Beretta
Beretta: In Depth
Beretta, founded in 1526, is a world-renowned brand in the firearms industry. Headquartered in Gardone Val Trompia, Italy, Beretta is one of the oldest active manufacturers, boasting nearly five centuries of experience. The company is celebrated for its premium firearms, serving military, law enforcement, and civilian markets.
Beretta is known for its diverse range of firearms models, catering to a wide variety of shooting needs, including hunting, sport shooting, and self-defense. Their product line includes pistols, rifles, and shotguns, each crafted with precision and reliability in mind. Popular pistol models include the Beretta 92 and the Px4 Storm, known for their durability and accuracy. For rifle enthusiasts, Beretta offers the ARX160, a versatile assault rifle, and the BRX1, a hunting rifle designed for precision and performance. Shotgun users have highly regarded options like the Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon, an over-under shotgun praised for its craftsmanship and effectiveness in the field.
One of Beretta's notable contributions to the firearms industry is their commitment to innovation and quality control. Every firearm is manufactured using advanced technology and rigorous testing procedures to ensure consistent performance and safety. This dedication to excellence has made Beretta a trusted name among shooters worldwide.
Beretta's reputation for durability and accuracy is reflected in their wide range of firearms, making them a preferred choice for many shooting enthusiasts. Whether you're heading to the range, out hunting, or ensuring personal defense, Beretta firearms provide the reliability and performance you need to succeed. With centuries of expertise, Beretta continues to lead the industry, setting standards for quality and innovation.
Beretta History
Beretta, one of the oldest firearm manufacturers in the world, was founded in 1526 by Bartolomeo Beretta in Gardone Val Trompia, Italy. This valley, known for its iron deposits, provided an ideal location for Beretta's early production of arquebus barrels, an early type of firearm. Over the centuries, Beretta has evolved into a leading name in the firearms industry, known for its quality and innovation.
The company's history is marked by significant milestones and changes. Initially, Beretta focused on crafting high-quality barrels for the firearms of the time. As firearms technology progressed, Beretta expanded its product range to include complete firearms. This evolution allowed Beretta to establish itself as a comprehensive supplier for military and law enforcement agencies around the world.
In the 1970s, Beretta gained international recognition with the introduction of its semi-automatic pistols. The Beretta 92 series, in particular, became iconic when it was adopted by the United States Armed Forces in 1985 as the M9 sidearm.
Beretta's contributions to firearms technology are numerous. The company has developed notable products such as the PX4 Storm series of pistols, the A300 Outlander shotgun, and the 92 series of semi-automatic pistols. Beretta's innovative approach extends to various firearm types, including handguns , shotguns , and rifles , catering to hunters, sport shooters, and tactical users.
Beretta's firearms are trusted by both civilian shooters and professional users. Their products are used by law enforcement agencies worldwide, including elite units like the U.S. Navy SEALs and various European special forces. This widespread use underscores the reliability and performance of Beretta's offerings.
The company's commitment to quality is evident in their continuous adoption of new materials and manufacturing techniques. For instance, Beretta has embraced polymer frames for pistols and advanced machining processes for barrels, ensuring precision and durability. These advancements have kept Beretta at the forefront of the firearms industry for nearly five centuries.
Today, Beretta continues to produce a diverse range of firearms, combining centuries-old craftsmanship with state-of-the-art technology. Their products are renowned for their reliability, accuracy, and performance, solidifying Beretta's status as a trusted name in the world of shooting sports and professional use.
Beretta Products
Pistols
90 Series
- Use Case: The 90 Series is perfect for law enforcement, military use, and civilian self-defense. Renowned for its accuracy and durability, this series includes models like the Beretta 92FS and the M9, which is the standard-issue pistol for the U.S. military.
- Unique Features: This series features an open-slide design for reliability, a double/single action system, and an ergonomic grip. The pistols in this series are known for their ease of use and consistent performance under various conditions.
Px4 Storm
- Use Case: The Px4 Storm series is ideal for personal defense, home protection, and concealed carry. This series includes the Full Size, Compact, and Sub-Compact models, catering to different needs and preferences.
- Unique Features: The Px4 Storm features a rotating barrel design that reduces recoil, an interchangeable backstrap for a customizable fit, and a polymer frame that balances durability with light weight. These pistols are also equipped with an accessory rail for mounting tactical lights or lasers.
80 Series
- Use Case: The 80 Series is designed for personal defense and concealed carry, offering compact and easy-to-handle pistols. This series is perfect for those who prioritize portability without compromising on performance.
- Unique Features: Featuring a blowback operation, double/single action trigger, and a lightweight frame, the 80 Series pistols like the Cheetah are known for their ease of use and reliability. They also come with a manual safety and a decocker for added security.
APX Family
- Use Case: The APX Family is suitable for modern tactical use, personal defense, and duty carry. This series is designed for those who need a reliable and customizable pistol for various applications.
- Unique Features: The APX series boasts a modular frame, aggressive slide serrations for better grip, and interchangeable backstraps. Notable models include the APX Full Size, APX Centurion, and APX Compact, each offering different sizes and capacities for various needs.
Bobcat Family
- Use Case: The Bobcat Family is ideal for deep concealment and as a backup weapon. These compact pistols are perfect for those needing a discreet yet effective self-defense option.
- Unique Features: Featuring a tip-up barrel for easy loading and unloading, the Bobcat 21A is known for its compact size, reliability, and ease of use. Its lightweight design makes it a great choice for concealed carry.
