I wanted to share some pics of my original Beretta 92. Production started in the spring of 1976 and a little over 50,000 Model 92 pistols were produced before Beretta discontinued it in favor of the 92S a few years later.

Of those 50,000+ original 92 pistols, only the first 5000 or so were of the original "step slide" design. Of those, I'm not sure how many are still around today or how many made it into the states. They are rare and hardly ever come up for sale. By early 1977, Beretta went to the traditional straight slide design that we still have today. It was cheaper and easier to manufacture without the extra "step".

This example was built in early 1977 and is number 04697.

At any rate, I just thought I'd share this with the Beretta fans. Its always cool to see the humble beginnings of one of the most popular and iconic 9mms in history.

Thanks for looking...

Very nice. I'd never seen one before. I like the look.

__________________
Oh well, what the hell.

Thanks, much appreciated...

Nice..........good backround for those who only know the 92 F and FS.....mid-80s and newer.......

also of note on the early 92s is the 1911 style safety and mag release position on the lower left grip.

bc,.......I have a couple of the SB compacts and SB compact Ls ( stack)..... with the round trigger guard, wood grips and Beretta bluing........ they are not their grandsons 92 FS........LOL

I remember those. That step in the slide was one reason why I didn't buy one. I think it looks awful. But it is a collectible gun.

I haven't checked the Beretta board in a week or so. If you haven't posted these pcs there, you should. Many would love to see them.

That's cool!

Is that an import mark on the dust cover in pict #2?

Yes, there are several differences between these early guns and the current 92SF or M9 on the market today.

I've got an SB and a few others myself.

Thanks

Yes, Sarco imported it.