BERETTA MODEL 96
Posted May 25, 2023
Introduction
The Beretta Model 96 is an Italian semi-automatic handgun manufactured by Beretta of Gardone Val Trompia, Italy. It was introduced in 1996 and redesigned in 2009, and is based on the Beretta 92 semi-automatic pistol. It is chambered in .40 S&W, and features an open slide design, reversible safety/decocker, and a 15-round magazine capacity. Beretta markets the Model 96 as a small-frame, medium- to long-range pistol designed for personal defense or police duty use, and the .40 S&W cartridge is well-suited for those roles. Over the years the Model 96 has been relied upon by many law enforcement agencies, and its reliability, accuracy, and ergonomics make it a popular choice among civilian shooters.
This review will look at the Model 96 from the perspective of a shooter who is either in the market for a personal defense or police duty handgun, or is a current, enthusiast user of the Model 96. It will cover several aspects of the firearm, including its design and features, ergonomics and shootability, reliability and accuracy, and overall opinion.
Design and Features
The Beretta Model 96 is a traditional, locked-breech, semi-automatic pistol, what is often referred to as a “short-recoil” action. It uses the short-recoil system developed by famed firearm designer John Browning, with the barrel and slide locked together during the firing cycle. The Model 96 is chambered for the .40 S&W cartridge, and features an open slide design. This open-slide design is a major factor in the Model 96’s accuracy, as it prevents the accumulation of dust and particles that can interfere with the slide’s operation.
Other notable features of the Model 96 include its ambidextrous safety/decocker, its 15-round magazine capacity, and its “boxer” trigger mechanism. The decocker allows the shooter to safely lower the hammer without having to manually disengage the safety. This is a great feature, as it allows for a very smooth, safe draw from your holster. The 15-round magazine capacity is one of the highest found on most model 96 pistols, making it more suitable for extended shooting sessions. The “boxer” trigger mechanism helps to reduce the heavy double-action trigger pull, and the resulting lighter trigger pull also helps to improve accuracy.
Ergonomics and Shootability
The Beretta Model 96 is a fairly small pistol, and it is well-suited to shooters of all sizes. Its controls are very intuitive, and its reach to the trigger is fairly short, making it easy to access for those with smaller hands. Its frame is made of a polymer composite, which makes it lightweight and comfortable to handle for extended shooting sessions.
The grip angle of the Model 96 is also well suited for most shooters, and the thumb rest grooves on the frame provide a comfortable purchase on the pistol. Also, the grip length is adjustable, which makes the gun adaptable to different hand sizes. Additionally, the gun’s recoil system is designed to reduce felt recoil, making it easier to get back on target quickly and accurately.
The Model 96 features sights that are adjustable for windage and elevation, and they are low profile and snag-free. The front sight is a blade that has three white dots for increased accuracy in low-light conditions, and the rear sight is a notch style. This setup allows for fast target acquisition and precise aiming. The Model 96 also features an extended slide release and magazine release that are easier to access for faster reloads.
Reliability and Accuracy
The Beretta Model 96 is a very reliable and accurate pistol. Its short-recoil operation ensures that it is going to fire reliably even in the most demanding conditions. It has been tested extensively and found to be very reliable in all types of climates and conditions. The Model 96 is also known for its accuracy, thanks to its open slide design and adjustable sights. It is capable of making consistent 2-inch groups at 25 yards, and many shooters report 1-inch groups at that same distance.
Overall Opinion
All in all, the Beretta Model 96 is an excellent handgun that is well-suited for personal defense, police duty, and target shooting. Its design and features make it reliable and accurate, while its ergonomics make it comfortable and shootable. Its open slide design increases its accuracy, and its 15-round magazine capacity gives it an advantage over many of its competitors. For anyone in the market for a reliable self-defense or professional grade handgun, the Beretta Model 96 should definitely be high on their list of choices.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- High-Quality Build: The Beretta Model 96 is a well-crafted and solid weapon, ensuring lasting performance and reliability.
- High Capacity Magazine: The Beretta Model 96 has a high capacity double stack magazine, providing users with up to 17 rounds.
- Easy to Operate and Maintain: The Beretta Model 96 is a simple firearm to operate, with few controls. As a result, it is easy to maintain and clean.
- Decent Accuracy: The Beretta Model 96 is accurate at short and medium distances. With a threaded barrel, users can also customize the accuracy of their firearm with various muzzle attachments.
Cons
- Heavy: The Beretta Model 96 is a large and heavy duty firearm, weighing in after 32 ounces unloaded. As such, it may not be ideal for carrying around for long periods of time.
- Expensive: The Beretta Model 96 is expensive, with prices starting around $800-$1000 USD.
- Limited Ammo Selection: As a .40 S&W caliber weapon, limited ammo selection may be available at stores depending on your location.
Who Should Buy
The Beretta Model 96 is a semi-automatic handgun designed for self-defense and law enforcement use. It is an ideal firearm for experienced shooters, recreational target shooters, and home defense users.
People who should consider buying a Beretta Model 96 include those with past experience with handguns or firearms in general, those looking for a reliable, reliable and easy-to-maintain home defense handgun, and those looking for a powerful and accurate target-shooting option.
People who shouldn't buy a Beretta Model 96 are those without previous gun experience, those looking for cheap firearms that may not be reliable, or those who may not be comfortable with such a powerful handgun.
Comparisons
| Product | Magazine Capacity | Barrel Length | Weight | Chamber |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BERETTA MODEL 96 | 10 rounds | 4.9" | 33.3oz. | .40 S&W |
| SIG SAUER P229 | 12 rounds | 3.9" | 32.3 oz. | .40 S&W |
| CZ P-07 Duty | 18 rounds | 3.9" | 27.3 oz. | 9mm |
| SCCY CPX-2 | 10 rounds | 3.1" | 17.5 oz. | 9mm |
| Smith & Wesson SW40VE | 12 rounds | 4" | 22.7 oz. | .40 S&W |
Features / Specs
•Caliber: .40 S&W
•Overall Weight: 34.5 oz.
•Overall Length: 8.5"
•Barrel Length: 4.9"
•Sight Radius: 6.3"
•Height: 5.5"
•Width: 1.5"
•Actions: Double / Single
•Capacity: 10, 12, 15, or 17-rounds
•Safety: Manual, Firing Pin
•Sights: Fixed or Adjustable 3-dot
Popular Accessories
A1
- Magazine Extension – This is a great accessory to increase the capacity of your cartridge.
- Holsters – There is a wide variety of holsters on the market for the Berretta Model 96 A1.
- Magazines – It is always a good idea to have extra magazines on hand for your pistol.
- Grips – Changing the grip to fit your hand offers added control and comfort.
- Sights – There are multiple sights on the market for the Berretta Model 96 A1 including fiber optic, adjustable sights, tritium night sights and more.
- Lights/Lasers – A light or laser can be extremely helpful in aiding in target acquisition in low light conditions.
- Cleaning Kit – A cleaning kit is always a must have for any firearm.
- Trigger Lock – This is a great accessory to ensure the safety and security of your weapon.
Accuracy
The Beretta Model 96 is renowned for its precision and accuracy. The weapon has an effective range of up to 50 meters and it is considered to be among the most accurate 9mm handguns in the world. Tests conducted by the United States Government show the Beretta Model 96 to have holster malfunctions virtually non-existent and a single-action accuracy of better than 2 inches at 25 yards and 3 inches at 50 yards. The handgun has a reliable action and great accuracy with a good trigger. The Beretta handgun is also considered quite reliable and has few problems with jams or misfires. All of these factors contribute to the Model 96's reputation for accuracy and precision.
