What Pistol Does the U.S. Army Use?
The United States Army is the primary land-based branch of the U.S. military, responsible for defending the country and its interests around the world. As a professional fighting force, the Army relies on a wide range of equipment, including small arms, to maintain its effectiveness. One of the most iconic and versatile pieces of equipment in the Army’s arsenal is the sidearm, or handgun. But what pistol does the U.S. Army use?
The Standard Issue Pistol: M9
For decades, the standard issue pistol for the U.S. Army has been the Beretta M9, a semi-automatic pistol chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum. The M9 was introduced in the 1980s and has been the primary sidearm for Army personnel ever since. The M9 is a reliable and durable firearm, known for its rugged construction and ease of use. It features a lightweight alloy frame, a ventilated rib, and a replaceable trigger group. The M9 has seen action in numerous conflicts, including the Gulf War and Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Replacement and Modernization Efforts
However, the M9 has not been without its drawbacks. It has been criticized for its slow trigger pull, awkward design, and limited range. In response to these issues, the Army began seeking a replacement for the M9 in the late 2000s. After a lengthy competition process, the Army selected the Sig Sauer Modular Handgun System (MHS) as its new standard issue pistol.
The MHS: A Modular and Upgradeable Solution
The MHS, officially designated as the P320, is a modular handgun designed to meet the Army’s specific needs. The P320 features a unique modular design that allows users to easily customize the pistol to their preference. The P320 has several key benefits, including:
• Modular Design: The P320’s design allows users to quickly swap out the barrel, slide, and recoil spring to suit different operational scenarios.
• Adjustable Trigger: The P320 features an adjustable trigger, allowing users to tailor the trigger pull to their liking.
• Low Maintenance: The P320 is designed for easy maintenance, with few moving parts and a simple disassembly procedure.
Key Statistics
Here are some key statistics on the MHS (P320):
| M9 | P320 | |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9x19mm Parabellum | 9x19mm Parabellum |
| Capacity | 15 rounds | 17 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 4.9 inches | 4.7 inches |
| Overall Length | 8.5 inches | 8.1 inches |
| Weight | 2.7 pounds | 2.5 pounds |
| Production Cost | Approximately $1,500 | Approximately $1,200 |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the U.S. Army’s standard issue pistol has evolved over the years, from the trusty M9 to the cutting-edge P320 MHS. The P320’s modular design, adjustable trigger, and low maintenance make it an ideal sidearm for Army personnel. As the Army continues to evolve and adapt to emerging threats, the P320 will likely remain a reliable and effective tool for generations to come.
