M18 Pistols Return: Airmen Get Guns Back

U.S. Air Force plane with trees in background.

The Air Force’s decision to return the Sig Sauer M18 pistols to service after a fatal shooting raises critical questions about military oversight and weapon safety.

Story Highlights

The Air Force resumed using the M18 pistol after a comprehensive inspection found no mechanical faults.
The July 20 shooting death of Airman Brayden Lovan prompted a temporary halt and inspection of nearly 8,000 pistols.
An airman is charged with involuntary manslaughter, making false statements, and obstruction of justice.
The incident has heightened scrutiny on the M18, similar to past allegations against its civilian counterpart, the P320.
Enhanced inspection protocols are now being implemented to ensure safety and reliability.

Air Force Responds to Tragic Shooting Incident

Airman Brayden Lovan was fatally shot at F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming, triggering immediate safety concerns about the Sig Sauer M18 pistols. The Air Force Global Strike Command promptly paused the use of the M18s, initiating a thorough inspection of nearly 8,000 pistols. This decision came amidst growing scrutiny over the M18, already under the public eye due to its civilian counterpart, the P320, facing allegations of accidental discharges.

In response to the incident, the Air Force conducted a force-wide inspection starting July 22, 2025, covering 125,000 M18 pistols. The investigation found no evidence of mechanical failure, leading to most pistols being cleared for return to service by August 24, 2025. This decision underscores the Air Force’s commitment to maintaining operational readiness while ensuring the safety of its personnel. The incident also prompted the arrest and charging of an airman, highlighting the seriousness with which the Air Force approaches such incidents.

Safety Allegations and Military Protocols

The M18, a compact variant of the Modular Handgun System, was adopted by the U.S. military to replace the Beretta M9. While the M18 and its full-size counterpart, the M17, have passed rigorous military testing, the civilian P320 platform has faced lawsuits over claims of unintentional discharges. Sig Sauer maintains that their weapons are safe if handled correctly, a stance supported by the Air Force’s recent findings. Despite this, the Air Force has decided to implement improved inspection procedures for the M18 to prevent future incidents and uphold safety standards.

The pause in the use of the M18 pistols was a rare and significant move, reflecting the Air Force’s dedication to transparency and accountability. The incident occurred at F.E. Warren AFB, a strategic base for U.S. nuclear missile operations, further emphasizing the importance of weapon reliability in such sensitive environments. As 191 pistols were identified with excessive wear and are currently under repair, the Air Force continues to prioritize weapon safety and readiness.

Implications for Military and Manufacturer

The return of the M18 to service, following extensive inspections and repairs, marks a significant step in restoring confidence in the weapon’s safety. However, the incident has broader implications for both the Air Force and Sig Sauer. The military must address public and political scrutiny over procurement and safety practices, while Sig Sauer seeks to maintain its reputation and military contracts amidst ongoing legal challenges. As scrutiny continues, the Air Force’s enhanced protocols may influence future military firearms standards across all branches.

Air Force Unit Puts Sidearm Back in Service After Shooting Death of Airman https://t.co/LQzrO6TL70 via @epochtimes

— Michael Clements (@Michael14933498) August 26, 2025

While the Air Force’s swift and transparent response has been commendable, the tragic death of Airman Lovan remains a poignant reminder of the stakes involved in ensuring military equipment safety. The ongoing investigation and legal proceedings against the accused airman highlight the complexities of maintaining accountability and trust within military ranks. As developments unfold, the Air Force’s approach may serve as a case study in balancing operational readiness with stringent safety measures.