The Elite Choice: What Pistol Do Army Rangers Use?

The United States Army Rangers are an elite special operations force, known for their bravery, skill, and unwavering commitment to protecting their country. As part of their arsenal, Army Rangers rely on some of the most advanced and reliable firearms available. But what pistol do these elite soldiers use?

A Brief History of Army Ranger Firearms

To understand the current pistol of choice for Army Rangers, it’s essential to take a step back and look at the history of firearms used by this elite force. Since their formation in 1942, Army Rangers have been equipped with various pistols, each designed to meet the evolving demands of modern warfare.

In the early years, Army Rangers used the M1911, a semiautomatic pistol that had been the standard-issue sidearm for the US military since 1911. The M1911 was a reliable and accurate weapon, but it had its limitations. The pistol’s large size and limited magazine capacity made it less than ideal for modern warfare.

In the 1980s, the Army introduced the Beretta M9, which became the new standard-issue pistol for all branches of the US military. While the M9 was an improvement over the M1911, it still had its drawbacks. The pistol’s 9mm caliber was considered inadequate for stopping power, and its reliability was often called into question.

The Search for a New Pistol

In the 1990s, the Army began searching for a new pistol that would meet the demands of modern warfare. The goal was to find a pistol that was more reliable, more accurate, and more effective at stopping power. This search led to the development of the XM9, a pistol designed specifically for special operations forces like the Army Rangers.

However, the XM9 was ultimately deemed unsatisfactory, and the Army continued its search for the perfect pistol. In 2005, the Army launched the Joint Combat Pistol (JCP) program, which aimed to find a new pistol that would meet the needs of the entire US military.

Enter the Sig Sauer P320

In 2017, the Army announced that Sig Sauer’s P320 had won the XM17 Modular Handgun System (MHS) contract, beating out competitors like Glock and Beretta. The P320 was designed to be a modular, adaptable pistol that could meet the diverse needs of the US military.

The P320 is a striker-fired pistol that features a modular design, allowing soldiers to easily switch between different calibers and accessories. The pistol is available in three different sizes: full-size, compact, and subcompact, making it suitable for a wide range of missions.

Modular Design and Accessories

One of the key features of the P320 is its modular design. The pistol’s frame is made of a durable polymer material, which allows for easy disassembly and reassembly. This design makes it easy for soldiers to switch between different calibers, such as 9mm, .40 S&W, and .357 SIG.

The P320 also features a range of accessories, including suppressors, optical sights, and holsters. These accessories allow Army Rangers to customize their pistol to meet the specific needs of their mission.

Why the P320?

So why did the Army choose the P320 as its new standard-issue pistol? There are several reasons:

• Reliability: The P320 has proven to be an extremely reliable pistol, with a malfunction rate of less than 1%.
• Accuracy: The P320 is known for its accuracy, with a high level of precision and consistency.
• Stopping Power: The P320 is available in a range of calibers, including the powerful .40 S&W, which provides excellent stopping power.
• Modularity: The pistol’s modular design makes it easy to customize and adapt to different mission requirements.

What Pistol Do Army Rangers Use?

So, what pistol do Army Rangers use? The answer is the Sig Sauer P320. The P320 has become the standard-issue pistol for all Army Rangers, providing them with a reliable, accurate, and adaptable sidearm that meets the demands of modern warfare.

Army Ranger P320 Variants

Army Rangers use several variants of the P320, each designed to meet specific mission requirements. These variants include:

• M18: The M18 is the compact version of the P320, designed for concealed carry and close-quarters battle.
• M17: The M17 is the full-size version of the P320, designed for open carry and precision shooting.
• M17A1: The M17A1 is a variant of the M17, featuring a suppressor and a specialized trigger system.

Specialized Use

Army Rangers also use specialized variants of the P320 for specific missions. For example, Rangers involved in counter-terrorism operations may use the P320 with a specialized trigger system and a suppressor. These specialized variants are designed to provide Rangers with a tactical advantage in high-stress situations.

