Training and Decision-Making in Police Firearms Use: Evidence from a Survey of Slovenian Police Officers
Miroslav Knez, Srečko Felix KropeAbstract
Background/Purpose
The use of firearms represents the most severe coercive measure in policing and requires a high level of legal knowledge, technical competence, and psychological preparedness. Although the use of firearms by the Slovenian police is relatively rare, decisions regarding their deployment involve significant legal, ethical, and organizational consequences. The purpose of this study is to examine police officers’ preparedness for the use of firearms and their perceptions of the existing training system.
Methods
The study is based on a quantitative survey conducted among police officers working in operational units across Slovenia. A total of 359 valid questionnaires were collected and analyzed. In addition, official police statistics on the use of firearms between 2014 and 2024 were examined to provide a broader contextual framework.
Results
The results indicate that police officers generally assess their knowledge of the legal framework governing firearm use as high and perceive the legislation as largely clear. However, a substantial proportion of respondents express doubts regarding decision-making in stressful and unpredictable situations. While most officers participate regularly in firearms training, many consider the frequency and practical orientation of such training insufficient, particularly with regard to scenario-based exercises and decision-making under stress.
Conclusions
The findings highlight a gap between formal knowledge and perceived operational readiness, suggesting the need for more frequent, realistic, and simulation-based training approaches. From an organizational perspective, continuous and practice-oriented training represents a key factor in ensuring lawful, safe, and effective use of firearms in police work.