No they can't, and it isn't their job either. They may be armed, but they aren't on the scene in time to protect you. Their job is to show up later and collect evidence. Your job is to protect you.
Thats true which is why I have a carrier permit and have a Beretta .40 cal in my car. :)
You are correct.
According to our courts it is not the responsibility of the police to protect individual citizens besides which it is physically impossible for them to do so.
Their job is to arrest the one who has just, robbed, attacked or killed you and/or yours so they can exercise all those rights they just denied you.
The person who is responsible for your safety in the home, at work, and in the streets of the everyday world is you, period.
The founding fathers knew the most important right was the right to life and it is why they insisted on you having the right to it and the tools necessary to defend it.
After seeing your sparring with others on the subway search thread I did a search on your comments. I must say I like your kung fu. We need more advocates for freedom around here (and just about everywhere else). There are far to many jackboot lickers on FR.