Beretta M1923
Beretta · Pistol · Discontinued · 1923
Also known as: Beretta Model 1923, Pistola Beretta Modello 1923
Overview
The Beretta M1923 was an Italian semi-automatic service pistol designed by Tullio Marengoni, consolidating improvements from the wartime M1915/19. Chambered in 9mm Glisenti and using a blowback, single-action action, it was the first Beretta design to feature an exposed hammer, a hallmark that would carry through to later Beretta service pistols including the Model 92. It served the Royal Italian Army from 1923 to 1945.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 800 g (28.2 oz) |
| Overall Length | 177 mm (6.97") |
| Barrel Length | 87 mm (3.43") |
| Height | 120 mm (4.72") |
| Action Type | Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 8 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 305 m/s (1001 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
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: Exposed Hammer, Fixed Sights
Service history
Operators
- Royal Italian Army · adopted 1923 · as Pistola Beretta M1923
Conflicts
- World War II (1939-1945)
Production
Estimated total produced: 10,400 · Production years: 1923-1926
Roughly 10,400 produced by 1926, when production ended due to poor sales
Origin
Country of origin: Italy
Designer: Tullio Marengoni
Discontinued: 1926
Notes
Commercially unsuccessful, with only about 10,400 produced before production ended in 1926. Some examples were fitted with a slotted grip for a shoulder-stock holster.
Background
The exposed-hammer layout introduced on the M1923 became a defining feature of Beretta service pistols for the rest of the 20th century, running through the wartime Model 1934 and ultimately the Model 92/96 series.