What Revolver Did the FBI Carry?
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has a long history of using revolvers as their primary sidearm. Over the years, the FBI has issued various models of revolvers to its agents, each with its unique features and characteristics. In this article, we will explore the different revolvers that the FBI has carried throughout its history.
The Early Years: Colt.45
The FBI’s first revolver was the Colt.45, which was issued to agents in the 1930s. The Colt.45 was a reliable and powerful handgun that was widely used by law enforcement agencies during that era. The FBI’s early agents, including J. Edgar Hoover, carried the Colt.45 as their primary sidearm.
The Model 10
In the 1950s, the FBI began to issue the Smith & Wesson Model 10 revolver to its agents. The Model 10 was a popular choice among law enforcement agencies due to its reliability, accuracy, and durability. The FBI issued the Model 10 in various calibers, including.38 Special and.357 Magnum.
The Model 13
In the 1970s, the FBI began to issue the Smith & Wesson Model 13 revolver to its agents. The Model 13 was a variant of the Model 10 and was chambered in.357 Magnum. The Model 13 was known for its accuracy and reliability and was widely used by FBI agents during the 1970s and 1980s.
The Glock 19M
In recent years, the FBI has issued the Glock 19M as its primary sidearm. The Glock 19M is a semi-automatic pistol that is chambered in 9mm and features a number of advanced safety features, including a trigger safety and a drop safety. The Glock 19M is widely used by law enforcement agencies around the world and is known for its reliability and accuracy.
Why the FBI Chose the Glock 19M
The FBI chose the Glock 19M as its primary sidearm for a number of reasons. One of the main reasons was the pistol’s reliability and accuracy. The Glock 19M is known for its ability to function reliably in a variety of environments and conditions, making it an ideal choice for law enforcement agents. Another reason the FBI chose the Glock 19M was its safety features. The pistol features a number of advanced safety features, including a trigger safety and a drop safety, which help to prevent accidental discharges.
Comparison of the FBI’s Revolvers
Here is a comparison of the revolvers that the FBI has carried throughout its history:
| Revolver | Caliber | Years Issued |
|---|---|---|
| Colt.45 | .45 ACP | 1930s-1950s |
| Smith & Wesson Model 10 | .38 Special,.357 Magnum | 1950s-1970s |
| Smith & Wesson Model 13 | .357 Magnum | 1970s-1980s |
| Glock 19M | 9mm | 2010s-present |
Conclusion
The FBI has a long history of using revolvers as its primary sidearm. Over the years, the agency has issued various models of revolvers to its agents, each with its unique features and characteristics. From the Colt.45 to the Glock 19M, the FBI’s revolvers have been designed to provide agents with a reliable and accurate means of self-defense. Whether you’re a law enforcement professional or a civilian looking for a reliable handgun, the revolvers used by the FBI are definitely worth considering.