The Best Tiny Pistol! - Beretta .25 ACP

Published on May 6, 2023
Duration: 17:17

This video provides an in-depth review of the Beretta 950 BS Jetfire EL in .25 ACP, a classic 'mouse gun' now discontinued. The presenter, Brett from Nightwood Guns, details its 'EL' (extra fancy) gold trim, features, and practicality as a concealed carry firearm from a bygone era. He discusses its pros, such as the crisp single-action trigger and tip-up barrel, alongside significant negatives like the .25 ACP caliber's limitations, the tiny safety, potential for hammer bite, and blowback operation requiring frequent barrel cleaning.

Quick Summary

The Beretta 950 BS Jetfire EL is a discontinued .25 ACP 'mouse gun' known for its 'extra fancy' gold trim. While it features a crisp single-action trigger and a safe tip-up barrel for loading and decocking, its .25 ACP caliber, tiny safety, and blowback operation requiring frequent cleaning limit its modern practicality.

Chapters

  1. 00:19Introduction to the Beretta 950 BS Jetfire EL
  2. 01:57The 'EL' Model: Gold Trim and Aesthetics
  3. 02:47Discontinued and Impractical for Modern Carry
  4. 03:31Negatives: Caliber (.25 ACP) and Limitations
  5. 04:53Single Action Only: Pros and Cons of the Trigger
  6. 06:22Ergonomic Issues: Slide Bite and Hammer Bite
  7. 07:00Magazine Release and Reloading Challenges
  8. 07:46Durability Concerns: Pins and Screws Backing Out
  9. 08:07Blowback Operation and Barrel Cleaning Necessity
  10. 09:07Size vs. Thickness: Concealability Issues
  11. 09:53Comparison to Modern Competitors (Ruger LCP, P365)
  12. 10:42Positive Features: Build Quality and Craftsmanship
  13. 11:37Practical Use as a Backup Gun
  14. 11:47Pros: Fast Trigger and Accurate Shooting
  15. 12:52Safety: Inertia Firing Pin Block and Decocking
  16. 13:25Pro: Tip-Up Barrel for Safe Loading and Decocking
  17. 14:02Reliability and Feeding in Close Quarters
  18. 14:22Overall Reliability and Maintenance
  19. 15:11Shooting the Saguaro Cactus (Debunked)
  20. 15:47Call to Action: Bring Back the Jetfire
  21. 16:32Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Beretta 950 BS Jetfire EL 'extra fancy'?

The 'EL' designation on the Beretta 950 BS Jetfire signifies an 'extra fancy' model. This is characterized by decorative gold inlay and accents on various components, including the hammer, trigger, barrel tip lever, magazine base plate, and the iconic gold Beretta logo on top of the slide.

What are the main drawbacks of the Beretta 950 BS Jetfire for modern concealed carry?

Key drawbacks include its .25 ACP caliber, which has limited effectiveness, a tiny and potentially unreliable safety lever, the risk of hammer bite, and its blowback operation requiring frequent barrel cleaning. It's also thicker than many modern slimline pistols.

How does the tip-up barrel on the Beretta 950 BS Jetfire enhance safety?

The tip-up barrel allows for safe loading and decocking without needing to rack the slide. By opening the barrel, the hammer can be safely lowered, and even if dropped, the inertia firing pin block system prevents discharge, making it a secure option for carrying decocked.

Why is frequent barrel cleaning important for the Beretta 950 BS Jetfire?

The Beretta 950 BS Jetfire operates via a blowback system without an extractor. Carbon buildup in a dirty barrel can cause spent casings to expand and get stuck, leading to malfunctions. Regular cleaning, approximately every 150-200 rounds, is crucial for reliable ejection.

Is the Beretta 950 BS Jetfire considered a reliable firearm?

When properly maintained, particularly with a clean barrel and functional magazine, the Beretta 950 BS Jetfire is considered surprisingly reliable for its design. It handles most .25 ACP ammunition well, but consistent cleaning is key to preventing ejection issues inherent in its blowback operation.

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