Beretta 84FS Cheetah: A Comprehensive Guide to the Classic Compact Pistol

The Beretta 84FS Cheetah. The name conjures images of sleek lines, reliable performance, and a certain European elegance. For decades, this compact pistol has been a favorite among discerning shooters and law enforcement personnel alike. Whether you’re a seasoned firearms enthusiast or just beginning your journey into the world of handguns, understanding the Beretta 84FS Cheetah is essential. This comprehensive guide delves into every aspect of this iconic pistol, exploring its design, features, performance, and historical significance, providing you with the knowledge to make informed decisions.

Understanding the Beretta 84FS Cheetah’s Design and Heritage

The Beretta 84FS Cheetah is a blowback-operated, double/single-action pistol chambered in .380 ACP (9mm Short). Its design emphasizes compactness and concealability, making it a popular choice for concealed carry. The “FS” designation indicates features such as an ambidextrous safety lever that also functions as a decocker, a feature highly valued for safe handling. The Cheetah series, including the 84FS, traces its roots back to Beretta’s commitment to producing high-quality, reliable firearms for both civilian and professional use.

The pistol’s frame is typically constructed from lightweight alloy, contributing to its manageable weight. The slide is made from durable steel, ensuring reliable cycling and longevity. The overall design reflects a balance between ergonomics, functionality, and aesthetics, a hallmark of Beretta firearms.

Key Features and Specifications of the Beretta 84FS Cheetah

Let’s examine the features that make the Beretta 84FS Cheetah stand out:

Caliber: .380 ACP (9mm Short)
Action: Double/Single Action
Overall Length: Approximately 6.8 inches
Barrel Length: Approximately 3.8 inches
Weight (Unloaded): Approximately 23 ounces
Magazine Capacity: 13 rounds (double-stack magazine)
Safety: Ambidextrous safety/decocker
Sights: Fixed front and rear sights

These specifications highlight the pistol’s compact size and relatively high magazine capacity for its class. The ambidextrous safety/decocker is a significant advantage for both right- and left-handed shooters, providing an added layer of safety and convenience.

Detailed Examination of the Beretta 84FS Cheetah’s Core Components

The Beretta 84FS Cheetah is more than just the sum of its parts. Each component is meticulously designed and manufactured to ensure optimal performance and reliability.

Frame and Slide

The lightweight alloy frame contributes to the pistol’s comfortable carry weight, while the steel slide ensures durability and reliable cycling. The frame’s ergonomics are designed to fit comfortably in the hand, promoting accurate shooting. The slide features distinct serrations for easy racking, even under stress.

Barrel and Locking System

The 3.8-inch barrel is optimized for accuracy and consistent bullet velocity. The blowback operating system, while simple, is known for its reliability. While not as recoil-reducing as a locked-breech system, the .380 ACP cartridge’s relatively mild recoil makes it manageable in the 84FS Cheetah.

Trigger and Fire Control Group

The double/single-action trigger provides versatility in operation. The double-action pull is longer and heavier, providing an added layer of safety when carrying the pistol with a loaded chamber. The single-action pull is lighter and crisper, allowing for more precise shooting. The ambidextrous safety/decocker allows the user to safely decock the pistol, lowering the hammer without firing the round.

Magazine

The double-stack magazine holds 13 rounds of .380 ACP ammunition, providing ample firepower in a compact package. The magazine is constructed from durable steel and features a reliable follower and spring, ensuring smooth feeding of ammunition.

Advantages of Choosing the Beretta 84FS Cheetah

The Beretta 84FS Cheetah offers several compelling advantages:

Compact Size and Concealability: Its small size and light weight make it an excellent choice for concealed carry.
High Magazine Capacity: The 13-round magazine provides a significant advantage over other compact pistols with lower capacities.
Ambidextrous Safety/Decocker: This feature caters to both right- and left-handed shooters and enhances safe handling.
Reliable Performance: Beretta firearms are known for their reliability, and the 84FS Cheetah is no exception.
Ergonomic Design: The pistol’s comfortable grip and well-balanced design promote accurate shooting.
Aesthetic Appeal: The Beretta 84FS Cheetah boasts a classic and elegant design that appeals to many shooters.

These advantages combine to make the Beretta 84FS Cheetah a highly desirable pistol for concealed carry, personal defense, and recreational shooting.

