@Grevlain I agree. Such a nice piece. The action is so smooth and it does what it does spectacularly! I have an Italian made Beretta Cheetah 84B manufactured in 1982 that my grandfather passed on to me. It’s a similar model as the one is this video with original wood grips. I still carry it till this day. They are much harder to find these days and the price has gone up quite a bit since they are no longer imported and have been discontinued for quite a few years now. I can confidently say I will never let this gun leave my possession. It’s just one of those guns that once you own it, you will never want to let it go.
@@MrAuldphart I was actually reading about the Browning and thought that it was a better choice for the money in 1979 when they got in a Baretta Model 84 at the Gun Range wher I shot my Ben Peirson Recurve Bow which I prefered shooting as a rule but is not at all concealable and as I was acuuainted with the owner at the time bought the Beretta after I had bought groceries and saved up for a few more weeks
I couldn’t agree more about the Beretta guns themselves...style and function. The big drawback for Beretta - in my opinion - is that their service and warranty is not very good. They only have a 2-year warranty...unlike Glock, Ruger & Taurus who honor their firearms for a lifetime.
Cool review. The Beretta 84 is by far one of my favorite .380 pistols. A conversion to 7,65mm can easily be had by simply swapping out the barrel and magazine (all other parts between the .380 and 7,65mm Cheetahs remain the same). Nice rapid fire drills.
I know I’m late to the party in 2020, but I was feeling nostalgic. In the early ‘90’s, my first CCW rig was a Beretta 86 (the tilt barrel version) in a Galco Miami Classic shoulder holster. The pointability, feel, and accuracy were amazing.
@@sonnybedez7040 ….. simply remove the magazine, lock the slide open, depress the detent and toggle the takedown lever, then remove the slide. Takes about six seconds.
Lots of people,.. especially as late, completely under estimate the usefulness, and effectiveness, of the 380 cartridge,.this is a great lil pistol and I want one..And those CZ 82/83's are sweet too, I wish there were more of those,.....Great review Sootch00
I've always had a crush on this gun and I do think that this gun and others like it still have a place in the world. I wouldn't even mind carrying on of these as a primary, especially with the .380 loads we have nowadays and I wouldn't hesitate to hand this to my mom or sister to shoot. Plenty of rounds, nicely weighted frame, light recoil. It's a great all-around package.
I agree with this statement. I had a star model D that was a mini 1911 and was awesome. I also would add the colt mustang, sig 238, cz 83, 380 Makarovs and all the walther 380s the pk380,ccp m2 and the amazing walther ppk
I have two of these, single stacks (model 85), one in bruniton the other in nickel. Both are the F and FS models with the squared trigger guard and safety with decocker. Easily the finest .380's ever made.
I agree it's definitely up there... Others in its class I would put the colt mustang, sig 238 and all walthers 380 line up the pk380, ccp m2 and the classic ppk 380(my personal favorite 380). I also had a star model D that was a mini 1911 that was awesome! I would put up there with any 380! Really regret selling it.
Purchased my 84bb in 1989 while stationed in Germany. A great shooter. Racking the slide takes a little more effort, but there's no way I'm ever parting with this baby. Mine has the wood grips with the Beretta logo on them. So glad I held on to this gun all these years. I didn't know they have been imported into the U.S. since 2013. Thanks for posting on this beautiful gun.
There are 5 versions of the 84, the base version 84, 84B, 84BB, 84F, & 84FS. The one in this video is the basic 84, not the BB as stated. The BB has 20 serrations on the slide and a grooved front and back strap on the grip. This one has none of those.
@@piro4life895 The B version was the first to have the grooved front and back straps, also a shorter extractor then the 84 and introduced the automatic firing pin safety. The visible difference between the B and BB is the BB has more slide serrations and white dot sights.
I can't believe Pinkman also had an AMT .380 Backup too, and it was the older AMT single action version. I picked one up, went through it with files, emery cloth, & rottenstone, and it runs like a Swiss watch now. I can't make it not shoot. I have the Beretta 83, 84, 85 and the tip up long barrel rare 86, and a .22LR 87. Excellent pistols! Big .380s are the difference between your .380 JHP bullets expanding or not expanding. The 86FS is topping $1100+ now!
all outdoors seems to me charles would ask dudes if they believed in the Lord in that picture. wrong answer was all it took Mr Bronson to introduce rapists to his Beretta 84
There is a 'difficult to rack the slide' complaint that is common to many of the reviews of this pistol. It is actually a mishandling of the gun. Try cocking the hammer first, then rack the slide. Trying to cock the hammer with the slide is hard to do by design. This is common practice on many Semi-Auto hammer pistols. Also, the Pachmayr grips are a nice addition. The smooth front and back straps and smooth wood grips can get slippery. The Pachmayr grips address these issues and give you a thick rubber back strap to absorb recoil.
I myself have the model 87BB which is .22 calibre for almost 30years. It works well. The external shape is quite exact the same as the model 84.Kasin Bangkok, Thailand
With the .380 you get a lot more velocity out of the 3.8" barrel than you would out of something like the LCP. People wonder why police agencies have carried the .380 ACP and the answer is that out of this size gun the performance is essentially equal to the .38 special. I've shot my CZ 83 into wet pack side by side with .38 special and it really was six of one - half dozen of the other. The model 84 would make a good carry gun or a really good night stand gun for someone who is recoil sensitive.
I think this .380 a great carry gun. It packs a wallop. My mags have 10 rounds (with spare 20). That should end any threat. I shot 60 rounds at the range (moving left to right, right to left, up and down, etc. and from seven yards, hit the center mass all but about 7-8. 20 rounds were at 10 years, hit center mass 15/20. Not bad. Video guy is right, a decent straight shooter. By the way, I did NOT use the sights, just straight arm as if, one day I might be in a life saving situation. Who has time to use sights in a life/death situation.
I have one that I got at work from a Deputy. I paid $300 for the pistol and a total of 3 magazines. I don't carry it concealed since I got a Bersa Thunder .380 Plus. I like the idea of having 16 shots before I must reload. The magazine capacity also makes for a hand filling grip. Very nice when you are just taking a pocketable gun and no reloads. It's not so crazy when you have 16 shots. Yes, it is a .380, but it is effective if you can shoot more accurately and are in practice. I have always felt that a projectile delivered accurately is much better than a miss with something more powerful. Or as someone said to me, a good hit with a .22 is better than 8 misses with a .45.
