While less impressive, the Belgian FN FNS made by FN Herstal and the Czech P-09 (A.K.A. Of these, the Austrian Glock 17and 22 were definitely considered top contenders. Military’s Handgun Competition in Action Firing the Sig P320Īlthough I had expected an American company to take the cake, there were a few serious European competitors who put up a good fight. And although the military has been using a 9mm since the Beretta was first chosen, the MHS did not demand competitors to stick to this caliber. For example, the MHS winner would have to contain ambidextrous controls and be able to hit a 4” target from 50 meters consistently throughout its tenure. Furthermore, there were several tough accuracy and ergonomic conditions that had to be met. Plus, they wanted the new service pistol to have an integrated rail system, non-reflective neutral finish, and be suppressor-friendly. Considering that the M9 is packed with tactical features and offers out of this world durability, the new sidearm would have to be one of the best pistols ever created.Īdditionally, the new firearm had to be adaptable meaning, it had to offer a variety of mag options, grips, and fire control devices. The aforementioned legendary semi-auto served as America’s service pistol since the mid-80’s and solidified its position due to its incredible efficacy in some of the harshest environments in the world. In order to take home the prize, the new military handgun had to prove that it’s more reliable, accurate, and effective than the phased out Beretta M9. In addition to supplying firearms, this enormous deal would also include ammo, accessories, and services –Not to mention the huge boost to the winning company’s market value. The winner would not only walk away with bragging rights, they’d also secure the half a billion dollar military contract. The Government dubbed this process the XM17 Modular Handgun System Competition (MHS). In fact, they had planned to start the selection process as early as 2011 but multiple delays postponed it until early 2017. Just as the M9 took over for the historic and popular M1911A1, there would soon be a new and improved firearm that would send the M9 to the annals of history.īut with the tremendously rigorous requirements and so many quality pistols out there, it would prove to be no easy task. After a six-decade run, our military had to make the tough decision of finding a new sidearm to supply our troops. Elizabeth Bevier Fires the M9 Service Pistol Government recently decided that the time has come to replace the Beretta M9 as the Cpl. All good things must come to an end – And as many of you probably know, the U.S.