In a significant shift in law enforcement armament, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has selected the Gen4 Glock 17 and Glock 19 as its new service pistols. This decision marks a return to 9mm handguns for the agency and reflects a broader trend within law enforcement entities in the United States. The move away from the older .40 caliber Glock 22 and 23 models to the Glock Gen 5 handguns came after an extensive evaluation of their performance and efficacy for FBI agents.
The selection process was a rigorous examination of the firearms’ reliability and effectiveness. The Glock 19 in particular, also known as the FBI’s M model, underwent a stringent testing regimen which included firing 120,000 rounds without a single failure. This performance outshone competitors and reaffirmed Glock’s reputation for producing durable and dependable sidearms.
The transition to 9mm rounds was based on several factors. The FBI concluded that 9mm ammunition now provides sufficient stopping power for most law enforcement encounters, thanks to advancements in ballistic technology. Moreover, the smaller caliber offers higher magazine capacities and reduced recoil, allowing for faster and more accurate follow-up shots. Cost efficiency was another factor, as 9mm rounds tend to be less expensive than their .40 S&W counterparts.
Agents’ preferences were also considered in the selection process. While FBI personnel do have some influence over their issued handguns, they are typically limited to choosing from a specified list, with more seasoned agents given a broader range of options. The newer Glocks, free of front-strap finger grooves and featuring a flared magazine well for easier reloading, received a positive reception from the agents.
The adoption of these Glock models is in line with the preferences of various elite military and government agencies, a testament to Glock’s global standing. With its simple design and robust reliability, the Glock 19 has become the official sidearm for elite units such as Army Special Forces, Delta Force, and the Rangers, as well as the CIA and FBI. The Navy SEALs, for example, have transitioned to the Glock 19, calling it the Mk27, reflecting its suitability for both concealable and duty-carry roles.
Glock’s Safe Action system, which includes a trigger safety, firing-pin safety, and a drop safety, ensures that the weapon is safe to carry in high-stakes operations. Furthermore, the Glock 19’s compact size makes it suitable for a variety of missions, from concealed carry scenarios to standard service pistol requirements.
The switch to the Glock 17 and 19 also speaks to the broader strategic outlook of U.S. law enforcement and military operations. With ever-changing mission profiles and operational demands, flexibility and modularity in sidearms have become critical. Glock’s capacity to be customized for specific tasks with a vast array of accessories, from optics to extended magazines, aligns with the needs of modern tactical units.
As other federal agencies and police departments contemplate their own firearms selections, the FBI’s choice may influence their decisions. Glock’s victory in securing the FBI contract, reportedly valued at $85 million, demonstrates the company’s dominance in the law enforcement market and is likely to pave the way for future procurements.
Relevant articles:
– What Glock Does the FBI Use?, Ghost Inc., Dec 17, 2021
– Glock 19: The Gun the FBI, Delta Force, the CIA and Army Special Forces Love, 19FortyFive, Aug 20, 2022
– Glock 19M : FBI Issues New Pistol – SWAT Survival, S.W.A.T. Magazine
– U.S. Government Handguns: Who Carries What?, wethepeopleholsters.com, Dec 8, 2020