I have one of these, the double - stack 13 shot version...it's big enough that you can hit targets with it, and small enough that it fits in a pocket holster. I carry it often, with a second loaded mag. It's all steel, and feels like a real gun, not a plastic toy. I have NEVER had a single problem with it it shoots Remington JHP's all day long. It's a gem, and if you find one for sale, jump on it...One of Beretta's best, IMO...
These little dudes just work. Like a mini 92. Just bought an 85F from Classic Firearms as a Euro Police Trade and should be here in 2 days. These are worth it as far as imports are concerned. Much different that some of the run of the mill imports (Makarov, Tokarev, CZ52). Much closer to something modern age that if you buy new, you're over $700 likely. It is what it is, and no need to compare with the mouse gun .380's Big pistol for the caliber, but liken it to a Glock 17, H&K USP, or some other large frame in 9mm. Like an 85lb 8yr old, its just big for its grade.
I am viewing this video 5 1/2 years after it was posted. In late 2020 I ran across an 85BB for the same price as sootch00 listed the 84BB above. In fact the surplus dealer had 6 of them and I could pick out the best. Even though it didn't have the capacity of the 84BB I grabbed one and I'm glad I did. It fit perfectly between my model 21 and my model 92.
Great review of a very well crafted pistol. I’ve had an 84F since 1994 and it’s an excellent, well balanced firing weapon. I think the fat grip due to the stagger stack magazine fits well in my hand and is comfortable. Excellent firearm. I’ve carried the same Glock 21 on duty for 22 years and my Beretta is still my favorite between them. Nice 👍🏼 review. Blue Lives Matter 💙💙🇺🇸🇺🇸🦅🦅
Just wanted to thank you for the time and effort you put into your videos! I have a Beretta model 70 in 7,65 Browning (32ACP) great little gun fun and accurate. You should get one in your collection and also review it.
I have the original model 84 with two magazines. Made in Italy. Had it chrome plated in the ‘80s (matte on the ramp and polished on the sides) because the blueing was susceptible to Rust and I live in a tropical climate. Mine has the rounded trigger guard and PB on one side of the grips and the arrows on the other side. They were not named Cheetahs either. If you want to carry the pistol hot in double action mode you have to drop the hammer with care because it has no block bar. I have other guns but this one has never left my side. For home defense, size doesn’t matter so I have a 6 inch .357 Ruger Revolver for that. Great video.
I would go as far to say that this particular firearm is extremely deadly in the right hands for the the following reasons it's capacity it's accuracy and it over all controllability I would definitely recommend and carry this pistol
My father in law just gave me one of these. Mine has the all black grips, but I don't think he ever fired it. There's virtually no wear at all. I've never heard of these until he have me one, but it is an impressive little gun.
I think this is one the finest 380s ever offered! Up there with the colt mustang, sig 238 and all the walther 380s the pk380, ccp m2 and the classic ppk(my favorite 380), cz 83 and the 380 Makarovs. I also had a star model D that was a mini 1911 and it was AWESOME. I regret selling it I would put the star up there with them as well!
Back in the late '80s when I began my LEO career, I started as a Dispatcher for a small local PD. I bought a Beretta 84BB as my first centerfire semi-auto (I had a 4" S&W M19). I carried that little Beretta a lot (it was certainly easier to tote than a 4" K-frame!). Wise or foolish, I traded it to a co-worker for another .357 and a 12 ga. Fast forward to last year, I wanted another one of these (I have a series of books out wherein the main character totes a M84). As noted in the video, prices for even used models can be insane! Good fortune struck, however, early last year and I found one for which I paid $200 (including shipping and transfer fee at my local gun store). My now arthritic hands really like that wide, wonderfully ergonomic grip which not only fits the hand but makes it a lot less "snappy" than thinner .380s even on the same "medium" frame (PPK, etc., etc.). I have plenty of more powerful pistols to carry but I still frequently find myself toting that Beretta .380 now, especially in our near-tropical summers we have here. These also make great guns to train new shooters who are ready to move up from rim-fires. And even though they're bigger than the new pocket pistols, they are small enough to disappear IWB under all but the most narcissistically tight T-shirts.
That's one of my favorite myb, not many knows that was wery common trough 70/80s amongst the terrorists in Italy one of reason were the dimensions easy to conceal reliability and precision
Sootch you have brought us a classic today, the 84 is a very fine pistol. What a great shooter. My brother has a .22lr model 84 it is a true tack driver. It just makes shooting effortless.
Got one of these locally more than a year ago...just bought a second one online for $300...for my 70th birthday. Now have 2 M84's with 2 mags each. Much easier to carry than my 6" .44 Magnum Smith...
I pick up my in 1987at a Rod and Gun Club in Germany. It is my favorite carry pice hands downs! I do catch a lot of Grief for the small Caliber however when I point out the 13+1 and the round I have in it, they back down! Have several Family members who have asked for me to leave it to them!😄
I like my 84. The chubby grip fills my hand nicely. It carries well in the right front pocket of my Duluth cargo pants. In my pocket, it is carried with the safety on. I love the 13 round magazines (I have a total of 3). It makes a nice alternative to my Bersa Thunder Plus (with 3, 15 round magazines). I got it a few years ago for $300.
I really consider these novelty and quality collection guns, but ive been loving my 81 for a couple years now. gotta drop money on one of these next time i can!
As always enjoyed the video. Been buying from Aim for the last few years after I discovered them. Got my Star Super B from them which they do not have listed anymore. Enjoyable full sized 9mm. Aim is my go to place for quality surplus and they have excellent customer service.
I may have missed it in the video, but outside of its handsomeness the best about an 84 is its ability to go where your 92 can’t but keep all the comfort, reliability and muscle memory.
New camera? The image appears sharper and more crisp in clarity. Either way, my wife and I enjoy watching your videos together. She finds your Carolina accent amusing. Apparently we Arizonan's have an accent too (according to my father from Long Island, NY). Keep up the great work brother!
Taurus had a version of this that was actually pretty nice. I believe it was called the PT58, but I could be mistaken. I do remember that it had a 19+1 capacity though!
That is the PT58 HC Plus version. The normal cap for the PT58S is 12 rounds. The PT58 HC is 15 rounds. The Plus will take the 15 rounder also. When all is said and done, the Taurus versions may be good guns but are down in the weeds compared to the Berettas.
