What Pistol Do the Green Berets Use?
The United States Army Special Forces, also known as the Green Berets, are an elite group of soldiers trained to conduct unconventional warfare, foreign internal defense, and direct action. When it comes to their sidearms, the Green Berets have a reputation for using some of the most reliable and effective pistols in the world. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Green Beret pistols and explore what they use.
Standardization
In 2017, the United States Special Operations Command (SOCOM) standardized the Glock 19 as the primary handgun for all special operations forces, including the Green Berets. This move was made to standardize the pistol used across all special operations units, making it easier to train and equip personnel.
Glock 19
The Glock 19 is a compact, lightweight pistol chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum. It’s known for its reliability, durability, and accuracy. The Glock 19 is also relatively easy to maintain and has a low maintenance cost. These factors make it an ideal choice for special operations forces, who often find themselves in high-stress, high-stakes situations.
Glock 17 and 22
While the Glock 19 is the standard-issue pistol for the Green Berets, some operators may choose to carry the Glock 17 or 22. The Glock 17 is a full-size pistol with a longer barrel and a slightly larger grip than the Glock 19. The Glock 22 is a.40 S&W version of the Glock 17. Both pistols are known for their accuracy and reliability, but they may be heavier and larger than the Glock 19.
Delta Force and Tier 1 Operators
Some Green Berets may choose to work with the elite Tier 1 unit, Delta Force. As Tier 1 operators, they may have access to specialized pistols, such as the Glock 20 or 21, which are chambered in.45 ACP. These pistols are known for their accuracy and stopping power, making them ideal for high-risk missions.
Table: Glock Models Used by the Green Berets
| Model | Caliber | Barrel Length | Weight | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glock 19 | 9x19mm | 4.02 inches | 23.65 ounces | 15 rounds |
| Glock 17 | 9x19mm | 4.49 inches | 27.55 ounces | 17 rounds |
| Glock 22 | .40 S&W | 4.49 inches | 28.25 ounces | 13 rounds |
| Glock 20 | .45 ACP | 4.99 inches | 31.75 ounces | 15 rounds |
| Glock 21 | .45 ACP | 4.61 inches | 30.75 ounces | 13 rounds |
Conclusion
The Green Berets are known for their expertise in unconventional warfare, foreign internal defense, and direct action. When it comes to their sidearms, they use some of the most reliable and effective pistols in the world. The Glock 19 is the standard-issue pistol for the Green Berets, but some operators may choose to carry other Glock models, such as the Glock 17 or 22. Whether they’re carrying a Glock 19 or a Glock 20, Green Berets know that their pistol is reliable, accurate, and ready for action.