In-hand handgun retention: A crossover RCE comparing two techniques

• Published in: Journal of criminal justice 2024-07, Vol.93, p.102220, Article 102220
• Main Authors: Eleuterio, J., Freire, F.D., Strapasson, B.A.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Disarming; Law enforcement; Military; Police training; Self-defense; Technique; Use of force
• ISSN: 0047-2352; 1873-6203
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jcrimjus.2024.102220

This study compared the effectiveness of two different in-hand handgun retention tactics (HRTs). HRTs are used when a suspect grabs the officer's weapon to avoid shooting. During mandatory training, 30 Brazilian police recruits engaged in a HRT simulated exercise. For 30 s, an opponent tried to disarm the recruit. In each round, recruits' performances were coded as success or failure. Recruits were randomly assigned to two groups that used both tactics across sessions in a crossover design. During Phase 1, the opponent tried to pull the gun from the officer. In Phase 2, the opponent could also strike or submit the officer. 1029 trials were recorded, 546 for Phase 1 and 483 for Phase 2. No significant difference between techniques' effectiveness was found in Phase 1. Considering only Phase 2, the model revealed a significant difference in favor of T2. Multilevel regression models assessed the influence of individual variables on the probability of success. The results suggest that T2 seems safer for the officers in scenarios where the attacker tries to hit the officer while attempting to disarm them. This research project has contributed to developing evidence-based decision-making within the department. •There are differences between the techniques' effectiveness.•This study was the first in Brazil to inform decision-making at the street level.•This study may help promote evidence-based policing in the country.•Skills level may compensate for strength differences until some point.•Skills level may compensate for biological sex differences until some point.