Looking at a Beretta 92FSand 92A1

Raise · January 16, 2013, 10:20 AM

I have owned a few Glocks and S&W M&Ps in the past 10 years. Both have proven to be work horses and great for carrying. However, I have always had my eye on the Beretta 92 series. They have always been a bit more expensive, so I've just thrown it on the back burner. Well I started looking at em the other day. The 92fs is going for $600-650 around here. And I hadn't even looked at the 92A1 until it was mistakenly handed to me by the rep at my local FFL. I asked to see the 92fs he had and it turns out its a 92A1. Right off the bat, I could see that it was a step above the 92fs. So I did some research an it looks like the differences are the picatinny rail, captive guide rid/spring, recoil buffer, front dovetail site, inclusion of 3 17 round mags, polymer trigger and mag release. I dont think this will be a carry gun, as my smaller and lighter polymer pieces excel at that. Anyway, the price on it is 639 and its new. I was just wondering if you all could give me your opinions on this. Anyone who has a 92fs or 92A1 please chime in. Does this seem like a decent price for the A1 or should I save my money and get the 92fs?

Fishbed77 · January 16, 2013, 12:12 PM

It's time for Shipwreck to step in with his "Wheel O' Berettas!"

iraiam · January 16, 2013, 12:55 PM

I have both a 92FS and M9A1, I consider them the epitome of service pistols. The M9 I think is almost the same as the 92A1, the M9 has a single dot rear sight and stamped M9A1, not sure what any other differences might be.

The M9 is the only recent-ish purchase, I paid $625 for it in 2011

redfisher43 · January 16, 2013, 01:29 PM

I recently paid $606 plus tax for the 92A1. For me, it's an upgrade over my 92FS's, but shooting it vs. the 92fs is no appreciable difference.

.32acp · January 16, 2013, 04:47 PM

Absolutely love my M9.

It is possible to CC the 92, but it is large. Personally I open carry mine.

Raise · January 17, 2013, 07:44 PM

Well fellas it looks like ill be picking up my new 92A1 tonight. I will post some pics and thoughts later. Thanks for the help and please keep the posts coming

9mm · January 17, 2013, 08:00 PM

Quote:

Looking at a Beretta 92FSand

I thought this thread was about a new Beretta 92, in tan model (sand)

Raise · January 18, 2013, 12:20 PM

Nope. Black as they come

adamc · January 18, 2013, 10:01 PM

I picked up my first Beretta last week.....92FS Inox
plan to go to the range on monday

1goodshot · January 18, 2013, 10:14 PM

Your going to like that gun, I have one at Buds gun shop that Im waiting to ship. The wait is killing me. I have an M9 also and its a great gun.

jimbob24 · January 31, 2013, 01:35 AM

I own the 92A1 and paid $599 plus tax. I absolutely love it and wouldn't let it go. I had problems with the factory grease at first though, so clean it first! I can't stress that enough!
Best gun I've ever owned, enjoy! Be sure to include some pics and your personal range report!

Dangerwing · January 31, 2013, 02:34 AM

I can't say for sure about the civilian versions, but the military M9 has a fixed rear sight while the M9A1 has a drift adjustable rear sight. The M9 I carried in Iraq shot a good 12 inches to the left at 25 feet. Nothing a little work with a hand file couldn't fix though.

Madcap_Magician · January 31, 2013, 09:29 AM

The M9A1 also has a fixed front sight. IIRC that and the original trigger guard are the only differences between it and the 92A1.

I got a 92A1 from Bud's for $571 back in December... and Beretta was running a $50 mail-in rebate all last year, so my end price (assuming my rebate coupon doesn't get lost) was $521.

The 92A1 is a fine pistol... it has three of the coated, sand-resistant mags, which by itself is a reason enough to choose it. The dovetailed sights are not as big of a deal as I thought, because since most Beretta 92 pistols have a fixed front sight, aftermarket sights for them are actually pretty scarce.

Tooltech will drill out your sights and install tritium, though, and Trijicon has a three-dot set.

goingape · April 16, 2013, 10:04 AM

I couldnt decide between the 92A1 and M9a1 so I got them both. The problem is, Finding holsters for the A1 models. I searched forums and checked out the sites that people suggested. I still dont regret getting them, being left handed, I am used to things being hard to find. This day and age though, I figured it would be a little easier to find what i need. Good luck with the 92A1 and whats up with 9mm ammo being hard to find?

