First CHP Service Weapon

[afcop777]

Hi,

I'm currently deployed to Iraq, but trying to put together a retirement shadow box for my father. He'll be finishing out 30 years of service with the CHP soon.
I had the idea that the piece would be centered around a gun; being a fellow law enforcement officer myself (military of course) I understand it's importance and symbolism. I originally thought about his most recent service weapon, but had also thought of trying to find the first gun ever used by the department.
I've searched online to no avail. The CHP website didn't have any results either. Any history buffs know what it was?

Thanks!

[HIPCHIP]

If I remember correctly, the old police gun was a Smith & Wesson .38 revolver (possibly a Model 10). That was kind of the standard WAY back in the day. I think I saw that at our museum too, but don't remember for sure.

30 years ago we used a 4" or 6" Smith & Wesson stainless revolver (if my old brain is right, the Models 67 &/or 68? As far as I could find on-line the 67 is the 4" and the 68 is the 6"), but you could carry Colt's and I believe Rugers that were .38 or .357

Hope this helps a little.

PS, Be safe and come home soon.
Ew Rah!

[Mac]

...30 years ago we used a 4" or 6" Smith & Wesson stainless revolver (if my old brain is right, the Models 67 &/or 68? As far as I could find on-line the 67 is the 4" and the 68 is the 6"), but you could carry Colt's and I believe Rugers that were .38 or .357...
That's correct on the issue models (Model 67 = 4", Model 68 = 6"). It wasn't until the mid/late 80's that we were given the option to carry a (self-purchased) .357 - I believe it was around '86 or '87. I believe you're correct that S&W, Colt and Ruger were the approved makes. I know it had to have a rear-mounted, thumb-operated cylinder release, because the Dan Wesson (with its side release) wasn't authorized.

[HIPCHIP]

That's correct on the issue models (Model 67 = 4", Model 68 = 6"). It wasn't until the mid/late 80's that we were given the option to carry a (self-purchased) .357 - I believe it was around '86 or '87. I believe you're correct that S&W, Colt and Ruger were the approved makes. I know it had to have a rear-mounted, thumb-operated cylinder release, because the Dan Wesson (with its side release) wasn't authorized.

I came on in '78 and at that time we were allowed to carry other than the Dept issued S&W. I borrowed a Buddy's Python just after arriving at my first area (he advised the 6" with a heavier frame would possibly be better for me and let me try it to see how it felt) and shortly thereafter I purchased a Colt Trooper Mk III, so that would have been 78 or 79.

[6402]

In 1968 we bought our own revolvers, .38 or 357, Smith or Colt. 6" barrels only. Most were S&W model 19s. The standard issued ammo (which everyone threw away and replaced with .357) was lead 38s , no hollow points ,with a muzzle velocity of about 16 feet per year.

The holsters were swivel or cross draw- no high ride type allowed.

Upon going to the field many bought front break ,hi ride holsters, and.357 Hollow points. The Sergeants I worked for could care less , although for inspections we put our .38s back in the gun.


This was 40 years after the Patrol was formed. I heard that after the Korean war they found some Reising guns in one office, which were stored there in case the North Koreans charged across the Pacific to invade Visalia.

There were also some Ithaca auto burglars a cool sawed off double barrel that got sold.

[mbwagoner]

since I have no information about the first ever, I'll give you another idea. My mom just retired last March and she mentioned to me the firearm she wanted to keep because it meant the most to her was her original, not her current. That might be something for you to track down as another option.

[HIPCHIP]

The standard issued ammo (which everyone threw away and replaced with .357) was lead 38s , no hollow points ,with a muzzle velocity of about 16 feet per year.

.

You were supposed to throw them at the bad guys, not throw them away!:rolleyes: (anyway, I heard we were so tough that we inserted the bullets manually!:lol:)

[82-70 David]

In 1973 we were issude S&W K38, 6" barrel and a swivel holster. Upon arriving at my first office, my FTO told me to go to a local gun store and replace it with a .357. I ordered a new hoyt swivel front break, and a Model 28 S&W. Most officers in my area were carrying the S&W Model 19, 6" barrel.

[afcop777]

Thanks all for the replies and info. I know his first gun was the 4" S&W .38 so that may be an option. I was just thinking from a historical standpoint. I still have some time to figure what I want to do.

Thanks again!