lighter and easier to conceal with more options than ever before.
S&W 642
I carried this 642 for several years as a pocket gun and then as a BUG. It was lightweight, shot a 38 special, and streamlined so it wouldn’t snag. My preferred method of carry on duty was on the ankle. S&W makes many variations of this gun in scandium and other calibers, but you don’t need any more than this. Trust me, you won’t enjoy shooting a gun this size at the range all day in 357 magnum. This is all you need. Remember, you are not using this as a primary.
One thing to consider though; these guns are extremely difficult to shoot well. Spend some time shooting before your qualification day or you may not get to carry it. The trigger takes a little while to feel normal, but you can shoot very accurately with these guns. Most people don’t, but then again most people don’t shoot well with anything because they never practice.
Another good option that many officers use is the vest gun. Many vests have pockets that can hold a small gun like the Kel-Tec P-3AT shown below.
Kel-Tec 380
These guns are very small, but they handle well. They do shoot the 380 which is not as effective as a 38 special, but you won’t comfortably get a 38 special in your vest pocket.
I personally prefer the revolver to the auto because of simplicity, but the revolver does not conceal as well. In addition I like the gun available without trying to get into my shirt and in a vest pocket, but you must decide what works for you through trial and error. The main thing is to take every opportunity you have to be prepared, especially if your department allows BUGs.