My experience has been they now want to see the phrase "for possible purchase". The below letter was approved recently.
On department letterhead:
The _______ Sheriff’s Office is requesting a firearms demonstration by _______________. This demonstration will evaluate the firearms listed below for possible future purchase and use by our officers in the performance of their official duties.
2x FN Herstal 5.7x28mm P90 Tactical submachine guns
The number of sworn full time officers, including reserves, in our department is __. These officers are authorized by law to make arrests and carry firearms in the performance of their official duties.
These firearms are particularly suitable for law enforcement use. They are compact and lightweight which also make them ideal for close quarter police operations. They are also in current production through reputable manufacturers/importers so support for these units will be available should it be needed.
We are requesting two units of this firearm system. We believe that no less than two can feasibly test the performance and longevity of this firearm, for the following reasons: First, this firearm is believed to work exceptionally in a team environment. So deputies would benefit from a demonstration of how this firearm operates in a coordinated team environment, and how to operate the firearm simultaneously with a partner. Next, longevity testing will consist of firing thousands of rounds through a firearm, and having a second firearm as a control group, comparing their respective performances to see if it is affected by longevity testing, and also to show how well they function right out of the box without modification or tuning and that a single firearm functioning flawlessly is the status quo of this firearm system, not an anomaly. Finally, a back-up firearm is always beneficial should one break down, get damaged in transit, or be required for spare parts to support the other unit during the demonstration.
If there are any questions please contact our office.
Sincerely,
(NAME)
Sheriff