Beretta 1934 ... markings

[Waveski]

A friend showed me a very nice Beretta 1934 in 9mm corto today. He asked about one of the inscriptions stamped on the frame ; I was no help ... but I'll bet someone here will know.

Please take a look at the close up and decipher , if possible.

Thank you.

 

[berettaprofessor]

Italian Royal Army

 

[5-SHOTS]

Yes, RE stands for Regio Esercito, Italian Royal Army.
XVI on the slide stands for sixteenth year of the fascist era, from 28 October 1937 to 27 October 1938.
Please, leave it in the actual conditions. Don't try to reblue it.

 

[Waveski]

It has a fine patina with several parts plum colored .
Would not dream of refinishing such a beautiful piece.

 

[kBob]

one of my favorites.....

simple, strong construction, well built.

-kBob

 

[Waveski]

Good , concise information - especially the significance of the Roman numerals.

Thank you all. 'Ski

 

[.455_Hunter]

A highly unrated weapon.

Mine is a '43 with no markings other than serial number. Shoots outstanding.

The flat tip firing pin is a bit goofy and can cause misfires on some brands of ammo.