When should a duty handgun be inspected according to policy?

• A. Before each duty shift and according to agency maintenance schedule or instruction.
• B. Only after scheduled maintenance.
• C. At the end of every month.
• D. Whenever there is a malfunction.

Answer: (A)

Regular, pre-shift inspections and adherence to the agency maintenance schedule keep the duty handgun safe and reliable. Inspecting before each shift ensures you verify critical functions and safety features are working, that the weapon is clean and properly lubricated, and that there are no obvious issues that could affect duty performance. The maintenance schedule provides the broader, periodic care—thorough cleaning, lubrication, wear checks, and any required servicing—so the weapon stays dependable over time. Following specific instructions for maintenance ensures you meet any agency-specific procedures or updates.

Waiting to inspect only after maintenance or at the end of a month could leave you carrying a weapon with unseen issues, and inspecting only after a malfunction is unsafe. Regular pre-shift checks combined with scheduled maintenance balance readiness with safety.