Complete List of Beretta Models Since 1526
Beretta, officially known as Fabbrica d’Armi Pietro Beretta, is one of the oldest and most respected firearm manufacturers in the world. Established in 1526, this iconic Italian company has a remarkable history spanning nearly five centuries. Its firearms are used worldwide, with operations in multiple countries.
While Beretta produces firearms for civilian use, many models are specifically designed for military and law enforcement. Sporting firearms are particularly popular, accounting for around 75% of the company’s total sales.
The company’s origins trace back to 1526, when it began producing arquebus barrels. Although historical records from that time are somewhat incomplete, it’s widely believed that Beretta played a significant role in equipping the Venetian fleet. By 1650, Beretta had established itself as a key supplier in nearly every major European conflict.
Throughout its extensive history, Beretta has developed a vast array of firearms. While some models gained widespread recognition and success, others remained niche or less well-known. Below is a comprehensive look at all the Beretta models ever produced, along with their unique characteristics.
Revolvers
Stampede
The Beretta Stampede takes inspiration from Colt’s legendary Peacemaker. However, unlike its predecessor, the Stampede is designed to safely carry six rounds, adding a modern twist to a classic design. Available in three finishes and with a variety of grips, this revolver offers plenty of customization options. Notable variants include:
- Old West
- Old West Marshal
- Buntline Carbine
- Gemini
- Philadelphia
- Deluxe
- Inox
- Bisley
Each version maintains the vintage aesthetic while incorporating practical updates for modern enthusiasts.
Laramie
Modeled after the Smith & Wesson Model 3, the Beretta Laramie stands out for its blend of historical charm and modern safety features. It includes an automatic safety mechanism to reduce the risk of accidental discharge. The revolver is compatible with both .45 Long Colt and .38 Special cartridges, making it a versatile choice. An adjustable rear sight further enhances accuracy, appealing to both collectors and shooters alike.
Manurhin MR73
Although the Manurhin MR73 is not a Beretta design, it deserves mention as it has been sold through Beretta’s distribution channels. This French-made revolver is highly regarded for its exceptional craftsmanship and performance. It operates in both single and double action and accommodates .357 Magnum and .38 Special cartridges. First introduced in 1972, the MR73 has spawned several variants, such as the MR 32 Match and MR 38 Match, each catering to different calibers and specialized uses.
Machine Pistols
M951R
The M951R, chambered for the 9x19mm Parabellum cartridge, was produced from 1949 to 1980. This model was not available to civilians, as it was developed exclusively for military applications. It was adopted by Italian military forces under the designation Modello 1951. Several variants emerged from the original design, including:
- Helwan – A licensed Egyptian-made version.
- M951 Brigadier – Known for its robust slide and reliability.
The M951R’s rugged construction and straightforward functionality made it a trusted sidearm during its service life.
Beretta 93R
The Beretta 93R is a selective-fire machine pistol introduced in 1979 and produced until 1993. Designed primarily for police and military use, this model is based on the renowned Beretta 92 but incorporates several modifications to enhance its functionality in tactical scenarios. Key features of the 93R include:
- Selective Fire: Capable of semi-automatic or three-round burst modes.
- Raffica: The "R" in its name stands for Raffica, the Italian word for "burst," highlighting its burst-fire capability.
- Added Stability: The pistol is equipped with a foregrip and an optional folding stock to improve control during rapid fire.
Semi-Automatic Pistols
Early Models
- Model 1915 Beretta's first semi-automatic pistol, produced from 1915 to 1930. With over 70,000 units manufactured, it served in both World Wars. Variants include:
- M1915
- M1915/17
- M1915/19
- M1923 Produced between 1923 and 1945 for the Italian military. Only about 10,000 units were made, with less than 30% purchased by the government.
- 418 Known for its compact size, this pistol was easy to conceal. It used the 6.35x15mmSR cartridge and was produced from the 1920s to the 1950s.
World War Era Models
- M1934 One of Beretta's most iconic pistols, made from 1934 to 1991, with over a million units produced. It’s a semi-compact firearm known for reliability and durability.
- M1935 Chambered in .32 ACP, it was produced between 1935 and 1967, with more than 500,000 units manufactured.
Post-War Models
- Beretta 70 Series Introduced as a replacement for the M1935, the 70 series gained fame for its versatility and appearances in movies. It accommodated multiple cartridges, including .32 ACP, .380 ACP, and .22 LR. Key variants include:
- 71 Jaguar
- 72 Jaguar
- 73, 74, 75, 76
- 100, 101, 102
- Cheetah Series (Model 81) A blowback pistol available in several calibers, including .32 ACP, .380 ACP, and .22 LR. Variants include 84, 85, 86, 87, and 89. The 8000 series also shares the "Cougar" name.
- 8000 Series (Cougar) Introduced in 1994, this line is chambered in .40 S&W and is renowned for accuracy and reliability. Notable variants:
- 8045 Cougar
- Cougar Inox
- Mini Cougar
Beretta 92 Series
The Beretta 92, launched in 1976, remains one of the company’s most celebrated designs. With over 3.5 million units produced, it is used by military forces in Italy, the U.S., and beyond. Variants include:
- 92S – Made for law enforcement agencies.
