i-PROTECT Launched by Beretta

Tom R
by Tom R

I suppose this is a little “big brother-y” but the tech is still kind of cool. I can see the utility in certain professions–namely the one they discuss. The other interesting feature (they discuss in the video) is for detecting maintenance issues. It looks like they have a pretty complete integration with the Carabinieri (at least the area they are testing it out in; Milan Provincial Command).

The ‘i-PROTECT’ system includes the Beretta pistol and a networked holster using sensors that do not interfere with the mechanical operation of the handgun. The Operations Center is automatically alerted when the pistol is drawn from its holster, when the hammer is cocked, and when the pistol is fired. The Center can then send the appropriate back up and/or support personnel to the scene while the Officer continues to focus on the event at hand. At the Officer’s discretion, the pistol communicates with the “ODINO 5” smartphone application that integrates the handgun and other Officer sensors into the control system, including the Officer’s position. The i-PROTECT is designed to allow the Officer to continue using the most critical element of the system, the handgun, even if every other element is not functioning or if all electrical power is lost.

So, let’s discuss it! Do you think this would be a benefit to Law Enforcement (if you are LE, please weigh in)? What are the broader implications of this?

Tom R
Tom R

Tom is a former Navy Corpsman that spent some time bumbling around the deserts of Iraq with a Marine Recon unit, kicking in tent flaps and harassing sheep. Prior to that he was a paramedic somewhere in DFW, also doing some Executive Protection work between shifts. Now that those exciting days are behind him, he teaches wilderness medicine and runs an on-demand medical staffing business. He hopes that his posts will help you find solid gear that will survive whatever you can throw at it--he is known (in certain circles) for his curse...ahem, ability...to find the breaking point of anything.You can reach him at tom.r AT thefirearmblog.com or at https://thomasrader.com

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  • LETrainer LETrainer on Aug 05, 2015

    This is a great solution to several non-existent problems.

    The monitoring & collection of data MIGHT prove useful from a forensic standpoint post-Officer-Involved-Sfooting. It will undoubtedly be abused by desk-riding administrators and bureaucrats.

    Useful or not, it WILL NOT aid in a determination of whether or not the use of deadly force is/was authorized.

  • Archie Montgomery Archie Montgomery on Aug 05, 2015

    Being a retired lawman, I see this as useless. It probably appeals to upper management who feel they are omniscient, but it lends itself to the 'next step' of controlling the firearm from some central control.

    Perhaps as a mechanism attached or contained in the holster with NO modification to the sidearm.

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