2 Pistols From the New Beretta 92X Compact Series Ideal for Self-Defense

Engaging steel targets with the Beretta 92X Compact.

Beretta released two new versions, one with a rail, of the 92X Compact.

Featuring Vertec frames, a lot of thought and engineering went into the 92X Compact line.

The Beretta 92 FS has become a pretty iconic pistol. Especially since a variant, the M9, was adopted as the standard U.S. military sidearm back in 1985. There’s no more proven combat and duty pistol platform than the 92. However, the Beretta 92FS really has not seen much change since that iconic M9 model of the mid ’80s until now. And I got range time with two new variants at the recent Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous.

The 92X Compact takes the proven reliability of the venerable M9 to the next level. Beretta incorporated new ergonomic features such as a standard straight backstrap profile frame with new flat and wraparound highly textured grip panels. The new grips fit the majority of shooters needs out of the box. Combat Sights, enhanced fire control, and an extended magazine release result in a pistol that strives for top performance ideal for defensive purposes. Beretta has created a coming-together of all of the most desirable features that today’s shooters prefer in a do-it-all pistol with the new 92X series. A sort of revamp of a classic.

Beretta 92X Compact Features

The new Beretta 92X pistols now include a dovetailed M9A3 compatible front sight. That means not only easy adjustment, but tons of options are available. Getting a Tritium front sight installed on a 92FS was not exactly easy. With the 92X series it’s very simple to change out the front sight for a variety of aftermarket options easily. The pistols ship with a bright orange front sight right out of the box that for me is perfect.

The Vertec-style vertical grip of the 92X offers two very important benefits. Its vertical configuration enables shooters with smaller hands to find a more natural grip with the pistol as compared to a traditional 90 series, and when paired with the new rigid wraparound polymer grips also allows for proper fit for large hands.

Vertec Components

One of the greatest benefits of the 92X outside of the Vertec style frame is its universal slide, which is easily convertible from FS to G mode and features a Vertec configuration dovetail on all sizes. This means that the 92X’s safety lever can be used in a safety-decocker mode (FS) or it can be converted to perform a decocker-only (G) function for those who prefer this configuration. There is also a 92X compact rail version available for users that want to be able to easily add rail accessories. The rail model is exactly the same other than the rail however, it will not fit in regular 92 holsters.

The 92X Compact has the Centurion-length slide and barrel on a shorter frame. It measures 5.25-inches high, versus the standard 5.4-inch height, to produce a handgun more suited for concealed carry. Due to the chopped down frame, the Compact has a smaller mag capacity of 13 rounds, but hits the scales at 27-ounces, unloaded.

Shooting the 92X Compact feels much like its older brother but is much more user friendly with the new frame design and grip options. The short time I had behind the trigger I was plinking steel from 7 yards out to 100 yards away. The gun felt great in my hands with the flat grip panels since my hands are smaller. I wouldn’t exactly call this thing a compact in today’s market though. It is definitely larger than some of the other options out there. It performed very well at the range. The fact that this thing is not polymer was a nice change in itself and makes the 92X compact line stand out. Whether it’s at the pistol range, at home, or for concealed carry, the 92X is a great option for anyone.

For more information, visit beretta.com.