Many US Soldiers STILL Carry A Revolver! Here's Why & WHAT They Carry!

Published on February 8, 2026
Duration: 8:17

This video explores why some US soldiers and specialized units still carry revolvers, despite the prevalence of modern semi-automatic pistols. It highlights specific models like the Smith & Wesson Model 19, Ruger Redhawk, and Smith & Wesson 686, often chambered in .357 Magnum or .44 Magnum, and details their niche applications, from embassy duties and Alaskan wilderness protection to Explosive Ordnance Disposal. The discussion also touches on historical use as backup firearms and the continued appeal of revolvers for concealed carry.

Quick Summary

Revolvers remain in use by some US military personnel due to their reliability, power, and accuracy. Specific applications include US Marines on embassy duty (S&W Model 19), Air Force in Alaska for predator defense (Ruger Redhawk/.44 Magnum), and EOD technicians (S&W 686/.357 Magnum). They also served as backup firearms when standard issue ammunition was deemed insufficient.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Revolvers: Reliability, Power, Accuracy
  2. 00:43Military Trends & Exceptions
  3. 01:30US Marines on Embassy Duties
  4. 02:50Air Force in Alaska
  5. 03:41EOD Technicians
  6. 04:35Past Practices: Backup Revolvers
  7. 05:15The Appeal of Revolvers

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do some US soldiers still carry revolvers?

Some US soldiers carry revolvers for specific reasons like perceived safety for diplomatic missions (e.g., S&W Model 19), defense against large predators in Alaska (e.g., Ruger Redhawk in .44 Magnum), specialized tasks for EOD technicians, or as reliable backup firearms when standard issue ammunition is insufficient.

What specific revolvers are mentioned as still being in use?

The video mentions the Smith & Wesson Model 19 (.357 Magnum) for Marines on embassy duty, the Ruger Redhawk (.44 Magnum) and potentially a Smith & Wesson Model 29 (.44 Magnum) for Air Force personnel in Alaska, and the Smith & Wesson 686 (.357 Magnum) for EOD technicians.

Are revolvers still considered reliable compared to modern pistols?

Yes, revolvers are often cited for their reliability, power, and accuracy, making them a compelling choice for certain users and situations even with the widespread adoption of modern semi-automatic pistols. Their simpler mechanism can be an advantage in harsh conditions.

What role did revolvers play historically in the US military?

Historically, revolvers were often carried as backup firearms, especially in combat zones like Afghanistan and Iraq, or during Operation Desert Storm. This was sometimes due to dissatisfaction with the effectiveness of standard 9mm ball ammunition.

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