John Coffelt, Editor

Manchester Police Department will soon replace its collection of side arms purchased in 2013, following the Tennessee Highway Patrol’s decision to move back to a Glock in 9mm caliber from the .40 caliber it uses in the same brand.

Police Chief Bill Sipe said each year officers fire about 100 rounds through their handguns.

“Over the last 10-11 years, we’re seeing a lot of wear-and-tear,” Sipe said. “We’re getting to the recommendation, I’m told by our armorer, that the manufacturer recommends policing agencies replace these weapons.”

The state contracted vendor, Craig’s Firearms, will handle the trade in for the department’s current weapons. MPD will receive approximately $230 for each of its current pistols. Officers can buy the firearm if they choose to.  

Assistant Chief Adam Floied said THP armors found with advancement in cartridge technology, the 9 mm is just as effective as the .40-caliber. He said the 9 mm would be better suited for smaller hands.

The department’s firearms will have a small optic with a “dot” sighting system.

Floied said the dot system allows for easier target acquisition and aiming.

“Poor shooters have drastically increased their accuracy, and good shooters have gotten even better,” he said.

The new 9 mm Glock 45 pistols will also incorporate a Streamlite tactical weapons light and a Leupold optic. The purchase will cost $47,478, which will come without a request for additional funds in the department’s budget.

The purchase will go to the Finance Committee for a budget amendment after passing the Safety Committee with a 3-0 vote.

John has been with the Manchester Times since May 2011. John has won Tennessee Press Association awards for Best News Photo and placed in numerous other categories. John is a 1994 graduate of Tullahoma High School, a graduate of Motlow State Community College and earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from Middle Tennessee State University. He lives in Tullahoma, enjoys painting, dancing and exploring the outdoors.