In a move that marks a significant shift in law enforcement armament, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has transitioned from .40 caliber Glock handguns to 9mm models, specifically the Glock 17 and 19. This decision, publicized on June 29th, 2016, came after a comprehensive evaluation process that included an $85 million contract with Glock.
The FBI’s journey to the 9mm Glock began with the 1986 Miami shootout, a watershed event that triggered a search for more effective service handguns. Initially, the aftermath led to the adoption of the 10mm Auto caliber. However, the disadvantages soon called for a shift to .40 caliber, which became the standard for FBI agents when Glock 22 and 23 models were issued in 1997.
By 2014, a study from the FBI training division began to turn the tide. It highlighted the benefits of the 9mm caliber over .40 S&W, including better recoil management and the advent of more effective, purpose-developed loads that offered superior penetration and stopping power.
In its search for a new service pistol, the FBI released a Request for Proposal (RFP) on October 7, 2015, which called for compact and full-size pistols with specific requirements such as night sights and a minimum magazine capacity. The Glock’s win of the contract was a surprise to many who believed that the RFP favored the modular SIG Sauer P320.
Glock’s victory was grounded in extensive testing, where the Glock 17 and 19 outperformed competitors in the reliability department by expending 20,000 Speer rounds per gun for a total of 120,000 rounds without one stoppage or malfunction.
Relevant articles:
– Glock wins $85 million FBI contract, CNN, Jul 1, 2016
– Glock 19M : FBI Issues New Pistol – SWAT Survival, S.W.A.T. Magazine
– FBI selects Glock as its next service pistol, GUNSweek.com, Jul 7, 2016
– Keefe Report: FBI Selects New Service Pistol, American Rifleman, Jun 30, 2016