- Manufactured by Glock Ges.m.b.H. in Austria.
- First produced in 1982.
- Retail price ranges from $500 to $700.
The Glock 17 is one of the most widely used handguns in law enforcement worldwide. It features a 17-round magazine capacity, a polymer frame for lightweight durability, and Glock’s signature Safe Action trigger system, which reduces accidental discharges while maintaining a quick trigger pull. FBI agents favor the Glock 17 for its accuracy, reliability, and ease of maintenance.
The full-size design provides a longer barrel length, which improves accuracy at longer distances—an essential feature for federal agents who may need to engage threats at various ranges. The 9mm caliber allows for high-capacity magazines without excessive recoil, making it a practical choice for both new and veteran agents. Additionally, the pistol’s modularity allows for customization, including tactical lights, red dot sights, and extended magazines.
- Manufactured by Glock Ges.m.b.H. in Austria.
- First produced in 1988.
- Retails between $500 and $700.
A slightly smaller version of the Glock 17, the Glock 19 is the FBI’s standard-issue sidearm for most agents. The compact size makes it easier to conceal and carry comfortably while still offering a 15-round magazine. It retains all the features that make Glock pistols reliable—simple design, durable polymer frame, and the Safe Action trigger system.
The Glock 19 strikes a balance between firepower and maneuverability, making it an ideal everyday carry weapon for agents working in the field. Its 9mm caliber ensures manageable recoil, allowing for quick follow-up shots in a defensive situation. Many FBI agents also equip their Glock 19s with tactical sights or lights, enhancing their effectiveness in low-light conditions.
- Manufactured by Springfield Armory, Inc. in the U.S.
- Dates back to 1911.
- Retails from $700 to well over $2,000.
The Springfield M1911A1, chambered in .45 ACP, is a classic semi-automatic pistol with a long history of military and law enforcement use. The .45 ACP cartridge is renowned for its significant stopping power, making it a favored round for those prioritizing terminal performance. The M1911A1's single-action design and all-metal construction contribute to its solid feel and accuracy.
It is used by FBI SWAT. The 1911 platform is known for its crisp trigger pull and ergonomic grip, which enhance accuracy and control. However, the M1911A1's lower magazine capacity compared to modern polymer pistols is a consideration. The 1911 is a platform that many shooters prefer due to its large amount of aftermarket parts, and customizability.
- Manufactured by Colt's Manufacturing Company in the U.S.
- Development began in the 1980s.
- Retail ranges from $1,000 to $2,000 or more.
The Colt M4 Carbine, produced by Colt’s Manufacturing Company in Hartford, Connecticut, has been a mainstay of military and law enforcement since its introduction in 1994. It typically costs between $1,000 and $1,500. Chambered in 5.56 NATO, this rifle is known for its lightweight design, customizable features, and versatility.
FBI SWAT teams use the Colt M4 Carbine during tactical operations, where they may face both long-range and close-quarters combat scenarios. Agents can equip the M4 with accessories such as suppressors, optics, and foregrips to adapt it to a specific mission’s requirements. The collapsible stock makes it easy to maneuver in confined spaces like doorways or hallways, while its 30-round magazine ensures agents are ready for extended engagements. Its precision, compact nature, and adaptability solidify the Colt M4 as a trusted tool for high-stakes fieldwork.
- Manufactured by SIG Sauer in Germany and the U.S.
- First produced in the early 1980s.
- Retail price ranges from $900 to over $1,200.
The SIG Sauer P226, chambered in 9mm, is a full-sized, semi-automatic pistol known for its accuracy and reliability. Its all-metal construction contributes to its robust design and durability. The 9mm cartridge provides a versatile round suitable for various defensive situations.
The P226's ergonomic grip and smooth trigger pull enhance shooter control and accuracy. It has a long service history with military and law enforcement agencies worldwide. The P226's reputation for dependability and performance has solidified its place as a favored sidearm.
- Manufactured by Glock Ges.m.b.H. in Austria.
- First produced in the late 1980s.
- Retails between $500-$700.
The Glock 30, chambered in .45 ACP, is a subcompact, semi-automatic pistol designed for concealed carry. The .45 ACP cartridge is known for its significant stopping power, making it a favored round for those prioritizing terminal performance. Despite its compact size, the Glock 30 retains a respectable magazine capacity for its class.
The Glock 30's polymer frame and "Safe Action" system contribute to its lightweight design and ease of use. However, the smaller size of the pistol and the more powerful cartridge result in increased recoil, which requires practice to manage effectively.
The M&P 9 is another popular choice among CIA operatives. It features an ergonomic grip and ambidextrous controls, making it comfortable for a wide range of users. The M&P series also has an aggressive grip texture, ensuring agents maintain control even in wet conditions. The Smith & Wesson M&P 9, chambered in 9mm, is a modern, semi-automatic pistol designed for law enforcement and military use.
Its polymer frame and ergonomic grip contribute to its lightweight design and comfortable handling. The 9mm cartridge provides a versatile round suitable for various defensive situations. The M&P 9's modular design allows for customization, enabling users to swap backstraps and sights to suit their preferences. The M&P 9's reputation for reliability and accuracy has solidified its place as a favored sidearm.
- Manufactured by SIG Sauer in Germany and the U.S.
- First produced in 1994.
- Retail prices range from $900 to $1,200.
The SIG Sauer P229 DAK, chambered in .357 SIG, is a compact, semi-automatic pistol that was used by the U.S. Secret Service. The .357 SIG cartridge is known for its high velocity and flat trajectory, offering increased stopping power compared to the 9mm.
