Military Sidearm

The Ultimate Guide to Military Sidearms: A Comprehensive Overview

Introduction:

From the clatter of revolvers in the Wild West to the precision of modern polymer pistols, the military sidearm has played a pivotal role in warfare and peacekeeping operations. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the world of military sidearms, exploring their history, evolution, key features, and the factors influencing their selection. We'll examine various popular models, analyze their strengths and weaknesses, and delve into the critical considerations involved in choosing the right sidearm for specific military needs. Prepare to become an expert on the crucial role these compact yet powerful weapons play in global conflicts and security operations.


1. A Historical Journey: The Evolution of Military Sidearms

The history of military sidearms mirrors the evolution of firearms technology itself. Early iterations, often cumbersome and unreliable, gradually gave way to more efficient and effective designs. We'll trace the progression from flintlock pistols and wheellock pistols of the 17th and 18th centuries through the revolutionary impact of cartridge technology in the 19th century. The Colt Peacemaker, a symbol of the American West, marked a significant leap forward, highlighting the shift towards revolvers as a dominant force. The 20th century saw the rise of semi-automatic pistols, culminating in the iconic designs we recognize today, such as the Browning Hi-Power and the Colt M1911. This section will examine the technological advancements, design innovations, and the impact of evolving battlefield tactics on the development of military sidearms.

2. Key Features and Considerations in Military Sidearm Selection

Choosing a military sidearm isn't a matter of personal preference; it's a strategic decision based on a multitude of factors. Reliability is paramount – a malfunction in a life-or-death situation can have devastating consequences. Ergonomics play a vital role; a comfortable and intuitive grip enhances accuracy and speed under stress. Caliber selection involves balancing stopping power with factors like recoil management, ammunition weight, and magazine capacity. Durability is crucial, considering the harsh conditions sidearms might endure in combat. This section will delve into the key performance characteristics and the rigorous testing procedures military organizations employ to ensure their sidearms meet stringent operational requirements. We'll also discuss the importance of ease of maintenance and the logistical considerations involved in supplying ammunition and spare parts.

3. Popular Military Sidearms: A Comparative Analysis

This section will analyze several widely used military sidearms across various nations and military branches. We'll examine the strengths and weaknesses of each model, comparing their features, performance, and overall effectiveness. This will include, but is not limited to:

Beretta 92FS: Known for its reliability and widespread adoption by numerous armed forces.
Glock 17/19: Celebrated for its polymer construction, ease of maintenance, and large-capacity magazines.
Sig Sauer P226/P320: Renowned for its accuracy, ergonomics, and modularity.
Heckler & Koch USP/VP9: Often favored for their robust construction and reliable performance in diverse environments.
FN Herstal FNX-45: A powerful sidearm chosen for its stopping power and reliability.


For each model, we will discuss details like caliber, magazine capacity, weight, dimensions, and notable features that distinguish it from competitors. We'll also examine user feedback and real-world performance data where available.

4. The Future of Military Sidearms: Emerging Trends and Technologies

The field of military sidearms is constantly evolving. We'll examine emerging trends and technologies, including advancements in materials science (e.g., lighter, stronger polymers), ammunition developments (e.g., improved stopping power and reduced recoil), and the integration of smart technology (e.g., sensors, data logging). We'll explore the potential impact of these innovations on the design and capabilities of future military sidearms. The discussion will include potential advancements in miniaturization, increased accuracy through advanced sighting systems, and the exploration of alternative ammunition types.


5. Conclusion: The Enduring Importance of the Military Sidearm

Despite the increasing reliance on advanced weaponry, the military sidearm remains a critical component of a soldier's arsenal. Its compact size, ease of concealment, and immediate readiness make it an indispensable tool for close-quarters combat, self-defense, and a multitude of other operational situations. This concluding section will summarize the key takeaways from the article and emphasize the ongoing significance of the military sidearm in modern warfare and peacekeeping operations.


Article Outline: "The Ultimate Guide to Military Sidearms"

Introduction: Hook, overview of the article's content.
Chapter 1: Historical evolution of military sidearms.
Chapter 2: Key features and considerations in sidearm selection.
Chapter 3: Comparative analysis of popular military sidearms.
Chapter 4: Emerging trends and technologies in military sidearms.
Conclusion: Summary and final thoughts on the enduring importance of military sidearms.


