Observed today at Social Security

[dawei]

This old fart had to bring in his birth certificate to Social Security today to verify age. Went to the Norristown, PA office and observed that the armed guard from the Federal Protective Service carried a wheelgun, a Ruger GP100 SS with a 4" barrel. I wonder if this is typical of the Federal Protective Service around the country? Anyway it's nice to see a police officer carrying a wheel gun in this day and age.

This is how it works (I know because I was the guy carrying the gun in the Social Security Office a few years ago)...........

ALL Federal Buildings and Grounds fall under the control& aspices of the GSA (General services Administration). They in turn have their own Police Force (Federal Protective Services http://www.ice.gov/graphics/fps/). This "Service" is limited by Federal Statute, (capped) as to the number of employees (Police Officers). As our Federal government grows more & more facilities are "PROTECTED" by contract Private Security Officers/Guards. Depending upon the length of the contract these Security officers carry the weapon issued by their parent company. When I was doing this I carred a 4" SS 357 Revolver. (This was my personal weapon "LEASED" to my company for duty use). Other Armed Security Officers carried semi-autos in 9mm, 40S&W, and 45ACP. (My company (http://www.pcswa.com) sipulated that ALL semis; MUST BE DAO AND NOT STRIKER FIRED (THUS NO GLOCKS OR SIGMAS. RUGER P95 & P97 WERE THE SEMI-AUTOS OF CHOICE). My particular company issues S&W Mdl 10's & 60's; and Taurus Mdl 82's. (Reasons? economic & idiot proof). You may carry your own weapon but it is "LEASED TO THE COMPANY" for your duty use. All of our Officers carrying semi-autos are using their own/leased weapons.

I hope this little disseration is helpful.

 

[Inline_6]

I don't think revolvers are dead... just not "en vogue". I'd feel quite safe and content with my S&W 625.

 

[grizz5675]

I think maybe it is fedral security, In st.cloud minnesota social security office,the guard also carries a 4in gp100 in stainless.