U.S. Army Combat Pistol Training Handbook

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• Publisher: Skyhorse
• Year: 2013
• Print ISBN: 9781620877371
• eBook ISBN: 9781626364592
• Topic: History
• Subtopic: Military & Maritime History
• Index: History

This handbook is perfect for those interested in joining the army as well as for those who merely want to learn how to shoot combat pistols. The U.S. Army Combat Pistol Training Handbook (FM 3-23.35) reflects current Army standards in weapons qualification and can be a guide for the instructor to develop training programs, plans, and lessons that meet the objectives of the U.S. Army Marksmanship program for developing combat effective marksmen.The first part focuses on the components and functions of the pistols, where readers will learn about components, ammunition, maintenance and assembly, clearing procedures, preventive maintenance, operation, loading, unloading and clearing, troubleshooting, and much more. The second part is where things get fun and where readers will find instructions on topics such as basic marksmanship, grip and aiming, breath control, trigger squeeze, techniques of firing, target engagement, combat reloading techniques, coaching, and safety, among others. Finally, the appendixes include a thorough explanation of the U.S. Army qualification courses and training schedules.This compact guide will tell you everything you need to know about training with an M9 or M11 pistol. Loaded with illustrations and charts, this handbook shows as well as tells how to be the best pistol shooter in the Army.

Chapter 1

Components and Functioning

This chapter describes the M9 and M11 semiautomatic pistols, their maintenance requirements, and their operation and functioning.

SECTION I. DESCRIPTION AND COMPONENTS

The M9 (Figure 1-1) and M11 (Figure 1-2) pistols are 9-mm, semiautomatic, magazine-fed, recoil-operation, double-action weapons chambered for the 9-mm cartridge.

Figure 1-1. 9-mm pistol, M9.

Figure 1-2. 9-mm pistol, M11.

1-1. Description

Table 1-1 summarizes equipment data for both pistols.

Table 1-1. Equipment Data, M9 and M11 pistols.

NOTE: For additional information on technical aspects of the M9 pistol, see TM 9-1005-317-10. For additional information on technical aspects of the M11 pistol, see TM 9-1005-325-10.

WARNING

The half-cocked position catches the hammer and prevents it from firing if the hammer is released while manually cocking the weapon. It is not to be used as a safety position. The pistol will fire from the half-cocked position if the trigger is pulled.

1-2. Components

The major components of the M9 (Figure 1-3) and M11 (Figure 1-4) pistols are:

a. Slide and Barrel Assembly: Houses the firing pin, striker, and extractor. Cocks the hammer during recoil cycle.

b. Recoil Spring and Recoil Spring Guide: Absorbs recoil and returns the slide assembly to its forward position.

c. Barrel and Locking Block Assembly: Houses cartridge for firing, directs projectile, and locks barrel in position during firing.

d. Receiver: Serves as a support for all the major components. Houses action of the pistol through four major components. Controls functioning of the pistol.

e. Magazine: Holds cartridges in place for stripping and chambering.

Figure 1-3. Major components, M9.

Figure 1-4. Major components, M11.

1-3. Ammunition

M9 and M11 pistols use several different types of 9-mm ammunition. Soldiers should use only authorized ammunition that is manufactured to US and NATO specifications.

a. Type and Characteristics. The specific type ammunition (Figure 1-5) and its characteristics are as follows:

(1) Cartridge, 9-mm ball, M882 with/without cannelure.

(2) Cartridge, 9-mm dummy, M917.

WARNING

Do not fire heavily corroded or dented cartridges, cartridges with loose bullets, or any other rounds detected as defective through visual inspection.

Figure 1-5. Ammunition.

b. Care, Handling, and Preservation.

(1) Protect ammunition from mud, sand, and water. If the ammunition gets wet or dirty, wipe it off at once with a clean dry cloth. Wipe off light corrosion as soon as it is discovered. Turn in heavily corroded cartridges.

(2) Do not expose ammunition to the direct rays of the sun. If the powder is hot, excessive pressure may develop when the pistol is fired.

(3) Do not oil or grease ammunition. Dust and other abrasives that collect on greasy ammunition may cause damage to the operating parts of the pistol. Oiled cartridges produce excessive chamber pressure.

SECTION II. MAINTENANCE

Maintenance procedures include clearing, disassembling, inspecting, cleaning, lubricating, assembling, and checking the functioning of the M9 or M11 pistol.

1-4. Clearing Procedures

The first step in maintenance is to clear the weapon. This applies in all situations, not just after firing. Soldiers must always assume the weapon is loaded. To clear the pistol, perform the following procedures.

a. Place the decocking/safety lever in the SAFE down position.

b. Hold the pistol in the raised pistol position.

c. Depress the magazine release button and remove the magazine from the pistol.

d. Pull the slide to the rear and remove any chambered round.

e. Push the slide stop up, locking the slide to the rear.

f. Look into the chamber to ensure that it is empty.

1-5. General Disassemble

To disassemble the pistol, perform the following procedures.

a. Depress the slide stop and let the slide go forward.

b. Hold the pistol in the right hand with the muzzle slightly raised.

c. Press the disassembly lever button with the forefinger.

d. Rotate the disassembly lever downward until it stops.

e. Pull the slide and barrel assembly forward and remove it from the receiver.

f. Carefully and lightly compress the recoil spring and spring guide. At the same time, lift up and remove them.

g. Separate the recoil spring from the spring guide.

h. Push in on the locking block plunger while pushing the barrel forward slightly.

i. Lift and remove the locking block and barrel assembly from the slide.

1-6. Inspection

Inspection begins with the pistol disassembled in its major components. Shiny surfaces do not mean the parts are unserviceable. Inspect all surfaces for visible damage, cracks, burrs, and chips.

1-7. Cleaning, Lubrication, and Preventive Maintenance

The M9 or M11 pistol should be disassembled into its major components and cleaned immediately after firing. All metal components and surfaces that have been exposed to powder fouling should be cleaned using CLP on a bore-cleaning patch. The same procedure is used to clean the receiver. After it has been cleaned and wiped dry, a thin coat of CLP is applied by rubbing with a cloth. This lubricates and preserves the exposed metal parts during all normal temperature ranges. When not in use, the pistol should be inspected weekly and cleaned and lubricated when necessary.

CAUTION

When using CLP, do not use any other type of cleaner. Never mix CLP with RBC or LSA.

a. Clear and disassemble the weapon.

b. Wipe or brush dirt, dust, and carbon buildup from the disassembled pistol.

c. Use CLP to help remove carbon buildup and stubborn dirt and grime.

d. Pay particular attention to the bolt face, guide rails on the receiver, grooves on the slide, and other hard-to-reach areas.

NOTE: Do not use ...

Table of contents

• Cover Page
• Title Page
• Copyright
• Contents
• Preface
• Chapter 1 Components and Functioning
• Chapter 2 Pistol Marksmanship Training