Arms and the Victorian Policeman The use of guns by the police is a continuing debate in British society, as it was in Victorian times. Clive Emsley | Published in History Today Volume 34 Issue 11 November 1984 The view that the police were handicapped in dealing with criminals. Detail of ‘Blind man’s buff’ (as played by the police), Punch, 1888. Wiki Commons/British Library. To continue reading this article you need to purchase a subscription, available from only £5. Start my trial subscription now If you have already purchased access, or are a print & archive subscriber, please ensure you are logged in. Please email digital@historytoday.com if you have any problems. Victorian Popular articles Is it Possible to Forgive and Forget? Doc Holliday: The Perennial Sidekick