Pilot · April 16, 2013, 10:07 AM

Italian made, new in box, Beretta 92FS's are available for $550 at gun shops in my area. I think that is a pretty good deal for a solid, well made, reliable pistol.

Homerboy · April 16, 2013, 09:45 PM

I don't consider the 92A1 a step up at all. The 3 "sand resistant mags" are kind of useless. Not a lot of sand where I live. And extra mags can be found for less than 25 bucks. Recoil buffer? For a 9MM? What's the point? Captive guide rod and spring is a turn off for me. If you want to replace the recoil spring, you gotta buy the whole unit. Rounded trigger guard on a Beretta 92 just looks "wrong" to me. Makes buying holsters harder. Dovetailed front sight is an improvement, though.

I would have gotten a regular 92.

plouffedaddy · April 16, 2013, 10:14 PM

Quote:

It's time for Shipwreck to step in with his "Wheel O' Berettas!"

I've got one even Shipwreck might not have

Dragline45 · April 16, 2013, 10:14 PM

I just picked up a Beretta M9A1 a couple weeks ago and couldn't be happier other than scratches on the pistol from the factory. I would be more upset about it but this gun is going to see alot of use and holster wear so its no big deal. Anyways, I consider the M9A1 a better choice over the 92A1 based solely on holster selection. All Beretta Vertec holsters fit the M9A1, almost no holsters fit the 92A1.

Dragline45 · April 16, 2013, 10:16 PM

plouffedaddy, I have never seen that exact model before. It looks like an M9A1 rail on a stainless compact version which leads me to believe that it is an M9A1 compact?

Pilot · April 17, 2013, 09:48 AM

Beretta released the INOX 92FS Compact L on M9A1 compact frame late last year. They are currently being sold by Beretta. I just picked one up a little while ago to go with my full size 92FS. It shoots just as well as it's big brother which is great. Yes, they are large for a compact, but if you want to carry a 92 it is a good option. It is also a good all around range, and home defense pistol, and some like the rail for this reason. I am not a fan of the railed guns, but don't mind it on this one.

Beretta has indicated they will come out with the Bruniton finished 92FS Compact L this summer.

Homerboy · April 17, 2013, 06:27 PM

Beretta KILLS the INOX versions by using the black controls. I hate the two tone look.

I've owned a all stainless INOX 92, a Centurion, a 92FS, and now am left with a regular M9 and a Brunition 92FS Vertec. Gotta admit, the grip on the Vertec beats the 92FS, and I'm a big guy with big hands.

Pilot · April 17, 2013, 06:50 PM

I actually prefer the contrasting black parts on the INOX Compact. It's all in what you like.

ranchito457 · April 17, 2013, 08:53 PM

Nice!!!!!!!!!!

Dragline45 · April 17, 2013, 08:56 PM

Quote:

Beretta KILLS the INOX versions by using the black controls. I hate the two tone look.

I've owned a all stainless INOX 92, a Centurion, a 92FS, and now am left with a regular M9 and a Brunition 92FS Vertec. Gotta admit, the grip on the Vertec beats the 92FS, and I'm a big guy with big hands.

I agree with Pilot I think the contrast of the black controls look better than if they were all the same color. Also I don't think Beretta ever made an all stainless gun.

plouffedaddy · April 18, 2013, 01:40 AM

plouffedaddy, I have never seen that exact model before. It looks like an M9A1 rail on a stainless compact version which leads me to believe that it is an M9A1 compact?

From what I understand it's never been released here before. M9A1 Compact Inox L. "L" for light rail.

January 16, 2013, 10:20 AM	#1
Raise Member Join Date: June 5, 2009 Location: Virginia Beach, VA Posts: 49	Looking at a Beretta 92FSand 92A1 I have owned a few Glocks and S&W M&Ps in the past 10 years. Both have proven to be work horses and great for carrying. However, I have always had my eye on the Beretta 92 series. They have always been a bit more expensive, so I've just thrown it on the back burner. Well I started looking at em the other day. The 92fs is going for $600-650 around here. And I hadn't even looked at the 92A1 until it was mistakenly handed to me by the rep at my local FFL. I asked to see the 92fs he had and it turns out its a 92A1. Right off the bat, I could see that it was a step above the 92fs. So I did some research an it looks like the differences are the picatinny rail, captive guide rid/spring, recoil buffer, front dovetail site, inclusion of 3 17 round mags, polymer trigger and mag release. I dont think this will be a carry gun, as my smaller and lighter polymer pieces excel at that. Anyway, the price on it is 639 and its new. I was just wondering if you all could give me your opinions on this. Anyone who has a 92fs or 92A1 please chime in. Does this seem like a decent price for the A1 or should I save my money and get the 92fs? __________________ Rock Island 1911 S&W 686 .357M Glock 19 RIP