Another excellent comprehensive review; as a newbie, i liked the info when discussing this model compared to the newer smaller composite guns of today. Really enjoying these vids. Thanks sootch00 !
You would also like a Browning BDA .380, which is basically a slightly redesigned Beretta M84. I think they were made for Browning by Beretta. I carried one of those with me when we jumped into Panama in 1979. Many of us carried concealable handguns in the jungle back then, since the Army chose to arm us with blanks for our M-16s. Everybody knew we had them and nobody looked for them too hard. Either the Beretta or the browning are good pistols for sure.
Great review as always. I had a Browning BDA version many years ago, and foolishly sold it. I finally replaced it with an 84F not too long ago, and it's all I remembered the BDA to be (OK...the BDA might have been a little better looking). I liked it so much when a Tisas Fatih 13 (A Turkish clone of the 84) turned up at my LGS for about half what I'd paid for the Beretta I had to jump on it.
I had a new FS 84 I bought from Davidson's. At the time, I didn't realize it was a double stack mag. I prefer a single stack mag, so I sold the FS 84 and bought an FS 85.
Last year, I bought the single stack nickel model. When I set out to purchase a .380, the Beretta was not on my list. The Walther was the first on my list, but I couldn't find one at any of the firearms dealers within a 30 mile radius. Then I decided to look for the Sig Sauer .380. Couldn't find it as it was discontinued, so I was told. While searching for that Sig Sauer, I saw the Beretta and loved it, but did not purchase it that day because I did not know much about it. After I went home, I searched the internet to obtain as much info on it as I could, crash course. After learning about it, I went to the store the following morning to purchase it. A different salesman was working that day, he showed me the Glock 42 and Glock 43. Little did I know, that was the same week the Glock 43 was released. I told the salesman that I really like the Glock 42 and Glock 43 and will purchase those in a few weeks. I just HAD to have that Beretta and it had a price tag on it equivalent to the Sig Sauer .380. I decided that I will not allow myself to be tempted to use the Beretta .380, I waited patiently, saved up my money for the Glock 43 and bought that. But guess what, there was a wait time because it was out of stock, I bought the Glock 42 that same day. I said, I'll pick up both the same day, no hurry. The reason why I decided that I do not want to fire off the Beretta is because, I own a Ruger PC9. I did not know how rare those are until last year and are very desired and has more than doubled in value. I hope to purchase a compact size 9mm Sig Sauer some time next year. Someone tried to sell me their compact Sig Sauer .380 after firing it once once at the range. I declined because, I have enough .380's for now. I'd rather stick to the full 9mm's. Lengthy story, but not as much time as I put into driving around and around in search of … Oh, I like the Glock 42, it is a bit small and I have small hands, but I purchased the +2 magazine extenders along with a bunch of extra magazines. It cost's a lot of money to get these things up to speed, lol.
One for the Ladies!! Fully loaded with 2 spare mags gives you 40 rounds to handle business. Light recoil allows you to quickly re-index the target and score quick accurate hits. All that and it's just absolutely beautiful.
That appears to be an original model 84 you have there, pre-84B or 84BB. The 84B added the firing pin block and vertical serrations on the front and back straps. The 84BB has a thicker slide evidenced by a step at the back of the slide near the safety, slide serrations that extend farther forward and the dot & post sights you mentioned. Picked up an 84BB last year for about the same price. Nice pistol and fun to shoot.
I got a Beretta 85FS Cheetah and its awesome! It hasn't failed me and continues to be my go to when I wanna go with a slim Beretta and Tomcat combo! :) grats on that Berry!
I have one, model "B". Mine have the Beretta (PB) & trident medallions in the grips. mine can put on 1/2 cock & still engage the safety, or you can carry it cocked & locked. I carry it safety off on 1/2 cock. It is my baby 92fs. It is one of my favorite carry guns. Very light, great grip with double stack mag. Shoots very accurate. I'll always take the weight of a metal gun over a Tupperware one every time. I just put some blaze orange fingernail polish on the front sight, (yes that's a thing in Wisconsin), Plus its blued & gorgeous !! It will never leave my collection.
Two or three years ago I had an 84BB in my hand and it was like a jewel. I was put off by a salesman who intimated I couldn't buy it in California because it had a 13 round mag in it. ( Law enforcement only in California.) So I forgot that one when I could have bought it without the mag and bought 10 rounders straight from Beretta for about $22 apiece at one time. Long story short I bought a Taurus PT58S instead, without magazines and then bought a few 84 ten rounders to see if they would fit. Too short and catch is in the wrong spot so the PT58S is not an exact copy of the 84. Side by side there are some striking differences in dimensions. Close but no cigar. Then last Spring I bought a brand new 84FS so my ten rounders did not go to waste.... I haven't shot my 84FS yet but I have to tell you an older well used 84BB would be my choice if I had to do it all over. The new one is tight as a drum. I plan on shooting the beejeebers out of it this summer and see if it loosens up some. Good review Sootch. I'm always pleased when you review something I have. By the way, the sights I put on my CZ75 Compact, at your urging, turned out Primo. Good thing I had that soft hammer!! Regards from Arizona, Randy
Sootch. Just got a brand new 84F $800. They are still being made in small numbers. As a security officer we can carry the 380 for duty. Your video gave me the idea to look for one after my walther started jamming.
Sootch00, I had two of these! Darned if I didn't let them go....I'd love to find another good one. I really favor the Beretta open top slide. Used a 92FS on duty and trust the Beretta with my life.
Aim surplus had some foreign police trade-in M84's a few weeks back. Safety models with the round trigger guard and decocker models with the square trigger guard. $350.00 bucks. Said to myself "I'ma wait on one more DD to post and I'll get one" They were sold out the next day.
Ive had one for years! great little gun! I also have the 81, which is also good gun! You may also mention the mags are a bit expensive. But work in the 81 in 32acp! Great video! Keep up the good work!
I inherited a Taurus PT-58S a few years ago that I believe is a clone of the Beretta Model 84. In .380, it is a very comfortable gun to shoot with zero malfunctions.
Not a clone at all as side by side there are some obvious differences. Besides that the magazines are not compatible. I have both and am happy that circumstances led me to that. Now all you need is an 84FS to be at peace with the world....
