Special operations forces worldwide select their sidearms based on rigorous criteria including reliability under extreme conditions, accuracy, durability, ergonomics, and stopping power. At Tier 1 Tactical Training, we've analyzed the handguns favored by elite military units to provide insights into what makes these weapons stand out in high-stakes environments.
1. Glock 19 (Austria)
Units Using It: US Navy SEALs, Delta Force, British SAS, Australian SAS
Key Specifications:
- Caliber: 9x19mm Parabellum
- Capacity: 15+1 rounds
- Weight: 21.16 oz (unloaded)
- Action: Short recoil, locked breech
- Barrel Length: 4.02"
Tactical Assessment:
The Glock 19 has become the gold standard for special operations handguns due to its unparalleled reliability in adverse conditions. Its polymer frame reduces weight while maintaining durability, and its simplified design means fewer failure points under stress. The Gen5 variants offer improved triggers and ambidextrous controls.
The G19's compact size makes it versatile enough for both primary and concealed carry operations. Its consistent trigger pull and natural pointing characteristics contribute to accuracy even during rapid engagement sequences.
Training Insights:
Operators typically favor a high thumbs grip technique with the Glock platform to manage recoil during rapid strings of fire. The relatively light trigger pull (around 5.5 lbs) requires disciplined trigger finger placement during high-stress scenarios.
2. SIG Sauer P226 (Switzerland/Germany/USA)
Units Using It: US Navy SEALs (formerly standard issue), German KSK, Norwegian FSK
Key Specifications:
- Caliber: 9x19mm Parabellum
- Capacity: 15+1 rounds
- Weight: 34 oz (unloaded)
- Action: Short recoil, locked breech
- Barrel Length: 4.4"
Tactical Assessment:
The P226 earned its reputation through decades of reliable service in maritime environments where corrosion resistance is critical. Its all-metal construction provides excellent durability and recoil management. The ergonomics allow for instinctive target acquisition, while the decocker provides an additional safety layer during high-stress operations.
The MK25 variant specifically developed for the SEALs features enhanced corrosion resistance with a phosphate finish on internal components and anchor engraving.
Training Insights:
The DA/SA trigger system requires additional training to master the transition between the first heavier double-action pull (around 10 lbs) and subsequent lighter single-action pulls (around 4.4 lbs). This system excels in situations where operators must move with a chambered round under unpredictable conditions.
3. Heckler & Koch HK45 (Germany)
Units Using It: US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), Delta Force
Key Specifications:
- Caliber: .45 ACP
- Capacity: 10+1 rounds
- Weight: 31.2 oz (unloaded)
- Action: Short recoil, modified Browning link-less cam
- Barrel Length: 4.46"
Tactical Assessment:
The HK45 was developed specifically for the US military's Joint Combat Pistol program. Its polymer frame includes interchangeable backstraps to accommodate different hand sizes within a unit. The .45 ACP caliber provides significant stopping power for close-quarters combat.
The HK45 was developed specifically for the US military's Joint Combat Pistol program. Its polymer frame includes interchangeable backstraps to accommodate different hand sizes within a unit. The .45 ACP caliber provides significant stopping power for close-quarters combat.
The proprietary HK O-ring barrel enhances accuracy, while the recoil reduction system allows for faster follow-up shots despite the larger caliber. Multiple variants with different safety/decocker configurations allow units to select the option that best fits their operational doctrine.
Training Insights:
The increased recoil impulse of the .45 ACP requires emphasis on proper grip tension and stance. The elevated bore axis compared to some competitors necessitates dedicated practice for managing muzzle flip during rapid engagements.
4. Beretta M9/92FS (Italy)
Units Using It: Various US Special Forces (being phased out), Italian COMSUBIN, French GIGN
Key Specifications:
- Caliber: 9x19mm Parabellum
- Capacity: 15+1 rounds
- Weight: 33.3 oz (unloaded)
- Action: Short recoil, locked breech
- Barrel Length: 4.9"
Tactical Assessment:
Despite being gradually replaced in many units, the Beretta's open-slide design reduces the likelihood of stoppages from debris. Its consistent reliability when properly maintained and distinctive safety features made it a mainstay for decades of special operations.
The M9A3 variant addresses many of the original criticisms with a redesigned grip, threaded barrel for suppressors, improved sights, and increased magazine capacity.
Training Insights:
The longer sight radius contributes to excellent accuracy at extended handgun engagement distances. The DA/SA trigger and slide-mounted safety/decocker require dedicated training to master under stress, particularly for emergency manipulations.
5. SIG Sauer P320/M17/M18 (Switzerland/Germany/USA)
Units Using It: US Army Rangers, US Marine Corps Special Operations
Key Specifications:
- Caliber: 9x19mm Parabellum
- Capacity: 17+1 rounds (standard)
- Weight: 29.4 oz (unloaded)
- Action: Short recoil, locked breech
- Barrel Length: 4.7" (M17), 3.9" (M18)
Tactical Assessment:
The modular design of the P320 platform allows for rapid configuration changes in the field. The removable fire control unit can be transferred between different grip modules, slide lengths, and potentially even calibers based on mission requirements.
The striker-fired design provides consistent trigger pulls, while the absence of external safety levers on some configurations streamlines the manual of arms. The M17/M18 variants adopted by US special operations include manual safeties and improved ergonomics.
Training Insights:
The chassis system allows operators to maintain the same grip angle and trigger feel regardless of configuration changes. This consistent manual of arms reduces training requirements when switching between full-size and compact variants for different mission profiles.
