SP WT Albert Lee briefs officers on the new rubber revolver grips before putting them to the test

Rubber grips are set to replace traditional wooden ones on Force Issue Revolvers.

A consignment of rubber grips would be delivered by monthÕs end and fitted to all Uniformed Officers' 0.38 calibre Smith and Wesson revolvers over seven weeks.

Superintendent (Field) Support Felix Law Cheuk-hung said police forces around the world were turning to the rubber grips for their non-slip surface and better recoil absorbance.

To keep up with world standards, Support Wing, Weapons Training Division and the Senior Force Armourer joined forces to produce the new grips.

Force Armoury staff were set to visit each formation to have them fitted. "Changing the grip is a global step in making the weapons more practical and comfortable for policing. These grips better absorb the shock of the shot while ensuring a good firm grip in all conditions," SP Law said.

"And the introduction of these grips has also taken in feedback from some women officers who said existing wooden grips were too big for them.

"The rubber ones will strike a very good balance in meeting all officers' needs."

They were being produced by a local agency, and being manufactured on the Mainland.

Four Hong Kong Island Emergency Unit officers gave the grips the thumbs up after trying them at the Arsenal House Firing Range on March 12, under the guidance of SP Weapons Training Albert Lee Yeung-chi. One officer, Woman Police Constable Chan Oi-lee, said the grip actually improved her performance.

"Even though it was my first time to use it, I actually performed better than usual on the range.

"The grip allowed me to draw, point and shoot without having to re-adjust my grip on the weapon. And after firing 24 shots I did not feel as tired as usual. It looks nicer also."

WPC Wong Ngar-yee also hailed the grips' recoil absorbance and size. "The rubber lessened the kick and I did not need as much strength to pull the trigger.

"The grip fitted my hand well, and I could secure the correct grip of the weapon straight from the holster without much adjustment."

Inspector Ng Wai-kei said: "The overall balance was better, particularly with the softer recoil. Although I need to get better used to the new grip, I think training will help me with this quite quickly."

PC Yu Wing-ho added: "The grip is thinner but longer also, so it is more comfortable for both women and men. I can get better control with it."



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