The .380 ACP Cartridge: Power and Performance

The Beretta 84FS Cheetah is chambered in .380 ACP (9mm Short), a cartridge known for its manageable recoil and adequate stopping power for self-defense. While not as powerful as larger calibers like 9mm Luger or .45 ACP, the .380 ACP offers a good balance between power and ease of handling, especially in a compact pistol like the 84FS Cheetah.

Modern .380 ACP ammunition is available in a variety of loadings, including hollow-point rounds designed for maximum expansion and stopping power. When selecting ammunition for the Beretta 84FS Cheetah, it’s essential to choose high-quality rounds from reputable manufacturers to ensure reliable performance.

A Detailed Review of the Beretta 84FS Cheetah

The Beretta 84FS Cheetah has garnered a dedicated following due to its unique blend of features and performance. Let’s delve into a detailed review, covering various aspects of this classic pistol.

User Experience and Usability

From the moment you pick up the Beretta 84FS Cheetah, the quality is evident. The grip is comfortable and provides a secure hold, even for those with larger hands. The controls are easily accessible and intuitive to operate. The double-action trigger pull is manageable, and the single-action pull is crisp and predictable. The pistol’s relatively light weight makes it comfortable to carry for extended periods.

Performance and Effectiveness

On the range, the Beretta 84FS Cheetah performs admirably. The pistol is accurate and reliable, consistently delivering tight groupings at typical self-defense distances. The .380 ACP cartridge provides adequate stopping power, and the pistol’s high magazine capacity offers a significant advantage in a defensive situation. Recoil is manageable, allowing for quick follow-up shots.

Pros

Exceptional Ergonomics: The grip is comfortable and fits a wide range of hand sizes.
High Capacity Magazine: 13 rounds provides ample firepower.
Reliable Operation: Beretta’s reputation for reliability holds true with the 84FS Cheetah.
Ambidextrous Controls: Safety/decocker is accessible for both left- and right-handed shooters.
Manageable Recoil: The .380 ACP cartridge is easy to control, even for novice shooters.

Cons/Limitations

.380 ACP Cartridge: Some consider the .380 ACP to be underpowered compared to larger calibers.
Blowback Operation: Can result in slightly more felt recoil compared to locked-breech designs.
Fixed Sights: The fixed sights may not be ideal for all shooters.
Price: Can be more expensive than some other compact .380 ACP pistols.

Ideal User Profile

The Beretta 84FS Cheetah is best suited for individuals who prioritize concealability, reliability, and ease of use. It’s an excellent choice for concealed carry, personal defense, and recreational shooting. It’s particularly well-suited for shooters with smaller hands or those who are sensitive to recoil.

Key Alternatives

Alternatives to the Beretta 84FS Cheetah include the Glock 42 and the Walther PPK/S. The Glock 42 is a polymer-framed pistol that is even lighter and more compact than the 84FS Cheetah. The Walther PPK/S is another classic .380 ACP pistol with a similar design and feel to the 84FS Cheetah.

Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation

The Beretta 84FS Cheetah remains a top contender in the compact pistol market, blending classic design with modern features. Its reliability, high magazine capacity, and comfortable ergonomics make it a compelling choice for concealed carry and personal defense. While the .380 ACP cartridge may not be the most powerful, it offers a good balance between power and ease of handling. If you’re looking for a high-quality, reliable, and aesthetically pleasing compact pistol, the Beretta 84FS Cheetah is definitely worth considering.

Exploring the Enduring Appeal of the Beretta 84FS Cheetah

The Beretta 84FS Cheetah has stood the test of time, remaining a popular choice among shooters for decades. Its enduring appeal stems from its combination of classic design, reliable performance, and practical features. Whether you’re a seasoned firearms enthusiast or just beginning your journey into the world of handguns, the Beretta 84FS Cheetah offers a unique and rewarding shooting experience.

If you’re considering adding a Beretta 84FS Cheetah to your collection, we encourage you to visit your local gun store and handle the pistol for yourself. Experience the feel of the grip, the smoothness of the action, and the overall quality of the firearm. Share your experiences with the Beretta 84FS Cheetah in the comments below and join the community of satisfied owners who appreciate this iconic pistol.