A Guide to Beretta 96 Guns

The Beretta 96 is a full-size, DA/SA semi-automatic pistol chambered in .40 S&W, built on the proven Beretta 92 frame. Featuring a 4.9-inch barrel, 11–12 round capacity, aluminum alloy frame, and Bruniton-coated steel slide, it delivers excellent accuracy, reliability, and durability — especially in the updated 96A1 variant with its reinforced frame, recoil buffer, and accessory rail.

Photo credits.

Few handguns carry the lineage, craftsmanship, and proven performance of the Beretta 96. Introduced in 1990 as the .40 S&W evolution of the famous Beretta 92, the 96 was Beretta’s direct answer to the U.S. law enforcement market’s demand for more powerful semi-automatics during the 1990s.

Built on the same legendary open-slide platform that defined the M9 and 92FS, the Beretta 96 preserved the familiar handling, reliability, and Italian engineering excellence that made its predecessor one of the world’s most trusted service pistols.

Fabbrica d’Armi Pietro Beretta S.p.A., the oldest firearms manufacturer still in operation, designed the 96 to meet the rigorous needs of duty use and personal defense. The goal was simple: offer the same precision and ergonomics as the 92FS, but with greater terminal energy and stopping power from the .40 Smith & Wesson cartridge.

Over the years, the 96 series evolved into multiple variants — from the duty-ready 96A1 to the competition-tuned Elite II — each refining performance and durability for the modern shooter.

Beretta 96 Specifications

Item	Spec
Type	Full-size semi-automatic pistol
Caliber	.40 S&W
Action	Short-recoil, locking-block; double/single-action (DA/SA)
Barrel length	4.9 in (125 mm)
Overall length	8.5 in (217 mm)
Height	5.4 in (137 mm)
Width	1.5 in (38 mm)
Weight (unloaded)	34.3 oz (974 g)
Frame / Slide	Aluminum alloy frame; steel slide with Bruniton finish
Magazine capacity	11+1 or 12+1 rounds
Sights	Dovetailed 3-dot combat sights
Safety	Ambidextrous slide-mounted safety/decocker; firing pin block
Finish	Bruniton corrosion-resistant coating
Accessory rail	Standard Picatinny (96A1 variant)

Beretta 96 Design & Build Quality

The Beretta 96 carries the DNA of the 92 series — robust, precisely machined, and designed for longevity. Its aluminum alloy frame and steel slide balance strength with manageable weight, while the Bruniton finish offers durable corrosion resistance.

The full-size frame provides excellent control and a generous grip area, making recoil management far superior to many other .40-caliber service pistols. The ergonomics follow Beretta’s signature design language: a gently contoured grip, reversible magazine release, ambidextrous safety, and smooth double-action/single-action trigger system.

Early models of the 96 were essentially 92FS pistols re-chambered in .40 S&W. Later models, such as the 96A1 and Brigadier variants, incorporated heavier slides and a built-in recoil buffer to handle the increased chamber pressure of the .40 S&W cartridge more effectively. These upgrades significantly improved durability, addressing early concerns about accelerated slide wear.

The sights are standard 3-dot combat units, dovetailed for easy replacement or upgrades. The 96A1 introduced a full-length Picatinny rail under the dust cover — a welcome modern addition for mounting lights or lasers in duty or home-defense setups.

Beretta 96 Variants & Model Differences

Beretta produced several versions of the 96, each catering to different applications and user preferences:

• Beretta 96 (1990): The original model, closely mirroring the 92FS but chambered in .40 S&W. Known for its smooth cycling and reliable performance.

• 96D: A double-action-only (DAO) version designed for law enforcement agencies preferring a consistent trigger pull.

• 96 Brigadier: Features a heavier slide to absorb recoil and reduce stress on the locking block, improving longevity.

• 96G-SD: A decocker-only (Type G) variant with tactical enhancements like an extended barrel, accessory rail, and night sights.

• 96 Elite I & II: Premium variants tailored for competition and tactical use. These models included match-tuned triggers, stainless barrels, and straight backstraps for improved ergonomics.

• 96A1 (2010–present): The most refined version, featuring a reinforced frame, integrated recoil buffer system, captive recoil spring, and Picatinny rail. It’s the go-to modern option for shooters seeking a .40-caliber Beretta with enhanced durability.

What Are Beretta 96 Competitors?

Direct competitors to the Beretta 96, a full-size .40 S&W DA/SA pistol with 11-round capacity and 4.9-inch barrel, include the Glock 22, SIG Sauer P229, and FN FNX-40. These share full-size frames (around 8 inches long), high-capacity magazines, and striker-fired or DA actions designed for duty, home defense, or law enforcement with .40 S&W's balance of power and control.

Gun enthusiasts should care because these alternatives offer modern reliability, better parts availability, and features like rails or optics cuts amid declining .40 popularity, often at similar or lower prices than the Beretta.

The Glock 22 provides unmatched durability for range use, while the P229 matches ergonomics for smoother recoil, helping owners adapt to ammo shifts or prioritize holster compatibility.

Beretta 96 Performance

Accuracy

Accuracy has always been one of the Beretta 96’s strongest suits. Users report consistent sub-3-inch groups at 25 yards, which is exceptional for a .40-caliber duty pistol. The long sight radius, precision barrel lockup, and crisp single-action trigger contribute to its outstanding precision.

Shooters transitioning from the 92FS will find the 96 just as mechanically accurate, though mastering recoil control requires slightly more focus. The additional slide mass of the 96A1 smooths recoil noticeably, giving it a steadier, flatter shooting impulse than most polymer .40s.

