5 Pistols the Military Does Use

You rely on pistols like the SIG Sauer M17, the U.S. military’s new standard with its modular design and ambidextrous safety. This pistol is built to adapt to different missions and user preferences, making it a favorite among service members.

The Beretta M9, a trusted veteran pistol, remains iconic for its durability and reliability. It’s been a staple for decades and continues to perform under pressure.

The Glock 19 offers versatility with its lightweight frame and ease of use. It’s a top choice for many because it balances size, capacity, and stopping power effectively.

Meanwhile, the Smith & Wesson M&P stands out among special operations units. Its ergonomic design and proven performance make it a reliable option in tough scenarios.

Ultimately, the FN Five-SeveN provides a high-capacity, low-recoil option. This unique pistol is favored for its ability to deliver accuracy and quick follow-up shots.

Discover what makes each of these pistols a top choice for military use and why they remain trusted sidearms in the field.

Key Takeaways

• The SIG Sauer M17 is the U.S. military’s new standard 9mm pistol. It features a modular design and ambidextrous safety, making it user-friendly for all soldiers.
• The Beretta M9, a 9mm pistol adopted in 1985, served as the U.S. military’s iconic standard sidearm for decades. Many still remember it as a reliable classic.
• Glock 19 is a reliable, compact 9mm pistol. It’s widely used by military and law enforcement worldwide because it’s easy to carry and maintain.
• Smith & Wesson M&P pistols are favored by special operations teams. Their modularity and ambidextrous controls give operators more flexibility in the field.
• FN Five-SeveN offers a lightweight 5.7x28mm pistol. It has high-capacity magazines and low recoil, which makes it ideal for military use.

The SIG Sauer M17 Military Pistol: The New Standard Sidearm

Although the U.S. military has used various sidearms over the years, the SIG Sauer M17 has become its new standard pistol after rigorous testing. As a military sidearm, the M17 stands out with its modular design, allowing you to swap grip frames and slide configurations easily.

Chambered in 9mm NATO, it offers a 17-round magazine, giving you ample firepower. You’ll appreciate the ambidextrous safety, which guarantees comfortable, secure handling whether you’re right- or left-handed.

The M17’s reliability is a key reason it replaced the Beretta M9, offering consistent performance across all branches of the military. Plus, its durability and compatibility with modern accessories like reflex sights make it a versatile choice for today’s battlefield demands.

Beretta M9: Why This Veteran Pistol Remains Iconic

When you pick up the Beretta M9, you’re holding a piece of military history that has stood the test of time. Adopted in 1985 as the U.S. military’s standard sidearm, the Beretta M9 replaced the M1911 and quickly became iconic for its durability and reliability.

Chambered in 9mm with a 15-round double-stack magazine, it offers both firepower and dependability on the battlefield. Its steel frame and open slide design contribute to its robustness and ease of maintenance, making it a trusted companion during military use in conflicts like Desert Storm and Iraq.

Even though newer pistols have taken its place, the Beretta M9 remains a symbol of enduring quality and service. It’s secured its legacy as one of the most iconic military pistols ever issued.

Glock 19: A Versatile Military and Law Enforcement Pistol

If you need a reliable, versatile sidearm, the Glock 19 delivers with its compact design and proven 9mm performance. Trusted by both military and law enforcement worldwide, this pistol balances power and portability effortlessly.

The Glock 19 offers trusted 9mm power and compact versatility for military and law enforcement worldwide.

You’ll appreciate its reliability. The Glock 19 operates flawlessly in diverse conditions, making it a dependable choice for serious professionals.

Its compact size is another big plus. With reduced weight and dimensions, it’s easy to carry concealed and perfect for tactical use without sacrificing firepower.

Maintenance won’t slow you down either. Thanks to the polymer frame and striker-fired mechanism, upkeep is simple, so you can focus on the mission.

With a 15-round magazine capacity and widespread adoption by forces like the German Bundeswehr, the Glock 19’s blend of durability and versatility makes it a standout 9mm pistol for any duty.

Smith & Wesson M&P: Favored by Special Operations Units

Like the Glock 19, the Smith & Wesson M&P series stands out for its reliability and adaptability, making it a top choice among special operations units like the U.S. Navy SEALs. You’ll appreciate the M&P’s modular design, which lets you customize it to fit various tactical needs.

Chambered mainly in 9mm, with options in .40 S&W and .45 ACP, it offers versatility in the field. Its polymer frame and ambidextrous controls guarantee durability and ease of use, even under extreme conditions.

The striker-fired mechanism enhances consistent performance, while integrated accessory rails and optics-ready slides allow for modern tactical attachments. When you need a dependable pistol that adapts to demanding special operations missions, the Smith & Wesson M&P delivers every time.

FN Five-SeveN: Lightweight, High-Capacity Tactical Pistol

Although it may look compact, the FN Five-SeveN packs a punch with its lightweight polymer frame and 5.7x28mm cartridge. It delivers high velocity and a flat trajectory.

This tactical pistol really stands out for military use thanks to its unique features. You’ll appreciate its:

1. High-capacity magazine holding up to 20 rounds, giving you extended firepower without frequent reloads.
2. Low recoil design, which helps you maintain accuracy during rapid follow-up shots.
3. Durable, corrosion-resistant finish, ensuring reliability in tough combat environments.

The FN Five-SeveN’s combination of lightweight construction and powerful 5.7x28mm cartridge makes it a preferred choice among various military and law enforcement units worldwide. When you need a reliable, high-capacity tactical pistol, this model delivers exceptional performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Pistol Do Most Military Use?

Most military forces use the SIG Sauer P320 series pistols, especially the M17 and M18 variants. You’ll find these striker-fired, modular pistols favored for their reliability, ease of maintenance, and adaptability across various branches worldwide.

What Pistols Are Used in the U.S. Military?

You’ll find the U.S. military mainly wields the sturdy SIG Sauer M17 and M18 pistols. Both boast balanced build, bright ballistic benefits, and battle-ready basics, blending reliability, resilience, and rapid response for every mission.

What Does the Military Use for Pistols?

You’ll find the military mainly uses the M17 and M18 pistols, both 9mm and modular. They’re designed for versatility, with features like optics readiness, ambidextrous safeties, and corrosion resistance to suit various combat needs.

What Handgun Is the U.S. Military Currently Using?

You’re carrying the future with the SIG Sauer M17 and M18, the U.S. military’s current handguns. These reliable, adaptable 9mm pistols replaced older models, offering durability and modern features to keep you mission-ready.

Conclusion

When you grip one of these pistols, you’re holding more than just a weapon—you’re clutching a legacy of precision and power. From the trusted Beretta M9 to the cutting-edge SIG Sauer M17, each sidearm whispers stories of battlefield grit and unwavering reliability.

Whether you’re drawn to the Glock 19’s versatility or the FN Five-SeveN’s lightweight punch, these pistols aren’t just tools—they’re your steadfast partners in the chaos of combat. Every model reflects the critical role a reliable pistol plays in military operations.

In the end, choosing the right military pistol means balancing performance, dependability, and ease of use. These five pistols stand out because they deliver all that and more, making them favorites among armed forces worldwide. So, whether it’s the Beretta M9, SIG Sauer M17, Glock 19, or FN Five-SeveN, you’re not just picking a firearm—you’re selecting a trusted companion for the challenges of battle.