The SIG Sauer M17 and M18 pistols are modified military versions of the SIG Sauer P320, used by the US military and some of its allies. While highly regarded by many, these weapons have been criticized for allowing accidental discharge without the trigger being pulled. The pistol's manufacturer, SIG Sauer, strongly denies any design flaws and cites human factors as the sole cause of reported spontaneous discharges: operating errors, improper maintenance, poorly fitting holsters, and other user negligence. Some of the reported incidents were investigated more extensively by the authorities in collaboration with the manufacturer's engineers, but no definitive conclusions were usually reached.
The renewed discussion about the safety of this pistol was sparked by a tragic incident involving it that occurred on July 20th2025 at F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming. It resulted in the death of 21-year-old Brayden Lovan, a member of the 90th Security Forces Squadron. Initial reports suggested that the M18 might have discharged spontaneously. However, in early August, it was announced that another person had been arrested in connection with the case and charged with obstructing an investigation, making false statements, and involuntary manslaughter. This undermined the credibility of the earlier claim that the weapon itself caused the accident.
Shortly after the July events, Air Force Global Strike Command decided to withdraw its standard M18 pistols from service and send them for a detailed inspection. It concerned 7,970 units, of which 191 were found to be in poor condition. Observations indicated abnormal wear on some parts, such as the safety lever, striking mechanism, and trigger assembly components. The Firearm Blog contacted a representative of SIG Sauer for comment on this matter. Following the inspection, the manufacturer was assured by AFGSC that in none of the 191 M18s in question did excessive wear affect the safety or functionality of the weapon. It is also impossible to definitively determine whether the observed deviations were the result of more intensive use of these units compared to nearly 98% of the other M18s inspected. SIG Sauer is open to working with the AFGSC to determine what contributed to the increased wear of certain parts in its pistols.
Since the inspection conducted by the AFGSC did not reveal any issues that could pose a safety risk to users of the M18 pistols, the weapon has been returned to service. It was also decided to introduce new inspection criteria and procedures in areas where excessive wear was noted. SIG Sauer considers the inspection results to be confirmation of the reliability of its products.
Sources and photos: The Firearm Blog, SIG Sauer, Air Force Times
