Beretta. The name alone fires off echoes of heritage, innovation, and steel-forged excellence. Founded in 1526, Beretta is more than just the world’s oldest active firearms manufacturer—it is a cornerstone of global arms history. For five centuries, it has armed emperors, elite forces, and Olympians alike, leaving an indelible mark on both the battlefield and the podium. This post explores how Beretta 500 years of firearms history has not only endured the test of time but transformed it into a badge of honor.
The Origins of Beretta: Where Craftsmanship Was Born
Beretta’s story begins in the quaint town of Gardone Val Trompia in Northern Italy—a region long renowned for its blacksmithing. In 1526, Maestro Bartolomeo Beretta received 296 ducats for 185 arquebus barrels crafted for the Arsenal of Venice. This moment, recorded in official Venetian state documents, marks the first known transaction of the Beretta legacy.
What’s more, the Beretta family has remained at the helm ever since—fifteen generations strong. That continuity isn’t just rare; it’s historic. Today, the headquarters still sits in Gardone, symbolizing loyalty to roots even as branches grow across the world.
Through the Ages: From Flintlocks to Future Weapons
As warfare and weaponry evolved, so did Beretta’s expertise. The company didn’t just adapt to new technologies; it pioneered them. Over time, Beretta developed muskets, breechloaders, bolt-action rifles, semi-automatic pistols, and, more recently, smart weapons designed for modular combat.
During both World Wars, Beretta produced rifles, pistols, and submachine guns for Italy’s forces. The M1934 pistol, for example, became a standard-issue sidearm. Even the German Wehrmacht, impressed by its build quality, adopted captured Berettas into their arsenal.
Beretta 92FS (M9): The Sidearm of a Superpower
Introduced in 1975, the Beretta 92 series, especially the 92FS, defined modern military handguns. The U.S. Army adopted it as the M9 in 1985, a role it maintained for over 30 years. Its success wasn’t arbitrary—it came down to several design features:
- 15-round double-stack magazine
- Open slide for minimal jamming
- DA/SA (double action/single action) mechanism
- Iconic Italian lines and rugged reliability
Even today, variants like the M9A4 and 92X find favor among armed forces and civilian shooters globally.
Innovation Reloaded: APX, ARX-160, and Tactical Evolution
Beretta didn’t stop with the 92FS. In the 21st century, the company launched:
- APX Series: A modular, striker-fired handgun with ambidextrous controls and optics-ready design.
- ARX-160: A lightweight, futuristic 5.56 NATO battle rifle used by Italian forces and special operations worldwide.
- 1301 Tactical: A lightning-fast semi-automatic shotgun preferred by law enforcement and competitive shooters alike.
These firearms prove that while Beretta honors its past, it doesn’t live in it.
Beretta in Sports and the Olympic Spotlight
Beretta isn’t only a name in war—it’s a giant in sport. The brand has been a mainstay in Olympic shooting competitions, thanks to models like:
- DT11
- 686 Silver Pigeon
- 692 and other over/unders
From trap and skeet to clay and upland game, these shotguns offer unmatched balance, fit, and reliability. Athletes who’ve won gold medals and world championships often do so with a Beretta in hand. That’s not coincidence—that’s pedigree.
Italian DNA: Where Art Meets Engineering
Firearms from Beretta are more than tools—they’re experiences. Take the buttery slide of a 92FS, the racecar speed of the 1301 Tactical, or the tailored elegance of a Silver Pigeon. Each weapon combines combat-ready functionality with unmistakable Italian flair.
They’re not flamboyant—but they’re not forgettable either. This is engineering, refined like fine wine.
The Beretta Holding Empire: More Than One Brand
Beretta isn’t an isolated icon. It’s the cornerstone of the Beretta Holding Group, which includes:
- Benelli – Shotguns for defense and sport
- Stoeger – Budget-friendly firearm options
- Tikka and Sako – Renowned bolt-action rifle brands
Meanwhile, Beretta USA now manufactures various models in Gallatin, Tennessee—bringing old-world craftsmanship to the New World.
Final Thoughts: Legacy Forged in Steel – Beretta 500 years of firearms history
There are gun companies. Then there’s Beretta. It has faced down revolutions, world wars, and paradigm shifts in technology—and never faltered. Still family-owned, innovating, and still Italian to the core.
After 500 years, Beretta doesn’t just make firearms.
It makes history.
FAQs Beretta 500 years of firearms history
Why is Beretta considered the oldest firearms manufacturer?
Beretta’s first documented sale dates back to 1526, with continuous family ownership ever since.
What made the Beretta M9 a standout military sidearm?
Its durability, high capacity, and intuitive handling made it the U.S. Army’s official sidearm for decades.
Does Beretta still operate in Italy?
Yes, its headquarters remains in Gardone Val Trompia, Italy, where it started nearly 500 years ago.
What sports does Beretta dominate?
Trap, skeet, clay shooting, and upland bird hunting—thanks to their precision shotguns.
Is Beretta still relevant in modern warfare?
Absolutely. With rifles like the ARX-160 and pistols like the APX, Beretta continues to serve elite units worldwide.
Are Beretta firearms available in the U.S.?
Yes, Beretta USA manufactures popular models in Tennessee and distributes nationwide.