Beretta 92XI SAO Review

Beretta 92 series has long stood as a paragon of reliability and iconic design. The latest iteration, the Beretta 92XI Single Action Only (SAO), brings a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern enhancements to enthusiasts and professionals alike. This review delves into the specifics of the 92XI SAO, offering insights into its performance, design, and overall value.

Design Evolution

The Beretta 92XI SAO emerges as a response to longstanding requests from the firearms community for a single-action variant of the historically significant Beretta 92. Originally serving as the U.S. military’s sidearm of choice from 1982 and featuring prominently in global militaries and cinematic ventures, the 92 series’ legacy is undisputed. The SAO model distinguishes itself by eschewing the traditional double-action mechanism for a single-action setup, resulting in a cleaner trigger pull and incorporating a manual safety reminiscent of the 1911 design.

Interestingly, the concept of a frame-mounted safety on the 92 series is not entirely novel, with previous iterations and Taurus clones (stemming from shared Beretta tooling) incorporating similar features. This design choice, while offering benefits, also brings a mix of advantages and challenges.

Beretta 92XI SAO Features

Single Action Only Trigger Mechanism

The Beretta 92XI SAO adopts a single-action-only (SAO) trigger mechanism, setting it apart from the traditional double/single-action configurations of its predecessors. This design choice results in a lighter and crisper trigger pull, enhancing the shooter’s ability to achieve accurate and rapid fire.

The SAO system simplifies the firing process by eliminating the initial heavier double-action pull, thereby providing a consistent trigger experience. This feature is particularly appealing to those who prioritize precision and speed, as it allows for quick, responsive shots with minimal trigger resistance.

Manual Safety Mounted on the Frame

A notable adaptation in the 92XI SAO is the inclusion of a manual safety mounted directly on the frame, akin to the classic 1911 design. This strategic placement allows for intuitive and swift engagement and disengagement of the safety mechanism, catering to the preferences of shooters who value a manual safety feature.

The frame-mounted safety enhances the firearm’s safety profile by providing a physical barrier against accidental discharge, especially when the weapon is carried with a chambered round. This feature represents Beretta’s commitment to offering user-friendly safety options while maintaining the operational efficiency of the firearm.

Advanced Ergonomics and Grips

The Beretta 92XI SAO introduces advanced ergonomics through its straight grip angle and the use of G10 grips. These elements are designed to offer superior handling and comfort during use. The straight grip angle mirrors the natural hand position, reducing strain and enhancing control, which is critical during extended shooting sessions or high-stress scenarios.

The G10 grips provide a durable, textured surface, ensuring a secure grip even in adverse conditions. This combination of ergonomic design and high-quality materials significantly improves the shooting experience, offering both novice and experienced shooters a comfortable and controllable firearm.

Optics Ready Platform

In response to the growing trend of optic-equipped handguns, the 92XI SAO is designed to be optics-ready, featuring Beretta’s Optics mounting system. While the firearm does not include mounting plates out of the box, it offers the flexibility to accommodate a wide range of red dot sights, enhancing its versatility for various shooting disciplines, including competition, tactical applications, and personal defense.

This feature underscores Beretta’s acknowledgment of modern shooting preferences, allowing users to customize their firearm with the optic of their choice for improved accuracy and faster target acquisition.

High Capacity and Compatibility

The 92XI SAO maintains a high level of compatibility and functionality with its 18-round magazine capacity, ensuring that shooters have ample ammunition for any situation. The inclusion of two magazines with the firearm ensures readiness and convenience. Furthermore, its design ensures compatibility with standard M9 holsters, making it a seamless transition for users of the traditional Beretta 92 platform.

This feature is a testament to Beretta’s dedication to providing a comprehensive and practical shooting solution, balancing the need for sufficient firepower with the convenience of using existing accessories and holsters.

Performance

The Beretta 92XI SAO combines impressive features that enhance its performance in various scenarios. This semi-automatic handgun boasts exceptional accuracy right from the factory, ensuring consistent shot placements. It also offers ergonomic improvements like an enhanced grip texture, which helps shooters maintain control over the firearm even under high-stress conditions.

Additionally, the inclusion of ambidextrous safety, flat trigger, and compatibility with red dot optics make it well-suited for competitions and tactical operations alike. On the downside, standard height iron sights might necessitate replacement if one opts for a red dot sight setup. Furthermore, the larger dimensions of the 92XI SAO limit its appeal as an everyday carry gun.

Lastly, while the pistol performs exceptionally well within its intended niche (competition shooting), it lacks some of the broader functionalities required by users who seek a more multipurpose sidearm. Despite these drawbacks, the Beretta 92XI SAO remains a reliable choice among enthusiasts looking for a combination of precision, comfort, and customization options at a reasonable price point.

Maintenance of Beretta 92XI SAO

Maintaining the Beretta 92XI Single Action Only (SAO) is crucial for ensuring its longevity, reliability, and performance. Regular maintenance not only keeps the firearm in top working condition but also safeguards the user by preventing malfunctions that could lead to unsafe situations. Here’s a comprehensive guide to maintaining the Beretta 92XI SAO:

Cleaning and Lubrication

Frequency: Clean your Beretta 92XI SAO after each use or at least after every range session to remove residue and debris. Even if not used frequently, a quarterly check-up is recommended to ensure it remains in good condition.

