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

Published on October 2, 2025
Duration: 8:17

This video explores why select US military units and personnel still carry revolvers, despite the prevalence of modern semi-automatic pistols. It details specific models and calibers used for embassy duty, backcountry defense in Alaska, and specialized EOD applications, highlighting the perceived advantages of revolvers in these niche roles.

Quick Summary

Select US military units, including Marines on embassy duty and Air Force personnel in Alaska, still carry revolvers for specific reasons. Marines use the S&W Model 19 (.357 Magnum) for diplomatic appeasement, while Air Force personnel in Alaska opt for .44 Magnum revolvers for backcountry defense against wildlife.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Why Carry a Revolver?
  2. 00:44Military Sidearms: M17/M18 vs. Revolvers
  3. 01:32Marines on Embassy Duty: S&W Model 19
  4. 02:51Air Force in Alaska: Backcountry Defense
  5. 03:41EOD Technicians & Specialized Rounds
  6. 04:36Revolvers as Backup in Combat Zones
  7. 05:089mm Ball Ammo Limitations
  8. 05:37Backup Revolver Preference
  9. 06:02Revolvers in Concealed Carry

Frequently Asked Questions

Which US military units still carry revolvers and why?

US Marines on embassy duty carry revolvers like the S&W Model 19 (.357 Magnum) for diplomatic appeasement. Air Force personnel in Alaska use them for backcountry defense against wildlife, favoring .44 Magnum. EOD technicians use them for specialized disabling rounds.

What specific revolvers are still used by US soldiers?

Select US military personnel carry revolvers such as the Smith & Wesson Model 19 in .357 Magnum, the Smith & Wesson Model 29 and Ruger Redhawk in .44 Magnum, and the Smith & Wesson 686 in .357 Magnum for specific roles.

Why would a soldier prefer a revolver over a modern semi-automatic pistol?

In combat zones, soldiers sometimes chose revolvers in .357 Magnum or .44 Magnum as backup due to perceived superior stopping power compared to standard 9mm ball ammunition, which they were restricted to carrying.

What is the role of revolvers in Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD)?

EOD technicians may carry revolvers like the Smith & Wesson 686 in .357 Magnum because they are effective for firing specialized rounds designed to disable explosive devices, offering a precise and controlled method.

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