Why do police departments issue compact guns so often?

[Webleymkv]

The shorter barrels of compact models also clear leather a bit faster than the longer fullsize guns. This has been one reason that many prefer a Commander to a Gov't model and a 4" service revolver to a 6" one.

 

[RPB]

Between a 17L, 17, and 19, personally I'm more accurate with my 19 ...
The 26 is on order and Santa is bringing it, alng with a Ported/Compensated Extended extra barrel

 

[Borch]

That seems a little high

Trust me. I've put it all on a scale and it tips out at 20.34 pounds. My 2 pairs of handcuffs and cases alone weigh over 3 lbs. Our duty gear is all leather, which is noticeably heavier than nylon and believe it or not that alone makes a significant difference. I'd venture to bet that if my duty gear was all nylon it would proabably take 5-6 pounds right off the top

 

[Erik]

Why? Cops want them. As in "buy us a compromise pistol big enough to fight with and small enough to conceal in plain-clothes or off-duty roles."

Re gear weights: Back before my plain-clothes days, I was curious one day and piled everything I wore (a relatively "light load-out") onto a scale in the locker room. Everything, as in boots, armor, clothes, etc. It weighed 23 lbs.