Pistols serve mainly as defensive weapons, but silenced variants may provide a tactical advantage in attack.

M1911A1

The 1911 (or M1911A1) is a single-action self-loading pistol. It was the standard side arm weapon used by the US army from 1911 to 1985; and it was widely used by US troops in WW I, WW II and both Korean and Vietnam wars. The 1911 is designed to use .45 ACP rounds. Even today many SWAT teams - as well as many other armies - favour this weapon thanks to the great stopping power of .45 rounds.

M9

Based on the 92FS and adopted by US Military as the M9 pistol, this is the standard US Army handgun. In 1985 the M9 replaced the older .45 Colt 1911 which had been in service since World War I. This gun features a 15 round magazine and standard NATO 9mm ammunition. Some soldiers however, still prefer the .45 Colt due to its greater stopping power.

• M9, M9 Silenced

Makarov

In use for nearly forty years the venerable PM Makarov served the Soviet Red Army and now serves the Russian Federation Armed Forces. Renowned for its simple and extremely reliable design, the Makarov can be found in abundance across the globe. Although the small, 8-round capacity is low by present-day standards, it gives the pistol a narrow profile. Equipped with a suppressor the silenced Makarov PM is an ideal weapon for special forces and assassins.

• Makarov PM, Makarov Silenced

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- ARMA 2 Operation Arrowhead content