When it comes to form and function, Beretta has a really good track record. The Beretta 92FS is probably one of the most ubiquitous handguns around the world and the rest of the Beretta catalog has seen high sales all over the globe. Beretta decided to take some of the best parts from across their product line and apply them to create a gun that was perfect for defensive use. Taking the rotating barrel system from the Beretta 8000 models, the trigger and safety from the 92 series, and sprinkled in some features to increase the firearm’s utility. Using a polymer frame with steel inserts, the pistol is light to carry but sturdy enough to stand up to the rigors of daily carry. Weighing in around 37 ounces fully loaded, it doesn’t weigh you down or come uncomfortable over time. The smooth contours not only make the gun looks sharp and modern, but they allow for a snag-less pull from the holster. With a rounded trigger guard, beveled edges, and unique angles, the gun is designed to be quickly drawn from the holster without the worry of snags or hold-ups.
One of the best features is the rotating barrel. When fired, the barrel rotates to absorb most of the recoil. Because of this system, shooting the light framed Px4 feels like shooting the same caliber in a much heavier pistol. Reducing the felt recoil will allow you to have quicker follow-up shots or a pleasant time at the range. To make it even better, Beretta added a Picatinny rail so you can add a light or laser. The Px4 is a handgun designed with the concealed carrier in mind, while maintaining the classic Beretta look updated for the 21st Century.
I own a PX4, nice handgun; I love the safety mechanism – great to have at your bedside without the fear of “inadvertently” firing off a round while waking up from a scary dream.
I just wish the designers of the PX4 had placed the de-cocker forward of the serrations on the slide as with other automatics – make it a bit difficult to rack the slide.
With a Alien Gear holster and you forget you have it on.
I liked it so much that I bought two. One for each hand.
The PX4 is just a hoot to shoot – smooth and accurate. The optional fully adjustable sights are a worthwhile addition too. Have never had a malfunction of any type. Finally, an excellent mate to a CX4 Carbine.
I own the 92FS, the 96, and the Storm in both 9 and 40. For target shooting and suppressed fire, I use my 92, for home defense, the 96 sits in my desk. The 40 Storm is my car carry and the 9mm Storm is my concealed carry.
I chose the PX4 in .40 S&W as my Constable carry side arm, i trust it with my life.
Another big plus to the rotating barrel is a tighter fit to the front bushing is made possible. In a standard tilting link lockup system (found in most semi-auto pistols) the back of the barrel lifts up and the barrel rotates slightly in the front bushing. A too tight fit of the barrel to front bushing will prevent lifting and lock up, some freedom must be built into the system, which leads to inherent inaccuracies. A great deal of the effort to accurize a 1911 is spent on the bushing and lock up system. This weakness is eliminated in the PX4