Beretta has been in business for over 500 years and is the oldest firearm manufacturer in the world. There is no doubt that it makes some of the best guns on the market. However, these gems come with a price tag that deters some. Fortunately, a number of makers have stepped in by producing some high-quality Beretta clones that perform just as well.
Although, the term “clone” can be a bit deceiving here, as there are some obvious changes in the details, but the overall designs remain the same. Love them or hate them, clones are a great way for more people to have access to a specific model or design that may be out of their price range or possibly not even produced anymore.
Girsan Regard
The Beretta 92 needs no introduction. This classic wondernine has been in the hands of law enforcement and military units for decades. In steps the Girsan Regard, a solid substitute that can save you a few hundred bucks in some cases. With both Beretta 92 and 92a1 clone options, as well as different upgraded models with optics and threaded barrels, Girsan offers a Beretta 92 alternative for every application.
My favorite version is the optics model because I feel like the incorporated optic provides you with the best value. Like all Regard models, it uses the same tried and true double-action/single-action trigger mechanism and barrel locking block design as the Beretta. However, Girsan added subtle finger grooves on the Regard for increased traction and provided an 18-round magazines (in free states) from the factory. You’ll notice the price savings in some of the components, which are not as refined as on the original, such as the ambi safety, hammer, and front sight.
Tisas Fatih
The Tisas Fatih is not only a top-notch Beretta clone, it’s also an excellent concealed carry pistol in its own right. Because of its in-between size, this .380 ACP pistol is both easy to shoot and carry all day long. It tucks inside the waistband easily for discreet carry, but packs 13 rounds in the magazine. It isn’t the most powerful handgun. Actually, the power of the cartridge itself is the only drawback I can think of.
Based on the Beretta 84 Cheetah, the Fatih is a DA/SA firearm with a manual safety, but no decocker. To drop the hammer after chambering a round, you must carefully lower the hammer by hand. This is not ideal to say the least, but it is a hallmark of the older design, as are the fixed sights.
The firearm is manufactured by Zenith (known for quality work) and imported by Tisas — although it appears they may be imported by SDS Imports now.
Taurus PT-22
This next one can be hit or miss, because I’ve heard some reports of issues with the frames cracking on some of these pistols, but honestly I’ve heard the same thing about the original Berettas. The Taurus PT-22 (also referenced as the 22PLY) is a lightweight and affordable polymer-framed Beretta Bobcat clone.
The top-break design is unique and easy to use by those with limited hand strength. It’s also just cool. It holds 8+1 rounds of .22 LR and has a double-action-only trigger. The blowback action is simple, easy to maintain and reliable.
Offered in different finish options, each model utilizes low-profile fixed sights and is made in the U.S. At just over 10 ounces, this would be a great gun to toss in a pocket on a hot summer day. Ultra light and compact, Taurus small frame semi-auto pistols offer security and reliability you can count on at a price that won’t break the bank.
SDS Imports AR-T02
Up next, we have a Beretta 1301 Clone. The SDS Imports AR–T02 is a quality shotgun offered in a variety of different configurations. The version I’ve chosen to highlight is similar to the Beretta 1301 Tactical. It features an 18.5-inch barrel and holds five 12 gauge shells in the magazine tube. This semi-auto shotgun also incorporates an optic rail for mounting a red dot sight. The included pistol grip accessory will allow you to convert the shotgun to an even more compact configuration. Additionally, the 3-inch chamber and interchangeable choke tube set lets you choose a wider variety of ammunition to match your shooting needs.
The Beretta 1301 is a highly respected shotgun among law enforcement units around the world. It is known to withstand some serious use and keep running reliably. The only thing that keeps it out of most people’s hands is the cost. This makes it a great foundation to build a budget clone. When performance and simplicity are important, the AR-T02 is an excellent choice.
Final Thoughts: Clones
I know there are mixed schools of thought when it comes to clones in the firearm world. Some believe in spending top dollar, stating things like “Buy once, cry once,” or “I’d rather have the original.” However, there are some who believe it’s better to have a cheaper alternative that you can enjoy and not worry about accruing wear. I’d say they’re both right.
What do you think about clones of popular firearms? What are your favorite Beretta clones? Share your thoughts in the comment section.