San Diego, Calif. - The November issue of American COP features a review of Smith and Wesson's popular M&P Shield and viable handgun retention techniques for officers looking to increase their repertoire in dealing with close­range threats.

Building on the success of its budding M&P series, Smith and Wesson recently introduced an excellent addition to the compact pistol/concealed­carry market: The Shield. Chambered for 9mm and .40 S&W, the Shield's full­size capabilities impressed American COP editor Suzi Huntington, who gave this "backup pocket powerhouse" her stamp of approval.

"The Shield feels more like a 'real' gun than the tiny pocket nines out there these days. That tiny bit of extra size means you can almost do full­size pistol work with it," Huntington reveals. "I've fed it a variety of ammo, from cheap reloads to match­grade, and the gun has functioned perfectly."

In "Handgun Retention Tactics," edged­weapons expert Michael Janich provides a practical overview of techniques designed to prepare officers in the event an assailant attempts to grab their holstered handgun.

"Focus on a minimum number of techniques - the more you have to learn and remember, the harder it is to become good at it," advises Janich. "Provide both proactive and reactive solutions to gun grabs. What's the best defense against a gun grab? Don't let the bad guy touch your gun in the first place."

This issue of American COP includes a contemplative discussion on aerial surveillance and the potential legal pitfalls if misused, a look at affordable FLIR technology, why the appearance of the modern motor officer has not evolved with technological breakthroughs and a review of smart, safe and savvy gear and accessories for LE officers.

The November Gun of the Month Giveaway, valued at over $2,500, features the High Standard HSA­ 15 6551 in 5.56 NATO/.223. This giveaway includes a 200­lumen Color LE/MP from INFORCE, the protective, all­acrylic Crasche hat, Grayman Knives' durable Satu and Just Plugs hearing protection. Enter to win, for free, online at www.americancopmagazine.com/giveaway.

American COP is a one­stop resource for engaging product reviews and helpful approaches to daily police work - and is available to agencies everywhere online at no charge. To get more out of each issue, sign up for a free digital subscription at www.americancopmagazine.com/digital­editions.