The Sig Sauer 9mm XM17, and the more compact version XM18, are replacing the M9 as the Army’s service pistol.
This is the first change in about three decades since Beretta’s M9 was first introduced as the Army’s sidearm in the Cold War era back in 1986.
Over the next 10 years, the Army will distribute the new handguns to all Army units.
The XM17 is a variant of the civilian P320, one of Sig’s more popular handguns.
I have two Sigs, a Scorpion (carry version) and a Spartan (both in .45) and I’m pleased with their out-of-the-box performance, I have to think that the XM17 is similar. They have to be better than the M9.
Both pistols can be outfitted with suppressors. To attach lasers and lights, there’s an integrated MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rail.
There’s also self-illuminating night sights for optimum combat effectiveness in challenging light conditions.
The sights on my Scorpion are similar, and they work really well – better than the iron sights on my ancient Remington Rand.
The Army’s intent is to issue the handgun down to Team Leader- and squad leader-level. They expect to buy 195,000 over the next ten years.
Thanks to HMC RET for the link.