(The detailed content for each chapter is provided above in the main body of the article.)


FAQs:

1. What is the most common caliber used in military sidearms? 9mm Parabellum is currently the most widely used caliber, though other calibers like .45 ACP and .40 S&W remain in service.

2. What is the difference between a semi-automatic and a revolver? Semi-automatic pistols utilize the energy from the fired cartridge to cycle the action and load the next round, while revolvers require manual reloading after each shot.

3. How important is ergonomics in a military sidearm? Ergonomics are critical; a comfortable and intuitive grip directly impacts accuracy, speed, and overall effectiveness, particularly under stress.

4. What role does reliability play in military sidearm selection? Reliability is paramount; malfunctions in combat can have life-threatening consequences.

5. What are the major factors influencing the selection of a military sidearm's caliber? Stopping power, recoil, ammunition weight, magazine capacity, and logistical considerations all play a crucial role.

6. What are some emerging trends in military sidearm technology? Advancements in materials, ammunition, and the integration of smart technology are reshaping the landscape.

7. How are military sidearms tested for durability and reliability? Rigorous testing protocols subject sidearms to extreme conditions to ensure they meet operational requirements.

8. What are some examples of innovative features in modern military sidearms? Modular designs, improved sighting systems, and enhanced trigger mechanisms are examples.

9. Is there a "best" military sidearm? The ideal sidearm depends on specific mission requirements and the preferences of the military unit or individual.


Related Articles:

1. The Colt M1911: A Century of Service: Details the history, design, and impact of the iconic M1911 pistol.
2. 9mm vs .45 ACP: The Caliber Debate: A comparative analysis of the two most popular pistol calibers.
3. Understanding Pistol Ergonomics and Grip Techniques: A guide to proper grip techniques for enhanced accuracy and control.
4. Military Ammunition: Types, Ballistics, and Effectiveness: A deep dive into different ammunition types used in military sidearms.
5. The Evolution of Polymer-Framed Pistols: Explores the history and advantages of polymer-framed sidearms.
6. Modern Military Sighting Systems: Red Dots, Holoscopes, and More: Focuses on advancements in pistol sighting technology.
7. Close-Quarters Combat (CQB) Tactics and the Role of the Sidearm: Discusses the tactical applications of sidearms in close-quarters situations.
8. Maintaining and Cleaning Your Military Sidearm: A guide to proper care and maintenance of military pistols.
9. The Impact of Suppressors on Military Sidearms: Explores the benefits and considerations of using suppressors on military pistols.


