The 9mm pistol has been a trusted sidearm option throughout the world for decades. From law enforcement officers patrolling the beat to special military forces behind enemy lines, the 9mm combination of manageable recoil, large capacity, and proven effectiveness has made it a popular caliber. But although most pistols have been chambered in 9mm, few have left a lasting mark on history. Some shaped generations, others set the bar for design. Here’s a countdown—starting at number seven—of the greatest vintage 9mm pistols that made their mark on military history.
7. Heckler & Koch P30
Although it’s one of the newer pistols to make this list, the H&K P30 has made its mark in short order. First released in 2006, this pistol is praised for its superior ergonomics and modular grip. Interchangeable backstraps and panels allow it to accommodate nearly any hand size with ease. The 3.9-inch barrel and 17-round magazine provide good performance, and its ambidextrous controls and tough construction make it a practical choice for right- and left-handed shooters alike. The P30 has been used by police and military forces across Europe, and its combination of ruggedness and shootability has gained it a lot of respect in a very short period.
6. Springfield XD/XD-M
Springfield’s XD series made waves when it was introduced in the U.S. in 2000. With a polymer frame, striker-fired mechanism, and grip safety, it took a new look at contemporary sidearms. Next was the XD-M in 2008, tuning the formula up with improved ergonomics, higher magazine capacity—19 rounds—and better sights.
These handguns were manufactured with user comfort and safety in mind, with features such as aggressive grip surfaces and backstraps that can be swapped out. Popular with civilians, they’ve also gained acceptance with some military and law enforcement users who value their performance and ease of use.
5. SIG Sauer P226
When people talk about battle-proven reliability, the SIG Sauer P226 often comes up. Developed in the early ’80s, it was originally submitted for the U.S. military’s handgun trials. Though it didn’t win the main contract, special units like the Navy SEALs adopted it anyway—and that speaks volumes. The P226 features a rock-solid all-metal frame, a smooth double-action/single-action trigger, and a 15-round magazine. It’s designed to withstand abuse and continue running. Throughout the years, it’s been relied upon by special forces, federal law enforcement, and police departments worldwide. It’s not only a pistol—it’s a legend.
4. Glock 17
There aren’t many handguns that have shaken up the industry like the Glock 17 did. When it first emerged in 1982, its polymer frame created controversy, but it didn’t take long before the world came around. With its 17-round magazine, easy handling, and notoriously smooth internals, the Glock 17 set the standard for contemporary duty pistols. It’s light, easy to service, and performs consistently under stress. In the hands of military units and police patrolmen, the Glock 17 has a reputation as a hardy, accurate, and always-willing-to-go pistol. It established the standard for what a service pistol should be.
3. Smith & Wesson Model 39
The Model 39 is a unique piece of American firearms history. First made available in 1954, it was the first double-action 9mm semi-auto produced in the U.S., introducing European-style technology to America. It was equipped with a 4-inch barrel, slim profile, and lightweight alloy frame. It was a revolutionary combination of traditional design and innovative mechanics that made the Model 39 a groundbreaking model of its era.
Whereas its 14-round capacity may sound modest by today’s standards, it was plenty sufficient in its time. The pistol set the stage for subsequent advances in U.S. military sidearms and contributed to making double-action systems fashionable in American handguns.
2. CZ 75
The CZ 75 is one of those pistols that slowly built up a loyal following throughout the years. Released in 1975, it paired strong all-steel construction with great ergonomics and a silky double-action/single-action trigger. Its 16-round magazine capacity and low bore axis made it excel in competition and combat. One of the design highlights—the slide riding within the frame—allows the gun to be more controllable and accurate. Originally difficult to come by in the West, today the CZ 75 is a go-to favorite among professional shooters and the military alike. It’s a pistol that showcases old-fashioned quality combined with innovative design.
1. FN Herstal Browning Hi-Power
Sitting at number one on our list is a legend: the FN Browning Hi-Power. Originally introduced in 1935, this was among the very first successful high-capacity 9mm pistols. Conceived by John Browning and completed by Dieudonné Saive, it had a 17-round magazine years before that became standard. Its simplicity, single-action trigger, and narrow profile made it a favorite among military and police units in more than 50 nations. The Hi-Power was in service during World War II, the Cold War, and numerous wars since then. Its reliability, balance, and traditional styling have kept it in history as one of the most excellent military pistols ever produced.
These pistols aren’t mere tools—these are pieces of history. Each one is a story of innovation, need, and responding to the ever-evolving demands of soldiers, officers, and shooters alike. Whether you’re a collector, history enthusiast, or simply someone who likes excellent engineering, these vintage 9mm sidearms still hold their ground as benchmark examples of what a pistol ought to be.