you are only 'on duty' when your work corresponds to your rostered duties...of course if you come across a serious incident where you can assist, then you should do so; however you have no legal right or purpose to be carrying a weapon whilst 'off duty'...in times gone by, side arm after parade according to what duties you were assigned and signed back in plus the rounds counted. Only plain clothes officers were issued a permanent weapon. All too easy to grab a gun when you're under the influence of alcohol/drugs and out of control. How on earth do they expect the average family here to come up with this sort of money is illogical.