In my case, the Mod Plod invited me to lodge my (legally held) personal private weapon in the station armoury. This I duly did - but signed it out whenever I went flying, or (on occasion) drove “ashore”. Never did have to use it in anger though, nor the subsequent 4” barrel, .357 Magnum that I bought to replace it.
Those were the days when you could get a firearms certificate for “personal protection on active service”. Mine gave me permission to purchase and carry “Pistol or revolver; calibre: .22”/.32”/.357”/.38”/.45”/9mm”.
To quote the police officer who helped me fill out the application “Do you think that will cover it?”
Different times then!
Mog