Conclusion

The Sig Sauer P320 is the pistol of choice for Army Rangers, providing them with a reliable, accurate, and adaptable sidearm that meets the demands of modern warfare. The P320’s modular design, range of accessories, and variety of calibers make it an ideal pistol for a wide range of missions.

Whether they’re operating in the deserts of the Middle East or the jungles of South America, Army Rangers rely on the P320 to get the job done. With its proven track record and reputation for excellence, the P320 is set to remain the go-to pistol for Army Rangers for years to come.

Note: The specifications listed above are for the standard-issue M18, M17, and M17A1 pistols used by Army Rangers. Specifications may vary depending on the specific variant and mission requirements.

What is the primary pistol used by Army Rangers?

The primary pistol used by Army Rangers is the M9 Beretta. This semi-automatic pistol has been the standard-issue sidearm for the US military since the 1980s. The M9 is a reliable and durable weapon that has proven itself in combat situations around the world.

The M9 Beretta is a 9mm pistol that is designed for close-quarters combat. It has a 15-round magazine and is known for its accuracy and ease of use. Army Rangers often carry the M9 as a secondary weapon to their primary rifle, using it for self-defense and close-quarters combat situations.

Why do Army Rangers prefer the M9 Beretta over other pistols?

Army Rangers prefer the M9 Beretta over other pistols due to its reliability, durability, and ease of use. The M9 has been extensively tested and proven in combat situations, and its 9mm caliber is effective at stopping targets.

Additionally, the M9 is widely available and easily maintained, making it a practical choice for Army Rangers who often operate in remote and hostile environments. Its familiar design and operation also make it easy for Rangers to transition between different pistols, if needed.

What are some of the key features of the M9 Beretta?

The M9 Beretta has several key features that make it an effective combat pistol. One of its most notable features is its 15-round magazine, which provides Rangers with a high volume of firepower in a compact package.

The M9 also has a ambidextrous safety lever, which allows Rangers to easily switch the safety on and off with either hand. Its 3-dot sight system and fixed barrel also make it easy to aim and fire accurately, even in high-stress situations.

Are Army Rangers issued any other pistols besides the M9 Beretta?

While the M9 Beretta is the standard-issue pistol for Army Rangers, some Rangers may be issued other pistols depending on their specific role or mission requirements. For example, Rangers serving in specialized units, such as counter-terrorism or special operations, may be issued the Glock 19 or other specialized pistols.

These alternative pistols are often chosen for their specific features, such as increased firepower or improved concealability. However, the M9 Beretta remains the most widely issued and used pistol among Army Rangers.

Can Army Rangers choose their own pistols?

Army Rangers are typically issued their pistols by the military and are not allowed to choose their own. However, in some cases, Rangers may be authorized to use personally owned pistols (POPs) that meet certain military standards.

To be approved for use as a POP, a pistol must meet specific criteria, including caliber, safety features, and reliability. Even then, POPs are subject to strict regulations and must be approved by the Ranger’s unit commander.

How do Army Rangers train with their pistols?

Army Rangers undergo extensive training with their pistols, including marksmanship, combat tactics, and weapon safety. Rangers are trained to shoot their pistols with precision and accuracy, and to use them effectively in a variety of combat situations.

Rangers also train in close-quarters combat tactics, including room clearing and shoot house operations. This training prepares them to use their pistols effectively in tight spaces and high-stress environments.

What are some common accessories used by Army Rangers with their pistols?

Army Rangers often use a variety of accessories with their pistols, including weapon lights, laser sights, and suppressors. These accessories can enhance the effectiveness of the pistol in different combat situations, such as low-light environments or covert operations.

Other common accessories include holsters, magazine pouches, and pistol-mounted optics. These accessories can improve the Ranger’s ability to carry and deploy their pistol quickly and effectively, even in the most demanding environments.