Introduction
The Beretta APX is a launched semi-automatic percussion pistol designed by the Italian firm Beretta, a key player in the world of armaments for almost five centuries. Officially launched in 2016, the APX marks a clean break with the tradition of external hammer weapons like the Beretta 92. It adopts modern striker-fired operation, advanced ergonomics and advanced modularity, meeting new military and civilian standards. The APX embodies Beretta’s determination to compete with industry giants such as Glock, SIG Sauer and Smith & Wesson in the modern service pistol category.
Project background and military context
The birth of the Beretta APX is directly linked to the MHS (Modular Handgun System) competition launched by the US Army to replace its standard pistol, the Beretta M9 (92FS). For the first time in decades, Beretta had to propose a radically different platform, at the risk of losing a historic contract. The APX was therefore developed with total innovation in mind: a new platform, a new operating mode, and the introduction of a removable, serialized central frame, enabling the gun to be changed without reconfiguring it from a legal point of view.
Although the contract was won by SIG Sauer with its P320, the Beretta APX was nevertheless introduced to the civilian market and to certain law enforcement agencies, gaining notoriety and consolidating Beretta’s presence in the striker-fired sector.
Main technical data
| Features | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 9×19 mm Parabellum, .40 S&W |
| Total length | 192 mm (Full Size) |
| Barrel length | 108 mm |
| Height | 142 mm |
| Width | 33 mm |
| Weight (unloaded) | ~780 g |
| Magazine capacity | 15, 17 or 18 shots depending on version |
| Firing system | Striker-fired system |
| Internal frame | Removable, serialized, stainless steel |
| Accessory rail | Picatinny MIL-STD-1913 |
| Sights | Detachable, tritium-compatible |
Design, ergonomics and safety
The Beretta APX is distinguished by clear design choices geared to intensive operational use. Its fully ribbed slide allows rapid handling in all conditions, with or without gloves. The weapon is balanced around a low center of gravity, which reduces the perception of recoil and improves stability during rapid fire.
Its modular system is based on a removable internal metal frame, the true legal heart of the weapon. This can be installed in different types of polymer casings, in a variety of sizes and colors, enabling users to adjust the weapon to their morphology or operational needs.
The trigger system is fluid, with a clean reset, often compared favorably with that of the Glock. Three interchangeable backrests are supplied to adapt the grip.
In terms of safety, the APX incorporates :
A trigger safety device (internal lever)
Automatic firing pin safety
Visible, tactile loaded-chamber indicator
A cocking indicator on the back of the slide
Variants and sub-models
APX Full Size
Original model, with 108 mm barrel, 17-shot magazine (or 18 depending on country), standard size suitable for service or sporting shooting.
APX Centurion
Compact version of the Full Size: shorter barrel (98 mm), slightly reduced handle, but still compatible with 17-shot magazines. Very popular with security guards.
APX Compact
Even shorter, with a 92 mm barrel and a handle that holds a 13-round magazine. Ideal for discreet carry without sacrificing effectiveness.
APX Carry
Ultra-slim, single-column subcompact. 6- to 8-shot magazine, depending on configuration. Based on the Beretta Nano, it targets a civilian audience looking for a lightweight, reliable EDC (Everyday Carry).
APX RDO (Red Dot Optics)
Machined slide to accept a reflex viewfinder such as Trijicon RMR, Leupold DPP, etc. Supplied with several adapter plates. Designed for demanding sport and professional shooters.
APX Tactical / Combat
High-end version with barrel thread for silencer, raised sight, RDO slide, reinforced finish and reworked trigger. Used by certain elite corps and professional shooters.
APX A1 (new generation)
Released in 2022, theAPX A1 corrects the ergonomic shortcomings of the first model. It features a redesigned slide, a lighter trigger, RDO machining as standard, and an anti-reflective matte black finish. Considered the worthy successor to the first APX.
Institutional adoptions
The Beretta APX has been adopted by several government and military entities, including :
Polizia di Stato (Italy)
Argentine National Police
Special units in Indonesia and South America
Security forces in some Eastern European countries
Its adoption remains more limited than that of the Glock or SIG P320, but its popularity is growing in European shooting clubs and among fans of modular design.
Comparison with other models
| Model | Modularity | Trigger type |
|---|---|---|
| Beretta APX | Yes | Striker-fired |
| SIG P320 | Yes | Striker-fired |
| Glock 17 | No | Striker-fired |
For use in sport and civilian shooting
The APX is widely used in dynamic shooting disciplines such as IPSC and IDPA, thanks to its direct trigger and stable architecture. The RDO and Tactical versions are particularly popular for competitions. On the civilian side, the Compact and Carry models appeal to shooters looking for a safe, customizable and field-proven pistol.
Conclusion
The Beretta APX symbolizes the Italian company’s strategic shift towards striker-fired architecture and modularity. It is the fruit of masterful engineering, focused on robustness, flexibility and safety. Although less widely distributed than some of its competitors, the APX is a serious alternative for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Its new generation, the APX A1, confirms Beretta’s commitment to remaining at the forefront of innovation in the field of light weaponry.
It’s a complete, reliable and customizable gun that’s earning a reputation in a highly competitive market.
