Early Beretta 92 is beautiful compared to the M9.

Published on April 3, 2026
Duration: 2:10

This video compares an early Beretta Model 92 to the US M9 service pistol, highlighting design differences. The early 92 features a distinctive round trigger guard, a different hammer drop safety, and a heel magazine release, contrasting with the M9's American-standard thumb-operated release. The video notes the M9's functional and cosmetic changes from its European predecessors.

Quick Summary

The US M9 service pistol, adopted in 1985, features an American-standard thumb-operated magazine release and a modified hammer drop safety compared to earlier European Beretta 92 models. These earlier models often had a heel magazine release and a round trigger guard, with design elements borrowed from the Walther P38.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the US M9 Service Pistol
  2. 00:17Beretta 92's European Popularity and US Adoption
  3. 00:30M9's Distinctive Look and Changes
  4. 00:38American Standard Magazine Release
  5. 00:45Hammer Drop Safety Changes
  6. 00:51Showing an Early Model 92
  7. 00:56Early 92: Round Trigger Guard
  8. 01:02Early 92: Hammer Drop Safety Appearance
  9. 01:09Early 92: Grip and Heel Magazine Release
  10. 01:17Magazine Cuts for Different Releases
  11. 01:31Operating System Borrowed from P38
  12. 01:41Shooting the Early Model 92
  13. 01:57Magazine Spring Issue with Original Magazine

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key visual differences between an early Beretta 92 and the US M9?

An early Beretta 92 typically features a distinctive round trigger guard and a heel magazine release. The US M9, while based on the 92, has a more American-style thumb-operated magazine release and a different hammer drop safety appearance.

What firearm influenced the operating system of the Beretta 92/M9?

The basic operating system of the Beretta 92 and its US military variant, the M9, is heavily borrowed from the Walther P38. This influence is particularly evident in the dropping locking block mechanism.

Why do some Beretta magazines have different cuts?

Magazine cuts vary to ensure compatibility with different magazine release mechanisms. Later Beretta magazines designed for both European heel releases and American thumb releases have cuts higher up to work with the American-style release.

When did the US M9 service pistol enter service, and what replaced it?

The US M9 service pistol entered service in 1985. It was recently replaced by the Sig Sauer M17 pistol, marking a significant shift in the US military's sidearm.

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