Tomcat Family
- Use Case: The Tomcat Family is designed for concealed carry and personal defense, offering slightly larger options than the Bobcat while remaining compact and easy to carry.
- Unique Features: The Tomcat 3032 features a tip-up barrel, a robust design, and a comfortable grip . It is known for its ease of operation, making it a practical choice for those looking for a reliable and concealable self-defense pistol.
Rifles
BRX Family
- Use Case: The BRX Family is designed for big game hunting, offering precision and power needed in the field. These rifles are perfect for hunters who require accuracy and reliability.
- Unique Features: The BRX1 offers customizable options, a cold hammer-forged barrel for enhanced accuracy, and a smooth bolt action. These rifles are built for durability and performance in challenging hunting conditions.
PMXs Family
- Use Case: The PMXs Family is designed for tactical applications and personal defense. These submachine guns are built for close-quarters combat, providing a high rate of fire and reliable performance. They are suitable for law enforcement, military personnel, and individuals requiring a compact and powerful defensive weapon. The PMXs series is also ideal for tactical training and operations where maneuverability and rapid response are critical.
- Unique Features: The PMXs series offers a compact design, high rate of fire, and versatility for various tactical scenarios. These submachine guns are built for reliability and ease of use, featuring lightweight construction, modular components, and advanced sighting systems, making them suitable for close-quarters combat and personal protection.
Shotguns
A300 Family
- Use Case: The A300 Family is versatile, suitable for hunting and sport shooting. These shotguns are perfect for those who need a reliable firearm for various types of game and shooting sports.
- Unique Features: The A300 Outlander features a gas-operated action, a self-cleaning piston, and a durable synthetic stock. It is known for its reliability, ease of maintenance, and affordability.
A400 Family
- Use Case: The A400 Family is ideal for waterfowl hunting, upland game, and sporting clays. These shotguns are designed for high performance in various shooting disciplines.
- Unique Features: The A400 Xtreme Plus includes the Blink gas system for faster follow-up shots, the Kick-Off system to reduce recoil, and an ergonomic design for comfort during extended use.
680 Family
- Use Case: The 680 Family is favored by competitive shooters and hunters. These over-and-under shotguns are perfect for clay target shooting and upland hunting.
- Unique Features: The Silver Pigeon I features a low-profile receiver, a balanced design, and elegant engravings. It is known for its reliability, smooth operation, and aesthetic appeal.
690 Family
- Use Case: The 690 Family builds on the success of the 680 series, designed for hunters seeking a reliable and beautiful shotgun. These shotguns are suitable for hunting and competitive shooting.
- Unique Features: The 690 Field I offers enhancements in design and performance, with a steelium barrel for improved shot pattern and a luxurious wood finish. It combines traditional craftsmanship with modern technology.
1301 Family
- Use Case: The 1301 Family is designed for home defense and law enforcement, offering tactical shotguns that provide fast cycling and reliability.
- Unique Features: The 1301 Tactical features an enlarged loading port, ghost ring sights, and a compact design for quick target acquisition and ease of handling in tight spaces. It is built for speed and reliability under pressure.
DT11 Family
- Use Case: The DT11 Family is Beretta’s premium line for competition shooting, specifically designed for serious clay shooters.
- Unique Features: The DT11 features a robust receiver, optimized balance, and a crisp trigger. It is known for its precise handling and superior performance, making it a top choice for professional shooters.
Where is Beretta Made?
Beretta, a renowned firearms manufacturer, produces its firearms primarily in Italy and the United States. The primary manufacturing facility is in Gardone Val Trompia, Brescia, Italy. This historic factory has been in operation since Beretta's founding in 1526, making it one of the oldest active factories in the world. The Gardone Val Trompia plant is the heart of Beretta’s production, employing over 1,000 workers. It is renowned for its advanced technology and stringent quality control measures, ensuring the production of high-quality pistols, rifles, and shotguns.
In the United States, Beretta's main manufacturing facility is located in Gallatin, Tennessee . This state-of-the-art plant opened in 2016, replacing the older facility in Accokeek, Maryland. The Gallatin plant focuses on producing firearms for the North American market and employs approximately 300 workers. The facility manufactures a wide range of Beretta products, including popular models such as the Beretta 92FS pistol and various hunting and sporting shotguns .
Despite the relocation of manufacturing to Tennessee, Beretta USA’s headquarters remains in Accokeek, Maryland. This site still handles administrative functions, gunsmithing, and repair operations. Beretta USA also operates a showcase store, the Beretta Gallery, in New York City, which features a selection of their high-end firearms and accessories.
Beretta Holding, the parent company, has additional international operations and collaborations. These include facilities in São Paulo, Brazil, where Beretta produced firearms under contract for the Brazilian government until the plant was sold to Taurus in 1980. In Istanbul, Turkey, Beretta collaborates with Stoeger Silah Sanayi to produce firearms. The company also has a presence in Moscow, Russia, through the distributor Russian Eagle, and in Chongqing, China, through the optical company WanCai.
Beretta's diverse production locations and collaborations ensure a global presence and distribution network. The company’s commitment to quality and innovation is reflected in its long history and continued success in the firearms industry.
In summary, Beretta's primary manufacturing locations are in Gardone Val Trompia, Italy, and Gallatin, Tennessee , USA. The company's operations are supported by additional facilities and partnerships around the world, maintaining Beretta's reputation for producing high-quality pistols, rifles, and shotguns.