FN Browning Beretta BDA .380 Auto 9mm Short Semi-Automatic Pistol, MFD 1996
Sold For: $1,325.00
LSB#: 220702JS002
Make: Mfg by Beretta for FN Browning
Model: BDA-380
Serial Number: 425NT05605
Year of Manufacture: 1996 (BH Italian Date Code & NT Browning Date Code)
Caliber: .380 ACP (9mm Short)
Action Type: Single & Double Action, Semi-Auto Pistol With Decocker-Safety & Magazine Disconnect.
Markings: The left of the slide is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY / MORGAN, UTAH & MONTREAL P.Q.”, the right is marked “FABRIQUE NATIONALE HERSTAL”, “PB” in oval, and “MADE IN ITALY”. The barrel is marked “CAL. 9 Short / 380 Auto” on the chamber and with two Italian proofs on the right toward the muzzle. The left of the frame is marked “BDA-380”, “425 NT 05605”, and “140”. The right side of the frame has the Italian date code, three Italian proofs, and “CAT. 6754”. The floor plate on the magazine is marked “CAL. 9 Short/380 Auto” and the left side is marked “PB CAL. 9 Short / 380 Auto MADE IN ITALY”.
Barrel Length: 3.75”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a rounded blade integral to the front of the slide, the rear sight is a square notch dovetailed to the rear of the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth walnut panels with Browning Buck Mark medallions in the center. There are a few tiny scuffs on the bottom of the left panel. Otherwise, only light handling marks are present on each. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Fine-Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Nickel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is some very light erosion nearer the muzzle.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 96% of its metal finish. There are light nicks on the front strap and trigger guard. There is faint frost on the top and right side of the slide at the front. There is some stubborn grease on the left side of the slide. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. This pistol has a magazine disconnect safety. We have not fired this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This magazine comes in its original case with one 10-round magazines and paperwork including the manual.
Our Assessment: Introduced in 1977, the Browning BDA-380 is a compact, high-capacity .380 semi-automatic pistol. It shares some features with the Beretta 80-series guns, but it has a full-slide instead of the open-top of the Beretta guns. Made for Browning in Italy by Beretta, the manufacture of these pistols certainly has an interesting story! This example has a nickel finish and is in about Fine condition, retaining about 96% of its finish with a nice bore and strong mechanics. This would make for a great carry pistol, with advances in cartridges making .380 a quite serviceable defensive round. That said, in its high condition, this pistol would appeal to Browning and Beretta collectors, as well as those who just like a beautiful, well-made pistol. Please see our photos and good luck!
