Pros and cons of Beretta compact 40's etc.

[nrb]

I am looking for comments and opinions of the various Beretta compact and subcompact pistols. My preference is for a 40SW but I am open for 9mm opinions also.
best,            nrb

[Smilin' Jack]

I have a like new Beretta 92SB Compact M (single stack mag) in 9mm that I regard as a prized possession, that shoots and functions flawlessly.  It seems that many are often skeptical or critical of the S&W .40 caliber cartridge compared to the .45 acp. and even the 9 mm.  I, however, very much like the .40 round and have a Hi-Power and a CZ 40-P in that chambering and both pistols are accurate, powerful, dependable, comfortable, and their recoil- I consider, to be light.

I have fired a Beretta Cougar 40 cal. (if the Cougar can be considered a compact)- and have found that pistol to have all same positive characteristics.  I have long hoped to own a Cougar but now may be more tempted by the Beretta PX4 Storm Pistol (available in 9mm, 40 cal, and 45 acp) which just might be something like a polymer frame reincarnation of the discontinued Cougar.  I have heard that the PX4 will also be available in a sub-compact version.  I like my 9mm's- but if I had to choose only one it would be a .40.   

[Sir Knight]

The 96D Compact is a really nice gun. The only thing I dislike about it is the squared trigger guard but that's standard on all 92/96 models.

[Smilin' Jack]

Sir Knight:

I also am not enamoured with the 'square' trigger guards.  My only pistols that do not have this feature are my Beretta 92SB, and my Fabrique National Hi-Power.  (Besides a German Luger and a 1911 A-1) 

[Sir Knight]

See the point on the trigger guard ...

... it causes problems with concealed carry unless the holster is specifically made for that mode and there are not many holsters built for it due to it being DAO and lacking a hammer (it has a hammer but the hammer is flushed/bobbed)l. Most generic holsters are built for a rounded trigger guard. It's especially a problem with belly bands -- which is how I carry most of the time during the warmer months.

If it wasn't for that, this would be my favorite CCW -- accurate, reliable, excellent trigger, good fit & finish, etc. I can't say enough good things about it EXCEPT for the squared off trigger guard.

[Smilin' Jack]

I appreciate that 'pic'- that is a 'sweet' gun. As to the square trigger guard- I get your 'point'.

My 92SB (which has a round trigger guard) Compact M-  'M' designating a single stack magazine also has what appears on your model -a curved front-strap and finger extension floor plate on the magazine  which I feel gives these pistols  'classic lines'.

I also revere the CZ pistols, and I have a CZ 40-P which I highly regard, and am now awaiting shipment from  CDNN (a wholesale liquidator that will sell to the public via shipment to an FFL licensed gun dealer, pawn-broker, you pay their transfer fee)-  a CZ 40-B pistol (price  $289) which is the near identical CZ issue of the Colt Z-40 (collector value $850).  Both of these excellent pistols are derived from an aborted joint Colt/CZ venture some years ago.

I mention the CZ 40-B on this thread- as its frame & grip is of a Colt-like 1911 style, having a 'round 'trigger guard, and is chambered for the .40 S&W Caliber.  The CZ 40-B, I feel , is comparable and probably smaller than a 92/96 Beretta Compact. And is a quality, dependable, and accurate pistol regardless of it's low price.