Historical and Contemporary Guns in the British Army: A Rare Privilege

The question of whether British army officers can choose their own handguns has been a topic of interest for those with a keen interest in military history and current practices. This article explores the historical privileges of British army officers in owning and carrying personal handguns and how these privileges have changed with the times.

Historical Privileges in the British Army

There was a time when British army officers had the rare privilege of owning and carrying their own personal sidearms. This was a period when armies, including the British, were more relaxed about such individual rights.

I was fortunate to be part of the last generation of British army officers who could privately own and carry personal sidearms. One of my colleagues even owned a privately-owned Mighty SLR (Self-Loading Rifle). It was not uncommon for officers to be seen with their own handguns. These were usually issued with one or two officers per unit, reflecting the trust placed in these individuals.

Maintenance and Responsibility

It was the responsibility of the individual to maintain their personal sidearm. Spare parts were rarely available, making these firearms more of a symbol of pride and responsibility than a practical weapon. If a firearm broke, it became a lump of steel that had to be accounted for at all times to ensure it wasn't lost or used inappropriately.

The law changed, and the private ownership of handguns was no longer permitted. This was a significant shift in military protocol, reflecting broader societal changes. Unlike the past, modern British soldiers are not allowed to carry their own personal sidearms. Instead, they rely on the weapons provided by the army.

Current Regulations and Their Impact

Modern British military regulations stipulate that all firearms must be issued by the army. This includes not only rifles and submachine guns but also handguns. Special forces, while having more options, still do not have the freedom to choose their personal sidearms. Team leaders decide the mix of weapons needed for operations and assign them to troops. The old practice of a soldier selecting their preferred weapon is now all but extinct.

Bayonets and Fighting Knives

In addition to handguns, bayonets are also a part of the arsenal in the British Army. However, the use of fighting knives is tightly regulated. They can only be issued as bayonets on the rifle and are not otherwise allowed. This policy is often met with confusion and frustration, but it reflects the stringent control over military equipment.

For instance, a Royal Artillery Officer colleague used 'Elizabeths' ammunition, which meant he never faced the challenge of running out of ammunition. Other officers similarly relied on the issued ammunition to ensure readiness for any situation.

Modern Military Culture

While the current system may seem less personalized, it fosters a culture of trust and responsibility through the issuance and maintenance of weapons. Modern British soldiers are more likely to engage with the weapons they use, ensuring they are well-versed in their operation and maintenance.

The era of the individual army officer carrying their preferred sidearm is now a thing of the past, reflecting the broader changes in military organization and the need for standardization and safety.

While some may mourn the loss of this historical privilege, the current system serves to ensure a more cohesive and disciplined force. It is an era sadly gone but one that continues to influence our understanding of military traditions and practices.