+mackrand66 in that case, I would not want both pistols simultaneously, as I would probably get the mags mixed up in an emergenc y. My Taurus runs just fine even with an agter market high cap mag.
@mackrand66 are they not compatible? do you have a taurus pt58s or a pt58 hc plus? I have the cheetah and as far as I understand, the 81 can take mags from the pt 57sc (.32cp variant of the pt58), so I tought that maybe the .380 cheetah would be able to take mags from the taurus. To be fair, taurus bought beretta's factory in brazil, along with all of their projects at the time, so they essentially are beretta clones, aside from a few design features, but operation-wise, they are pretty much the same.
A couple of years ago i was helping a friend do some training with his wife, preparatory to her taking the CCW class in the future. They happened to bring one of these out, along with a SCCY 9mm a 38 snubby, and various things i brought out for her to try. She shit the 84 notably better than the SCCY (not impressed, but it is functional) or the snubby, and as well as my Sig 228. I tried it and was very pleased. It was smooth and of course easy to control. I've always liked Beretta anyway, but it was a great training gun. Better trigger and generally better accuracy than my PPK/S, as 380's go. I don't use 380 for any serious purpose, but the 84 is accurate and pleasant to shoot.
I own a brand new 84FS, all black. 380 is the largest caliber allowed in Mexico for self defense, as well as in many other American countries, so there's a reason why the Beretta 80 models are easier to find around here. They are not cheap, though. Y paid over 600 Euros for mine. Definetely the wood grips make it a lot more beautiful and I will hunt for a good pair. Sorry for the off topic, Sootch, but I remember seeing you fly fishing in some video. If you are ever interested in catching fish on flies in saltwater, cast me your line and I will gladly hook you up with great guides in the Yucatan Peninsula. Poons and bones on the fly is only comparable to shooting a nice gun, so you should give them a shot. God bless America! (And I mean the whole Continent😉)
Well, you learn something new everyday. I was under the impression that private firearm ownership was illegal in Mexico. Glad you are allowed some means of personal defense there. Stay aware and stay safe sir ;)
I’ll be damn... i own one here in Mexico but i didn’t knew it was legal to own it, grandpa brought it from Indiana back in the 80’s and pass it on to me couple of years ago
3 things: (1) Great vid..informative. (2) good illustration by putting the Ruger & Glock next to it so we can readily see size difference (3) thanks for quoting Joshua Oh, & BTW... You about sold me on this sidearm...
My first gun was an 84f nickel plated walnut grips. I traded it for a Ruger SP101 357 mag. He got the better deal. At that time, for me. A pistol needed too much care, and so many things could go wrong. My go to now is Smith, and Glock. Smith for quality, and Glock for quality, and less parts to go wrong.
Just picked up my 85bb from DK Arms in Bowling Green Va. As soon as our ranges are able to open I'm looking forward to shooting it. If it goes as planned I plan on using it as a conceal carry gun 🔫. Definitely a Berreta fan😁😁
Maybe the best looking handgun I've ever seen. Been wanting one for the longest time.
Toss up between this and the Browning BDA
Are they rare? My dad left me one when he passed smoothest action Ive felt
@Grevlain I agree. Such a nice piece. The action is so smooth and it does what it does spectacularly! I have an Italian made Beretta Cheetah 84B manufactured in 1982 that my grandfather passed on to me. It’s a similar model as the one is this video with original wood grips. I still carry it till this day. They are much harder to find these days and the price has gone up quite a bit since they are no longer imported and have been discontinued for quite a few years now. I can confidently say I will never let this gun leave my possession. It’s just one of those guns that once you own it, you will never want to let it go.
@@MrAuldphart I was actually reading about the Browning and thought that it was a better choice for the money in 1979 when they got in a Baretta Model 84 at the Gun Range wher I shot my Ben Peirson Recurve Bow which I prefered shooting as a rule but is not at all concealable and as I was acuuainted with the owner at the time bought the Beretta after I had bought groceries and saved up for a few more weeks
i have so much respect for anything made by baretta. just a great company all around
Love the apx and storm
nolan sprinkle no
I couldn’t agree more about the Beretta guns themselves...style and function. The big drawback for Beretta - in my opinion - is that their service and warranty is not very good. They only have a 2-year warranty...unlike Glock, Ruger & Taurus who honor their firearms for a lifetime.
I have a Baretta 25 bs jetfire and the barrel tip recoil spring jumps out through the handgrip after 3 shots.
Everything except the Pico... their shotguns are prized possessions
Please your not boring anyone. Your my favorite person to do to about most Beretta pistols. Thank you
Cool review. The Beretta 84 is by far one of my favorite .380 pistols. A conversion to 7,65mm can easily be had by simply swapping out the barrel and magazine (all other parts between the .380 and 7,65mm Cheetahs remain the same). Nice rapid fire drills.
81 ? In 7,65/.32
I know I’m late to the party in 2020, but I was feeling nostalgic. In the early ‘90’s, my first CCW rig was a Beretta 86 (the tilt barrel version) in a Galco Miami Classic shoulder holster. The pointability, feel, and accuracy were amazing.
I’m thinking of buying a 86, are they east to take down for cleaning
@@sonnybedez7040 ….. simply remove the magazine, lock the slide open, depress the detent and toggle the takedown lever, then remove the slide. Takes about six seconds.
Never really cared for 380, but that Beretta 84 is nice! Love the wood grips
Lots of people,.. especially as late, completely under estimate the usefulness, and effectiveness, of the 380 cartridge,.this is a great lil pistol and I want one..And those CZ 82/83's are sweet too, I wish there were more of those,.....Great review Sootch00
If you want an 82 in .380 I'll sell you mine with three mags.
mruler360 Id rather have the 84 in Beretta or a CZ82 in 9mm mak,..but even if I found one right now I don't have the cash,.. thanks though
+Eric “PoorManPrepper” K no problem! =)
How? Don't really see any way how to.
I bought 3 of the surplus ones for around 620 dollars in 95 percent condition awesome guns gave one to sister in law 1 to wife and 1 to me what a deal
I've always had a crush on this gun and I do think that this gun and others like it still have a place in the world. I wouldn't even mind carrying on of these as a primary, especially with the .380 loads we have nowadays and I wouldn't hesitate to hand this to my mom or sister to shoot. Plenty of rounds, nicely weighted frame, light recoil. It's a great all-around package.
