Any flashlight (torch) of sufficient weight and length can be used as an effective weapon. In fact, it can be a rather devestating one even in the hands of the untrained. I have friends in uniform, both LEO and .mil, and I don't envy their jobs very often. But one thing is for sure, their jobs can be very "situational". And although they don't make the laws, they not only enforce them, but they interpret them to some degree. They can also choose to selectively apply them based on experience and "gut" instinct.

I wouldn't lie to a cop, but I might selectively answer and leave things out. And should the matter warrant something more than a traffic ticket, I would use my right to keep my mouth shut and just not say anything until my lawyer showed up.

Are you saying that guns stir up politics? LOL