Beretta 84/85

[cdislicker]

First things first ... I'm new to both handguns and THR.

I just purchased a Beretta 84F (my first pistol). I was originally drawn to the Beretta 92 and Walter P99, as both fit my hand nicely. Later I found both to be unwieldy (very weak wrists) and painful (carpal tunnel). In contrast, the 84 was controlable and enjoyable. I was wondering what kind of experiences others have had with this pistol (both good and bad) and would greatly appreciate any pointers on ammo, maintenece, cleaning, technique, &c, that you have to share.

-Christian

"I'm just two steps left of liberal."

 

[1911Tuner]

Little Berettas

Howdy cdislicker,

I think you'll be pleased with either one. I've owned both at one time
or another,and have never been disappointed. They're both super
little pistols, and though I'm no fan of the .380 cartridge, if I were to
be limited TO that cartridge, the Beretta M-84 would be my hands-down
choice for the launching pad, with the 85 runnin' a close second.

The little Browning BDA is a near-twin to the M-84. The main differences
are in the hammer designs and the Browning uses a slide-mounted safety/decocker, while the 84/85 has the frame-mounted safety...the way
it should be, IMHO.

The ones that I've owned will gobble up practically any ammunition that's
out there. Hollowpoints are no problem.

Congrats are in order!

Cheers!
Tuner

 

[berettaman]

Good choice.All the reliabiliy of a Beretta 92 series in a small(er)package.I've owned the 84F and just loved the feel in my hands.Alot of folks think it's too big for a 380.I traded off my 84F for the earlier 84BB model which can be carried cocked and locked.Still you've got a great little accurate shootin' iron there.Congrats!!

 

[Alan Fud]

Excellent gun! The caliber is so-so but the gun itself is excellent and if you can put the bullets where they are suppose to go, it beats missing with a larger caliber.

 

[MikeJ]

First of all, let me welcome you to THR and the wonderful world of guns. You've got a great gun there. Although I don't own one, I do have the Browning BDA version, I have shot them and find them to be a quality piece as are most of Beretta's products. As far as cleaning and maintenance are concerned, the manual that I assume came with the gun will describe the takedown procedure which is very simple. I use Hoppe's Semi Auto cleaner and Break Free lubricant for my cleaning supplies. There are many product on the market and others I'm sure will voice their opinions as to which they think are best. You didn't say whether the gun is for defensive purposes or strictly recreational shooting. If you are going to use it for defense I recommend a good hollowpoint round, such as the Speer Gold Dot or Remington Golden Saber. Best of luck and enjoy, Mike

 

[cdislicker]

First off, I'd like to thank you for the support and warm welcome.

I appreciate the tips on ammunition as well as your high regard for the 84. The take down procedure was a breeze, and took me all of 15 minutes to master. As for use, this will be both my primary defensive *and* recreational weapon, although I may pick up a .22 for plinking in the near future.

I have seen 13rd magazines for sale, and am tempted to acquire some ... will I have any issues using pre-ban mags in a '03 manufacture pistol? Also, who (besides Beretta) makes a good high-quality magazine (and who should I avoid)?

-Christian

"I'm just two steps left of liberal."

 

[IMtheNRA]

You should have no problem with the pre-ban mags for the Beretta or the Browning BDA (same frame, different slide, made by Beretta). These guns are manufactured the same way they were before the ban, only the new magazines are redesigned to hold fewer rounds.

I would never go with an after-market mag for this gun. Stick with the original. Congratulations on a fine pistol - have fun!

 

[Peter M. Eick]

They are very good guns and have nice ergonomics. I have an 84 and trust it implicitly. The gun is 100% reliable, will take some of the worst reloads I have ever made. It is simple to break down, easy to clean, and lots of shots.

My OPINION is that anyone who does not think much of the 380 auto has not been shot 14 times with it. I don't care if I am using FMJ's or JHP's, that has GOT to HURT!

 

[cdislicker]

It's good to hear I won't have any problems with the 13 rounders.

OT: And to think, just two months ago I was a staunch "anti" ...

-Christian

"I'm just two steps left of liberal."

 

[Peter M. Eick]

Mags are not hard to find, but try to get Mecgar or factory original 13 rnders. The aftermarket ones tend to break the tab at the top of the magazine and then you get cut when you load them. It is also very thin metal so it is hard to weld. Ask me how I know this......


I found 13 rnders on the net doing a few google searches. They show up at cdnn periodically. I bought 5 of them when I did it and they are all mecgar. Not a lick of trouble with them.

 

[keederdag]

Welcome to THR mon

FYI; Beretta does make a .22 that is quite similar to the gun you currently have; not sure what model it is, but I have shot them and they are quite nice. I myself have and old Beretta 70 Jaguar .22lr, and it is extrodinairily accurate as well as reliable. It would be a good thing to have basically the same pistol in .22 for practice; kinda goes well with the KISS recomendation.

Enjoy yourself and safe shooting.