It’s like a KATANA. It’s simply beautiful.
Picked up an 84f from Aim a couple days ago so imagine my surprise to see this new video.. I love it! Definitely the Cadillac of .380s.
I agree with this statement. I had a star model D that was a mini 1911 and was awesome. I also would add the colt mustang, sig 238, cz 83, 380 Makarovs and all the walther 380s the pk380,ccp m2 and the amazing walther ppk
I have two of these, single stacks (model 85), one in bruniton the other in nickel. Both are the F and FS models with the squared trigger guard and safety with decocker. Easily the finest .380's ever made.
I agree it's definitely up there... Others in its class I would put the colt mustang, sig 238 and all walthers 380 line up the pk380, ccp m2 and the classic ppk 380(my personal favorite 380). I also had a star model D that was a mini 1911 that was awesome! I would put up there with any 380! Really regret selling it.
Would love a nickel version 👍
Purchased my 84bb in 1989 while stationed in Germany. A great shooter. Racking the slide takes a little more effort, but there's no way I'm ever parting with this baby. Mine has the wood grips with the Beretta logo on them. So glad I held on to this gun all these years. I didn't know they have been imported into the U.S. since 2013. Thanks for posting on this beautiful gun.
I bought my baretta model 84 back in 1984. I've never had a bit of trouble out of it. I love carrying it.
There are 5 versions of the 84, the base version 84, 84B, 84BB, 84F, & 84FS. The one in this video is the basic 84, not the BB as stated. The BB has 20 serrations on the slide and a grooved front and back strap on the grip. This one has none of those.
What can you tell me about the 84b?
@@piro4life895 The B version was the first to have the grooved front and back straps, also a shorter extractor then the 84 and introduced the automatic firing pin safety. The visible difference between the B and BB is the BB has more slide serrations and white dot sights.
@@jimhart4488 now bb to f and f to fs!!
I remember seeing this gun being used by Charles Bronson in Death Wish II. I admit I like the appeal to a high capacity 380 pistol.
Tony had one in scarface too. Also, Jesse in breaking bad.
mark3smle
mark3smle I'm not 100% sure but I believe Trinity used same as her sidearm in "The Matrix"... I think
I can't believe Pinkman also had an AMT .380 Backup too, and it was the older AMT single action version. I picked one up, went through it with files, emery cloth, & rottenstone, and it runs like a Swiss watch now. I can't make it not shoot. I have the Beretta 83, 84, 85 and the tip up long barrel rare 86, and a .22LR 87. Excellent pistols! Big .380s are the difference between your .380 JHP bullets expanding or not expanding. The 86FS is topping $1100+ now!
all outdoors seems to me charles would ask dudes if they believed in the Lord in that picture. wrong answer was all it took Mr Bronson to introduce rapists to his Beretta 84
There is a 'difficult to rack the slide' complaint that is common to many of the reviews of this pistol. It is actually a mishandling of the gun. Try cocking the hammer first, then rack the slide. Trying to cock the hammer with the slide is hard to do by design. This is common practice on many Semi-Auto hammer pistols.
Also, the Pachmayr grips are a nice addition. The smooth front and back straps and smooth wood grips can get slippery. The Pachmayr grips address these issues and give you a thick rubber back strap to absorb recoil.
in my country (italy) this pistol is a legend of old pistol
nice review ;)
i bought mine back in the 1980's with a DeSantis holster.... love love love it....
I myself have the model 87BB which is .22 calibre for almost 30years. It works well. The external shape is quite exact the same as the model 84.Kasin Bangkok, Thailand
With the .380 you get a lot more velocity out of the 3.8" barrel than you would out of something like the LCP. People wonder why police agencies have carried the .380 ACP and the answer is that out of this size gun the performance is essentially equal to the .38 special. I've shot my CZ 83 into wet pack side by side with .38 special and it really was six of one - half dozen of the other. The model 84 would make a good carry gun or a really good night stand gun for someone who is recoil sensitive.
I think this .380 a great carry gun. It packs a wallop. My mags have 10 rounds (with spare 20). That should end any threat. I shot 60 rounds at the range (moving left to right, right to left, up and down, etc. and from seven yards, hit the center mass all but about 7-8. 20 rounds were at 10 years, hit center mass 15/20. Not bad. Video guy is right, a decent straight shooter. By the way, I did NOT use the sights, just straight arm as if, one day I might be in a life saving situation. Who has time to use sights in a life/death situation.
I have one that I got at work from a Deputy. I paid $300 for the pistol and a total of 3 magazines.
I don't carry it concealed since I got a Bersa Thunder .380 Plus. I like the idea of having 16 shots before I must reload. The magazine capacity also makes for a hand filling grip. Very nice when you are just taking a pocketable gun and no reloads. It's not so crazy when you have 16 shots.
Yes, it is a .380, but it is effective if you can shoot more accurately and are in practice. I have always felt that a projectile delivered accurately is much better than a miss with something more powerful. Or as someone said to me, a good hit with a .22 is better than 8 misses with a .45.
i just got one of these in great condition with two extra mags, original grips, and newer after market grips for 335
Even though I'm not a .380 fan I've always LOVED the Model 84. I like the "F" version and the 85. With the finger squared guard on the trigger guard.
I have 2 85's. Best 380's ever made
Great pieces no doubt.
I love my Model 84F. It only has 13 rounds thru it
I've liked this pistol since seeing it in Death Wish II. I've looked for reviews for years and I'm glad you have finally done one!
Cool
I just bought one of those too myself.
It is my top 3 for concealed carry. My others are the Sig p238 and Glock 26
my sig p238 has become my fav edc!
My fav EDCs are this gun in model 85b, Bersa Thunder and Colt Mustang. All in .380. I'm a .380 guy for EDC.
I have one of these, the double - stack 13 shot version...it's big enough that you can hit targets with it, and small enough that it fits in a pocket holster. I carry it often, with a second loaded mag. It's all steel, and feels like a real gun, not a plastic toy. I have NEVER had a single problem with it it shoots Remington JHP's all day long. It's a gem, and if you find one for sale, jump on it...One of Beretta's best, IMO...
Bought mine new in 1987; still have it. It's traveled the world and the seven seas (as the song says). Excellent vid. Thanks.
I bought mine in California in late 1990. Textured wood grip. Amazing machine.