Procedure:

1. Safety Check: Ensure the firearm is unloaded. Remove the magazine and check the chamber to make sure it’s empty.
2. Disassemble: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for field stripping your Beretta 92XI SAO. Typically, this involves removing the slide from the frame, taking out the barrel, and possibly removing the recoil spring and guide rod.
3. Clean the Barrel: Use a bore brush with solvent to scrub the inside of the barrel. Follow up with a patch holder and cleaning patches to remove loosened residue and solvent. Repeat until the patches come out clean.
4. Clean the Slide and Frame: Wipe down the slide, frame, and other components with a solvent-dampened cloth to remove buildup. Use a nylon brush for stubborn residue.
5. Lubricate: Apply a thin layer of quality gun oil or lubricant to moving parts, including the slide rails, barrel, and any metal-to-metal contact points. Avoid over-lubrication to prevent attracting dirt and debris.

Inspection

Frequency: Inspect your firearm during cleaning or anytime you suspect it may have been damaged or is not functioning properly.

Checklist:

• Barrel for Obstructions: Ensure there’s nothing blocking the barrel that could cause pressure buildup.
• Wear and Tear: Look for signs of abnormal wear, cracks, or damage on the slide, frame, and barrel.
• Springs: Check the recoil spring and other springs for signs of weakness or deformation.
• Safety Mechanism: Test the manual safety to ensure it engages and disengages smoothly and effectively.
• Sights: Ensure the sights are secure and undamaged.

Periodic Professional Maintenance

While regular cleaning and inspection can be performed by the gun owner, it’s advisable to have the firearm checked by a professional gunsmith annually or after a significant number of rounds have been fired. This check can include a deep clean, inspection of internal components not accessible during field stripping, and any necessary adjustments or replacements to ensure the firearm operates safely and efficiently.

Storage

Environment: Store your Beretta 92XI SAO in a cool, dry place to prevent rust and corrosion. Use a gun safe or locking cabinet to ensure it’s secure and inaccessible to unauthorized users.

Condition: Before storage, ensure the firearm is clean and lightly lubricated. Consider using a dehumidifier or desiccant packs in the storage area to control moisture.

Magazine: Store the firearm with the magazine removed, and if possible, store the magazine unloaded to preserve spring tension.

Conclusion

The Beretta 92XI Single Action Only (SAO) stands as a testament to Beretta’s commitment to innovation, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern enhancements. It addresses the long-standing demand for a single-action variant within the iconic Beretta 92 series, offering a unique combination of performance, design, and value.

With features like a single-action trigger mechanism, manual frame-mounted safety, advanced ergonomics, an optics-ready platform, and high capacity, the 92XI SAO caters to both enthusiasts and professionals seeking a reliable and versatile firearm.

Despite its specialized nature and certain limitations, such as size and the potential need for sight replacement when using optics, it remains a compelling choice for those valuing precision, ergonomic comfort, and customization options. The Beretta 92XI SAO embodies a modern evolution of a classic design, maintaining the legacy of the Beretta 92 series while embracing the needs of contemporary shooters.

FAQs

1. What makes the Beretta 92XI SAO different from traditional Beretta 92 models?
   The 92XI SAO is a single-action-only variant, offering a lighter and crisper trigger pull, a manual safety mounted on the frame, and an optics-ready platform, distinguishing it from the traditional double/single-action Beretta 92 models.
2. Can I use my existing M9 holsters with the Beretta 92XI SAO?
   Yes, the 92XI SAO is designed to be compatible with standard M9 holsters, making it a convenient option for those already owning such accessories.
3. Is the Beretta 92XI SAO suitable for everyday carry?
   While the 92XI SAO offers many features appealing for various uses, its bulkier size compared to other 9mm pistols might limit its practicality as an everyday carry option for some individuals.
4. What is the magazine capacity of the Beretta 92XI SAO?
   The 92XI SAO comes with a magazine capacity of 18 rounds, providing ample ammunition for most situations.
5. Does the Beretta 92XI SAO come with an optics mounting system?
   Yes, it features Beretta’s Optics mounting system but does not include mounting plates out of the box; one plate may be obtained after purchase through Beretta with the serial number.
6. How does the manual safety on the 92XI SAO operate?
   The manual safety is mounted on the frame, similar to a 1911, allowing for intuitive engagement and disengagement, enhancing the firearm’s safety profile.
7. What are the ergonomic features of the 92XI SAO?
   It includes a straight grip angle and G10 grips, designed to offer superior handling and comfort during use.
8. Can I customize the Beretta 92XI SAO with a red dot sight?
   Yes, the 92XI SAO is an optics-ready platform, allowing for easy customization with a wide range of red dot sights to enhance accuracy and target acquisition.
9. What is the price point of the Beretta 92XI SAO?
   The MSRP of the 92XI SAO is $949, offering good value for money considering its features, performance, and the premium H Series Cerakote finish.
10. Are there any known issues with the Beretta 92XI SAO’s trigger system?
    Some discussions mention potential issues with the trigger system’s quality, but these appear to be isolated incidents. Overall, the 92XI SAO is known for its excellent out-of-the-box precision and reliability.