- 92SB – Also known as 92S-1.
- 92F – An improved version of the 92SB.
- 92FS – Fixed an issue with the slide in earlier models.
- Additional versions include:
- Vertec, 90Two, 92A1, 96A1
- Centennial, M9A1, M9A3
- Wilson Combat 92G Brigadier Tactical
- Elite LTT, 92X, and 92X Performance
The 93R machine pistol is often considered a variant of the 92 series. The platform has also been widely copied by other manufacturers in countries like Brazil, Egypt, and Turkey.
Modern Innovations
- Px4 Storm A versatile pistol for civilian and military use, introduced in 2004. It features the short-recoil mechanism of the 8000 series and incorporates safety and trigger elements from the 92. Cartridges include 9x19mm Parabellum, .45 ACP, and .40 S&W. Variants include:
- Type C, D, F, G
- Px4 Subcompact, Compact, Compact Carry
- Px4 Storm Special Duty
- APX Series Launched in 2016, the APX series features a modular design and uses cartridges like .40 S&W, 9x19mm NATO, and 9x21mm IMI.
Compact and Subcompact Pistols
- 21 Bobcat A pocket-sized pistol available in .22 LR and .25 ACP, produced since 1984. The 21A Bobcat is its primary variant.
- 3032 Tomcat Chambered in .32 ACP, this pistol has been in production since 1996. Variants include the 3032 Tomcat Inox.
- 950 Jetfire A small, compact pistol made for over 50 years until its discontinuation in 2003. Available in .25 ACP and .22 Short calibers.
- BU9 Nano A micro-compact pistol chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum. Produced between 2011 and 2019.
- Pico Designed for concealed carry, this ultra-compact pistol was made from 2013 until its discontinuation. It used the .380 ACP cartridge.
- U22 Neos Chambered in .22 LR, this modern pistol offers versatility with several variants, including a deluxe model and a carbine conversion kit.
Shotguns
Self-Defense and Tactical Shotguns
- Beretta 1200 Produced in the early 1990s, this shotgun was designed primarily for self-defense but was also adopted by some armed forces. A key variant is the 1200 FP, tailored for tactical applications.
- Beretta 1201 An upgraded version of the 1200, offering improved reliability. Variants include:
- 1201F – Designed for hunting and sporting purposes.
- 1201FP – A tactical version for law enforcement and military use.
- Tx4 and Tx4 Storm Chambered for 12 gauge, these shotguns offer a range of adjustable features. While sharing the Tx4 name with other Beretta firearms, they are purpose-built shotguns with tactical applications.
- Beretta 1301 A gas-operated 12-gauge shotgun with semi-automatic functionality. It is available in two primary designs:
- 1301 Comp – For competitive shooting.
- 1301 Tactical – Suited for military, law enforcement, and civilian self-defense.
Semi-Automatic Shotguns
- AL390 A 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun with five variants:
- Gold Sporting
- 20-Gauge Sporting
- 20-Gauge Youth Edition Sporting
- Sporting
- The original AL390 model.
- AL391 Following in the footsteps of the AL390, this shotgun is chambered for 12 or 20 gauge and considered one of Beretta's finest semi-automatic shotguns. Popular variants include:
- Urika
- Xtrema
- Teknys
- A300 Outlander Known for simplicity and reliability, this 12-gauge shotgun features a self-cleaning cylinder and piston mechanism.
- A350 Outlander An enhanced version of the A300, with additional upgrades for increased reliability.
- A400 Series A versatile family of shotguns designed for various activities, including clay shooting, hunting, and general use. Top variants include:
- Xcel
- Xtreme Unico
- Xtreme Plus
- Xplor Action
Over-and-Under Shotguns
- SO4, SO5, and SO6 These premium models are celebrated for their craftsmanship and longevity, often lasting beyond 100,000 shots with proper care.
- Silver Pigeon A perfect blend of performance and elegance, this double-barrel shotgun is a favorite among hunters and sports shooters.
- DT-10 Produced between 2000 and 2014, this over-and-under shotgun is known for its detachable trigger and high performance in competitive shooting.
- DT-11 An exclusive upgrade to the DT-10, featuring a reliable cross-bolt locking system, a durable finish, and interchangeable barrel locking shoulders.
- 692 A 12-gauge shotgun offering adjustable triggers and various configurations for competitive shooting.
Pump-Action and Specialty Shotguns
- LTLX7000 An experimental pump-action shotgun designed as a non-lethal weapon.
- 470 Silver Hawk A beautifully engineered 12-gauge shotgun with a polished finish and reliable performance.
- RS 202-M2 A versatile 12-gauge shotgun capable of handling 2.75-inch and 3-inch Magnum shells.
Classic and Unique Models
- UGB25 Xcel A 12-gauge shotgun known for its recoil-absorbing design and consistent performance.
