What is the Current Military Pistol?
The U.S. military has undergone significant changes in its pistol selection over the years, shifting from traditional 9mm semi-automatic pistols to more advanced and customizable options. The current military pistol selection is a testament to the evolving demands of modern warfare, requiring firearms that are more reliable, accurate, and adaptable to various scenarios.
Derivatives of the SIG Sauer P320
In 2015, the U.S. military adopted the M17 and M18 military pistols, both derived from the commercial SIG Sauer P320 platform. The M17 is a.40 caliber, 7-round magazine-capable pistol with an overall length of 8 inches and a height of 6.5 inches, while the M18 is a 9mm, 2-round magazine-capable pistol with an overall length of 7.3 inches and a height of 5.6 inches.
FN Five-SeveN
The FN Five-SeveN is another commercially available pistol that has gained traction among military personnel and law enforcement officers. This pistol is capable of firing the 5.7x28mm cartridge, known for its high velocity and low recoil , making it suitable for accurate and rapid shooting**. While availability is limited, the FN Five-SeveN has been tested and praised for its performance in real-world scenarios.
CIA-Certified Handguns
The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has its own set of preferred handguns for operations. The Glock 19 is a popular choice among CIA operators, due to its compact size and ability to be customized for a variety of scenarios. Glock 30, a.45 caliber version, is another reliable option.
FN Five-Five-SeveN Usage
In a surprising revelation, it has been reported that law enforcement officers have been known to carry FN Five-SeveN while on duty, citing the rifle’s accuracy and versatility in high-stress situations.
Key Features: Modern Military Pistols
Below is a summary of key features for popular military pistols:
| Pistol | Caliber | Magazine Capacity | Length (inches) | Height (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M17 (SIG Sauer) | 0.40 | 7 | 8.00 | 6.50 |
| M18 (SIG Sauer) | 9 | 2 | 7.30 | 5.60 |
| FN Five-SeveN | 5.7x28mm | 20 | 10.50 | 5.50 |
| Glock 19 (CIA certified) | 9 | 15 | 7.00 | 5.00 |
| Glock 30 (CIA certified) | .45 | 13 | 8.25 | 5.75 |
These modern military pistols have been optimized for performance, reliability, and adaptability to various scenarios. The U.S. military’s adoption of the M17 and M18 demonstrates a desire for pistols that can keep up with the demands of modern warfare.
Overall, the current military pistol selection consists of advanced, high-performance pistols that cater to specific needs and training requirements. While some may be skeptical about the proliferation of firearms, their role in maintaining national security and facilitating effective operations is undeniable.