126 years of US Military sidearm history. S&W M&P .38, 1911, Beretta M9, and Sig SAUER M17

Published on January 25, 2025
Duration: 14:19

This video explores the history of US Military sidearms, comparing the Smith & Wesson M&P .38 Special revolver, the Colt 1911, the Beretta 92FS (M9), and the Sig Sauer P320 (M17). It highlights their adoption periods and key features, offering insights into the evolution of military handgun choices.

Quick Summary

The video traces 126 years of US Military sidearm history, highlighting the Smith & Wesson M&P .38 Special (1899-1911), the Colt 1911 (1911-1985), the Beretta 92FS/M9 (1985-2017), and the Sig Sauer P320/M17 (current). It details their adoption periods and key operational features.

Chapters

  1. 00:40Introduction: Common Ground of Military Sidearms
  2. 01:04Smith & Wesson M&P .38 Special: 1899-1911
  3. 01:13Colt 1911: 1911-1985
  4. 01:25Beretta 92FS (M9): 1985-2017
  5. 01:38Sig Sauer M17 (P320): 2017-Present
  6. 02:13Presenter's Analog Firearms
  7. 04:01Firearm Specifications Comparison
  8. 06:05S&W M&P .38 Special Performance
  9. 06:44Colt 1911 Design and Features
  10. 08:131911 Popularity and Variations
  11. 09:17Honorable Mention: S&W Model 39
  12. 10:26Beretta M9 (92FS) Adoption and Features
  13. 12:03Sig Sauer P320 M17: Current Military Sidearm
  14. 13:20Conclusion: 126 Years of US Military Sidearms

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the main US Military sidearms discussed in the video?

The video discusses four key US Military sidearms: the Smith & Wesson Military and Police .38 Special revolver (used ~1899-1911), the Colt 1911 (used ~1911-1985), the Beretta 92FS/M9 (used ~1985-2017), and the Sig Sauer P320/M17 (current issue).

When was the Colt 1911 adopted by the US military and for how long was it in service?

The Colt 1911 pistol was adopted by the US Army in 1911 and remained in service for a significant period, being replaced by the Beretta 92FS in 1985, marking over 70 years of service.

What are the key design features of the Colt 1911 mentioned?

The Colt 1911 is a single-action-only pistol featuring a beavertail grip safety and a manual thumb safety. It's designed to be carried 'cocked and locked,' meaning with a round in the chamber, hammer back, and safety engaged.

How does the Beretta M9 (92FS) differ in operation and carry from the 1911?

The Beretta M9 is a double-to-single-action pistol with a decocker and safety. Unlike the 1911's 'cocked and locked' carry, the M9 was intended to be carried decocked with a round in the chamber and the safety off.

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