The M9 vs New M17, Did the US Govt Even Get a Pistol as Good as its Predecessor?

Published on March 30, 2024
Duration: 39:11

This review critically compares the Beretta M9 and SIG Sauer M17, questioning the MHS program's procurement process. The M9 is praised for its proven reliability, exceeding 17,500 rounds between failures, and superior recoil management due to its locking block system. The M17's adoption is criticized for potentially skipping crucial long-term reliability testing in favor of cost, leading to early issues and a lack of confidence compared to the M9's extensive service history.

Quick Summary

The Beretta M9 demonstrated exceptional reliability, exceeding its requirement of 6,000 rounds between failures by achieving over 17,500 rounds between failures during testing. Its open slide design and robust locking block system contributed significantly to this performance.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: MHS Program Critique
  2. 00:38From M1911 to M9: The Need for Change
  3. 02:57The XM9 Competition: Beretta Wins
  4. 05:48M9 Design: Reliability and Features
  5. 09:169mm vs .45 ACP Ballistics Explained
  6. 10:49M9 Service Issues: Magazines & Slides
  7. 13:00M9A1 and Enhancements
  8. 15:02The MHS Program: M17/M18 Selection
  9. 19:00M17/M18 Performance and Concerns
  10. 21:33Final Assessment: M9 vs M17

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the main criticisms of the US government's MHS program for the M17 pistol?

The primary criticism is that the MHS program may have prioritized lower cost over thorough, multi-phase testing, potentially skipping crucial environmental and durability evaluations that the M9 underwent. This raises concerns about the M17's long-term reliability compared to its predecessor.

How reliable was the Beretta M9 compared to its requirements?

The Beretta M9 demonstrated exceptional reliability, exceeding its requirement of 6,000 rounds between failures by achieving over 17,500 rounds between failures during testing. Its open slide design and robust locking block system contributed significantly to this performance.

What issues affected the Beretta M9's reputation during its service life?

The M9's reputation was impacted by issues with third-party magazines, particularly Checkmate magazines, which caused sand-related failures. Slide failures were also reported but were often linked to over-pressured M882 NATO ammunition rather than inherent design flaws.

Why did the US military transition from the M1911 to the Beretta M9?

The military sought a NATO-compliant 9mm pistol in the early 1980s to increase magazine capacity from the M1911's 7 rounds to 15 rounds. This change aimed to improve effectiveness for average soldiers and address limitations like drop safety issues.

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