Crusader103
Member
Yes, "drop the gun" is literal and it means "right now", and you may not be quick enough. "Get on the ground" also means "right now" and you may end up with some chronic pain issues afterwards in addition to a bruised ego.
As an experienced officer, I would disagree with that. Any sudden movements are likely to cause a stronger reaction by the police than a slow, deliberate, compliant one. Slowly put the weapon down. If you are told to get down, do it slowly and deliberately.
I would yell things like, "I'm the homerowner and this guy broke in." "This guy tried to rob me." "This guy theatened to kill me and pulled a knife." Basically, I would explain what he did to provoke me to draw a gun. I would also inform them that I have a concealed carry permit. Not too many bad guys have those.
When they first arrive on scene, they aren't listening and they don't care anyway. They will eventually care what you have to say but keep your mouth shut during their arrival. I promise you, things will go much smoother. The officer(s) will be giving commands immediately and your attempt to yell/explain over them is futile and reckless.
Follow my advice in #25.
I might be tempted to drop the magazine and lock the slide back, but that depends on the level of intensity shown by the officers.
Please resist that temptation.
Dropping the magazine is a sudden movement and creates a loud noise when it hits the ground. Neither is likely to end with a positive response. Locking the slide back implies that you are putting two hands on the weapon in front of the officer. Bad idea. If you were to do so while I had you at gunpoint you may not live to regret it. Just being blunt. And if you, or anyone, has a question about the level of intensity of a "man with a gun" call and response by the officer, let me assure you that is intense indeed. That is why I preach, "Shut up and minimal movements while complying at a very slow pace."
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