  military sidearm: Military Pistols Gordon Bruce, 2016-10-31 This book provides a convenient reference to the history and characteristics of the self-loading pistols that were adopted by the military forces of the nations involved in the two World Wars. It presents a selection of nineteen self-loading pistols - and the firms engaged in their manufacture - during this period, together with a technical appraisal of each weapon. For each pistol a history of both manufacturer and pistol is provided, along with a colour photograph and cutaway views of both the pistol and its breech operation. Details and cutaway views are also provided for the cartridges used by these pistols. All of the weapons illustrated are representative of the pattern issued to the military, and in many cases they continued to be produced for the commercial market. Includes a wealth of technical information and numerous high-quality illustrations prepared specially for the book.
  military sidearm: Military Review , 1968
  military sidearm: Cartridges and Firearm Identification Robert E. Walker, 2012-11-26 At a time when crime scene television shows are all the rage amongst the civilian population, knowledge of firearm forensics is of paramount importance to crime scene analysts, police detectives, and attorneys for both the prosecution and the defense. Cartridges and Firearm Identification brings together a unique, multidisciplined approach to quest
  military sidearm: Pistols and Revolvers Martin J Dougherty, 2017-04-20 From a Thirty Years’ War wheel lock to the Luger and the latest Ruger, Pistols & Revolvers offers a narrative history of the classics among these firearms. Illustrated with more than 250 artworks and photographs, Collector’s Guides: Pistols & Revolvers is an expertly written account of the history of sporting and military firearms.
  military sidearm: Future Weapons Kevin Dockery, 2007-12-04 On the battlefield, a soldier's best friends are his gun and his gear—because his life depends on them. But what will it take to fight and survive on the battlefields of tomorrow? What will those combat arenas consist of, and where will they be? And what will our nation's fighting men and women carry with them into battle? Future Weapons is a compendium of the weapons of war that may accompany our soldiers in the near and far future, as well as an insightful look at the soldier, sailor, and airman of today and tomorrow. All manner of military hardware is covered, as well as information about cutting-edge technology that will become standard in weapons to come, the possibility of robotic soldiers, vehicles, protective armor, and the prospects of fighting a war in both space and cyberspace.
  military sidearm: Textbook of Pistols and Revolvers Julian S. Hatcher, 2015-01-27 Originally published in 1935, Textbook of Pistols and Revolvers is a treatise on handguns of the early twentieth century. Written by Major Julian S. Hatcher, an expert on the subject of firearms of all sorts, readers will gain invaluable insight into everything to do with handheld firearms of the 1930s. In his introduction, Hatcher emphasizes that he has made an earnest effort to make this book accessible for both novices and experts. Novices who know nothing whatsoever about firearms and their use can easily learn from this book, while experts will find a technical reference book where “the results of many experiments with pistols and revolvers and their ammunition are tabulated in convenient form.” Covering such subjects as the different methods of shooting and using hand firearms; their mechanism, care and repair; their interior and exterior ballistics; the peculiar suitability of the different kinds for various purposes; the relative effectiveness or stopping power of the various calibers and types of gun and ammunition; and many more, this book is an immense store of knowledge on early handguns. Skyhorse Publishing is proud to publish a broad range of books for hunters and firearms enthusiasts. We publish books about shotguns, rifles, handguns, target shooting, gun collecting, self-defense, archery, ammunition, knives, gunsmithing, gun repair, and wilderness survival. We publish books on deer hunting, big game hunting, small game hunting, wing shooting, turkey hunting, deer stands, duck blinds, bowhunting, wing shooting, hunting dogs, and more. While not every title we publish becomes a New York Times bestseller or a national bestseller, we are committed to publishing books on subjects that are sometimes overlooked by other publishers and to authors whose work might not otherwise find a home.
  military sidearm: Gun Trader's Guide to Handguns Robert A. Sadowski, 2018-01-16 Gun Trader’s Guide is the bestselling collectible firearms reference, having sold over two million copies in thirty-eight editions. The guide includes prices for all types of firearms, but what if you are only interested in buying, selling, and collecting handguns? Then Gun Trader’s Guide to Handguns is the book for you! Featuring all your favorite handguns from the original Gun Trader’s Guide, plus hundreds more, this is the only reference you’ll ever need. Veteran editor and firearms enthusiast Robert A. Sadowski has compiled and cataloged discontinued and collectible handguns from your favorite manufacturers. Complete with specs and price gradients based on the condition of the handgun, collecting and selling your firearms will be easier than ever. Sadowski also provides valuable tips on how to use the guide, as well as articles on various collectible handguns and the art of handgun trading. Also step behind the scenes to learn what dealers are looking for, what they want in your handgun, and what’s required to become a dealer, which should help you when buying, trading, or selling your handguns. Whether you are a first-time handgun owner or a longtime handgun enthusiast, Gun Trader’s Guide to Handguns is an invaluable tool to read before stepping foot in the dealer’s store or attending a gun show.
