Ferrari Mailing List: Re: High Capacity Magazine Firearms

[Charles G. Perry IV (charles]

Not to egg on an OT topic, although I find it interesting, but everyone 
seems to be approaching the topic of the backup gun strictly from an "it 
gives you more rounds to fire" perspective.

I have never carried a backup, but my own interpretation of its reason for 
existing is the unfortunate situation, such as a hostage situation, where 
you are required or choose to give up your primary weapon, or when you may 
be in an awkward physical position where drawing a backup is easier than 
drawing a primary.

Putting aside the obvious answer, which is that giving up your primary 
weapon encourages a perp to kill you AND the hostage, is there any research 
to indicate having a backup for purposes other than something else to fire 
after your primary weapon is empty is worthwhile?

-- charles