"I just read that Leonov on Voskhod2 had a pistol on broad to 'protect against wild animals' upon landing. Was this a common practice to care firearms on either Soviet or US spacecraft? (or Chinese for that matter)"<br /><br />I can't answer that question for a fact. Since the Russian (Soviet at one point in history) spacecraft aren't that controllable as to where they land, and since they are designed to land on solid earth, rather than in the oceans (Mercury, Gemini, Apollo) or on a runway (Shuttle), it probably makes some sense. <br /><br />Whether Leonov was allowed/required to carry the pistol, or whether he did so against regulations (I doubt it), it would have made some sense, given the potential for encountering wolves, bears, etc., where they were likely to land. <br /><br />Even though the CEV will be capable of landing on solid ground, given the way our recovery forces will probably be deployed and even contingencies, I doubt it will be necessary or desireable to be packin' iron. It would mean setting up a security checkpoint, and I can't see the astronauts having to remove the boots on their pressure suits to get through the metal detectors. Of course, since these would be crewpersons, they could be given waivers, or sworn in as U.S. Marshals. So I don't see that coming up. Unless, of course, we anticipate running into Romulans, Klingons or possibly Terrans "of other ideological inclinations" on the Moon! But anything is possible... <br /><br />"Go ahead! Make my day, Captain!"<br />"Phasers on stun, Mr. Spock!"<br /><br />Ad Luna! Ad Aries! Ad Astra!