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Selected Handgun Detail

Beretta
Model 81
Beretta Pistol 81 .32 Auto Variant-1
Scale To:
Gun Dimensions Width:1.4-in
Length:6.8-in Height:4.8-in
Barrel:3.8-in Weight:24.1-oz
Variant 1 of 2
Gun Rankings
  • Power Factor (71 grain bullet)63545
  • Recoil Factor (71 grain bullet)1.14 ft-lb
  • Total Capacity13 rounds
  • ConcealabilityGood
  • Defense Factor58%
Gun Specifications
Type:Pistol
Produced:1976 - 1984
Caliber:.32 Auto
Action:blowback operated semi-auto
Trigger:double-action (DA/SA)
Safety:slide mounted ambi safety
Magazine:12-round
Frame:aluminum alloy
Grip:black composite
Sights:3-dot
Notes:
Manufacturer
Fabbrica D' Armi Pietro Beretta SpA
More Info
Gun Value
MSRP:No DataUsed Est:$525.00
Last Update:9/27/2023
About the Gun

Beretta's medium frame 8X series (models 81 through 87) feature an open-top slide similar to the larger 9mm 92 models, but utilize a fixed barrel blowback action due to the lower power calibers employed. The various models are chambered for either .22LR, .32 or .380 Auto. These alloy frame double-action pistols feature an exposed hammer and a frame mounted ambi safety with no decocking capability. Early variants employ a curved trigger guard while later variants employ a squared and serrated trigger guard. There are both walnut and plastic grip variants, and various capacities depending on caliber, and whether a variant employs a single-stack or double-stack magazine. Models produced starting in the early 1990's were presented as the "Cheetah" series, still using the 8x model designation such as the "Model 84 Cheetah".

Cartridge Specifications
Cartridge: .32 Automatic
Alias: 7.65 mm Browning
More Info
Ballistics for This Gun
Selected Bullet Mass:71 grains
MV:895 ft/sec ME:126 ft-lbs
About the Cartridge

Initially introduced in Europe, this semi-rimmed centerfire cartridge came to the United States when Colt introduced its 'Pocket Model' semiautomatic pistol. Like the .25 ACP, the .32 ACP is considered by many as too weak to be an effective self-defense round. But it has been an extremely popular caliber, notably by the fact that practically all minor and major manufacturers of autoloading handguns in the world have built millions of small pocket autoloaders in .32 Auto.

User Rating
3 User Ratings
2 User Comments
User Comments

5 of 5 Stars
Hidden Gem
By pebbycree on 04 Mar 2020
Purchased a law enforcement surplus model. Condition and function are excellent. Had to replace two grip panel screws...less than $10. Slide racking takes some effort. Two stovepipes in first 250 rounds appear to be from weak ammo. Recoil is minimal. DA trigger is a bit heavy but SA trigger is excellent. Takedown is extremely simple. This is one well made firearm.

5 of 5 Stars
Great surplus pistol
By chrismorris100 on 08 Sep 2019
The Beretta model is a great surplus pistol. The pistol is a great shooter,will hardly any recoil ,very accurate.and light. The pistol strips down easy with no tools any easy to clean. Can't beat the price on the surplus market. I would recommend this pistol to anyone.