Beretta Model 81

Published on October 17, 2019
Duration: 16:47

This review covers the Beretta Model 81, also known as the Cheetah, chambered in .32 ACP. The presenter, Justin Opinion, acquired a 'very good' condition surplus model from Midway USA, noting its 1976 production start. He highlights its pleasant shooting characteristics, minimal recoil, and suitability for new shooters, despite the limited magazine capacity and basic sights. The firearm is described as a fun, inexpensive range gun rather than a self-defense or competition pistol.

Quick Summary

The Beretta Model 81 Cheetah is a vintage semi-automatic pistol chambered in .32 ACP (7.65mm). Often available as surplus, it's praised for its minimal recoil, smooth DA/SA trigger, and comfortable ergonomics, making it an ideal and inexpensive range gun for beginner shooters.

Chapters

  1. 00:27Introduction to Beretta 81 Cheetah
  2. 00:40Model 81 Specifics: .32 ACP / 7.65mm
  3. 01:01Production History & Availability
  4. 01:39Acquisition from Midway USA
  5. 02:00Condition Assessment: Very Good
  6. 02:14Mechanical Condition & Magazine
  7. 03:05First Shots & Shooting Impressions
  8. 03:11Recoil & .32 ACP Performance
  9. 04:00Magazine Capacity Discussion
  10. 04:46DA/SA Operation & Manual Hammer Drop
  11. 05:21Double-Action Trigger Feel
  12. 05:48Overall Fun Factor
  13. 06:00Ideal for New Shooters
  14. 06:40Shooting PPU .32 ACP Ammo
  15. 07:3610-Yard Grouping
  16. 08:28Shooting Fiocchi .32 ACP Ammo
  17. 08:47Ergonomics & Grip
  18. 09:04Sights & Acquisition
  19. 09:18Pleasant Shooting Experience
  20. 10:59Reliability & Malfunction Check
  21. 11:07Accuracy & Shooting Joy
  22. 11:22Great Pickup & Value
  23. 11:54Example of 'Very Good' Condition
  24. 12:23Appreciating Older Firearms
  25. 12:57Inexpensive Fun Factor
  26. 13:10Cleaning & Maintenance
  27. 13:23Ambidextrous Safety Features
  28. 13:58Magazine Release Design
  29. 14:16Not for Self-Defense or Competition
  30. 14:22Occasional Enjoyment
  31. 14:34Final Thoughts on Beretta 81

Frequently Asked Questions

What caliber is the Beretta Model 81 Cheetah?

The Beretta Model 81, also known as the Cheetah, is specifically chambered in .32 ACP, which is equivalent to 7.65mm caliber. This makes it a relatively mild-recoiling pistol suitable for various shooters.

Is the Beretta 81 suitable for beginner shooters?

Yes, the Beretta 81 is considered an excellent firearm for beginners. Its .32 ACP caliber produces very little recoil, and the DA/SA action, while requiring manual hammer lowering for the first shot, is smooth and manageable.

Where can I find a Beretta 81 Cheetah?

The Beretta 81 Cheetah is often found as surplus or law enforcement turn-in firearms. Online retailers like Midway USA frequently have them available, though condition can vary, with 'very good' being common and 'excellent' being harder to find.

What are the safety features of the Beretta 81?

The Beretta 81 features an ambidextrous manual safety that, when engaged, blocks the slide from operating and renders the trigger dead. It does not have a decocker, so users must manually lower the hammer for double-action first shots.

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