#Beretta 92x centurion vs size manual
#Beretta 92x centurion vs size series

In fact, the last newly produced M9 pistols were shipped from Beretta’s factory in September 2021, which marks the end of that era. Though two variants of SIG Sauer’s P320 are now being fielded as the M17 and M18, there are a number of M9s still in service as the transition continues. military as the M9 in 1985, but it didn’t enter official service until 1990. The Beretta 92FS was adopted by all branches of the U.S. Beretta beat SIG Sauer on price since its magazines were less expensive to acquire. The two top contenders were the Beretta 92FS and the SIG Sauer P226. (Photo by Mark Fingar)īy the early 1980s, the military was ready to retire its well-worn M1911A1. Beretta’s iconic open-top slide design lightens the slide’s weight, reduces muzzle flip and features a generous ejection port. Production moved to Accokeek, Maryland, to fulfill military contracts, which ultimately moved to Gallatin, Tennessee, in 2016.

#Beretta 92x centurion vs size manual

military requested a safety that allowed the 92 to be loaded and unloaded with the safety engaged, and the solution moved the manual safety lever to the slide, and thus creating the “92S.” During the same period, the magazine catch was moved from the bottom of the frame to its current position behind the triggerguard. The design was changed significantly during the years to maintain its relevance, which started with early Italian-made 92 pistols having frame-mounted safety levers that allowed it to be carried cocked and locked like the M1911A1 platform it aimed to supplant.

The Beretta Model 92 was designed in 1975 and has been produced in multiple configurations since 1976.

#Beretta 92x centurion vs size series

Announced in 2019, the new 92X series builds on this legacy. Such lengthy history inevitably produced design improvements to address a few issues, but the 92 evolved then and continues to mature now. Thanks to its widespread use by military and police units (not to mention civilian shooters), there is a wealth of practical experience surrounding the Beretta 92 family. Its 31-year military service as the “M9” ensures its importance in such a discussion. If we listed the most important handguns in our nation’s history, Beretta’s 92-series would no doubt make the list.