January 16, 2013, 12:55 PM	#3
iraiam Senior Member Join Date: September 6, 2012 Location: Lakewood, CO Posts: 401	I have both a 92FS and M9A1, I consider them the epitome of service pistols. The M9 I think is almost the same as the 92A1, the M9 has a single dot rear sight and stamped M9A1, not sure what any other differences might be. The M9 is the only recent-ish purchase, I paid $625 for it in 2011 __________________ NRA Lifetime Member Since 1999 "I ask, sir, what is the militia? It is the whole people except for a few public officials." George Mason Last edited by iraiam; January 16, 2013 at 01:00 PM.

January 16, 2013, 01:29 PM	#4
redfisher43 Member Join Date: December 3, 2006 Location: Texas Posts: 34	92A1 I recently paid $606 plus tax for the 92A1. For me, it's an upgrade over my 92FS's, but shooting it vs. the 92fs is no appreciable difference. __________________ Redfisher43

January 17, 2013, 07:44 PM	#6
Raise Member Join Date: June 5, 2009 Location: Virginia Beach, VA Posts: 49	Well fellas it looks like ill be picking up my new 92A1 tonight. I will post some pics and thoughts later. Thanks for the help and please keep the posts coming __________________ Rock Island 1911 S&W 686 .357M Glock 19 RIP

January 18, 2013, 12:20 PM	#8
Raise Member Join Date: June 5, 2009 Location: Virginia Beach, VA Posts: 49	Nope. Black as they come __________________ Rock Island 1911 S&W 686 .357M Glock 19 RIP

January 16, 2013, 12:12 PM	#2
Fishbed77 Senior Member Join Date: November 23, 2010 Posts: 1,471	It's time for Shipwreck to step in with his "Wheel O' Berettas!"

January 16, 2013, 04:47 PM	#5
.32acp Junior Member Join Date: January 7, 2013 Location: Santa Fe, NM Posts: 7	Absolutely love my M9. It is possible to CC the 92, but it is large. Personally I open carry mine.

January 18, 2013, 10:01 PM	#9
adamc Senior Member Join Date: January 3, 2013 Location: Stalingrad Connecticut Posts: 211	I picked up my first Beretta last week.....92FS Inox plan to go to the range on monday

January 18, 2013, 10:14 PM	#10
1goodshot Senior Member Join Date: November 11, 2001 Location: chandler,az Posts: 844	Your going to like that gun, I have one at Buds gun shop that Im waiting to ship. The wait is killing me. I have an M9 also and its a great gun.

January 31, 2013, 01:35 AM	#11
jimbob24 Member Join Date: January 30, 2013 Location: vt Posts: 21	I own the 92A1 and paid $599 plus tax. I absolutely love it and wouldn't let it go. I had problems with the factory grease at first though, so clean it first! I can't stress that enough! Best gun I've ever owned, enjoy! Be sure to include some pics and your personal range report!

January 31, 2013, 02:34 AM	#12
Dangerwing Senior Member Join Date: April 9, 2007 Location: South Dakota Posts: 235	I can't say for sure about the civilian versions, but the military M9 has a fixed rear sight while the M9A1 has a drift adjustable rear sight. The M9 I carried in Iraq shot a good 12 inches to the left at 25 feet. Nothing a little work with a hand file couldn't fix though. __________________ Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms should be an aisle at Wal-Mart, not a government agency! Only faithful men teach their wives to shoot.

January 31, 2013, 09:29 AM	#13
Madcap_Magician Senior Member Join Date: August 13, 2009 Location: Rochester, MN Posts: 412	The M9A1 also has a fixed front sight. IIRC that and the original trigger guard are the only differences between it and the 92A1. I got a 92A1 from Bud's for $571 back in December... and Beretta was running a $50 mail-in rebate all last year, so my end price (assuming my rebate coupon doesn't get lost) was $521. The 92A1 is a fine pistol... it has three of the coated, sand-resistant mags, which by itself is a reason enough to choose it. The dovetailed sights are not as big of a deal as I thought, because since most Beretta 92 pistols have a fixed front sight, aftermarket sights for them are actually pretty scarce. Tooltech will drill out your sights and install tritium, though, and Trijicon has a three-dot set.

