Beretta M1915
Beretta · Pistol · Discontinued · 1915
Also known as: Beretta Model 1915, Pistola Beretta Modello 1915
Overview
The Beretta M1915 was the first semi-automatic pistol produced by Fabbrica d'Armi Pietro Beretta, designed by Tullio Marengoni and adopted as a service sidearm by the Royal Italian Army during World War I. A simple blowback, single-action design with an exposed barrel, it was chambered in 9mm Glisenti, with the later M1915/17 variant produced in 7.65mm Browning. It launched Beretta's long line of military service pistols.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 850 g (30.0 oz) |
| Overall Length | 171 mm (6.73") |
| Barrel Length | 84 mm (3.31") |
| Height | 120 mm (4.72") |
| Action Type | Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 7 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 280 m/s (919 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 410 J (302 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 50 m (55 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Wood |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 9mm Glisenti · primary — also known as 9x19mm Glisenti, 9mm Glisenti M1910
- 7.65x17mm Browning SR (.32 ACP) — also known as .32 ACP, 7.65mm Browning, 7.65 Auto
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: Exposed Barrel, Fixed Sights
Variants
- Beretta M1915/17 — Improved
- Beretta M1915/19 — Improved
Service history
Operators
- Royal Italian Army · adopted 1915 · as Pistola Beretta M1915
Conflicts
- World War I (1914-1918)
- World War II (1939-1945)
Production
Production years: 1915-1930
Approximately 15,670 M1915 pistols and around 56,000 of the M1915/17 variant produced
Origin
Country of origin: Italy
Designer: Tullio Marengoni
Discontinued: 1930
Notes
The original M1915 used a 7-round magazine; the improved M1915/17 and M1915/19 variants adopted 8-round magazines. The M1915/17 was chambered in 7.65mm Browning.
Background
The M1915 marked the start of Beretta's enduring reputation as a military pistol maker; designer Tullio Marengoni went on to shape Beretta small arms for decades, including the famous Model 1934.