Recoil & Handling

Recoil is sharper than its 9mm sibling but remains manageable thanks to the gun’s weight and Beretta’s locking-block design. The recoil impulse is more of a firm push than a snap, making double taps surprisingly controllable once the shooter adjusts to the caliber.

The 96A1’s internal recoil buffer and Brigadier slide further reduce muzzle rise, preserving sight alignment and follow-up shot speed. For a .40 S&W service pistol, few models match the Beretta 96’s balance between power and controllability.

Reliability

The Beretta 96 maintains the 92 series’ sterling reliability reputation. Properly maintained examples can easily exceed 10,000 rounds without major issues. Feed reliability is excellent across common .40 S&W loads, including hollow points and defensive-grade ammunition.

Early production 96s were occasionally prone to accelerated locking block wear when run hard with high-pressure loads, but Beretta addressed this in later iterations with reinforced locking blocks and slide modifications. The modern 96A1 can comfortably digest a wide range of ammunition, including +P loads.

Trigger Quality

The DA/SA trigger system mirrors the 92FS — long but smooth double-action pull followed by a short, clean single-action break. Reset is tactile and predictable. Many users choose to install Beretta’s “D spring” (originally from the DAO model) to lighten the double-action pull for improved precision.

Ammunition Compatibility

The Beretta 96 was engineered for reliability across the full spectrum of .40 S&W ammunition.

• Ideal Grain Weights: Performs best with 165–180 grain projectiles, providing a good balance between accuracy and recoil.

• Defensive Loads: Federal HST 180-grain and Speer Gold Dot 165-grain are often cited by owners as feeding perfectly with consistent expansion.

• Target Loads: Winchester White Box and Fiocchi 170-grain FMJs are popular for range practice due to their consistency and availability.

• +P Loads: While the 96A1 can safely handle limited +P ammunition, Beretta recommends standard-pressure rounds for routine use to minimize long-term wear.

Use Case Suitability

Concealed Carry

While possible, the Beretta 96’s full-size frame and 34-ounce weight make it less practical for concealed carry. It’s best suited for open or duty carry, though with a proper IWB holster and sturdy belt, some experienced carriers do manage it comfortably.

Home Defense

The 96A1 is particularly well-suited for home defense. Its rail system accommodates weapon-mounted lights, and the .40 S&W chambering offers excellent stopping power. Its weight and grip size make it easy to control under stress, even for intermediate shooters.

Competition

The Elite and Brigadier variants earned respect in IDPA and USPSA circles. The single-action trigger, accuracy, and long sight radius make them strong contenders in production or limited divisions.

Range & Training Use

At the range, the 96 rewards good fundamentals. Its precision and recoil impulse help shooters refine control and grip discipline. Owners often describe it as a “teaching gun” for mastering double-action/single-action trigger systems.

Professional & Duty Roles

Law enforcement agencies that adopted the Beretta 96 in the 1990s praised its reliability and handling. Though many departments transitioned to 9mm in later years, the 96A1 remains a capable duty sidearm for those who prefer a heavier, metal-framed .40 with a proven service pedigree.

Best Holsters for Beretta 96 Guns

For your every day, range, or duty use, choose custom-fit Beretta 96 holsters with strong retention and quick draw performance. The best choices are:

IWB Holsters (Cloak Tuck 3.5 & ShapeShift 4.0)

Inside-the-waistband holsters provide deep concealment and stable retention for the Beretta 96, especially when paired with adjustable cant and ride height. Despite the pistol’s size, a properly fitted polymer holster with padded backing can make IWB carry feasible for larger-frame shooters.

OWB Paddle Holster

An OWB paddle holster offers comfort and easy on/off convenience for range use, training, or open carry. The solid polymer construction provides excellent retention and a secure draw stroke.

Drop Leg Holster

For tactical or duty applications, a drop-leg holster keeps the 96 accessible when wearing body armor or load-bearing gear. It distributes weight off the beltline and allows quick, ergonomic access without interference from vests or jackets.

Hook & Loop Holster

Soft hook-and-loop holsters work well for temporary storage or low-profile applications like vehicle or bag carry. For the heavy 96, ensure the holster provides full trigger protection and firm positioning.

Beretta 96 Pros & Cons Summary

Pros:

• Excellent accuracy for a .40-caliber duty pistol

• Proven reliability and robust construction

• Smooth DA/SA trigger system with optional upgrades

• Ergonomic and familiar control layout

• Modern 96A1 offers rail, buffer, and enhanced durability

• Excellent recoil mitigation compared to many .40 pistols

Cons:

• Heavier and bulkier than polymer alternatives

• Recoil sharper than 9mm models

• Early models susceptible to slide or locking-block wear

• Lower magazine capacity (11–12 rounds)

• Not ideal for small-handed shooters

Final Verdict

The Beretta 96 represents the best of both worlds: Italian craftsmanship and American law enforcement heritage. It’s a pistol that balances power, precision, and reliability — a full-size sidearm that rewards skill and maintenance with decades of dependable service.

While modern shooters may gravitate toward lighter, higher-capacity polymer pistols, the Beretta 96 remains a technically impressive firearm. The 96A1 variant, in particular, refines the platform into a highly durable .40-caliber workhorse suitable for home defense, range use, or duty roles.

For those who appreciate solid metal construction, intuitive controls, and time-tested engineering, the Beretta 96 is more than a derivative of the 92 — it’s a formidable pistol in its own right, engineered to endure the pressures of both .40 S&W and history.