[thinkthenpost]

Since you have experience, would one of the handheld metal detectors they wand you with at the airport or courthouse entrances be helpful in determining when a suspect is free of weapons?

[stumpy]

Actually, I'd find it an annoyance (and would lead to being lax on your security). When you use your hands to pat somebody down, your hand is free to grasp whatever you find, or your weapon if needed. If you've got a "wand" in your hand, your relying on something other than yourself. A wand would not pick up a plastic letter opener that could be used to kill you.