At GunDigest, we independently review products. However, we may earn a commission when you purchase through links on our site. Learn More
First Marines Begin Training With New CQB .45s
At Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island in August, “The Provost Marshal's Office (PMO) Special Reaction Team familiarized themselves with the newest addition to their arsenal at the pistol range,” according to Marine Corps Public Affairs. “This exercise marks the beginning of the transition to the M45 1911 A1 pistol.
“We will be the first in PMO to carry them,” said Sgt. Daniel Sloniker, a team leader with the Special Reaction Team, of the CQB pistols. “We'll be training a lot with them, that's what we do-we shoot guns all the time.”
To help with the move to the M45 CQB Pistol, the Marine Corps recently awarded Colt Defense a five-year contract. Full implementation of the CQB Pistol is slated for fall 2012.
“Implementation of the weapon into the special reaction team is critical to their role as a response force. They respond to crisis situations such as: terrorist attacks, hostage situations and VIP protection. The unit has capabilities similar to civilian SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics) teams.
“We're the ones who kick the doors in, save hostages and take out the suspect. We have to be able to employ our weapons and make sure if we shoot, we hit our target.”
For a big dose of Colt firearms history, prices technical information, click here to check out this selection of Colt firearms resources at GunDigestStore.com.
