No doubt that is the thinking in some officers' minds, but it's woefully short-sighted.TraCoun wrote:On the issue of LEO's unloading your magazines and handing them and the ammo back in one big pile ... yes, a PITA,but think of all the crazies who might just be playing along to get the LEO to relax. If the LEO hands back the mags loaded, it only takes the BG a very short time to load and open fire. Having to re-stuff the magazines makes it a lot slower and gives the LEO more time to respond. I'm not an LEO, don't claim any have said this, but that's the thought I've had.
Like someone mentioned earlier, I believe I'd have stuffed the magazine and loose ammo into my pocket, then pulled out a fresh magazine and charged my pistol before holstering it.
A peace officer has the legal authority to disarm a CHL, but unless there's some situation with emotions involved, it's an insult.
Most police officers are just like us, in that they're only familiar with a couple of pistol designs that they may own or be issued. I really don't want anyone unfamiliar with my pistol to be dinking around with it. Especially with a 1911, I'd do my best to politely persuade the officer to let me clear it before handing it over.
Kevin