Special operations teams require their sidearm to be a lifeline, not merely a backup. They rely on their pistol to work flawlessly, anywhere, under the most severe conditions. Over time, special units have tested and pushed thousands of handguns to their limits, whittling down the options to a select group of pistols that never falter in reliability, accuracy, and durability. Here’s a rundown of the ten most trusted pistols among special operations troops, from the newer guns to the all-time classics.
10. Smith & Wesson M&P9
The M&P9 has become a respected name among top teams because of its modularity and trustworthiness. Coming out in 2005, it sports a 17-round magazine, swappable backstraps for a customized fit, and a tough polymer frame. Operators appreciate its ability to get the job done under difficult conditions and appreciate its simplicity of controls, making it an adaptable choice for anyone who likes the plain and serviceable.
9. Walther P99
A modern classic, the Walther P99 is appreciated for its ergonomic grip and the state-of-the-art anti-stress trigger system. It was released in 1997 with a 15-round magazine and striker operation, and it’s light and a joy to handle. It is favored by operators due to its flexibility to accommodate different hand sizes and its quick target acquisition. The anti-stress trigger offers security during high-pressure situations and avoids unwanted discharge.
8. CZ 75 SP-01 Shadow
The CZ 75 SP-01 Shadow has long been a favorite among special operations units due to its accuracy and ruggedness. With its 18-round magazine and DA/SA trigger system, it’s optimized for controlled, accurate shooting. Its extended beavertail and tactical rail allow attachments like lights and lasers, and the full-length dust cover and ergonomic contours maintain the pistol on target when firing at high speed—ideal for aggressive mission profiles.
7. Steyr M9-A1
The Steyr M9-A1 is lightweight, accurate, and increasingly favored by special operations troops. 9mm with a 17-round magazine, it’s praised for having a low bore axis that controls recoil and a grip angle that will naturally point the firearm. These alone make it especially well-suited for dynamic combat situations when speed and control are top priorities.
6. FN Herstal Five-seveN
The Five-seveN is the technologically advanced option on this list, shooting 5.7x28mm with a 20-round magazine. Its slender polymer frame and low recoil allow for rapid, precise shooting, and armor-piercing and increased range add tactical versatility. Operators appreciate the juxtaposition of firepower, ergonomics, and magazine size within a compact, mission-ready form.
5. Colt M1911
No accurate pistol roster would be complete without the iconic M1911. Served for more than a century, this single-action .45 ACP pistol continues to be a staple with special operations forces, particularly in the United States. Its 7- or 8-round magazine capacity can be termed small by today’s standards, yet its power to dominate, clean trigger, and durability continue to make it viable. Again and again, the 1911 has proven effective in close-quarters fighting.
4. Heckler & Koch USP
The USP is a universal, heavy-duty workhorse. Coming to the market in the early 1990s, it has been adopted by military and police forces around the world. Its modularity allows it to be delivered in various calibers and configurations, and its ruggedness in harsh conditions is well-earned. Shooters enjoy the ergonomic grip and recoil reduction system, which allows extended engagements to be more comfortable and easier.
3. Beretta M9
The Beretta M9 was the standard US military sidearm from 1985 until 2017. With its 15-round magazine, DA/SA trigger system, and open-slide configuration, it’s designed to reduce jamming and create a balanced shooting platform. Decades worth of operators have made it a staple tool, although newer models have increasingly displaced it within certain units.
2. SIG Sauer P226
The P226 is a veteran of special operations, prized for accuracy, durability, and an all-metal frame. “It never let me down,” said one retired Special Forces operator, its solid frame and high-capacity magazine making it both operational and suitable for home defense. The double-action/single-action trigger offers security, and SIGLITE night sights guarantee usage at night. Its reliability and low-maintenance nature make it a favorite sidearm among elite units like the U.S. Navy SEALs and Canada’s Joint Task Force 2.
1. Glock 19 / Glock 17
The Glock 19 ranks first, with the full-size Glock 17 in second place. Introduced in 1982, the Glock changed the game with its lightweight polymer frame and simple, yet reliable design. It’s become the go-to by special operations units all over the world, including Army Special Forces, Delta Force, Rangers, and intelligence agencies. Modular and highly adaptable, the Glock can be equipped with optics, suppressors, or high-capacity magazines. Its striker-fired trigger, minimized controls, and integrated safeties provide a safe and simple way of shooting and are also extremely durable. Small but powerful, it realizes concealment and shootability, gaining it recognition as a real multi-mission sidearm.
For shooters, choosing a pistol isn’t just about firepower—it’s about faith. These ten handguns have performed flawlessly in the most austere environments on the planet, delivering reliability, practicality, and comfort of mind when every shot counts.