Mounted search and rescue

["Robert Barnard" <rb4bar@quixnet.net>]

----- Original Message -----
From: Una Smith <una@lanl.gov>
To: Mounted search and rescue <msar-riders@lists.ibiblio.org>
Sent: Wednesday, July 09, 2003 12:29 PM
Subject: Re: [MSAR] Guns in SAR


> In reading this thread so far, I think the issues surrounding guns
> in SAR may be greatly clarified if the following distinctions are
> made:
>
> Issues specific to MSAR:  the possible need to put down a horse in
> the field, the desensitization of the horse, where to pack or carry
> a gun safely while riding, what is a suitable gun for this purpose,
> what are the alternatives, how great is the need.
> vs
> Issues pertaining to all SAR:  personal safety and security in a
> field environment where you may be threatend by hostile persons
> (those with or without guns), probability of such threat, level
> of such threat.
>
> and
>
> Issues of personal choice.
> vs
> Issues of proper authority.
>
> I am sure we would be interested to hear what more units think of
> all this.
>
> Una Smith
> Santa Fe County Sheriff's Posse, in New Mexico
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> MSAR-riders mailing list
> MSAR-riders@lists.ibiblio.org
> http://lists.ibiblio.org/mailman/listinfo/msar-riders


I've read with interest all of the comments regarding guns and MSAR. One
thing I find lacking in the discussion is the potential of hostile
creatures. Most of our missions are in wilderness areas. I've never felt the
need to arm myself against human hostiles, but I've seen plenty of bear
signs and I'm told lions are in the area. I do agree with the issue of
putting a horse down. A weapon is the quickest way.

Robert Barnard
Dona Ana Sheriff's Dept. Mounted Patrol. (New Mexico)
>