Beretta M9 vs 92FS
If you’ve narrowed down your selection to Beretta and are considering the M9 and the 92FS, you’re probably wondering if there’s even a difference between these two popular gun models.
When looking at the specifications of the Beretta M9 vs 92FS, they are nearly identical. But, when you look closer, there are a few key differences that set them apart, including variations in their frames, grips, and sights.
Because they are so similar, determining which is right for you ultimately depends on personal preference and what works best for your needs.
We won’t keep you waiting any longer. Keep reading to find out what the difference is between these two Italian pistols.
Products Mentioned In This Article
Beretta M9
The Beretta M9 is the military variation of the 92FS. It features an open-top slide with a large ejection port to increase the pistol’s reliability.
This double/single action gun is built with an aluminum frame and polymer grip panels. The Beretta M9 is chambered in 9mm Luger and comes standard with a 15-round flush magazine, though it also comes in a smaller model, the Beretta M9 Compact, with a 10-round magazine. Additional extended magazine options can also be found for the M9.
This combat pistol is capable of functioning in extreme temperatures and is durable enough to perform reliably after being dropped or exposed to the elements, making it a great tactical option for military, police, and personal use.
Easy to use and known for its consistency, reliability, and accuracy, this Beretta pistol is a great option for anyone looking for a concealable EDC gun.
Check out IWB and OWB holsters for the Beretta M9.
Beretta 92FS
The Beretta 92FS 9mm pistol was designed to be the most accurate, reliable semi-automatic handgun available.
Similar to the Beretta M9, the 92FS features an open-top for faster and smoother cycling. This model is also commonly used by the U.S. military and many law enforcement agencies across the country, though its safety features make it more popular among concealed carriers.
This double/single action pistol is built with a hard-chromed barrel bore and is chambered in 9mm Luger. It comes standard with a 10- or 15-round magazine but has extended magazine options that allow it to hold up to 30 rounds.
This well-known Beretta model has had many variants over the years, including the smaller Beretta 92FS Compact, and continues to be known for its accuracy, durability, and safety in the EDC world.
Check out IWB and OWB holsters for the Beretta 92FS.
Specifications: Beretta M9 vs 92FS
Size & Capacity
Ultimately, these two popular Beretta pistols are exactly the same size and weight.
Both the M9 and the 92FS are 5.4” tall, 8.5” long, and 1.5” wide, with a barrel length of 4.9”. Both Beretta models are a lightweight 33.3 oz unloaded.
Both the Beretta M9 and 92FS come standard with a 15-round magazine but are available in more compact models to meet state regulations with a 10+1 capacity, perfect for concealed carry. If you are looking for a larger capacity, extended magazines are available for both of these gun models.
Ergonomics
Frame
The Beretta M9 has an aluminum frame with a 1.3” synthetic grip. All of its parts were designed to be interchangeable for easy maintenance.
The Beretta 92FS, on the other hand, has a stainless steel frame and a 1.3” black synthetic grip.
Of course, other grip options are available for both of these Beretta gun models.
Slide & Barrel
Both the Beretta M9 and 92FS feature an open-top Bruniton-coated slide. This durable finish is designed to provide superior sweat and corrosion resistance. Both models have an enlarged hammer pin on the bottom of the slide to prevent it from flying off the rear.
Sights & Optics
While the comparison of the Beretta M9 vs 92FS has been very similar so far, one of the biggest differences is in their sights.
Both pistols have a fixed iron notch and post for the front and rear sights, though that’s where their similarities end.
The Beretta M9 is built with a two-dot sight system, with the front sight featuring a painted white dot for easier target acquisition. The 92FS has a three-dot system with a dot painted on its front sight, but has a more traditional design with two additional dots on either side of the rear sight. Both Beretta pistol models have a 6.1” sight radius.
When it comes to optics, neither the Beretta M9 nor the 92FS come optics-ready.
At the end of the day, the two-dot system on the M9 is durable and reliable, but you may find the three-dot system of the 92FS a bit easier on the eyes.
Controls
Safety
When it comes to safety, both of these Beretta pistol models come with an ambidextrous external safety level. The Beretta 92FS also has an ambidextrous decocker, unlike the M9.
Trigger
The trigger guard on both the M9 and 92FS is squared off and features a firing pin block to prevent the firing pin from moving without the trigger being pulled.
The key difference in trigger between these two gun models is in the grip ergonomics and trigger reach. Because the 92FS is designed with an undercut near its beavertail, it is slightly easier to grip than the M9’s more traditional squared grip, even for those with smaller hands.
Beretta M9 vs 92FS: Which is Right for Me?
The comparison between the Beretta M9 and the 92FS is not an easy one since the M9 is a military-modified version of the 92FS. Ultimately, these two guns are very similar in specifications but have a few key differences.
When choosing between the Beretta M9 or 92FS, think about your individual needs. If you are looking for a more tactical option designed for field use, the M9 is a great choice. If you’re interested in something with better ergonomics and more advanced sights, the 92FS is likely the better option.
So, think about what you need out of a concealed carry gun. Now that you have a better understanding of the differences, strengths, and weaknesses of the two firearms, you can make the choice that’s right for you.
If you’re looking for belts or holsters, we recommend visiting our Holsters by Gun Model page where we offer a variety of Beretta 92FS holster and Beretta M9 holster options. For all of our belt and holster options, and for more information to help you choose the carry system that works best for you, visit our Vedder Holsters website.
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