These little dudes just work. Like a mini 92. Just bought an 85F from Classic Firearms as a Euro Police Trade and should be here in 2 days. These are worth it as far as imports are concerned. Much different that some of the run of the mill imports (Makarov, Tokarev, CZ52). Much closer to something modern age that if you buy new, you're over $700 likely. It is what it is, and no need to compare with the mouse gun .380's Big pistol for the caliber, but liken it to a Glock 17, H&K USP, or some other large frame in 9mm. Like an 85lb 8yr old, its just big for its grade.
I am viewing this video 5 1/2 years after it was posted. In late 2020 I ran across an 85BB for the same price as sootch00 listed the 84BB above. In fact the surplus dealer had 6 of them and I could pick out the best. Even though it didn't have the capacity of the 84BB I grabbed one and I'm glad I did. It fit perfectly between my model 21 and my model 92.
I bought mine in 1984 at a gun show in Alabama. It's still a great shooting gun.
This is a grail gun for me and as soon as I get to West Virginia, I'm getting one!
I live in West Virginia brother
Beretta makes beautiful guns.
Great review of a very well crafted pistol. I’ve had an 84F since 1994 and it’s an excellent, well balanced firing weapon. I think the fat grip due to the stagger stack magazine fits well in my hand and is comfortable. Excellent firearm. I’ve carried the same Glock 21 on duty for 22 years and my Beretta is still my favorite between them. Nice 👍🏼 review. Blue Lives Matter 💙💙🇺🇸🇺🇸🦅🦅
Just wanted to thank you for the time and effort you put into your videos! I have a Beretta model 70 in 7,65 Browning (32ACP) great little gun fun and accurate. You should get one in your collection and also review it.
I have the original model 84 with two magazines. Made in Italy. Had it chrome plated in the ‘80s (matte on the ramp and polished on the sides) because the blueing was susceptible to Rust and I live in a tropical climate. Mine has the rounded trigger guard and PB on one side of the grips and the arrows on the other side. They were not named Cheetahs either. If you want to carry the pistol hot in double action mode you have to drop the hammer with care because it has no block bar. I have other guns but this one has never left my side. For home defense, size doesn’t matter so I have a 6 inch .357 Ruger Revolver for that. Great video.
a larger .380 is what i've always wanted. thanks for a great review, Sootch00.
Great looking surplus handgun!
I would go as far to say that this particular firearm is extremely deadly in the right hands for the the following reasons it's capacity it's accuracy and it over all controllability I would definitely recommend and carry this pistol
I have the CZ-82 chambered in 9mmx18 and it's my favorite SD gun.
My father in law just gave me one of these. Mine has the all black grips, but I don't think he ever fired it. There's virtually no wear at all. I've never heard of these until he have me one, but it is an impressive little gun.
I got mine from COLES and it was a Beretta 84F sweet little pistol :)
I think this is one the finest 380s ever offered! Up there with the colt mustang, sig 238 and all the walther 380s the pk380, ccp m2 and the classic ppk(my favorite 380), cz 83 and the 380 Makarovs. I also had a star model D that was a mini 1911 and it was AWESOME. I regret selling it I would put the star up there with them as well!
Back in the late '80s when I began my LEO career, I started as a Dispatcher for a small local PD. I bought a Beretta 84BB as my first centerfire semi-auto (I had a 4" S&W M19). I carried that little Beretta a lot (it was certainly easier to tote than a 4" K-frame!). Wise or foolish, I traded it to a co-worker for another .357 and a 12 ga. Fast forward to last year, I wanted another one of these (I have a series of books out wherein the main character totes a M84). As noted in the video, prices for even used models can be insane! Good fortune struck, however, early last year and I found one for which I paid $200 (including shipping and transfer fee at my local gun store). My now arthritic hands really like that wide, wonderfully ergonomic grip which not only fits the hand but makes it a lot less "snappy" than thinner .380s even on the same "medium" frame (PPK, etc., etc.). I have plenty of more powerful pistols to carry but I still frequently find myself toting that Beretta .380 now, especially in our near-tropical summers we have here. These also make great guns to train new shooters who are ready to move up from rim-fires. And even though they're bigger than the new pocket pistols, they are small enough to disappear IWB under all but the most narcissistically tight T-shirts.
Nice looking pistol!
#beautiful
That's one of my favorite myb, not many knows that was wery common trough 70/80s amongst the terrorists in Italy one of reason were the dimensions easy to conceal reliability and precision
Really reminds me of the cz83 when you take a step back and look at it.
Barrel length on these gives good velocity on 380 for reliable hollow point expansion. These are super accurate in my experience.
Sootch you have brought us a classic today, the 84 is a very fine pistol. What a great shooter. My brother has a .22lr model 84 it is a true tack driver. It just makes shooting effortless.
I have the BDA-380 and they both are great guns. I carried it on my ankle for 15 years.
I just spotted one. I've been wanting one for over 20 years. Loved working & training with the 92F. Good video.
Got one of these locally more than a year ago...just bought a second one online for $300...for my 70th birthday. Now have 2 M84's with 2 mags each. Much easier to carry than my 6" .44 Magnum Smith...
Classic Beretta pistol!Very comfortable pistol to shoot..
I pick up my in 1987at a Rod and Gun Club in Germany. It is my favorite carry pice hands downs! I do catch a lot of Grief for the small Caliber however when I point out the 13+1 and the round I have in it, they back down! Have several Family members who have asked for me to leave it to them!😄
One of my favourite pistols of all time!
I like my 84. The chubby grip fills my hand nicely. It carries well in the right front pocket of my Duluth cargo pants. In my pocket, it is carried with the safety on. I love the 13 round magazines (I have a total of 3).
It makes a nice alternative to my Bersa Thunder Plus (with 3, 15 round magazines).
I got it a few years ago for $300.
I really consider these novelty and quality collection guns, but ive been loving my 81 for a couple years now. gotta drop money on one of these next time i can!
As always enjoyed the video. Been buying from Aim for the last few years after I discovered them. Got my Star Super B from them which they do not have listed anymore. Enjoyable full sized 9mm. Aim is my go to place for quality surplus and they have excellent customer service.
I may have missed it in the video, but outside of its handsomeness the best about an 84 is its ability to go where your 92 can’t but keep all the comfort, reliability and muscle memory.
