Bersa Thunder: An Affordable Argentinian PPK Adaptation

by
posted on November 17, 2021
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Bersa%20Thunder

The Bersa Thunder is a blowback-operated semi-automatic handgun made in Argentina and available in the United States through Talon Distributing based in Kennesaw, Ga. Bersa, which manufacturers its firearms in the city of Ramos-Mejia near Buenos Aires, was established by a trio of Italian engineers more than six decades ago. The company has a well-established reputation for making affordable and reliable handguns.  

The Bersa Thunder is one of those firearms. It’s available in .380 ACP and .22 LR chamberings. Magazine capacity for the .22 is 10, while the larger-bore version can ship with either seven or eight round versions (depending on model).

Barrel length, regardless of choice, is 3.5". Overall gun length is 6.6", height 4.7", width 1.3" and .380 ACP models tip the scales at 20 ozs.. The rimfires come in just shy of 19 ozs.

The front sight is a blade dovetailed into the steel slide, and at the rear is a notched-bar dovetail. The frame is constructed from weight-saving aluminum. Grips are made of polymer and, like the metalwork,  available in a dizzying array of colors.

Fire controls include a decocker/manual safety and magazine release on the left side. A slide catch is also located there. The takedown lever is located on the right side of the gun.

There’s no shortage of finishes currently available—clear, flat dark earth, duo-tone, white, gold, matte black, rose gold, nickel, pink, blue and more. There are even versions in the lineup with threaded barrels. MSRPs start at $303.

The frame also includes an integral lock that disables the trigger with a turn of the provided key. It’s not a popular feature with every enthusiast, but there’s no denying it’s added peace of mind for relatively new owners worried about unauthorized access.

As for performance, B. Gil Horman tested one for American Rifleman and concluded, “With its moderate recoil, reliable feeding and solid defensive accuracy, it’s an ideal all-day-every-day concealed-carry piece. It’s hard to believe that it's a budget-friendly gun that can be picked up for real-world prices just at or below $300. With all of the affordably priced accessories available for this pistol, it’s a worthy candidate for daily carry.”

Latest

Chiappa Big Badger 01
Chiappa Big Badger 01

New For 2025: Chiappa Big Badger

Chiappa's Little Badger has long been a popular, affordable, break-action survival rifle chambered for the .22 Long Rifle cartridge. Now, the design has been upsized into the Big Badger, available in several centerfire chamberings.

Preview: Self Reliance Outfitters Pathfinder Canteen Trail Kit

The U.S.G.I. canteen and cup are classic pieces of kit due to their efficient design and durable construction, and they are practically updated in the Self Reliance Outfitters Pathfinder Canteen Trail Kit.

Gun Of The Week: Browning X-Bolt 2 Speed SPR

On this episode, we’re taking a closer look at the latest version of one of the most popular bolt-action rifle platforms out there. This is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Speed SPR.

The Armed Citizen® Aug. 29, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Bullpup Your AR-15: The A3 Industries Triad Modular Bullpup Chassis

This chassis kit provides a handy way for AR fans to try a bullpup carbine on for size.

Hillsdale College & The Shooting Sports

Hillsdale College has invested in the Second Amendment and the shooting sports in a way that few schools have. At its John A. Halter Shooting Sports Education Center, collegiate shotgun and action pistol teams compete and build their firearm-handling skills.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.