Trending Topics

When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for reading and supporting our efforts.

Officer must-haves: Things I hope go on sale during Amazon Prime Day

These little extras can make a big difference in the quality of your police life

Copy of Affiliate Images (1).jpg

Editor’s note: Amazon Prime Day is an annual event offering deep discounts, deals and doorbusters on a variety of products, from clothing to electronics to appliances to outdoor gear and more. This year, Amazon Prime Day deals will be live from July 16-17, though some deals are already live here.

For first responders, Amazon Prime Day is a great time to take stock of your professional needs and look for deals to upgrade your tools, uniforms, personal fitness gadgets and other needs. If you’re unsure how Amazon Prime Days work, check out these these frequently asked questions to get started.

Essential tactical tools
$129.00 BOGO (save 19%) Typical price: $159.0
$39.98 (save 20%) List Price: $49.98
$118.95 (save 15%) List Price: $139.99
$62.00 (save 31%) List Price: $90.00
$23.99 (save 20%) List Price: $29.99
$19.18 (save 40%) List Price: $31.99
$14.34 (save 15%) Typical price: $16.88
$7.57 (save 15%) Typical price: $8.90
$121.04 (save 15%) List Price: $142.40
$13.28 (save 30%) Typical price: $18.99
$492.82 (save 10%) Typical price: $545.00
$59.40 (save 23%) List Price: $77.00
$25.98 (save 32%) List Price: $37.99
$173.91 (save 29%) List Price: $244.95
$21.24 (save 15%) Typical price: $24.99
$198.55 (save 43%) List Price: $349.00
$28.89 (save 15%) Typical price $33.99 *Save an extra $5 by clipping the coupon!
Start and finish your tactical gear holiday shopping with these deals from 5.11, First Tactical, 221B Tactical and many more

There’s a feeling of confidence and control that comes from opening your trunk and seeing a well-organized kit of essential gear. It’s more than just having stuff; it’s having the right tools you can trust. A first-aid kit that’s properly stocked, a flashlight with reliable batteries, a multi-tool that functions flawlessly — these seemingly ordinary items become testaments to your preparedness. They’re a silent promise to yourself and your fellow officers that you’ll be ready for whatever situation arises.

But sometimes you want to have more than just the basics. You want tools to make specific tasks easier and to help you get out of a tight spot if needed. These little extras can make a big difference in the quality of your police life. Here are some of those cop-related extras I hope goes on sale during Amazon Prime Day.

AGM Global Vision Thermal Monocular

I strongly believe in prioritizing officer safety and leveraging technology to achieve that goal. Thermal imaging cameras can significantly enhance an officer’s ability to detect hidden threats in bushes, low-light conditions, or complete darkness.

Thermal imaging cameras come in a variety of options to suit unique needs and budgets. Expensive helmet-mounted units offer a wider field of view and hands-free operation but can cost more than $10,000. More affordable handheld options are suitable for indoor environments but can’t be used outdoors. The AMG Global Vision Monocular strikes a good balance between affordability and functionality. It effectively detects heat sources at a distance and the user can adjust the color palette to optimize visibility in various conditions.

High-sensitivity thermal imaging monocular with 256x192 resolution and 12μm infrared detector for clear viewing in low light conditions.

Telescoping Extension Ladder by Boweiti

A telescoping extension ladder has to be one of my favorite purchases. Honestly, I wish all departments would purchase these for each patrol. As an officer, you never know when you will need to look over a fence, climb up on a roof, or look up in a crawl space. Adjustable ladders are typically small and lightweight and don’t take up a lot of real estate in the back of your car.

The telescopic extension ladder is made of high-quality aluminum alloy.

V2 Pro Portable Air Conditioner & Cooler by IcyBreeze

For detectives facing long hours of stakeouts in stifling heat, the IcyBreeze offers a welcome relief. Just fill the base with ice and a little water and you will be nice and cold for about six hours. Unlike swamp coolers, the IcyBreeze won’t fog up your windows with humidity. Additionally, an optional battery pack eliminates the need to run your car engine, preserving battery life and allowing you to blend in with your surroundings a lot better. Stay on the eye longer with the V2 Pro by Icybreeze.

Dispenses cold, dry air up to 25 MPH, cooling up to 35°F below ambient temperature.

Patrol Bag Organizer by Tidify

Forget the frustration of poorly designed patrol bags. The Patrol Bag Organizer by Tidify stands out from the competition. Crafted with heavy-duty, 900D fabric for exceptional durability, this bag was developed in collaboration with the Miami Dade Police Department, prioritizing officer needs. It comes with removable dividers and a plethora of pockets to ensure your gear stays organized and readily accessible during critical moments.

