Italian Beretta Model 86 Cheetah Tip-up 9 Short .380 Auto 4.25” Pistol 1991

SOLD FOR: $1,376.00

LSB#: WY240809ED005

Make: Beretta

Model: 86 CHEETAH

Serial Number: GO1923Y

Year of Manufacture: 1991 (BA Stamped Date Code)

Caliber: 9mm Short, 380 Auto

Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Exposed hammer, DA/SA, with ambi manual frame mounted safety, magazine disconnect and flip up hinged barrel.

Markings:  The left side of the slide is marked “PIETRO BERETTA GARDONE V.T. – MADE IN ITALY”.  The left side of the frame is marked “CAT.6454 MOD. 86 – CAL.9 Short”. The right side of the slide is marked “PB PATENTED BERETTA USA CORP. ACKK.MD”  The right side of the frame is marked “GO1923Y” and several proof marks along with the date code “BH”. The top of the barrel is marked “CAL.9 Short 380 Auto”. The left side of the chamber is marked “PB”.

Barrel Length: 4.25”

Sights / Optics: The sights are open iron sights.  The front sight is a white dotted  blade, integral to the tip-up barrel.  The rear sight is a square notch with two white dots dovetailed to the slide. Three Dot system.

Stock Configuration & Condition:  The grips are checkered wood with Beretta tridents inlaid on the right and “PB” inlaid on the left panel.  The front and back straps are serrated. The checkering is crisp and the peaks are semi sharp. The left side panel shows no wear. The right side grip has a small chip out of the bottom edge. If not for the chip the grips would rate in Excellent to Like New condition especially considering the age.

Magazine Quantity & Condition: This pistol includes three x 8 round Beretta magazines in Very Fine overall condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp.  There is no visible erosion in the bore. The feed ramp shows lines from use. The rifling shows some minor lines from use. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 8.5/10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. There is some finish loss in the slide catch recess of the slide and some wear where the hammer hits the frame.  The screw heads are sharp and pins are unmarred. The markings are clear.  Overall, this handgun rates in about Excellent to Like New condition considering the age.

Mechanics:  The action functions correctly.  We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements. This pistol has an ambidextrous manual safety and magazine disconnect.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol includes the original Beretta Blue case, cleaning brush and three magazines.

Our Assessment: The Beretta Model 86 Cheetah is a revered handgun celebrated for its compact design, reliable performance, and innovative tip-up barrel feature. Chambered in .380 ACP, this firearm offers shooters a balanced combination of power and manageable recoil, suitable for both self-defense and recreational shooting. The standout feature of the Model 86 Cheetah is its unique tip-up barrel design, allowing users to load and unload the handgun without the need to rack the slide. This feature enhances convenience and accessibility, particularly for shooters with limited hand strength or dexterity. Additionally, the Model 86 Cheetah boasts a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) trigger system, offering shooters flexibility in their shooting preferences. Its ergonomic grip ensures a comfortable and secure hold during shooting, while its compact size and lightweight construction make it easily concealable for everyday carry. With its innovative tip-up barrel feature, reliable performance, and timeless design, the Beretta Model 86 Cheetah remains a cherished firearm among collectors and enthusiasts, embodying the perfect fusion of style, functionality and accessibility. Please see our high quality photos via the link and best of luck with your bidding!!!-R.L.