April 16, 2013, 10:04 AM	#14
goingape Member Join Date: October 11, 2011 Location: NJ Posts: 34	Great Gun I couldnt decide between the 92A1 and M9a1 so I got them both. The problem is, Finding holsters for the A1 models. I searched forums and checked out the sites that people suggested. I still dont regret getting them, being left handed, I am used to things being hard to find. This day and age though, I figured it would be a little easier to find what i need. Good luck with the 92A1 and whats up with 9mm ammo being hard to find? __________________ "Energy cannot be created or destroyed, it only changes states" Albert Einstein

April 16, 2013, 10:07 AM	#15
Pilot Senior Member Join Date: December 21, 2000 Posts: 3,155	Italian made, new in box, Beretta 92FS's are available for $550 at gun shops in my area. I think that is a pretty good deal for a solid, well made, reliable pistol. __________________ Pilot

April 16, 2013, 09:45 PM	#16
Homerboy Senior Member Join Date: June 16, 2004 Location: Pennsylvania Posts: 880	I don't consider the 92A1 a step up at all. The 3 "sand resistant mags" are kind of useless. Not a lot of sand where I live. And extra mags can be found for less than 25 bucks. Recoil buffer? For a 9MM? What's the point? Captive guide rod and spring is a turn off for me. If you want to replace the recoil spring, you gotta buy the whole unit. Rounded trigger guard on a Beretta 92 just looks "wrong" to me. Makes buying holsters harder. Dovetailed front sight is an improvement, though. I would have gotten a regular 92.

April 16, 2013, 10:14 PM	#18
Dragline45 Senior Member Join Date: November 30, 2010 Posts: 1,380	I just picked up a Beretta M9A1 a couple weeks ago and couldn't be happier other than scratches on the pistol from the factory. I would be more upset about it but this gun is going to see alot of use and holster wear so its no big deal. Anyways, I consider the M9A1 a better choice over the 92A1 based solely on holster selection. All Beretta Vertec holsters fit the M9A1, almost no holsters fit the 92A1.

April 16, 2013, 10:16 PM	#19
Dragline45 Senior Member Join Date: November 30, 2010 Posts: 1,380	plouffedaddy, I have never seen that exact model before. It looks like an M9A1 rail on a stainless compact version which leads me to believe that it is an M9A1 compact?

April 17, 2013, 09:48 AM	#20
Pilot Senior Member Join Date: December 21, 2000 Posts: 3,155	Beretta released the INOX 92FS Compact L on M9A1 compact frame late last year. They are currently being sold by Beretta. I just picked one up a little while ago to go with my full size 92FS. It shoots just as well as it's big brother which is great. Yes, they are large for a compact, but if you want to carry a 92 it is a good option. It is also a good all around range, and home defense pistol, and some like the rail for this reason. I am not a fan of the railed guns, but don't mind it on this one. Beretta has indicated they will come out with the Bruniton finished 92FS Compact L this summer. __________________ Pilot

April 17, 2013, 06:27 PM	#21
Homerboy Senior Member Join Date: June 16, 2004 Location: Pennsylvania Posts: 880	Beretta KILLS the INOX versions by using the black controls. I hate the two tone look. I've owned a all stainless INOX 92, a Centurion, a 92FS, and now am left with a regular M9 and a Brunition 92FS Vertec. Gotta admit, the grip on the Vertec beats the 92FS, and I'm a big guy with big hands.

April 17, 2013, 06:50 PM	#22
Pilot Senior Member Join Date: December 21, 2000 Posts: 3,155	I actually prefer the contrasting black parts on the INOX Compact. It's all in what you like. __________________ Pilot

April 17, 2013, 08:53 PM	#23
ranchito457 Member Join Date: April 2, 2013 Posts: 19	Nice!!!!!!!!!!

April 18, 2013, 01:40 AM	#25
plouffedaddy Senior Member Join Date: May 13, 2011 Location: Carolina Posts: 2,959	plouffedaddy, I have never seen that exact model before. It looks like an M9A1 rail on a stainless compact version which leads me to believe that it is an M9A1 compact? From what I understand it's never been released here before. M9A1 Compact Inox L. "L" for light rail. __________________ Mrgunsngear's Youtube Channel Certified Glock Armorer