What Pistol Does the FBI Use? A Breakdown for Gamers
As virtual weapons in video games continue advancing in realism and detail, many gamers have become more interested in learning about real-world firearms. For example, what pistols do elite law enforcement agencies like the FBI carry?
The FBI‘s Standard Duty Pistols: Glock 19M and Glock 17M
The Federal Bureau of Investigation issues the Glock 19M and Glock 17M pistols in 9mm as standard duty sidearms for its special agents. These are specialized variants of the polymers-framed Glock Generation 5 models.
| Specs | Glock 19M | Glock 17M |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9mm | 9mm |
| Capacity | 15+1 rounds | 17+1 rounds |
| Length | 7.28 in | 8.03 in |
| Height | 5.04 in | 5.47 in |
| Barrel Length | 4.02 in | 4.49 in |
| Weight (unloaded) | 23.63 oz | 25 oz |
So in essence, the Glock 19M is a more compact 9mm suited for concealed carry, while the larger Glock 17M holds over two additional rounds in its standard magazine.
The Glock handgun‘s lightweight polymer construction, reliability, and high capacity have made it an icon across military, law enforcement, and popular media. For example, the Glock 19 specifically has been featured in numerous video games, including Counter-Strike, Call of Duty, and Rainbow Six.
The FBI‘s Return to 9mm Pistols
Interestingly, the FBI recently returned to the 9mm cartridge after utilizing .40 S&W chambered pistols for over 20 years. What prompted this change?
Advancements in 9mm ammunition technology significantly improved the round‘s terminal ballistic performance compared to past iterations. Extensive testing found that modern 9mm loads could achieve similar penetration as .40 S&W.
Coupled with the 9mm‘s higher magazine capacity (see the table above) and lower recoil, the FBI concluded shifting back to the 9mm would enhance agents‘ accuracy and defensive handgun abilities. Lighter recoil allows for faster follow-up shots in stressful real-world shootings.
This mirrors a trend being seen across numerous U.S. law enforcement agencies transitioning back to 9mm sidearms over the past decade.
Weapons of the FBI‘s Specialized Tactical Teams
While Glocks remain standard issue, some FBI teams utilize a variety of additional firearms depending on their specialized assignments and duties.
The FBI Hostage Rescue Team (HRT) focuses on counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and high-risk raids. Compared to video game NPCs, HRT operators can be equipped with an array of real-world weaponry:
- Handguns: Custom 1911, Glock 17/19, Sig Sauer P226R
- Shotguns: Remington 870
- Rifles: Colt M4, H&K 416
- Precision Rifles: Remington 700, McMillan Tac-50
Meanwhile, FBI regional SWAT teams conduct dangerous tactical operations at the state and local levels. They utilize firearms including:
- Glock pistols
- Remington 870 shotguns
- Colt M4 rifles
Takeaway for Gamers…
While space constraints limit what firearms can be modeled in video game worlds, it‘s interesting for gamers to learn what real-world weapons elite law enforcement and military groups field in high stakes environments.
Understanding the capabilities of pistols like the FBI‘s Glock 19M, exploration of terminal ballistics, and weaponry of specialized units can lead to further appreciation of games‘ attention to detail and realism. This also allows gamers to discover new authentic information related to the virtual worlds and gameplay they love.
