My uncle was in law enforcement for well over 20 year. He has kinda the same story the S&W 38 he was first issued he purchased when he made Sgt. The issue for the Sgts was a stainless steel S&W38.When he was later issued a Glock 17 he purchased that gun as well and the same thing when they switched to 40cal. Then he retired a few years ago and was given the Glock 40.This is were it really gets interesting my cousin is now a officer for the same department. My uncle gave him the S&W 38spl J frame that he carried for backup for many years. My cousin now carries that J frame for his backup. I also carry a S&W 642 most of the time for my main carry gun. The XD 45 also is carried sometime like you said depends on the situation. It is just hard to beat the ease of a small 38 in a pocket holster for day to day carry. The 870 is anther fine shotgun I have very reliable. I would love to have an 870 wing master to go with I love walnut stocks on a shotgun.