What Handgun Does the Military Use?
The military uses a variety of handguns, depending on the branch, role, and specific requirements. Each branch of the military has its own standard-issue sidearm, which is typically designed for reliability, accuracy, and ease of use in a variety of situations. In this article, we’ll explore the handguns used by each branch of the US military.
What Handgun Does the US Military Use?
The US military uses several different handguns, depending on the branch and role. Here’s a breakdown of the standard-issue sidearms used by each branch:
- US Army: The standard-issue sidearm for the US Army is the M9 Beretta, a 9mm semi-automatic pistol. However, the Army is in the process of replacing the M9 with the M17 Modular Handgun System, a 9mm striker-fired pistol designed by Sig Sauer.
- US Navy: The US Navy uses the M9 Beretta as its standard-issue sidearm, just like the Army. However, the Navy is also in the process of adopting the M18 Modular Handgun System, a 9mm striker-fired pistol designed by Sig Sauer.
- US Air Force: The US Air Force uses the M9 Beretta as its standard-issue sidearm, although the Air Force is also evaluating the M18 Modular Handgun System as a potential replacement.
- US Marine Corps: The US Marine Corps uses the M9 Beretta as its standard-issue sidearm, but is also in the process of adopting the M45A1 CQB, a 9mm semi-automatic pistol designed by Glock.
Why Does the Military Use Handguns?
Handguns are an essential part of military equipment, serving several important purposes:
- Personal Defense: Handguns are used for personal defense, allowing soldiers to protect themselves in close quarters or in situations where other weapons may not be practical.
- Tactical Advantage: Handguns can be used to gain a tactical advantage in combat, allowing soldiers to quickly and quietly dispatch enemies.
- Less Lethal Options: Handguns can be used to deliver less lethal options, such as rubber bullets or beanbag rounds, which can be used to disperse crowds or neutralize threats without causing harm.
What Are the Key Features of Military Handguns?
Military handguns are designed with specific features that make them well-suited for military use. Some of the key features include:
- Reliability: Military handguns must be reliable and able to function in a variety of environments and conditions.
- Accuracy: Military handguns must be accurate and able to deliver precise shots in a variety of situations.
- Ease of Use: Military handguns must be easy to use, with intuitive controls and a low learning curve.
- Durability: Military handguns must be durable and able to withstand the rigors of combat and harsh environments.
Comparison of Military Handguns
Here’s a comparison of the key features of the military handguns mentioned above:
| Handgun | Caliber | Action | Barrel Length | Weight | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M9 Beretta | 9mm | Semi-Auto | 4.9" | 34 oz | 15+1 |
| M17 Modular Handgun System | 9mm | Striker-Fired | 4.7" | 28 oz | 17+1 |
| M18 Modular Handgun System | 9mm | Striker-Fired | 4.7" | 28 oz | 17+1 |
| M45A1 CQB | 9mm | Semi-Auto | 4.1" | 25 oz | 13+1 |
Conclusion
The US military uses a variety of handguns, each designed for specific purposes and roles. The M9 Beretta and M17/M18 Modular Handgun Systems are currently the standard-issue sidearms for the Army and Navy, while the M45A1 CQB is used by the Marine Corps. Handguns are an essential part of military equipment, serving as a reliable and effective means of personal defense, tactical advantage, and less lethal options.
