There is no “just a sidearm” among special operations forces. The sidearm is not an afterthought—it’s a line of last resort. Operators are shooting from tight spaces or in a firefight that will be their undoing in the fraction of a second it takes to blink, and they do not care about whether or not their sidearm will fire. Few sidearms have survived combat, training, and the elements to gain unwavering faith over the years. The following ten are among the most mythologized, ranging from paycheck performers to legends.
10. Smith & Wesson M&P9
M&P9 has had a devoted following since 2005 for its reliability, toughness, and simplicity to repair in combat. With grip frames that can be changed, its modularity, and a 17-round capacity magazine, it’s designed to fit the shooter and take rugged use in stride without complaining.
9. Walther P99
The P99 is not under the news radar like certain other guns, but it’s a behind-the-scenes workhorse. It’s light, incredibly easy to handle, and its new anti-stress trigger is absolutely fabulous. It comes with a 15-round magazine and ambidextrous controls that make it a breeze to operate for more than one field operator.
8. CZ 75 SP-01 Shadow
Sturdy and precise, this pistol has been described as rugged and precise. Its rail, beavertail extension, and 18-round magazine are accessory-compatible. The added weight minimized recoil, enabling operators to maintain control at high-speed operations.
7. Steyr M9-A1
One of the newer additions to the family, the M9-A1 boasts a low bore axis to enhance control and trapezoidal sights to ensure better target engagement. It’s lightweight, reliable, and has a 17-round capacity, which will satisfy those who desire something fresh but don’t want to give up functionality.
6. FN Five-seveN
For the missions in which frequent rounds won’t do, the Five-seveN has a slight edge. In 5.7x28mm, it penetrates soft armor and is light enough to handle. It has a minimal amount of recoil and a 20-round clip, and it’s delivering reach and power in a svelte package.
5. Colt M1911
Fewer possess the 1911’s fame or heritage. Fired in .45 ACP, it has been relied upon for more than a century for its stopping power and silky smooth trigger break. More modern variants, such as the M45A1, demonstrate that despite all these decades, the design is well worth its position within present units.
4. Heckler & Koch USP
Developed in the early ’90s, the USP became popular due to its durability and practicality. With the ability to fire more than one caliber as well as ambidextrous controls, it’s a gun that enjoys being rough-handled but still produces accuracy round after round.
3. Beretta M9
The go-to sidearm of the US military for decades, the M9 deployed mission after mission. Its open-slide layout, DA/SA trigger pull, and heavy weight reliably held up to troops and operators alike, a history book page.
2. SIG Sauer P226 (MK25)
Popular among Navy SEALs and for sale globally, the P226 was arguably one of the most reliable pistols ever made. The metal frame, 15+1 capacity, night sights, and enhanced ergonomics give the operators that sense of confidence that it is going to get the job done regardless.
1. Glock 19
Glock 19 is the best for a reason. Small, light, and infamous for its reliability, the go-to sidearm of Army Special Forces, SEALs, Delta Force, and numerous other special units, its striker-fired design, gigantic aftermarket, and ability to turn mission profiles on their head make it the best sidearm operators would bet their lives on.
Why These Pistols Matter
For special troops, pistol choice is less a matter of specs—psychology takes over. The pistols have been tried in deserts, jungles, cities, and mountains. They give the combination of reliability, one-shot stoppers, and versatility that operators expect, where leeway for error does not exist. They have all proved themselves worthy not only as an instrument, but as a combat friend.