Posted: 2/3/2008 7:49:07 AM EDT
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I'm sure this has been hashed out many times, but my archive searches didn't show any results. I did see the thread on the differences in sights but thats all I could find and nothing on Beretta's website either. My question: What are the differences, besides sights, between the 92FS and the M9? I was looking at the local fun store and a new M9 was around $500 but they had a slightly used 92FS for about $380. I would rather buy the 92FS if it's basically the same. Thanks for your help! Tom |
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Get the 92FS for that price. There isn't anywhere enough difference in the guns to justify that kind of price difference, and that's a good deal no matter what. So I'd go with the one for $380. Basically the M9 design is the 92F with FS mods for the slide and hammer pin. Military designs get "frozen" basically, and that design is what the manufactuer makes as per the milspec. On the commercial side, the manufactuer is able to continually update the design without going through the cumbersome Army establishment to make changes. For example, the first 92FS's were exactly the same as an M9, but the ones made today have some minor changes because of changes for production costs, reliability, improved life, etc. Some of the minor changes actually do get introduced into the M9 as well. In effect "cross-pollinated". But the military design is much more set in stone than the commercial one. So an M9 is basically an "F" or very early "FS". The "FS" starts there and various changes, like sights, frame contour, internal parts, etc. will be different depending on when the FS was made. Internal parts that are found to be much improved are introduced into the M9 military supply system under the same NSN number. So when you order that part, you automatically get the latest in the supply line. For Beretta to supply the different part though, they have to get a variance to the milspec from the Army, so they generally only do that if there's a good reason, like cost or lifetime. They're the same gun, except for markings, sights, and cosmetics really. Jump on the $380 FS. It sounds like the better deal. |
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Get the 92FS. If you want a metal guide rod, buy one aftermarket.
There may be proof marks including year of manufacture. I don't know much about Italian made Berettas though. |
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Woot! Just picked up the used 92FS w/2 mags for $375. Very nice bore, minimal slide wear and only a little holster wear. Hadn't had the chance to go over completely yet but it looks very good. I haven't bought a used pistol in a very long time, but I couldn't pass this up. Can't wait to shoot it, hopefully next week. Thanks everone for your words of wisdom! Tom |
yep, one of the first things i checked, thanks to all i've learned from all you wise sages of arfcom. it was gtg. thanks again! i'd post a pick but i won't bother you with a plain ol'92, i'm just so damn excited about the deal. you all know what i'm talkin about. just spent the last 45 minutes detailing 
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