I've been looking at the Beretta Cheetah lately with new interest.
Why:
Reliability. Berettas have an undisputed reputation for reliability. I figure the Cheetah's open top slide, feed angle and fixed barrel contribute to the reliability. Plus, fixed barrel of the .380 should be even more accurate and reliable than other Berettas of same open top slide design.
I know the .380 is considered a marginal caliber for defense and there are smaller pistols in .380 (including upcoming KT 3AT) and 9 mm. However, I like the simplicity and strength of the simple, straight blowback .380. No titling, locking, gas delay, blah blah blah. Fewer parts = more robust and reliable and easier to takedown and clean. Besides, is the step down from 9mm to .380 really that crucial for defense, especially if use hollowpoints? Also, I like the Beretta .380 over other .380's again for the design, including open top slide, etc....
Other good points: a thumb safety where it ought to be, a la 1911; a narrow profile and fairly good overall size with a good balance between size and weight to control felt recoil; a good 10+1 of rounds (with 13 rounder mags available).
Any additional thoughts on the Cheetah from the knowledgeable members here appreciated. That is, am I crazy? Thanks.
Why:
Reliability. Berettas have an undisputed reputation for reliability. I figure the Cheetah's open top slide, feed angle and fixed barrel contribute to the reliability. Plus, fixed barrel of the .380 should be even more accurate and reliable than other Berettas of same open top slide design.
I know the .380 is considered a marginal caliber for defense and there are smaller pistols in .380 (including upcoming KT 3AT) and 9 mm. However, I like the simplicity and strength of the simple, straight blowback .380. No titling, locking, gas delay, blah blah blah. Fewer parts = more robust and reliable and easier to takedown and clean. Besides, is the step down from 9mm to .380 really that crucial for defense, especially if use hollowpoints? Also, I like the Beretta .380 over other .380's again for the design, including open top slide, etc....
Other good points: a thumb safety where it ought to be, a la 1911; a narrow profile and fairly good overall size with a good balance between size and weight to control felt recoil; a good 10+1 of rounds (with 13 rounder mags available).
Any additional thoughts on the Cheetah from the knowledgeable members here appreciated. That is, am I crazy? Thanks.