Since 1991, HK was requested by US SOCOM (Special Operations COMmand) for a superior sidearm. The answer was the HK Mark 23 SOCOM pistol in .45 ACP running with HK's USP. The weapon was originally known as the SOF Offensive Handgun and was due in Phases I-III delivered from 1992-1995. Testing commenced in 1996 with close to 2000 units produced, 1500 suppressors, and over 750 LAMs (Laser Aiming Modules) that make-up the complete assault pistol for US SFs including the SEALs. The service requirement was 30,000 rounds and the SOCOM surpassed that at 50,000+!!! Lighter than a M1911A with polymer frame and with larger 12 rd mag. Robust construction and awesome reliability in the field. Civilian version produced since 2004 generally at $1200 per copy. The supressor is required to pass 15,000 rounds service life and reduce sound to 24 Db dry and 33 Db wet. Flash reduction is 75% using M1911A ball ammo, which is subsonic. End result is a more reliable SF pistol than tactical versions of the M1911A-1 with Pachmayr grips, tritium sights, and various add-ons (yet some are still in use with some US SFs, including Delta Force). US designation is Mod 0 USSOCOM.

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dWxPQDiTCxw/SqoHMuLcxaI/AAAAAAAAAfA/iTsUf89kb7E/s320/socom.jpg