Handgun recommendations for armed security?

[omega]

if this is for open carry as a security guard, I would get a standard sized G17 if you want 9mm

the G30 SF would also be a good choice in 45 acp especially if your restricted to 10 rd magazines, I rather carry 10 rds of 45 acp

[Kevfin]

There is a reason a lot of people are recommending Glocks. They are reliable, accurate, sturdy, less weight, reasonable cost, and, yeah, ugly enough that you don't have to worry about scuffing it up. It's a good solid choice that in the beginning of your career will serve you well. Later on, as you become more experienced, you may find some other gun to your liking.
I wasn't aware that you could be forced to use certain handguns depending on the job. That kind of sucks.
I wouldn't want to be the bank security guard with only six bullets -- As a sitting duck, in a robbery they're probably going to shoot you anyway. Bank execs might feel better that you will not offend anyone, but that wouldn't make me feel too safe.

[Che762x39]

i used to chat a bit with the security guard who worked for my bank - he had a .38 revolver 6 shot

one day i asked him why he carried a revolver instead of a semi-auto - 3 or 4 guys storm a bank and 6 shots doesn't seem like much - he told me the bank only allowed for a .38 revolver and 6 shots - my guess is they are limiting what their security can do while at the same time making people feel safer because there was an "armed" presence at the bank - limit the liability

i kinda felt the guy was underarmed

I do too. I just got the S&W 686 Plus which is a upgrade. It is a "7 shooter".

[Che762x39]

OP I went through this a few years ago with my son. What he wanted and what the company required were different things, especially when it came to a holster. Their requirement's on holster's basically eliminated anything that wasn't a common LE duty handgun. I don't recall exactly how their policy was worded but no one made a level III holster for what he wanted to carry. So you may want to look at that before you make your decision.

Very good point. Being a common LE duty handgun is the Beretta 92FS they have been around for 30 years. Today my preferred pistol would be the Glock 17 but a lot of conservative Security Companies are not that progressive.

Any place that will 10-99 their Armed Guards will be more liberal on weapons and holsters.

[W.R.Buchanan]

And then get some quality instruction to unlearn the nonsense you learned at front site.

There's always one.

Randy

[OCEquestrian]

Make sure you get a rail gun...




Honestly, you can never go wrong always carrying a the same duty weapon and ammo that the local LE agency where you are working carries... Also remember that any gun / kit you buy personally as well as all practice ammo and training classes are tax deductible against your security income.

[ARDude]

Things have changed a lot since I did armed security in the mid '80's. Local PD was still carrying .38 revolvers.

Most of the guys I worked with, including myself, carried a 1911. Although there were a few off duty/retired cops that worked with me that were stuck with the .38.

Glock had just came out with their first pistol, and somebody (my boss) showed up to work with one. Everybody else hated the looks, feel and trigger pull of that Glock.

[Bigtwin]

My buddy worked armed security for a number of years, he carried a Springfield XD 5 inch in 40 caliber. Obviously that was acceptable by his company. I would however say don't buy a gun for a armed security contract until you have that job and no their requirements. At least that makes sense to me, why would you buy a gun four armed security if the contract doesn't allow it? I guess what I'm saying is get the job first and then find out what you're allowed to have for the job.

[Bigtwin]

Sorry for all the spelling errors, using talk to text.

[vintagearms]

I recently completed my BSIS armed security certifications and am looking to pick up a suitable pistol for carrying on the job. I currently have a G26 and a 6 inch S&W 686 and neither quite fit the bill for what I'd like to carry at work. I'm open to any suggestions

So far I'm considering the CZ P01 and Beretta 92G. A Sig is a little out of my budget (unless I can find one used)

It varies but have seen Glock 22/17/19, M&P, and some 1911's. Really depends on the agency you work for as some don't allow 1911's.

[BigPimping]

Glock 17. Done.

[gunrun45]

Advice... I'm a BSIS facility owner/ instructor who has also worked in the private industry for federal security contractors and other large companies. This is a VAST industry in CA with several options.

I know you need something affordable. Most dealers have LE trade in G19's G23's, G17's or G22's for under $400. They are usually great guns with a holster wear and minimal shooting. They are a great investment.

Federal contractors will be G22's or G19's and are issued by the contractor along with all other required gear and are VERY contract specific. There only a handful from those vendors that still issue the Sig P229 / P226.

The last few hold out contracts that had revolvers or M9's are finally making the switch to Glocks.

Most armored car companies like the Springfield XD based on value. Several will offer to help you buy one when you are hired. You can pick up a NIB XD40 or XD9 for around $450 if you time it right, sometimes even cheaper.

[Packy14]

There's always one.

Randy

No one who can really shoot and move thinks front site is worth much. Sorry your sensitivities are hurt by that.

[KrisDSA]

Glock 17 cheap n reliable

[axhoaxho]

Agree with folks. For work, Glock 17.