Why don't the US military use American pistols?

Question

I mean, we're American. We make everything durable!! We use Hummers, Crown Victories, M16, M4, .. everything durable. With all of the Weapon companies in the USA, why can't we use an American pistol instead of an Italian pistol.

Answer 1

The Berreta won the competition fair and square. Apparently it fit the government's specs better than the competing American products, for a better price. American goods, especially quality American goods, have never been bargain-priced.

Answer 2

Expense. The defense budget is not limitless and the cost of developing something comparable and tested would be more than off-the-shelf cost of the needed weaponry. The government generally goes for the lowest bidder that can meet the requirements that the government sets forth. This does not always means the lowest price, but factors such as number of weapons to be procured, length of production, and support costs (warranty, replacement and maint. parts) all go into the cost of awarding a contract for weapons. It would be nice if we bought only US made, but it's not going to happen. Additionally it is part of trade because many countries buy US weapons that provide US jobs. About the uniforms, it is not hypocritical. Ever wonder why? What would happen if a foreign manufacturer made out uniforms? Think about someone copying them? I don't mean appearance, but material content and protective factors that are unique to US uniforms. The "enemy" does not need to get their hands on that. Same goes with certain components such as NVGs..all US made. A gun is pretty much a gun when it all comes down to it.

Answer 3

Ok, first off, the M16 and M4 series rifles haven't been made by Colt for awhile. The M16A2 I had in basic in 95 and the A4 model I was issued in 2003 were made by FN(which last I checked was a Belgian company) same with the M249 and M240. However these like the M9's are made in American factories. The aforementioned weapons are made in Columbia, SC and the M9's are made in Maryland. Besides it's not like other countries don't produce our weapons systems under license, hell there's a few that still make M113's.

Answer 4

The reason the military gives us is that the Berreta is compatible with NATO ammunition. So, in a joint operation, we can use our allies ammo.

This 'official' reason makes NO sense. First, we are exporting money when we could be buying a domestic product. Second, most combat troops don't use enough sidearm ammunition to matter. They rely on thier primary weapon. So...my guess is that some military contractor worked a deal with a donation or two...and now the U.S. Army is stuck carrying an inferior weapon.

Answer 5

Because American pistols were found to be wanting and Beretta could supply better for a good price.

Answer 6

I liked the M1911A1 just fine and the M3A1, it was a mistake to switch from them. Good old American weapons in Caliber .45 ACP.

Answer 7

The Beratta 9mm is an excellant handgun and is made in the USA. Beratta did not win the contract on cost, but quality.

Answer 8

I think we should switch to the Glock .45 cal

You can literally soak that thing in mud for a month, pull it out, slam a clip in and never have a jam. You can freeze in a block of ice for a month, thaw it out, and again, no misfires.

Answer 9

the M-9 is made in Maryland

Answer 10

Hummers durable? Crown Vics ?? US manufacturers make them last as long as the warrantee, then make you buy another.