- Ultraleggero Introduced in 2021, this steel-framed shotgun is seen as a successor to the discontinued Ultralight model.
- 682 Series First produced in 1984, this model is known by various names, including 682 Gold, 682 Gold E, and S682.
- Xtrema and Xtrema 2 Engineered for durability and ballistic performance. The Xtrema 2 (A391-Xtrema2) is especially popular among hunters and target shooters.
Carbines and Rifles
Battle Rifles
- BM-59 Introduced in 1959, this automatic battle rifle is chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO. It was primarily designed for military forces but also has civilian variants.
- Military Variants: Mark I, Mark II, Mark III, and Mark IV.
- Civilian Versions: BM62 and BM69, with modifications for non-military use.
Sporting Rifles
- 501 A sniper rifle designed for military forces and introduced in 1985. It is chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO and was quickly adopted by the Italian military and other European countries.
Modern Carbines
- Rx4 Storm A semi-automatic carbine in production since 2005. It is chambered for 5.56x45mm NATO and .223 Remington cartridges, though tests have been conducted with alternative calibers. The rifle includes iron sights and is praised for its adaptability.
- Cx4 Storm A versatile pistol-caliber carbine using various cartridges, including 9x19mm Parabellum, 9x21mm IMI, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP. It employs a straight blowback operation and has variants such as the Mx4 Storm, designed exclusively for military use.
Hunting Rifles
- BRX1 A cutting-edge hunting rifle featuring a linear reloading system and a reversible ambidextrous bolt. It showcases Beretta's latest innovations and is lauded for its efficiency and adaptability in modern hunting scenarios.
Assault Rifles
AR70/90
- Caliber: 5.56×45mm NATO.
- Features:
- Designed for the Italian Army as a standard-issue service rifle.
- Compatible with rifle grenades and equipped with grenade sights for enhanced functionality.
- Widely regarded as a reliable and robust platform for military operations.
AS70/90
- Caliber: 5.56×45mm NATO.
- Features:
- A lighter variant of the AR70/90 with similar design principles.
- Capable of firing 800 rounds per minute, optimized for high-intensity combat scenarios.
- Limited production, not available for civilian markets.
AR-70/223
- Caliber: 5.56×45mm NATO.
- Features:
- One of Beretta’s earliest assault rifle designs, paving the way for later models.
- Essentially a precursor to the AR70/90, with updated features to improve performance and usability.
ARX 160
- Caliber: 5.56×45mm NATO.
- Features:
- Introduced in 2008, this modular rifle was developed as a cutting-edge solution for the Italian military.
- Known for its adaptability, including quick barrel change capabilities and compatibility with multiple calibers.
- Became a staple in modern military arsenals thanks to its advanced design and functionality.
ARX 200
- Caliber: 7.62×51mm NATO.
- Features:
- Introduced in 2015 as a modular rifle for use in both tactical and combat roles.
- Offers enhanced power and range compared to the ARX 160.
- Its robust design and versatility have made it a popular choice for specialized military applications.
Submachine Guns
Model 1918
- Caliber: Varied; chambered for multiple types over its service life.
- Features:
- Among the first self-loading carbines introduced during World War I.
- Known for its simplicity and effectiveness.
- Variants include Mod.1918/30 and MIDA, widely used by military forces globally.
Model 38
- Caliber: 9x19mm M1938.
- Features:
- Designed for the Royal Italian Army during World War II.
- Renowned for reliability and precision.
- Extensive series of variants:
- 1938A, 1938/42, 1938/43, 1938/44.
- Special models like 1938/44 Special Model 1 and various 1938/49 iterations.
- Later versions became staple firearms for post-war military forces.
Model 3
- Caliber: Similar to the Model 38.
- Features:
- Designed as an incremental improvement to the 1938/42 variant.
- Introduced after World War II with minimal upgrades.
- Retained the Model 38’s legacy but lacked significant innovation.
M12
- Caliber: 9x19mm Parabellum.
- Features:
- A modernized submachine gun introduced post-World War II.
- Produced under license in multiple countries.
- Still actively used by military and law enforcement agencies worldwide.
PMX
- Caliber: 9x19mm Parabellum.
- Features:
- Designed in the early 2010s as a modern replacement for the M12.
- Over 8,500 units deployed globally.
- Adopted by the Italian government in 2017 as a successor to older models.
Cx4 Storm Variant
- Caliber: 9x19mm Parabellum, with adaptability for other calibers.
- Features:
- Pistol-caliber carbine modified for submachine gun roles.
- Known for its blowback action and modular design.
Additional Development
GLX-160
- Not a submachine gun, but an accessory grenade launcher developed by Beretta.
- Designed to integrate with the ARX 160, enhancing tactical flexibility.
Beretta’s submachine gun lineup demonstrates its focus on producing reliable, adaptable, and high-performance firearms. While many of its earlier models laid the groundwork for submachine gun design, newer entries like the PMX show the company’s ongoing commitment to modernization and innovation