6. FN Five-seveN (Belgium)
Units Using It: US Secret Service Counter Assault Team, French GIGN
Key Specifications:
- Caliber: 5.7x28mm
- Capacity: 20+1 rounds
- Weight: 21.6 oz (unloaded)
- Action: Delayed blowback
- Barrel Length: 4.8"
Tactical Assessment:
The Five-seveN's unique caliber offers exceptional penetration against body armor while generating minimal recoil. The 5.7x28mm round maintains excellent ballistic performance from the handgun's barrel length and allows operators to carry significantly more ammunition due to the cartridge's light weight.
The polymer construction keeps weight manageable despite the full-size dimensions. The high capacity gives operators extended engagement capability without reloading.
Training Insights:
The minimal recoil impulse makes rapid, accurate follow-up shots easier to achieve. The unique manual of arms, including the paddle-style magazine release, requires specific training for emergency reloads under stress. The high velocity of the round produces different terminal ballistics compared to conventional pistol calibers.
7. Heckler & Koch USP Tactical (Germany)
Units Using It: German KSK, Dutch KCT, Norwegian MJK
Key Specifications:
- Caliber: .45 ACP (also 9mm and .40 S&W)
- Capacity: 12+1 rounds (.45 ACP)
- Weight: 32.8 oz (unloaded)
- Action: Short recoil, modified Browning
- Barrel Length: 5.09"
Tactical Assessment:
Developed with special operations in mind, the USP Tactical incorporates a proprietary recoil reduction system that significantly diminishes felt recoil and enhances control during rapid fire. The threaded barrel comes standard for suppressor attachment, and the adjustable target sights are designed to work with suppressors.
The frame features a universal mounting groove for accessories, while the modular trigger group can be configured in multiple variants (DA/SA with safety/decocker, DAO, etc.) based on unit preference.
Training Insights:
The exceptional ergonomics and balance make this platform suitable for precision shooting at extended distances. The mechanical recoil buffer system requires specific maintenance protocols but significantly extends service life under high round count training.
8. CZ 75 SP-01 Tactical (Czech Republic)
Units Using It: Czech 601st Special Forces Group, Polish GROM
Key Specifications:
- Caliber: 9x19mm Parabellum
- Capacity: 18+1 rounds
- Weight: 40.6 oz (unloaded)
- Action: Short recoil, locked breech
- Barrel Length: 4.6"
Tactical Assessment:
The all-steel construction provides outstanding durability and recoil management. The weight distribution and low bore axis of the CZ design result in minimal muzzle flip, allowing for extremely fast follow-up shots and exceptional accuracy under stress.
The full-length dust cover features an integrated rail for tactical accessories, while the extended beavertail prevents hammer bite during dynamic manipulations. The SP-01 variant includes additional safety features specifically requested by special operations units.
Training Insights:
The heavier weight requires additional attention to draw techniques and carry methods during extended operations. The ergonomic advantages of the grip angle and trigger reach become particularly apparent during high-round-count training, where operator fatigue is reduced compared to some competing platforms.
9. SIG Sauer P365 (USA)
Units Using It: Various US special operations units for concealed operations
Key Specifications:
- Caliber: 9x19mm Parabellum
- Capacity: 10+1 to 15+1 rounds (depending on magazine)
- Weight: 17.8 oz (unloaded)
- Action: Short recoil, locked breech
- Barrel Length: 3.1"
Tactical Assessment:
Though primarily known as a concealed carry handgun, the P365 has found its way into special operations inventories for covert missions where minimal signature is essential. Its revolutionary design offers full-size capacity in a micro-compact frame, providing operators with unprecedented firepower in a deeply concealable package.
The X-series variants feature enhanced ergonomics and optics-ready slides, allowing for red dot integration despite the compact dimensions. The exceptional reliability despite the reduced size makes this viable for special operations use where failure is not an option.
Training Insights:
The compressed dimensions require specific attention to grip technique, particularly for operators with larger hands. The shorter sight radius demands emphasis on fundamentals for precision shots at distance, though the option to mount micro red dot sights mitigates this challenge.
10. 1911-Platform Pistols (Various Manufacturers)
Units Using It: US Marine Corps Force Recon, Delta Force, British SAS
Key Specifications:
- Caliber: .45 ACP (typically)
- Capacity: 7+1 to 10+1 rounds
- Weight: 38-42 oz (unloaded)
- Action: Short recoil, tilting barrel
- Barrel Length: 5" (Government) or 4.25" (Commander)
Tactical Assessment:
Despite its age, modernized 1911 variants from manufacturers like Colt, Wilson Combat, and Nighthawk Custom remain in service with elite units that prioritize absolute accuracy and stopping power over capacity. Custom-built to exact specifications, these weapons typically feature hand-fitted components for exceptional reliability and precision.
The single-action design with crisp, short trigger reset facilitates exceptional accuracy under stress. While magazine capacity is limited compared to more modern designs, the superior ergonomics and natural pointing characteristics continue to make this a viable option for specialized applications.
Training Insights:
The single-action design with manual safety requires dedicated training for proper deployment under stress. The excellent trigger characteristics and grip angle make this platform exceptionally shootable for operators who invest in mastering the manual of arms.
Conclusion: Training Implications
At Tier 1 Tactical Training, we recognize that equipment selection is only one component of operational effectiveness. Our training programs emphasize mastery of fundamental skills that translate across platforms, while also providing platform-specific instruction for these elite handguns.
Understanding the design philosophy and operational considerations behind these weapons allows operators to maximize their effectiveness regardless of which platform they're issued. Our courses incorporate lessons learned from special operations deployments worldwide to ensure training relevance and tactical applicability.
Contact us for specialized handgun courses focusing on your unit's specific platform and operational requirements.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only. Availability of specific firearms is subject to federal, state, and local regulations. Tier 1 Tactical Training recommends all firearms training be conducted under qualified professional supervision.