Keep your stuff at an arm’s reach with the help of this police patrol bag.

Leupold BX-4 Pro Binoculars or Vortex Triumph HD

Another mandatory item for every officer should be a good pair of binoculars. I wouldn’t recommend spending too much time birdwatching on duty, so you will need a set of binoculars tailored for surveillance. Look for binoculars that do good in low-light and perform within a wide field of vision. The Leupold BX-4 is a great option but can be expensive. But if you are looking for a more budget-friendly version, the Vortex Triumph HD 10x42 is a fantastic alternative.

High-definition, calcium-fluoride lenses delivers incredible edge-to-edge clarity.
A full-size binocular with 1x magnification and 42mm objective lenses.

Walker’s Razor Slim Earmuffs

Safeguarding your hearing during firearms training is paramount. While departments often provide passive earmuffs, consider investing in electronic ear protection for several advantages. Electronic earmuffs typically offer a superior seal, blocking out harmful noise levels more effectively. Additionally, electronic ear protection can amplify ambient sounds, allowing you to hear your instructor’s commands clearly over the gunfire.

High-sensitivity thermal imaging monocular with 256x192 resolution and 12μm infrared detector for clear viewing in low light conditions.

A well-equipped trunk isn’t about having things; it’s about having the confidence to tackle any situation. With Amazon Prime Day on the horizon, there’s no better time to invest in the gear that can make your job easier and safer. Remember, a smart investment today can empower you to perform your duties more effectively for years to come. So, keep an eye out for these items and snag them at a great price during Prime Day!

Joshua Lee is a multifaceted law enforcement professional with almost two decades in law enforcement. He currently serves as an active-duty police sergeant for a municipal police department in Arizona.

Joshua specializes in complex cases involving racketeering offenses related to civil asset forfeiture, white-collar financial crime, cryptocurrency, and fraud.

Beyond his police duties, Joshua is a sought-after expert in financial crime investigations, police wellness, report writing, and artificial intelligence for government use.

Joshua holds a Bachelor of Arts in Justice Studies, a Master of Arts in Legal Studies, and a Master of Arts in Professional Writing and he is a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS), Certified Cyber Crimes Investigator (CCCI), and is an ISSA Certified Tactical Conditioning Specialist.

Joshua serves as an adjunct professor teaching law, criminal justice, government, police technology, professional and technical writing, and English.

He can be reached at joshua.lee@secretsquirrelpress.com.

For Government Employees Only

If you have a .gov email and work for a police department or prosecutor’s office, please join Joshua’s monthly report-writing newsletter where we discuss best practices in police report writing, grammar and punctuation issues, and investigation tips. We even have a section specific to prosecuting criminal cases. If interested, email Joshua.lee@thereportwritingproject.org to sign up.
FIRST RESPONDER DISCOUNTS
Discounts available for Military, First Responders, and Government Employees.
Save up to 20% off coffee roasters and accessories.
Save 15% off ‎travel bags, backpacks, duffels, golf and pickleball gear.
Save 15% off silicone bands and silicone engagement rings.
Save up to 18% off engagement rings, meteorite rings, wedding bands and accessories.
Save up to 15% off polos, headcovers, hats and tees.
Save up to 20% off quartz pocket watches, pendant watches, dual time zone watches.
Save 15% off golf clubs, golf balls and gear.
Save up to 5% off barbells bumper plates, benches, power racks, kettlebells, squat racks, slam balls.
Save 15% off workout supplies. All products are made in the USA.
Save 50% off meal kit and food delivery.
Save 5% off supplements and gear.
Save up to 10% off zirconia flap discs, general-duty diamond blades.
Save 15% off shoes and clothing, everyday sneakers.
The 26oz. Shaker features a patented, noise-free twist on agitator that is designed to blend protein powders and work as a strainer to ensure a perfect drink every time.
Save 20% off hormones and energy, digestion and gut health, muscle, bone and skin health, protein, and fitness.
Save up to 15% off snowboards, splitboards, apparel + accessories.
Ghost® Whey Protein was conceived to feed savagery around the clock*, and can be enjoyed during breakfast, post workout, throughout the day or before bed. Ghost® Whey is versatile and can be used in smoothies, oats, protein ice cream, pancakes and baked goods.
Save 15% off handbags, backpacks, luggage, accessories.
Save up to 10% off handcrafted glass gifts, artisan figurines, fashion jewelry, ornaments, holiday gifts.