Beretta Minicougar-need advice

[NorthBorder]

New to the forum although a long-time lurker. I had been looking for a Stoeger Cougar 9mm for a while and found a Beretta mini 8000D (used but in pristine looking condition) so I snapped it up. I took it to the range with a box of 115 grain fmj and a box of Speer 124 gr gdhp +p (I got a case of the Speer for free). I can't remember the brand of the 115 gr but it was a $15 box. The Cougar would not feed that 115 gr at all. By that I mean, either the next round would not feed and the slide would close on an empty chamber, or the next round would strip of the mag but not go into battery, The Speer was nearly flawless. Because I don't think the gun was shot much by the previous owner I am wondering if these problems with the fmj will iron themselves out with use. Or is there something more I can do? Any advise would be appreciated. Hope I didn't ramble.
Terry

 

[WC145]

I'd start with a good cleaning and lube (is it dry?) and try a couple of different brands of ammo and different mags if you have any. I had the same gun for a while and never had a problem with it and I only shot 115gr ammo through it.

 

[NorthBorder]

Thanks WC. The gun came with two mags. Honestly, I can't remember if I used both. But your advice is welcome and, weather permitting, I'll blast off a few more boxes of ammo.
Terry

 

[Steve C]

Likely reason for the FTF on the FMJ rounds is that they don't impart as much recoil energy as the +P Speer. If the shooter uses a relaxed grip hold and allows too much of that energy to be absorbed by free pistol and hand movement there's not enough kinetic energy left to operate the slide fully. This is a common problem with small light weight 9mm guns. Firm up your grip and wrist and the feeding problem will likely disappear.

A dirty gun and poor lubrication could also be a contributing factor.