Opinions on Bersa Thunder compact .45 for carry?

[ryno31]

I just finished my conceal and carry class and was wondering if anyone out there has any experience with the Bersa Thunder ultra compact .45? Is Bersa known for being decently reliable (I realize they aren't a Colt or Kimber...etc)? While I'm waiting for the authorities to send me my permit I've been researching what gun I'd like to carry that I can get for under $500 and this gun has really caught my eye. I'm definetly open to any other suggestions as well but $550 is the max I'm able to spend. Thanks for the feedback.

 

[MedWheeler]

People who own the Thunder 380, Bersa's most-common pistol sold here, will tell you they are generally rock-solid, affordable, and reliable. I'm one of those people. Bersa handguns aren't as well "refined" as those SiG or Kimber guns, typically having a standard DA/SA mechanism, and a matte black finish.
I actually handled and checked out a Bersa .45 (I'm assuming a Thunder, as it was all-steel) last weekend at a gun show, and really liked its size, heft, and feel in my hands. Were I in the market for a DA/SA .45, I'd certainly look at it.

 

[DanTheFarmer]

Good Morning,

I picked up a new Bersa Thunder 45 Ulra Compact at the start of the summer. I have been very pleased with mine. I have several other Bersa so I'm familiar with and like the layout of the controls. It has been reliable and accurate (from a rest, I'm still working on freehand accuracy!). The round count is low so this isn't a comprehensive report but the honeymoon phase has been good.

Incidently I had read that Bersa is working on improving the quality of the finish on their pistols. The finish on this new one is quite nice. It is a big step up in refinement from my other Bersas.

Good Luck with your choice.

Dan

 

[beatledog7]

There are a number of poly-guns in that range. Are you looking at the Bersa because it's all metal and not a polymer-framed pistol?

In that price range there are few all-metal .45s, but if that's a criterion for you, have a look at the IMI Baby Desert Eagle.

That said, I'm looking at the Bersa myself (as I research .380s), because it's all metal.