Description
The Beretta 96G in .40 S&W is a law enforcement and military-proven platform that has found a solid second life in the U.S. civilian market, particularly among shooters who value a full-size, all-metal frame for range work and home defense. This used model comes with a 20-round extended magazine, two standard 12-round magazines, and a Lasergrip, making it a practical choice for those who want a reliable double-action/single-action pistol with additional capacity and an integrated aiming aid. Whether you are a target shooter looking for a heavy, stable platform or a homeowner wanting a duty-grade firearm, this Beretta offers a blend of features that have stood the test of time.
What This Product Is and Who It Is For
This is a used Beretta 96G chambered in .40 S&W, part of the 90-series family known for its open-slide design and rotating barrel system. The “G” designation indicates the “G” variant, which replaces the traditional frame-mounted safety with a decocker-only lever—meaning there is no manual safety to fumble with, but you can safely lower the hammer on a live round. This model is best suited for target shooters who appreciate a heavy, recoil-absorbing frame; home defense users who want a full-size pistol with a high magazine capacity; collectors of Beretta 90-series firearms; and shooters who prefer the .40 S&W cartridge for its balance of velocity and stopping power. It is not ideal for concealed carry due to its size and weight, but it excels in open carry or range scenarios.
Key Specifications
- Caliber: .40 S&W
- Capacity: Includes one 20-round extended magazine and two 12-round standard magazines (total of three magazines)
- Barrel Length: 4.9 inches (standard Beretta 96 barrel length)
- Overall Length: Approximately 8.5 inches
- Weight: Roughly 34 ounces unloaded (with steel frame and aluminum alloy slide)
- Finish: Bruniton matte black finish on the slide and frame (typical used condition may show holster wear)
- Sights: Fixed front post and rear notch (dovetailed for adjustment or replacement)
- Grip: Lasergrip installed, providing a visible red laser for low-light target acquisition
- Action: Double-action/single-action (DA/SA) with decocker-only lever (G model)
- Frame Material: Aluminum alloy
- Slide Material: Steel
Feature Deep-Dive
The Beretta 96G’s decocker-only configuration is a standout feature for many shooters. Unlike the standard 96F, which has a frame-mounted safety that also decocks, the G variant removes the manual safety entirely. This simplifies the manual of arms: you can carry the pistol with a round in the chamber and the hammer decocked, then draw and fire with a longer, heavier double-action trigger pull for the first shot. Subsequent shots are in single-action mode with a lighter trigger. This system is favored by law enforcement agencies and civilian shooters who prefer not to rely on a safety lever under stress, relying instead on the holster and trigger discipline for safety.
The inclusion of a 20-round extended magazine is a practical upgrade for range sessions or home defense. The extended magazine increases the grip length slightly but provides an additional eight rounds over the standard 12-round magazines. The two included 12-round magazines ensure you have standard-capacity options for carry or storage. All magazines are Beretta factory or compatible aftermarket units, and they feed .40 S&W ammunition reliably. The 20-round magazine is also useful for competition shooters who want to reduce reload frequency during drills.
The Lasergrip installed on this pistol is a significant value-add. Unlike slide-mounted lasers, a grip-integrated laser does not interfere with holster fit or slide operation. The Lasergrip activates with a natural pressure on the grip, meaning the laser comes on as you hold the firearm normally. This allows for faster target acquisition in low-light conditions, such as home defense scenarios at night. The laser is adjustable for windage and elevation, and it uses common CR2 batteries. For a used firearm, having a quality aftermarket laser already mounted saves the buyer the cost and installation effort.
The open-slide design of the Beretta 96G provides reliable ejection and reduces the risk of a jam caused by an obstructed ejection port. The rotating barrel system, where the barrel tilts down at the rear to unlock, is known for its accuracy and durability. The barrel is chrome-lined for corrosion resistance, which is important for a used firearm that may have been carried in various conditions. The Bruniton finish, while showing some wear on this used example, is a satin matte coating that resists rust and scratches better than blued finishes.
For home defense, the full-size frame and weight of the Beretta 96G help manage the recoil of the .40 S&W cartridge, allowing for faster follow-up shots. The DA/SA trigger system provides a deliberate first pull that can help prevent negligent discharges, while the single-action follow-ups are crisp and predictable. The Lasergrip offers an aiming solution that does not require aligning traditional sights, which can be a benefit in high-stress situations where fine motor skills degrade. The 20-round magazine provides ample capacity for most defensive encounters.
