Beretta model 92.........1st impressions

Joined
Jan 28, 2001
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I picked up a new knife today, a Beretta Model 92 folder and I thought I'd share my 1st impressions of it. For those unfamiliar with this knife, it looks like this:

Pic is from knivesplus.com

BE-101B02.jpg


Okay, here are the specs:

The knife is made in Seki, Japan and sports a 3.5 inch partially serrated AUS-8 blade in a 2-tone finish. The textured Zytel handle is designed after Beretta's model 92 pistol right down to the handle screws and trident logo. A sturdy pocket clip is supplied along with a nylon sheath which can be worn vertically or horizontally. Plain edge versions are also available.

The look of the knife is similar to the Browning Barracuda knives. However, unlike Browning's folders, the Beretta 92 has double steel liners nested into the Zytel handle like the Benchmade Griptilian, Emerson Raven and SOG X-Ray Vision. As illustrated by the pic above, the pocket clip is removable, but only allows for tip up carry on the right side pocket. The thumb stud is reversible, however I found it difficult to open with my left hand because of the pocket clip. Removing the clip allowed easier left hand opening, but this is obviously a knife made for right handed hominids. :D

These days, tanto points do not appeal to everyone, and while they were the thing in the 1990's, the blade's profile fits the overall "tactical" theme of this knife's design. The grinds are even and the blade is extremely sharp which is something I've always liked about Beretta knives. The blade's action is smooth and the lockup secure with no wobble in any direction. Another plus is the ability to adjust the pivot's tension to one's liking.

As far as the knife's performance, I expect it to perform as well as other AUS-8 blades. While I don't believe in spine whack tests, I did apply moderate pressure to the blade's spine and found the lockup adecuate enough for every day use. I also showed the knife to a few buddies of mine who collect Beretta firearms and they went nuts when they saw this folder. Whether you're a Beretta firearms fan or not, this knife makes an impression. And if you like the Beretta Airlight, you'll love this cool folder.

***UPDATE*** I placed another order with my dealer and I learned that the model 92 does not come with a sheath. He merely threw in a sheath from one of the Beretta Fieldlights which also happens to accomodate the model 92 folder.


By the way, check out the new Beretta Airlight II folders:

BE-004A03.jpg


Can't wait to get one of those as well. ;)
 
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