No they are not wimps (ever heard of Gallipoli?) But most of the Western world does not suffer from the John Wayne - Cowboy Syndrome that the US does. Also no warship, US or otherwise would let firearms roam around lose - they are carefully monitored and controlled. IN the first episode you saw how they even double check to make sure no one has a round in the chamber. Again 'cause rocking around in a boat will make you open to an improper discharge, and sink the rubber boat. The batons are just as useful as the ones used by US police.   See 10 other replies

try holding a 9mm or M1911 45 in one hand while trying to grab the rail of a wildly swinging ship. That''s why they don't have them out when they board. But rest assured that when the first bulett flies they will draw down and open fire themselves.   See 10 other replies

Everyone in the boarding parties wears a pistol on a strong-side thigh rig. (It's the leg with two nylon straps across it.) The opposite leg appears to carry a holder for two additional pistol magazines. They even used the barrel of a pistol when they performed the emergency tracheotomy in one of the early episodes.Why they never have them drawn when they board a ship is a pretty good question, but boats that engage in international trade are never armed - both to prevent mutiny, and to prevent problems with Customs at their various ports of call.   See 10 other replies

Actually, in the 2nd and 3rd seasons, they are much better armed, carrying rifles when going ashore & aboard boats in dangerous or hostile environments. Also, the ship is upgraded to the new Armidale class PB, which is much better armed, as well. Don't ask me for weapon specifics, I'm not wired that way. But, if you do a search for Armidale class ships, it will give specifics in the Wiki.I must also say the acting and the scripts seem much better in the next two seasons. I think, like with most starting seasons, the actors and script-writers were getting a feel for the characters, and needed to get that first season under their belts to improve the series. Also, unlike Seasons 1-3, Season 4 will have 16 episodes. There's a great Sea Patrol community at www.seapatrol.com---Australian site, but lots of SP fans who are full of info about the series.Just my 2 cents worth...   See 10 other replies

Until something bad bites them in the a^^......US Coast Guard ( which this seems to approximate mission wise ) goes in with AR15 rifles and standard law enforcement tools for their safety. Establishing a command presence through a carefully graduated scale of force makes the enforcement personnel much safer than attempting to not intimidate anyone. Oh yeah ....cover fire is good if you are not in the way.   See 10 other replies

I think it's because if they believe that if they don't come aboard heavily armed and therefore intimidating then they're less likely to be shot at. Plus they could always get cover fire from the ship.   See 10 other replies

Do remember the cops in the UK dont even carry guns   See 10 other replies