  military sidearm: Encyclopedia of Military Science G. Kurt Piehler, 2013-07-24 The Encyclopedia of Military Science provides a comprehensive, ready-reference on the organization, traditions, training, purpose, and functions of today’s military. Entries in this four-volume work include coverage of the duties, responsibilities, and authority of military personnel and an understanding of strategies and tactics of the modern military and how they interface with political, social, legal, economic, and technological factors. A large component is devoted to issues of leadership, group dynamics, motivation, problem-solving, and decision making in the military context. Finally, this work also covers recent American military history since the end of the Cold War with a special emphasis on peacekeeping and peacemaking operations, the First Persian Gulf War, the events surrounding 9/11, and the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq and how the military has been changing in relation to these events.
  military sidearm: The SAGE Encyclopedia of War: Social Science Perspectives Paul Joseph, 2016-06-15 Traditional explorations of war look through the lens of history and military science, focusing on big events, big battles, and big generals. By contrast, The SAGE Encyclopedia of War: Social Science Perspective views war through the lens of the social sciences, looking at the causes, processes and effects of war and drawing from a vast group of fields such as communication and mass media, economics, political science and law, psychology and sociology. Key features include: More than 650 entries organized in an A-to-Z format, authored and signed by key academics in the field Entries conclude with cross-references and further readings, aiding the researcher further in their research journeys An alternative Reader’s Guide table of contents groups articles by disciplinary areas and by broad themes A helpful Resource Guide directing researchers to classic books, journals and electronic resources for more in-depth study This important and distinctive work will be a key reference for all researchers in the fields of political science, international relations and sociology.
  military sidearm: American Army in World War I United States Army, Center of Military History, Eric B. Setzekorn, 2018-03-21 This eBook edition of American Army in World War I has been formatted to the highest digital standards and adjusted for readability on all devices. A century ago, the great powers of Europe became engulfed in what was then called the Great War. The modern U.S. Army, capable of conducting industrialized warfare on a global scale, can trace its roots to the World War. Although the war's outbreak in August 1914 shocked most Americans, they preferred to keep the conflict at arm's length. In April 1917, the president, out of diplomatic options, asked Congress to declare war on Germany. By the end of 1918, the Army had grown to four million men and had trained 200,000 new officers to lead them. The United States will never forget the American soldiers who fought and died in the World War. To this day, memorials to their sacrifice can be found across America, and the date of the armistice has become a national holiday honoring all those who serve in defense of the nation. Contents: The U.S. Army in the World War I Era The Prewar Army, 1899–1917 At War After the Armistice The American Army and the Great War Joining the Great War April 1917– April 1918 Strategic Setting The U.S. Army Before the War American Military and Civilian Leadership The Amalgamation Debate Mobilization of Manpower Building the AEF, 1917 American Soldiers Begin Arriving Training the AEF Men and Materiel in the AEF The War Department: Challenges and Reform Strategic Crisis on the Western Front The AEF Joins the Fight Joining the World War I Strategic Setting The U.S. Army Before the War American Military and Civilian Leadership The Amalgamation Debate American Soldiers Begin Arriving Men and Materiel in the AEF The War Department: Challenges and Reform Strategic Crisis on the Western Front The AEF Joins the Fight Official Documents of the U.S. Government from the World War I
