Sitting just under the $1,000 threshold are two pistols from juggernaut companies with long histories of producing top-shelf firearms for civilian, military and law enforcement use. The first is the full-sized Beretta 92X ($899), an evolutionary upgrade to the 92 series. The version we received had the decocker-only function, which I prefer instead of fumbling with a slide-mounted safety.
A traditional DA/SA pistol, the 92X incorporates a straight backstrap and the company’s slimmer Vertec-style grip panels for better ergonomics and easier handling, especially for shooters with smaller hands. For those who prefer the old-school feel, a wraparound grip is shipped with the 92X as well.
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The 92X closely resembles Beretta’s M9A3 design, which itself was an evolutionary update with dovetailed sights, a Picatinny rail, an oversized mag release, checkered rather than serrated straps and an updated frame. The main difference between the two is the lack of a threaded barrel on the 92X, standard three-dot sights (with a high-visibility orange dot up front) and all-black appearance. The M9A3 sports a Flat Dark Earth finish. Everything else is what you already know and love about the Beretta 92 series, from the sleek lines to the buttery-smooth slide action and that outstanding DA trigger. Out of the box, the DA trigger pull weighed 7.25 pounds on average while the SA pull came in at just 3.25 pounds. Even better, the silky trigger travel was exceptionally clean and crisp—just one of the reasons why the platform has so many ardent fans.
Starting alphabetically, the Beretta 92X had a great grip angle for faster targeting. The trigger was excellent for a duty or service pistol. The decocker was much appreciated over a slide-mounted safety, and everyone seemed to like the classic styling, smooth action and accuracy. On the other hand, the rear sight notched seemed a bit too large, the magazine lips had sharp angles and were difficult to load, and the grip screws walked out while shooting.
