Selected Handgun Detail

Manufacturer
	Fabbrica D' Armi Pietro Beretta SpA More Info

About the Gun

Compact blowback target pistol on the 70-series pattern, with an alloy frame and a taller grip for a longer magazine. External hammer, open-top slide, and black plastic panels. Fixed front sight on the barrel, adjustable rear sight on the barrel. Single-stack magazine with a heel or button release, depending on the year.

Production

Production ran from 1958 through 1970.

Market value

MSRP at production was not confirmed. Current used market value for examples in good to very good condition ranges $550–$950.

Cartridge Specifications
Cartridge:	.22 LR
Alias:	.22 Long Rifle
More Info

Analysis

The 74 was introduced in 1958 with the 70 series as the adjustable-sight companion to the Model 73. Both use the taller frame and the long barrel. The 73 has fixed sights. The 74 rear sight adjusts for windage and elevation. The Model 101 is the same gun under a later catalog number and is not a separate model. Early production has a crossbolt safety. Around 1970 the series changed to a frame-mounted lever. The line ended in 1985. The adjustable barrel-mounted rear sight is the tell against a 73. Magazines and the plastic panels are the usual missing pieces.