  military sidearm: The U.S. Army in World War I United States Army, Center of Military History, Eric B. Setzekorn, 2024-01-18 In 'The U.S. Army in World War I', the eclectic collection traverses through the varied terrains of history, military strategy, and personal narratives to present a multifaceted view of the U.S. Army's role during a pivotal time in global history. This anthology distinguishes itself through its diversity of literary styles - including official military documents, firsthand accounts, and scholarly analyses - offering readers a comprehensive understanding of World War I from an American perspective. The compilation enriches the literary cannon by providing rare insights into the complexities and challenges faced by the U.S. Army, highlighting significant but often overlooked contributions to the war effort. The contributors, brought together under the auspices of the United States Army Center of Military History and curated by Eric B. Setzekorn, are a testament to the depth of research and scholarship involved. Their backgrounds, ranging from military historians to active service members, provide unique lenses through which the events of World War I are examined. This collective effort aligns with historical and cultural movements seeking to diversify and deepen the narrative of military history, presenting a cohesive yet varied account of the U.S. Army's engagement in World War I. This anthology is a commendable resource for historians, military enthusiasts, and general readers alike, offering a unique opportunity to engage with the intricate tapestry of military history through the eyes of those who have studied it most deeply. It invites readers to delve beyond the surface of historical events, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the myriad ways in which the U.S. Army influenced, and was influenced by, World War I. This collection is not just an academic endeavor; it is a bridge connecting the past's diverse voices with today's readers, encouraging a reflective exploration of history's enduring impact.
  military sidearm: US Future Combat & Weapon Systems Handbook Volume 1 US Army Future Combat Systems Development IBP, Inc, 2013-08 2011 Updated Reprint. Updated Annually. US Future Combat & Weapon Systems Handbook
  military sidearm: Soldiers , 1985
  military sidearm: American Military History William Thomas Allison, Jeffrey G. Grey, Janet G. Valentine, 2020-04-28 Now in its third edition, American Military History examines how a country shaped by race, ethnicity, economy, regionalism, and power has been equally influenced by war and the struggle to define the role of a military in a free and democratic society. Organized chronologically, the text begins at the point of European conflict with Native Americans and concludes with military affairs in the early 21st century, providing an important overview of the military’s role on an international, domestic, social, and symbolic level. The third edition is fully updated to reflect recent developments in military policy and the study of military history and war and society, thus providing students a foundational understanding of the American military experience. This book will be of interest to students of American history and military history. It is designed to allow instructors flexibility in structuring a course.
  military sidearm: Book of Glock, Second Edition Robert A. Sadowski, Stanley J. Ruselowski, 2023-04-04 In this fully updated and revised edition, Robert A. Sadowski showcases all of Glock’s handgun models, from the first model, the Glock 17, which premiered in 1982, to the latest models, and educates firearms enthusiasts on the history, features, and specifications of each model. Book of Glock references all Glock pistols available in the United States with in-depth information on all models—history, serial numbers and letter prefixes, rare Glock variants, conceal carry models, cutaway sales models, and more. Sadowski worked closely with Stanley Ruselowski Jr., the president of the Glock Collectors Association, to bring readers information and photos of rarely seen Glocks. Each chapter is dedicated to a different model. Sadowski provides a timeline of the company’s evolution and a close look at how Glock redefined the combat pistol. Other chapters touch on rare models, commemorative editions, and Glock tools and accessories. Whether a firearms collector or a new enthusiast, anyone can enjoy Sadowski’s analysis of Glocks throughout history.
  military sidearm: Pistols Jeff Kinard, 2004-11-23 The development of the pistol helped bring the age of the armored knight to an end, provided the elite with a status symbol of dangerous glamour, and inspired both artisans and industrialists to reach new heights of invention. Pistols follows the evolution of personal sidearms in Europe, the United States, and Asia from medieval-era hand cannons with their clunky ignition systems, to the revolutionary Colt revolvers of the 19th century, to the modern semiautomatic weapons of today. Full of fascinating insights and details, this work shows how pistols brought about the decline of knights in armor, and ultimately replaced the sword on the battlefield. The book also explores the pistol's astonishing democratization as it moved from being a luxury item of the nobility, to standard issue for soldiers, to a mass-produced commodity and source of intensive corporate competition. Along the way, readers meet the many colorful characters (often eccentric geniuses) who devoted themselves to pistol development.
  military sidearm: Army , 1983
  military sidearm: Military Police , 1988
  military sidearm: An Assessment of the Adequacy of the Regulations and Training of Military Police in the Use of Sidearms Cornelius Timothy Creeden, 1970