The P229 DAK's all-metal construction contributes to its robust design and durability. The DAK (Double Action Kellerman) trigger system provides a consistent trigger pull, enhancing accuracy and control. The P229 DAK's compact size makes it suitable for concealed carry, while its powerful cartridge provides effective stopping power.
- Manufactured by FN Herstal in Belgium.
- Produced in 1990.
- Retails over $2,000.
Used by the Secret Service’s Counter Assault Team, the FN P90 is a futuristic-looking submachine gun with a high-capacity 50-round magazine. The FN P90, chambered in 5.7×28mm, is a compact, selective-fire personal defense weapon known for its high magazine capacity and unique bullpup design. The 5.7×28mm cartridge offers a flat trajectory and armor-piercing capabilities.
The P90's bullpup design places the magazine and action behind the trigger, resulting in a shorter overall length and enhanced maneuverability. Its high magazine capacity and controllable rate of fire make it effective in close-quarters combat situations.
- Manufactured by Glock Ges.m.b.H. in Austria.
- First produced in 1995.
- Retails within the $500 to $700 range.
The Glock 26, a subcompact 9mm pistol, is designed for maximum concealability. As the smallest of the 9mm Glocks, it's a popular choice for undercover agents or those requiring deep concealment. Despite its small size, it still offers a decent magazine capacity.
The 9mm round provides a good balance of power and controllability. The Glock 26 retains the reliability and simple operation that Glocks are known for. Its small size makes it easier to conceal, but also increases felt recoil.
- Manufactured by SIG Sauer in the U.S.
- First produced in 2014.
- Retails between $600 and $800.
The SIG Sauer P320C is a compact, striker-fired 9mm handgun used by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers. Designed for reliability, accuracy, and adaptability, this firearm is a favorite among law enforcement agencies nationwide. Unlike many handguns, the P320 allows users to swap out fire control units, grip modules, and slides, making it highly customizable for different missions and officer preferences.
The P320C features a 15-round magazine, a compact 3.9-inch barrel, and a polymer grip, ensuring durability while remaining lightweight. It lacks a manual safety, instead relying on an internal safety system that prevents accidental discharges. ICE officers favor this model due to its smooth trigger pull, easy handling, and quick target acquisition.
- Manufactured by Rock River Arms in the U.S.
- Operator series produced in 2022.
- Retails from $800 to $1,500 or more.
The Rock River Arms LAR-15 is a semi-automatic rifle highly regarded for its precision, reliability, and versatility, making it a trusted tool for the U.S. Marshals Service. Introduced in the early 2000s by Rock River Arms, this rifle is an adaptation of the famous AR-15 platform. Chambered in 5.56 NATO, the LAR-15 is equipped to handle a wide variety of tactical scenarios.
It features a 16-inch chrome moly barrel and accessories such as optics, grips, and flashlights, ensuring adaptability to different mission requirements. The LAR-15’s lightweight aluminum receiver and free-floating handguard enhance maneuverability in close-quarters situations while maintaining durability. The U.S. Marshals Service often uses the Rock River Arms LAR-15 for high-risk fugitive apprehensions and tactical operations.
- Manufactured by Heckler & Koch in Germany.
- First produced in 1966.
- Retails over $2,000.
The Heckler & Koch MP5 is one of the most iconic submachine guns in the world, valued for its reliability, precision, and ease of use. Introduced in 1966 by the German manufacturer Heckler & Koch, the MP5 quickly became a favorite among military and law enforcement agencies worldwide. The MP5 earns its reputation from its closed-bolt, delayed-blowback operating system, which ensures smooth operation and exceptional accuracy.
Standard models feature a 30-round magazine, though other capacities are available. The MP5’s modular construction allows for the addition of tactical enhancements like suppressors, optics, and forward grips, tailoring it to the needs of the operator. For the U.S. Marshals Service, the MP5 is great for accuracy in confined spaces and proven reliability under stress make it well-suited for these high-risk scenarios.
- Manufactured by Staccato (previously STI) in the U.S.
- Produced in 1993.
- Retails from $2,000 to over $4,000 dollars.
The STI 2011 is a high-performance semi-automatic pistol chambered in 9mm, renowned for its precision, reliability, and innovative design. First introduced in 1994 by STI International (now known as Staccato) and manufactured in Texas, the STI 2011 represents a modern evolution of the classic 1911 platform. It features a modular, two-piece frame that enhances durability and reduces recoil, enabling faster follow-up shots. Its ergonomic grip allows for a secure hold, even in challenging conditions, while the crisp single-action trigger improves accuracy with every pull.
The high-capacity magazine design, which can hold up to 20 rounds, offers tactical superiority, especially in prolonged engagements. Marshals can rely on it when conditions demand flawless performance. It exemplifies the strength and adaptability needed in law enforcement duties.
- Manufactured by Remington Arms Company in the U.S.
- First produced in 1950.
- Retails from $300 to $1,000 or more.
The Remington 870 is a pump-action shotgun chambered in 12 gauge, celebrated for its rugged reliability, simplicity, and versatility. Introduced in 1950 by Remington Arms and manufactured in Ilion, New York, this iconic firearm has consistently earned its reputation as one of the most dependable shotguns available. Built around a solid steel receiver, its twin action bars ensure consistent operation, even under adverse conditions.
The shotgun is highly adaptable, with barrel lengths ranging from 18 to 28 inches and options for fixed or interchangeable chokes. Accessories such as tactical stocks, extended magazine tubes, and sights allow for further customization, making it suitable for both close-quarters and extended-range applications. Government agencies widely rely on the Remington 870 for tasks ranging from breaching operations to crowd control and wildlife management.
