Not the M9!

[Swank]

Fellow QP's,

I'd like know who the approval authority is for authorization to carry something other than the M9 or 1911. If you're on a team that has done this before, please PM me. I'm trying to establish precedence andavoid reinventing the wheel.

Thanks in advance...

[Zorro]

My guys had this same discussion with the USASOC CSM when he visited us in OEF not too long ago. They didn't get anywhere. We have been begging for .45's for years and it's just not happening from what we've heard. With that said..don't underestimate the creativity of SF NCO's.

[uboat509]

I was told that requests to carry other weapons had been put in during OIF I or II but, so far, had not been approved. That was just before we left for OIF V. They have still not been approved as far as I know.

SFC W

[Zorro]

every time we get ready to go we get the whole G.O. #1 rule about POW's. Haven't heard (or seen) of any waiver's or exception to policy for other types.

[Sinister]

Quite a few years ago 3rd Group requested pistols to outfit Soldiers not otherwise authorized M9s. They got 45s straight from the depot at Anniston.

The Group plan worked out so support guys got M9s out of the arms rooms and the ODAs got M1911s. Granted this was a while ago and I don't know if it's still happening (I doubt it).

[mark46th]

Boy. Things have changed. Weapons for us(Vietnam Era) was pretty much whatever you wanted, as long as it worked, didn't jeopardize the mission or team mates and plenty of ammo was available. One of our guys carried a Ppsh 43 in his briefcase when we went into town. We also had a Thompson sub mg, M2 Carbines, AK's, SKS' a French MAT49, an M1D sniper rifle( I should have taken that), etc. My personal side arm was an aluminum frame Colt Commander in 45ACP.

Here's an important lesson to learn. Become good friends with the EOD detail closest to you....Or whoever gets captured weapons....