For range use, this pistol is a solid performer. The 4.9-inch barrel provides a good sight radius for precision shooting, and the all-metal construction absorbs recoil effectively. The Lasergrip can be turned off for traditional sight practice, or used to diagnose trigger pull issues. The included three magazines give you plenty of range time without constant reloading. The .40 S&W cartridge is also widely available and offers a different shooting experience compared to 9mm, with more felt recoil and a flatter trajectory at typical handgun distances.
Ideal Use Cases
- Home Defense: Full-size frame, high capacity, and Lasergrip make it a strong choice for securing a home. The decocker-only safety allows for safe storage with a round chambered.
- Range Shooting: The heavy frame and adjustable laser provide a stable platform for practice and accuracy drills. The DA/SA trigger is good for learning trigger control.
- Competition: Suitable for USPSA or IDPA divisions that allow .40 S&W and full-size pistols. The 20-round magazine is useful for stages requiring many shots.
- Collecting: The 96G is less common than the 96F, making it a desirable addition to a Beretta collection, especially with the Lasergrip.
- Open Carry: In states where open carry is legal, this pistol is comfortable in a belt holster due to its weight and balance.
Compatibility Notes
Ammunition: This pistol is designed for .40 S&W ammunition only. It will function with standard pressure and +P loads, but +P+ ammunition should be avoided due to increased pressure. Use factory new or quality reloaded ammunition for reliability.
Holsters: The Beretta 96G fits holsters designed for the Beretta 92/96 series with a 4.9-inch barrel. Because this model has a decocker-only lever and no manual safety, ensure the holster does not engage the safety lever. The Lasergrip may require a holster with an open bottom or a custom fit—many leather and Kydex holsters for the 92/96 series will work, but test fitment before carrying.
Magazines: The pistol accepts all Beretta 92/96 series magazines in .40 S&W. The included 12-round and 20-round magazines are compatible with the 96G. Note that 9mm magazines will not work with .40 S&W due to case diameter differences.
Accessories: The Lasergrip uses CR2 batteries, which are widely available. The grip can be replaced with standard Beretta 92/96 grips if desired. The dovetailed sights can be swapped for aftermarket options like night sights or fiber optics. The rail (if present on this model) accepts standard Picatinny accessories like lights or lasers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does shipping work for this firearm to my U.S. address?
A: We ship to licensed FFL dealers only. After you place your order, we will ask for your chosen FFL dealer’s contact information. We ship via UPS or FedEx with adult signature required. We do not ship to P.O. boxes. Delivery typically takes 3-7 business days after FFL verification.
Q: What is the FFL transfer process for a used pistol like this?
A: You select a local FFL dealer who is willing to receive the firearm for you. Provide us with their license information (copy of FFL or SOT). We verify the license and ship the firearm. The dealer will then run a background check (NICS) and transfer the pistol to you. Transfer fees are set by the dealer and are not included in our price.
Q: Is this pistol compatible with all .40 S&W ammunition?
A: Yes, it is designed for standard .40 S&W ammunition. It will function with most factory loads, including hollow points and full metal jacket rounds. We recommend using quality ammunition from reputable manufacturers. Avoid using reloaded ammunition that may be out of specification, as it can cause malfunctions or safety issues.
Q: Does this used firearm come with a warranty?
A: This is a used firearm sold as-is. We do not offer a manufacturer warranty, but we guarantee the firearm is in functional condition at the time of sale. If there is a mechanical defect not caused by misuse, we will work with you to resolve the issue within 30 days of delivery. Beretta may offer limited warranty service for original owners, but used firearms are typically not covered.
Q: What is your return policy for this used pistol?
A: We accept returns within 14 days of delivery only if the firearm is not as described (e.g., missing parts, significant damage not listed). The firearm must be returned in the same condition it was shipped, with all accessories. We do not accept returns for cosmetic wear, personal preference, or if the firearm has been fired. Return shipping is at the buyer’s expense. Contact us for a return authorization before shipping.
Closing Call to Action
This used Beretta 96G with Lasergrip and three magazines is available for purchase now. We ship to all U.S. states where legal, directly to your chosen FFL dealer. If you have any questions about compatibility, shipping, or the transfer process, please contact our team. Place your order today to add this reliable, feature-rich .40 S&W pistol to your collection.
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