I am no expert on handguns but remember when I first joined the Australian Army in 1967 there were still S&W 38's in service. Apart from the fact the quality of construction was atrocious, their accuracy was about the same as all non-target pistols - I would accept a bet of only $100 to stand at 100 metres and give anyone one aimed shot at me. I think Terry's Mountie uncle was a lucky shot or got his man inside 20 metres.
The S&W were replaced by the beautifully machined Browning 9mm automatic - which of course was no more accurate. The S&W was kept in service for use by pay officers up until the 90's. When you collected the pay they gave you the tired old S&W with the same half dozen rounds, worn and shiny from being carried in a generation of pay officer's pockets. They were not to be put in the weapon unless you were being robbed. "Excuse me just hold that thought while I load my pistol." I never heard of one being used in anger.
I think the Army has very little use for pistols these days but I suppose a pistol is better than trying to stick someone with a bayonet from 2 metres.
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