They are still making then
RIFLENUT,
According to the BERETTA USA website, they are now selling only one 96 model, the 96A1. This is similar to the 92A1 that has been adopted by the Marine Corp. It adds a light rail to the frame, but it otherwise the same.
Also, the model 90-2 is available.
I have used the 96D for over a decade. My agency adopted the 96D Brigadier model after we tested and destroyed every .40 S&W caliber pistol that was available. When they did a second round of testing, the BERETTA 96D with a reinforced slide and the SIG 229 with a machined, stainless steel slide, passed the test, nothing else survived.
It was my agencies issue weapon for about 10 years. We only used the 155 grain jhp and it wore them out. Now we are using H&K P2000 pistols and they will probably be replaced in even less time. So we are going to the 135 grain load.
If you are going to shoot only the slow 180 grain loads, then the 96 will be ok.
I do not see any reason to use the 180 grain loads. I use 155 grain jhp for carry and 165 grain fmj WINCHESTER White box for practice.
If you are going to use the 155 grain loads, you will get .357 magnum stopping power out of a 96. We got @ 1,200 fps with our ammo.
I would advise you to get a Brigadier model or the 90-2 which also has a reinforced slide, but is styled differently from the 92 and 96.
You can also get a real bargain if you buy a D model which is DOUBLE ACTION ONLY. It works like a 12 shot revolver and is very accurate. Try it first, though. I like DOUBLE ACTION ONLY, but you may not. All but one of my BERETTA's are DOA, so I saved money and do not have a problem with the action.
Jim