  military sidearm: The Marine Corps Gazette , 1976
  military sidearm: The Last Gun Tom Diaz, 2013-03-26 Newtown, Connecticut. Aurora, Colorado. Both have entered our collective memory as sites of unimaginable heartbreak and mass slaughter perpetrated by lone gunmen. Meanwhile, cities such as Chicago and Washington, D.C., are dealing with the painful, everyday reality of record rates of gun-related deaths. By any account, gun violence in the United States has reached epidemic proportions. A widely respected activist and policy analyst—as well as a former gun enthusiast and an ex-member of the National Rifle Association—Tom Diaz presents a chilling, up-to-date survey of the changed landscape of gun manufacturing and marketing. The Last Gun explores how the gun industry and the nature of gun violence have changed, including the disturbing rise in military-grade gun models. But Diaz also argues that the once formidable gun lobby has become a paper tiger, marshaling a range of evidence and case studies to make the case that now is the time for a renewed political effort to attack gun violence at its source—the guns themselves. In the aftermath of Newtown, a challenging national conversation lies ahead. The Last Gun is an indispensable guide to this debate, and essential reading for anyone who wants to understand how we can finally rid America's streets, schools, and homes of gun violence and prevent future Newtowns.
  military sidearm: How America Got Its Guns William Briggs, 2017 This book on the history of guns in America examines the Second Amendment and the laws and court cases it has spawned.
  military sidearm: Total Gun Manual (Field & Stream) David E. Petzal, Phil Bourjaily, 2017-09-05 Shares insider hints, stories from the range and field, and hands-on guidance for the first-time gun owner and the seasoned veteran alike, offering advice on choosing the right gun, increasing shot accuracy, and staying safe.
  military sidearm: Altered Earth David Caffee, 2011-08-09 A science fiction RPG compatible with the 4E rules.Altered Earth is a role-playing game of high energy battles and thrilling adventures set against an epic science fiction background. The action takes place in a futuristic world filled with endless possibilities. Any kind of adventure that you can imagine is waiting for you in a setting that is filled with dangerous wastelands, high tech cities, awesome war machines, and unexplored ruins.Your character might be a gritty mercenary, a cold blooded assassin, an intrepid explorer, or a loyal soldier to the cause. You might be motivated to seek out adventure for the sake of greed, for thrills, or simply to escape your previous life. Or perhaps you have your own personal quest that you are pursuing.
  military sidearm: Operation Barbarossa: the Complete Organisational and Statistical Analysis, and Military Simulation Volume IIA Nigel Askey, 2013-11-01 Operation Barbarossa: Volume IIA concerns the Wehrmacht. All the significant German weapon systems and combat squads used in the campaign are analysed using the quantitative methodology detailed in Volume I, along with the contextual history. An assessment of each weapon system's inherent 'combat power' is provided, as well as attributes such as the relative anti-tank, anti-personnel and anti-aircraft values. Volume IIA then focuses on the detailed Kriegstarkenachweisungen (KStN, or TOE) for German land units (including those in the West), as well as the unit's actual organisation and equipment. All significant units in the German Army (Heer), Waffen SS, Luftwaffe and security forces are included; ranging from the largest panzer divisions, down to small anti-aircraft companies, military-police units, Landesschutzen battalions, and rail-road and construction companies. In all cases the data is presented in detailed tables, using the weapon systems and combat squads previously analysed.
  military sidearm: Infantry , 1987
  military sidearm: Mailing List (Infantry School (U.S.)) , 1980
  military sidearm: The Beretta Pistol United States. Congress. House. Committee on Government Operations. Legislation and National Security Subcommittee, 1986
  military sidearm: Proposed Procurement of 9-MM Handgun by the Department of Defense United States. Congress. House. Committee on Armed Services. Subcommittee on Investigations, 1981
  military sidearm: Guns of the Civil War , 2011-03-28 Featuring guns photographed by Dennis Adler from the Mike Clark/Collector's Firearms Collection; the Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection; and the Dennis LeVett Collection, with additional photography provided by the Rock Island Auction Company Archives.
  military sidearm: Gun Trader's Guide, Forty-Fifth Edition Robert A. Sadowski, 2023-10-24 If you are seeking a comprehensive reference for collectible gun values, the Gun Trader’s Guide is the only book you need. Included are extensive listings for handguns, shotguns, and rifles from some of the most popular manufacturers, including Beretta, Browning, Colt, Remington, Savage, Smith & Wesson, Winchester, and many more. The Gun Trader's Guide is a one-stop manual to buying collectible firearms. For more than half a century, this guide has been the standard reference for collectors, curators, dealers, shooters, and gun enthusiasts. Updated annually, it remains the definitive source for making informed decisions on used firearms purchases.
