The Marine Corps is known for many things, but proficiency with its weapons is at the top of the list. Be it their rifle or a belt-fed weapon, accuracy is a top priority. An area the Marines are focused on, accuracy and performance-wise, includes a Marine’s sidearm. Now, a Marine Administrative Message from the Corps has authorized the use of red dots on their issued handguns.
Marines and Pistol Red Dots – Specific Use Allowed
The primary handgun for the Marine Corps is the SIG M18. This is a modified version of the SIG 320. With that as the base, the optic that has been approved is the SIG Romeo-M17. This optic was designed exclusively for the U.S. Military M17/M18 Modular Handgun System (MHS). This fully enclosed, gas-purged optic features the proprietary SIG-LOC bottom-mount interface, an integrated gas deflector, and a 7075 aluminum housing for battle-hardened durability.
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The one noticeable aspect of this message was the statement that optics must be purchased and issued by the Marines’ unit. What this means is that it is not a Marine Corps directive making a sweeping change. In my opinion, it is a good way to let individual units do the testing, and if successful, the Marine Corps may adopt the red dot concept Corps-wide.
Proven Technology
Over the last ten years, the use of red dots by civilians and law enforcement has soared. Rare is the new pistol today that is not optics-ready. And for good reasons. Red dots clearly provide a clear advantage over traditional iron sights. They provide greater down-range awareness and quicker target acquisition.
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In another section of the message, the Marine Corps addressed units that have been issued Glocks. Like the first red dot policy, a limited number of Marines will also be authorized to qualify with Glock pistols instead of the standard M17 or M18. Glock 19 pistols are primarily issued to U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC) operators, criminal investigative division (CID) special agents, and members of Helicopter Squadron One (Marine One). These Glock 19M, or “M007,” pistols are used by specialized units needing concealable, highly reliable weapons rather than the standard M18 pistols.
Marines and Pistol Red Dots
While not a Corps-wide initiative, it is, in my opinion, a step towards the 21st century. Members of the military are provided with countless high-tech tools, and adding a proven technology to their handguns is nothing but a win.
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