20 Nov 01

I had an opportunity to handle a Beretta 9000S today, in both 9mm and 40S&W. This is Beretta's polymer-framed, compact pistol, designed for concealed carry.

The pistol is short in both dimensions. In fact, the grip is too short for me, and the magazine doesn't have a finger shelf. However, it is very wide. Reminds me of a G30!

The biggest problem, however, is the operator system. The pistol "features" a two-position, safety/decocking lever, much like the one found of Beretta's larger models and on some S&W pistols. However, this one works in reverse! One pushed it UP to decock and DOWN to reelable. I might be able to get used to that, but the decocking lever is so stiff I was unable to decock the pistol with my right thumb, despite considerable effort. I would have to use my left hand to decock if I carried this pistol.

If Beretta were smart, they would fit this pistol with an LEM set up, such as is now offered on the H&K USP. As it is, it is colse to unusable. It will not go on the "recommended" list.

/John