Special operations teams rely on their sidearm for more than just a backup — it is a tool they put their faith in. For decades, elite units have subjected hundreds of handguns to extreme condition tests to determine which ones can be depended upon if everything else fails. Here are ten pistols that have time and again demonstrated their reliability, toughness, and accuracy to special operators, ranging from contemporary to historically consistent ones.
10. Smith & Wesson M&P9
The M&P9 has developed a strong reputation among those units that require a reliable, modular handgun. It was launched in the mid-2000s and comes with a 17-round magazine, interchangeable backstraps for different hand sizes, and a durable polymer frame. The easy-to-understand controls and the way the gun keeps going under pressure are two main features that operators like — a straightforward and practical weapon for teams whose mission is to get a pistol that just works.
9. Walther P99
A comfortable grip and so-called anti-stress trigger setup have been some of the leading reasons that the Walther P99 has gained a considerable following. Made at the end of the 1990s, it comes as a light and ergonomic gun balanced with a striker-fired mechanism and carrying 15 rounds. Several shooters appreciate the point-of-fire and the hand adjustments, as well as the trigger system that provides a certain feeling of safety during times of stress.
8. CZ 75 SP-01 Shadow
The CZ 75 SP-01 Shadow is best known for its accuracy and longevity. It is equipped with an 18-round magazine and employs a DA/SA trigger system for firing control and precision. The extended beavertail and rail for accessories are some of the features that allow for the easy use of lights or lasers, while the good fit of the hand helps to maintain the front sight steady during rapid fire — features that are most likely to attract the attention of users who require toughness during assaultive situations.
7. Steyr M9-A1
The Steyr M9-A1 is recognized mainly by the natural pointing grip and low bore axis that controls recoil. It is a 9mm standard with an estimated 17-round capacity and is a lightweight and accurate gun chosen by many operators for dynamic tasks. The characteristics of the gun tend to make the next shots faster and more natural, which is very important in the case of quick and close combat.
6. FN Herstal Five-seveN
The Five-seveN highlights the 5.7x28mm cartridge and a 20-round magazine as its main advantages. The combination of a slim polymer frame and mild recoil makes rapid and precise shooting possible, and the flatness of the trajectory and the increased penetration of some loadings give the cartridge certain tactical uses. The pistol is the first choice of operators who require a compact platform that still provides high capacity and low recoil.
5. Colt M1911
The M1911 is still an iconic and efficient alternative even after more than a hundred years of its usage. The .45 ACP single-action pistol with 7- or 8-round magazines is still liked by the units and the operators who appreciate its powerful stopping ability, crisp trigger, and durable nature. The 1911 has been very dependable in the hands of those who prefer its ergonomics and one-shot authority in short distances, time and again.
4. Heckler & Koch USP
The USP is a heavy-duty workhorse that has been used by a wide range of military and law enforcement organizations since the 1990s. Being made to survive harsh conditions, it comes in different calibers and configurations, and the recoil reduction system and ergonomic grip make shooting with the gun more comfortable. Its fame for being sonorous makes it a rational choice for the teams that want an almost perfect pistol, with few compromises.
3. Beretta M9
The Beretta M9 was the standard-issue sidearm of the United States Armed Forces for many years and had a 15-round capacity, DA/SA trigger, and open-slide design that were intended to raise the reliability and ease of cycling. The M9 has been depended upon by a great many operators in various locations, and even though it has been replaced by newer pistols in some roles, its historical service and good handling continue to maintain it honored among those who trained and operated with it.
2. SIG Sauer P226
The P226 is part of the equipment of many elite units, mainly because of its accuracy, durable all-metal construction, and smooth function. An easy-to-maintain and reliable gun, as described by the user, has a DA/SA trigger and is often equipped with night sights for work under low light. Its history with units such as naval special forces and other task groups is an indication of the trust it has when reliability is non-negotiable.
1. Glock 19 / Glock 17
Glock handguns changed the game for duty handguns due to their simple, striker-fired mechanism, polymer frame, and that very simplicity is among the main reasons why they dominate the majority of special operations lists. The compact Glock 19 and full-size Glock 17 are not only easy to maintain and accept a wide variety of accessories, but also deliver consistent performance even under severe abuse. The minimal controls and integrated safety features found in these guns make them quick to learn and also reliable in the field; therefore, the reason is clear as to why so many units select them as their main or mission-specific sidearms.
The decision of an operator on which gun to use is not about the style; rather, it is the choice of something he can rely on even in the worst of conditions. These ten handguns have proven to be worthy of such trust through their years of service and testing, and they keep on appearing when reliability, practicality, and peace of mind are the priorities.