I've spent a lot of time with striker-fired pistols, but I'm thinking about trying out Berettas. I found a used M9A3 that’s priced well, and it’s really got me interested. For those who know this platform, what should I be aware of as a newbie?
Beretta M9A3
- Thread starter loverboi
- Start date
I wouldn’t hesitate to buy a well-priced M9A3. I’ve mostly used striker guns and the first thing that hit me was how different that long first trigger pull feels. It took some time at the range, but once I got the hang of it, I actually started to enjoy that heavier first pull followed by a really nice single-action. I’d say keep it lubed, don’t overthink it, and just shoot. It’s not as easy to pick up as a striker gun but it’s got a lot of personality.
John Balazek
Well-known member
- Joined
- Jul 2, 2025
- Messages
- 121
You can always thumb the hammer!!! Why do you think God put it there?
Haha you’re right! That hammer definitely adds to the appeal. Since I’m used to striker-fired models, I’m trying to understand the DA/SA setup. I get the concept of thumbing the hammer but I want to know how the trigger transition works, what the decocker and safety quirks are and what maintenance I should expect with a used M9A3.
