The new C22 full frame modular pistols, that are based on the Sig Sauer P320, are in the hands of Canadian soldiers and training has already started at the Infantry School Gagetown, NB. In October 2022, the Canadian government announced a contract award valued at $3.2 million (USD) to provide the Canadian Army with new pistols and holsters. M.D. Charlton Co. Ltd. of Victoria, B.C., was awarded the contract to supply the Sig Sauer P320. The initial contract is for 7,000 pistols and holster systems for the Canadian Army. Additional options for up to 9,500 pistols are available under the contract to cover off the remaining requirements for the Canadian Army, Royal Canadian Air Force, Royal Canadian Navy and Military Police.
The C22 is a 9mm pistol and will replace the military’s Browning Hi-Power handgun. The Canadian military had been trying for years to replace its Browning Hi-Power gun as it is running out of parts for the weapons. The acquisition project was stalled for years after small arms firms rejected in 2011 the federal government requirement that the new guns be built at Colt Canada in Kitchener, Ont. In addition, the companies balked at the stipulation they had to turn over their proprietary firearms information to Colt, a firm that some saw as a competitor. By purchasing the new pistols, Canada joined Denmark, France, and the United States as the operator of the P320.
“The Government of Canada is committed to providing the Canadian Armed Forces with the equipment they need when they need it. Replacing the Browning 9mm with the C22 full frame modular pistol (Sig Sauer P320) will help ensure the continued operational readiness and effectiveness of all our members. We look forward to the delivery of these new pistols and holster systems in the coming year,” the Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of National Defence said
“This contract will provide our troops with modern, reliable pistols and holsters to carry out their work, while supporting economic opportunities for the Canadian defence industry,” the Honourable Helena Jaczek, Minister of Public Ser.
The SIG Sauer P320 is a modular semi-automatic pistol made by SIG Sauer, Inc., SIG Sauer’s American branch. It is a further development of the SIG Sauer P250, utilizing a striker-fired mechanism in lieu of a double action only hammer system. The C22 full frame modular pistol (Sig Sauer P320) will use the existing ammunition and have similar ballistic performance as the existing Browning pistol. The wide range of improvements will include expanded magazine capacity, lighter weight, improved ergonomics, and an indicator identifying whether or not the weapon is loaded – visible from many angles. It will also ensure ambidextrous controls to enable both left and right hand users the ability to operate the weapon effectively.
