BERETTA M9A3
Posted May 14, 2023
Beretta M9A3: A Review
The Beretta M9A3 is a semi-automatic pistol that is known for its durability, reliability, and accuracy. It is the latest evolution of the legendary Beretta M9 pistol, which has been used by military and police forces around the world for over three decades. The M9A3 is designed specifically for today’s soldiers and law enforcement officers, with several improvements over its predecessor in areas such as ergonomics, accuracy, and safety. In this review, I will discuss the various features of the Beretta M9A3 and give my opinion on it as an ideal sidearm for both military and police personnel.
Design & Ergonomics
The Beretta M9A3 features a sleek and ergonomic design that offers a comfortable and secure grip. The grip is comprised of durable polymer panels and aluminum components, which offer a sturdy and comfortable hold while allowing unrestricted movement of the gun in the hand. The pistol also features a redesigned trigger guard that is larger and more comfortable, as well as ergonomically advanced reversible magazine release, slide release lever and decocker. All of these features make the M9A3 very comfortable and intuitive to use.
The slide features slide serrations on both the front and the rear, which allow for easy manipulation of the pistol. The barrel is 4.7” long, and is flanked on either side by three-dot sights for quick acquisition of targets. The pistol also features a threaded barrel for compatibility with various sound suppressors and muzzle brakes.
Accuracy
The Beretta M9A3 is an extremely accurate pistol, as its 4.7-inch barrel gives the round a greater velocity when leaving the barrel. This means that the round will reach its target faster and with greater accuracy, providing improved overall accuracy for the pistol. Additionally, the three-dot sight system gives the user a greater ability to accurately align the sights quickly and reliably.
In terms of long-range performance, the M9A3 is also quite impressive. The barrel is match grade and highly polished, providing excellent accuracy and stability. The gun also features a tested heat-treated barrel and chamber, which mean that it is able to handle the high pressure loads of modern ammunition with ease.
Safety
The Beretta M9A3 features several safety features that make it ideal for police and military personnel. The slide is fitted with an internal slide lock, which is designed to keep the slide from moving when the gun is not being fired. This is an important safety consideration, as it prevents accidental discharges when the gun is moved or when debris or foreign objects fill the chamber. Additionally, the pistol is also fitted with a manual safety that can be quickly engaged when needed.
The M9A3 also features a drop safety, which helps to prevent the pistol from being accidentally discharged if it is dropped. This is an essential safety consideration for military personnel and law enforcement officers, as it prevents potential injury or casualties should the gun be accidentally dropped.
Finally, the M9A3 also comes with a Picatinny rail, allowing the user to mount various tactical accessories such as flashlights and lasers. This is an important safety consideration when operating in low-light environments or conducting close-quarters combat operations, as it allows the user to better identify their target and quickly move the light to where it is needed most.
Reliability
The Beretta M9A3 is extremely reliable and effective in various conditions and environments. The pistol is designed to function in temperatures ranging from -40°F to +140°F. Additionally, the gun is designed to resist corrosion, dirt, and dust, providing a reliable weapon that can be depended upon in harsh environments.
As a military-grade weapon, the M9A3 also meets the rigorous MIL-SPEC requirements for accuracy and durability, ensuring that it is reliable and capable in any combat situation. The pistol can also be disassembled quickly and easily, making maintenance simple and straightforward.
Overall
The Beretta M9A3 is an excellent sidearm that is well suited for both military and police personnel. It is lightweight, yet robust and reliable, making it ideal for both defensive and offensive operations. The ergonomic design provides a comfortable and secure grip, while the accuracy, safety features, and durability make this an excellent choice for any mission.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
• High-capacity magazine: The M9A3 has a 17-round magazine, giving it more firepower than the original 15-round magazine of the M9.
• Rail-mounted accessories: The M9A3 has a MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rail in front of the trigger guard, which allows users to attach to weapons that have features such as lights and lasers.
• Improved ergonomics: The M9A3 has a beveled magazine well and checkering on the front and rear of the grip, making it easier to grip and reload the gun.
• Improved sights and more accurate barrel: The M9A3 has a 3-dot sight system, which provides better accuracy than the original dot and bar sights. It also has a match grade barrel, which improves accuracy and muzzle velocity.
Cons:
• Pricey: The MSRP of the M9A3 is significantly higher than the original M9.
• Heavier than original M9: The M9A3 is heavier than the M9 because of the added features. This may not be ideal for concealed carry.
• Not as widely available: The M9A3 is not as widely available as the M9, making it more difficult to find parts, magazines, or accessories.
Who Should Buy
The Beretta M9A3 is a high-end handgun and should, therefore, only be purchased by individuals who have the necessary training and experience to handle a firearm safely. Individuals who are looking for a high-performance firearm should consider this handgun. Those who are new to shooting or just starting out may want to consider a less expensive and less powerful option, depending on their need.
Comparisons
| Caliber | Capacity |
|---|---|
| 9mm | 17+1 |
| 9mm | 17+1 |
| 9mm | 19+1 |
| 9mm | 15+1 |
| 9mm | 17+1 |
Features / Specs
•Caliber: 9x19mm
•Length: 8.7in
•Height: 5.6in
•Width: 1.5in
•Weight (unloaded): 33.3oz
•Barrel Length: 4.9in
•Sight Radius: 6.1in
•Action: Semi-Automatic
•Feed System: Single/Double Stack Magazines
•Sights: Post/Dovetail Front & Rear
•Safety: Manual/Grip/Hammer/Firing Pin
•Capacity: 15+1/17+1/20+1/30+1 Rounds
Popular Accessories
- Extra Magazines
- Grips
- Sights
- Magazine Release
- Flashlights
- Slings
- Holsters
- Trigger Accessories
- Safeties
- Magazine Well Lans
Accuracy
The BERETTA M9A3 is renowned for its accuracy due to its precision barrel and enhanced sights making it one of the most accurate 9mm handguns on the market. Tests conducted have shown that the BERETTA M9A3 can maintain a 4-inch grouping with 115 gr. FMJ ammunition at a distance of 25 meters. This level of accuracy is a testament to the gun's engineering and design with improved visibility downrange and its flip-up sight design allowing for easier target acquisition and improved accuracy.
