What do Navy Seals Carry for Pistols?
The US Navy SEALs are among the most elite and renowned military units in the world. Their operational success and accuracy are rooted in a meticulous selection of weapons and ammunition. In this article, we’ll delve into what Navy SEALs typically carry for pistols and what their preferences reveal about the elite operators.
A Preference for Modular Designs
Contrary to popular opinion, Navy SEALs don’t carry the same standardized firearms as every other Special Warfare Operator (SWO) in the US Special Warfare Command (SOCOM). Instead, they prioritize adaptive, modular designs that serve multiple purposes. Here lies the primary reason Navy SEALs are often spotted wielding Glock 19, which is both compact and upgradable:
| Weapon | Glock 19 |
|---|---|
| Calibre | 9x19mm Parabellum |
| Weight | 19 oz (~540 grams) |
Pistol Training with the G19
From the very beginning of BUD/S training ( Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL Training ), students learn to rely solely on the Glock 19. Its reliability and small size enable them to focus on developing superior tactical skills, such as handling, aiming, and effective shooting at close distances – essential competencies for operating in complex environments. SWOs familiarize themselves with the pistol’s layout during the obstacle course test portion of BUD/S graduation.
Cartridge Standardization: 9mm Parabellum (9x19mm)
One aspect consistently linking Navy SEALs and some other special operations groups: calibre consistency at 9mm for both hand guns and Submachine guns (MP). This has two reasons, both serving as safeguards.
- Foliage: Effective cartridge penetration: The compact rounds can reliably pass through greenery or walls at modest distances (think of CQC – Close Quarters Combat).
- Casualties: Stability with blood-lakery situations where swift, humane incapacitation comes first
Standard, Non-Custom Accessories
Navy SEALs focus on simple, widely-known, standardized parts with ease of availability across different contexts
- Standard Night-Sights
- Integrated Rails for Mounting Scopes or Suppressors
Avoiding High-Balloon Accents, non-standard Parts, so users can trust that:
(1). The component suppliers will ensure consistency quality standard.
(2) Other operators won’t use customized parts when trying
- Additional Components that Allow for Modification: Magazine w/ anti-rollof, which limits uncontrolled chambering with rapid magazine dumps, along; with; other possible elements, depending on training group, task requirements,
Another key characteristic: flexibility without compromising versatility in critical stages. What follows could reveal more secrets, too close to, (M)astered Mission Information,
Holstered Options for SEAL Teams Six and Thirty-One (8th SFAB 21st)
From casual observation in photographs these teams don’t standard-ize upon the following for their own unique gear, though not in common but:
- F1 Holsters for enhanced cover
- TUF-TEN for even added security from loss with concealed carry