Like the bloopers man. Thanks for the reviews and for staying humble unlike some other guntubers
New camera? The image appears sharper and more crisp in clarity. Either way, my wife and I enjoy watching your videos together. She finds your Carolina accent amusing. Apparently we Arizonan's have an accent too (according to my father from Long Island, NY). Keep up the great work brother!
Taurus had a version of this that was actually pretty nice. I believe it was called the PT58, but I could be mistaken. I do remember that it had a 19+1 capacity though!
That is the PT58 HC Plus version. The normal cap for the PT58S is 12 rounds. The PT58 HC is 15 rounds. The Plus will take the 15 rounder also. When all is said and done, the Taurus versions may be good guns but are down in the weeds compared to the Berettas.
Another excellent comprehensive review; as a newbie, i liked the info when discussing this model compared to the newer smaller composite guns of today. Really enjoying these vids. Thanks sootch00 !
I have the 85F and It is a beautiful gun. It shoots anything I feed it. I carry it as my cc gun.
One of my fav guns, I dont know why but beretta are The most beautiful pistols, The 84 and The 92fs my All Time fav.
You would also like a Browning BDA .380, which is basically a slightly redesigned Beretta M84. I think they were made for Browning by Beretta. I carried one of those with me when we jumped into Panama in 1979. Many of us carried concealable handguns in the jungle back then, since the Army chose to arm us with blanks for our M-16s. Everybody knew we had them and nobody looked for them too hard. Either the Beretta or the browning are good pistols for sure.
Great review as always. I had a Browning BDA version many years ago, and foolishly sold it. I finally replaced it with an 84F not too long ago, and it's all I remembered the BDA to be (OK...the BDA might have been a little better looking). I liked it so much when a Tisas Fatih 13 (A Turkish clone of the 84) turned up at my LGS for about half what I'd paid for the Beretta I had to jump on it.
I had a new FS 84 I bought from Davidson's. At the time, I didn't realize it was a double stack mag. I prefer a single stack mag, so I sold the FS 84 and bought an FS 85.
I have one that was made in 1979 and it is a real beauty !!
Update.. i just purchased a 85B cheetah 380. For 900$ 2023 the prices have gotten up. But im also in california.. lol god bless
Thanks, Sootch. It's a beauty. There's more quality in those Cheetah grips than most weapons these days in their entirety.
Last year, I bought the single stack nickel model. When I set out to purchase a .380, the Beretta was not on my list. The Walther was the first on my list, but I couldn't find one at any of the firearms dealers within a 30 mile radius. Then I decided to look for the Sig Sauer .380. Couldn't find it as it was discontinued, so I was told. While searching for that Sig Sauer, I saw the Beretta and loved it, but did not purchase it that day because I did not know much about it. After I went home, I searched the internet to obtain as much info on it as I could, crash course. After learning about it, I went to the store the following morning to purchase it. A different salesman was working that day, he showed me the Glock 42 and Glock 43. Little did I know, that was the same week the Glock 43 was released. I told the salesman that I really like the Glock 42 and Glock 43 and will purchase those in a few weeks. I just HAD to have that Beretta and it had a price tag on it equivalent to the Sig Sauer .380. I decided that I will not allow myself to be tempted to use the Beretta .380, I waited patiently, saved up my money for the Glock 43 and bought that. But guess what, there was a wait time because it was out of stock, I bought the Glock 42 that same day. I said, I'll pick up both the same day, no hurry.
The reason why I decided that I do not want to fire off the Beretta is because, I own a Ruger PC9. I did not know how rare those are until last year and are very desired and has more than doubled in value.
I hope to purchase a compact size 9mm Sig Sauer some time next year. Someone tried to sell me their compact Sig Sauer .380 after firing it once once at the range. I declined because, I have enough .380's for now. I'd rather stick to the full 9mm's.
Lengthy story, but not as much time as I put into driving around and around in search of …
Oh, I like the Glock 42, it is a bit small and I have small hands, but I purchased the +2 magazine extenders along with a bunch of extra magazines. It cost's a lot of money to get these things up to speed, lol.
I've always loved the lines of the model 84.
I like when you shoot from behind the barrel. It makes it look like you’re on the A-Team or something.
I have the same firearm, but the wood grips are perfect, no scratches or nicks. Great and easy shooting.
One for the Ladies!! Fully loaded with 2 spare mags gives you 40 rounds to handle business. Light recoil allows you to quickly re-index the target and score quick accurate hits. All that and it's just absolutely beautiful.
Sootch, you seem like one of the cooler guys on TH-cam. Probably one of the only gun reviewers on YT id feel comfortable inviting over to a bbq lol
In my opinion the most reliable pistol for self defense!
That appears to be an original model 84 you have there, pre-84B or 84BB. The 84B added the firing pin block and vertical serrations on the front and back straps. The 84BB has a thicker slide evidenced by a step at the back of the slide near the safety, slide serrations that extend farther forward and the dot & post sights you mentioned. Picked up an 84BB last year for about the same price. Nice pistol and fun to shoot.
I am a police officer retired, i enjoy all your videos, thanks a Lot
I purchased a mod 84 from J&G and after replacing the extractor (it was chipped) it is now my EDC.
I got a Beretta 85FS Cheetah and its awesome! It hasn't failed me and continues to be my go to when I wanna go with a slim Beretta and Tomcat combo! :) grats on that Berry!
I have one, model "B". Mine have the Beretta (PB) & trident medallions in the grips. mine can put on 1/2 cock & still engage the safety, or you can carry it cocked & locked. I carry it safety off on 1/2 cock. It is my baby 92fs. It is one of my favorite carry guns. Very light, great grip with double stack mag. Shoots very accurate. I'll always take the weight of a metal gun over a Tupperware one every time. I just put some blaze orange fingernail polish on the front sight, (yes that's a thing in Wisconsin), Plus its blued & gorgeous !! It will never leave my collection.
Two or three years ago I had an 84BB in my hand and it was like a jewel. I was put off by a salesman who intimated I couldn't buy it in California because it had a 13 round mag in it. ( Law enforcement only in California.) So I forgot that one when I could have bought it without the mag and bought 10 rounders straight from Beretta for about $22 apiece at one time. Long story short I bought a Taurus PT58S instead, without magazines and then bought a few 84 ten rounders to see if they would fit. Too short and catch is in the wrong spot so the PT58S is not an exact copy of the 84. Side by side there are some striking differences in dimensions. Close but no cigar. Then last Spring I bought a brand new 84FS so my ten rounders did not go to waste....