  military sidearm: Handbook of Handguns Jeffrey Strickland, 2013-04-25 In light of the 2nd Amendment debates, shooting may become the national passtime. To act responsibly within the 2nd Amendment, means knowing how to properly bear arms. Knowing involves understanding firearm types, firearm operation, ammunition, internal ballistics, and shooting. These require training, especially shooting. Whether you own or plan to own a handgun for recreation, competition, or self-defense, training is of the utmost importance. When you fire a projectile (bullet) from a firearm, you are responsible for where it goes. You need to understand how fast it travels, how far it can travel, and how accurate your firearm is in delivering the projectile to your intended target. Yes, bearing arms is a right, but not one to be taken lightly. Firing a handgun is a grave responsibility and must be done correctly and with a full understanding of all the components that make up shooting.
  military sidearm: Soviet Pistols Leroy Thompson, 2022-10-27 This is the absorbing story of the development, combat use and legacy of the influential sidearms used by the armed forces of the Soviet Union. Featuring archive and present-day photography and specially commissioned artwork, this is the story of the pistols that armed the forces of the Soviet Union and its allies during and after World War II. In 1930 the TT, a single-action semi-automatic pistol developed by Fedor Vasilyevich Tokarev and firing 7.62×25mm ammunition, began to supplement the venerable Nagant M1895 revolver in Soviet military service. From 1933 the TT-33, a simplified version, was also issued; all three would equip Soviet and proxy forces throughout and after World War II, seeing action across the globe. In 1951 a new pistol designed by Nikolay Fyodorovich Makarov entered Soviet service; it became the primary Soviet military and police sidearm during the Cold War era and continued in use into the 21st century. The 9×18mm Makarov round was used in various weapons used by Soviet allies, notably the Czech vz 82, the Hungarian FÉG PA63 and the Polish P64 and P83.The PM was quickly joined by the Stechkin machine pistol. Other specialized versions of the Makarov were developed, including the PB suppressed version and the 5.45×18mm PSM, a more compact version. Initially developed in 1990, the improved PMM version of the Makarov was intended primarily to increase the stopping power of the 9×18mm round by chambering a higher-pressure load. In this study, noted weaponry expert Leroy Thompson tells the story of the Tokarev, Makarov, Stechkin and other handguns in service with Soviet and other forces around the world, exploring the development, combat use and legacy of these formidable firearms.
  military sidearm: GAO Documents United States. General Accounting Office, 1981 Catalog of reports, decisions and opinions, testimonies and speeches.
  military sidearm: Guns of the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum Jim Supica, 2017-09-15 Guns of NRA National Sporting Arms Museum features the most common and popular sporting arms in America pictured side-by-side with some of the greatest firearm rarities...These guns reflect the three-part theme of the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum at Bass Pro Shops. -- Amazon.com.
  military sidearm: Army R, D & A. , 1981
  military sidearm: Army RD & A. , 1979
  military sidearm: Army RD & A Bulletin , 1981
  military sidearm: Advanced Concealed Carry Tactics 2nd Edition Mike Keleher, 2016-11-30 The first Concealed Carry book to combine learning to live in a heightened state of awareness along with movement in the critical moments leading up to deadly force encounters to increase survivability. Chapters cover Action Plans for immediate implementation if a legally concealed firearm carrier finds themselves at the center or periphery of a self-defense scenario. Chapters also cover topics to include Active Shooters, the Reasonableness Standard applied to deadly force, Gunfight Aftermath, Dealing with Law Enforcement, Handgun stopping power, Guns, Ammunition, Holsters and Concealment Clothing for young and old and combat level marksmanship and reloading techniques.
  military sidearm: Patton's Third Army in World War II Michael Green, James D. Brown, 2010-09-02 Patton was champing at the bit to lead the D-Day invasion, but Eisenhower placed him in command of a decoy unit, the First U.S. Army Group. Nearly seven weeks after D-Day, Patton finally got his chance to take Third Army into battle. He began a ten-month rampage across France, driving through Germany and into Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia and Austria. Along the way Third Army forces entered the Battle of the Bulge, breaking the siege of Bastogne. It was a turning point in the war, and afterward the Third Army pushed eastward again. Patton’s Third Army in World War II covers Patton’s command of Third Army with a focus on the armor. It was a new style of fighting, avoiding entrenched infantry warfare by continuously pushing forward, and it appealed to Patton’s hard-charging personality. Archival photos along with frequent quotes complete the portrait of Patton as well as his men as they fight their way across the Third Reich.