![Title screen for "I Have This Old Gun" Beretta 1934 Pistol with text on image.](/media/i02psa5p/beretta_1934_titlescreen.jpg?quality=60)
Beretta’s M1934 semi-automatic pistol laid the groundwork for the company's later models, including the modern designs we know today. The models open-top design is certainly a distinguishing feature of the double-action pistol’s slide. The Beretta Model 1934’s cutting-edge design found wide distribution and was commissioned for official duty with the Italian military.
![Left-side view of Beretta 1934 pistol with inventory tag.](/media/omclxfmm/beretta_1934_380acp_left.jpg?quality=60)
The world’s oldest gunmaker got right with the M1934. The direct-blowback-operated pistol has a slide that locks back on empty magazine. It offers a thin, single-stack design that is easily carried concealed.
The Model 1934 is a compact pistol chambered for .380 ACP that allows for a seven-round detachable-box single-column magazine. The magazine’s release is affixed to the heel below the lanyard ring. The design provides double-action lockwork with an exposed hammer at the rear. Serrations are found at the rear of the slide.
![Right-side view of Beretta 1934 pistol on white background.](/media/ufwf4owf/beretta_1934_380acp_right.jpg?quality=60)
Its stocks are made of steel-backed rubber, which, at the time of its release, was a brilliant addition to the handling and longevity of the panels. The pistol provides sights for aiming its 3.7” barrel and is comprised of just 39 parts and makes for a shootable and reliable sidearm.
![Man with protective shooting gear on a range with a Beretta pistol.](/media/hdajc5wx/beretta_1934_shooting.jpg?quality=60)
Beretta’s Model 1934 design was a success. One year after its inauguration, a version chambered for .32 ACP was released. The Model 1934 design set the foundation for the M9 service pistol decades later.
![Left-side view of Beretta 1934 pistol.](/media/jatc3ujd/beretta_1934_380acp_leftdetail.jpg?quality=60)
Watch our American Rifleman TV “ I Have This Old Gun” feature segment to learn more about the Beretta M1934 pistol.