Law enforcement agencies often trade their used weapons to gun dealers for credit towards their next purchase, similar to how cell phone companies offer discounts on new phones in exchange for previous models. Resales are essential for many departments to afford weapons upgrades, according to William Brooks, a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police. Once sold, the weapons enter a secondary market where they can be resold to the public or other dealers, sometimes with little documentation. Trade-ins allow police to avoid public scrutiny and purchase new guns without needing budgetary approval. In some instances, traded-in service weapons have been used in crimes, sparking public criticism. Some police departments, such as Baltimore County, have destroyed key parts of the guns before trading them in to prevent them from re-entering society.
In contrast, the Baltimore Police Department allows officers to purchase their duty weapons for personal use before trading them in for credit. The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a requirement that the Sheriff’s Department destroy firearms no longer needed in 2023. Some police departments argue that they are not selling firearms directly to the public, as they resell them to federally licensed gun dealers. Despite this, some gun dealers have been cited for violations of federal firearms laws, such as failing to conduct background checks or report suspicious gun sales. In an effort to encourage better practices among suppliers, some California cities have passed measures to prevent local law enforcement from doing business with gun dealers cited for serious violations.
The demand for decommissioned police weapons has created a thriving market, with gun dealers snapping them up in large quantities. These used police guns are often popular among buyers due to their relatively low prices and good condition. Firearms instructors and gun clubs often purchase used police guns for their enhanced features, such as glow-in-the-dark sights and special triggers. Online forums and blogs promoting the benefits of used police guns are common, and there are numerous videos featuring dealers showcasing large shipments of former police weapons for sale. Gun dealers like AimSurplus advertise police trade-ins as “awesome” and popular with buyers due to their quality and affordability.
While some police departments take precautions to prevent their traded-in weapons from re-entering society, others have faced criticism after their firearms were used in crimes. The Baltimore Police Department allows officers to buy their duty weapons before they are traded in for credit, while the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has taken steps to require the Sheriff’s Department to destroy firearms no longer needed. Gun dealers who purchase used police weapons must adhere to federal regulations, but some have been cited for violations. To encourage better practices, some cities have passed measures to prevent law enforcement from doing business with dealers who violate federal firearms laws. The market for used police weapons continues to thrive, with gun dealers promoting these firearms for their high quality and affordability to buyers.