I haven't shot my 84FS yet but I have to tell you an older well used 84BB would be my choice if I had to do it all over. The new one is tight as a drum. I plan on shooting the beejeebers out of it this summer and see if it loosens up some.
Good review Sootch. I'm always pleased when you review something I have.
By the way, the sights I put on my CZ75 Compact, at your urging, turned out Primo. Good thing I had that soft hammer!!
Regards from Arizona, Randy
Sootch. Just got a brand new 84F $800. They are still being made in small numbers. As a security officer we can carry the 380 for duty. Your video gave me the idea to look for one after my walther started jamming.
Hi, very popular in Italy this Beretta...
Andrea
bert smith the licence for self defence it's hard to have.
Only for special reasons,
Jewelers or bankers for example.
Andrea
bert smith If you shoot in your house you go to prison, in Italy you can not defend yourself with a weapon.This is very sad.
_Andrea_
bert smith yes, but just 3 hand gun...
Chris L. you don't know how much you are lucky!!! we have limitation on evrything
bert smith In Italy the 9Luger is prohibited on semiautomatic handguns.
We have the 9x21 mm on this gun.
_Andrea_
I have the earlier BDA .380 , but the later M84 Cheeta is also nice, with black plastic grips it looks like a mini Beretta 92
This is a fine gun. I think it can be C/C. I have the same model, no dents on the wood grip. A gun shop employee called it "a beaut."
Sootch00, I had two of these! Darned if I didn't let them go....I'd love to find another good one. I really favor the Beretta open top slide. Used a 92FS on duty and trust the Beretta with my life.
My Mom has one of these. I'm thinking about buying it from her.
iKocher Don't leave your Mother defenseless. Get your own gun ! Find Another Beretta 84BB and you'll both be safe and happy.
ikocher make her an offer soon. moms dont need no steenking guns. i gave my mom a 950bs and she whipped it out at her bf that same weekend.
Get the 84fs over the bb, looks like a mini 92
Aim surplus had some foreign police trade-in M84's a few weeks back. Safety models with the round trigger guard and decocker models with the square trigger guard. $350.00 bucks. Said to myself "I'ma wait on one more DD to post and I'll get one"
They were sold out the next day.
Ive had one for years! great little gun! I also have the 81, which is also good gun! You may also mention the mags are a bit expensive. But work in the 81 in 32acp! Great video! Keep up the good work!
I inherited a Taurus PT-58S a few years ago that I believe is a clone of the Beretta Model 84. In .380, it is a very comfortable gun to shoot with zero malfunctions.
Not a clone at all as side by side there are some obvious differences. Besides that the magazines are not compatible. I have both and am happy that circumstances led me to that. Now all you need is an 84FS to be at peace with the world....
+mackrand66 in that case, I would not want both pistols simultaneously, as I would probably get the mags mixed up in an emergenc
y. My Taurus runs just fine even with an agter market high cap mag.
@mackrand66 are they not compatible? do you have a taurus pt58s or a pt58 hc plus?
I have the cheetah and as far as I understand, the 81 can take mags from the pt 57sc (.32cp variant of the pt58), so I tought that maybe the .380 cheetah would be able to take mags from the taurus.
To be fair, taurus bought beretta's factory in brazil, along with all of their projects at the time, so they essentially are beretta clones, aside from a few design features, but operation-wise, they are pretty much the same.
Jack Nicolson uses one of these in The Departed.
A couple of years ago i was helping a friend do some training with his wife, preparatory to her taking the CCW class in the future. They happened to bring one of these out, along with a SCCY 9mm a 38 snubby, and various things i brought out for her to try. She shit the 84 notably better than the SCCY (not impressed, but it is functional) or the snubby, and as well as my Sig 228. I tried it and was very pleased. It was smooth and of course easy to control. I've always liked Beretta anyway, but it was a great training gun. Better trigger and generally better accuracy than my PPK/S, as 380's go. I don't use 380 for any serious purpose, but the 84 is accurate and pleasant to shoot.
i am just now becoming reaquainted with my Browning BDA. it's been gone from my home for 6 years.i bought it back from lowlifes 10 hours ago.
did you report said lowlifes?
I own a brand new 84FS, all black. 380 is the largest caliber allowed in Mexico for self defense, as well as in many other American countries, so there's a reason why the Beretta 80 models are easier to find around here. They are not cheap, though. Y paid over 600 Euros for mine. Definetely the wood grips make it a lot more beautiful and I will hunt for a good pair. Sorry for the off topic, Sootch, but I remember seeing you fly fishing in some video. If you are ever interested in catching fish on flies in saltwater, cast me your line and I will gladly hook you up with great guides in the Yucatan Peninsula. Poons and bones on the fly is only comparable to shooting a nice gun, so you should give them a shot. God bless America! (And I mean the whole Continent😉)
Well, you learn something new everyday. I was under the impression that private firearm ownership was illegal in Mexico. Glad you are allowed some means of personal defense there. Stay aware and stay safe sir ;)
Rodrigo Vargas González me too.. I was under impression that citizens were banned by law from firearm ownership in Mexico.
I’ll be damn... i own one here in Mexico but i didn’t knew it was legal to own it, grandpa brought it from Indiana back in the 80’s and pass it on to me couple of years ago
3 things: (1) Great vid..informative. (2) good illustration by putting the Ruger & Glock next to it so we can readily see size difference (3) thanks for quoting Joshua
Oh, & BTW... You about sold me on this sidearm...
My first gun was an 84f nickel plated walnut grips. I traded it for a Ruger SP101 357 mag. He got the better deal. At that time, for me. A pistol needed too much care, and so many things could go wrong. My go to now is Smith, and Glock. Smith for quality, and Glock for quality, and less parts to go wrong.
Just picked up my 85bb from DK Arms in Bowling Green Va. As soon as our ranges are able to open I'm looking forward to shooting it. If it goes as planned I plan on using it as a conceal carry gun 🔫. Definitely a Berreta fan😁😁
This and the ppk are the fun .380's. They won't replace a LCP or Kahr but they have a cool factor
Saw these for sale in 2019. Got one. Love it. 13 round mags are pricy.