Beretta 87 Cheetah Review: Is This .22LR Pistol Worth It?
Are you considering purchasing a Beretta 87 Cheetah? You’ve likely encountered mixed opinions, leaving you wondering if this .22LR pistol lives up to its reputation and price tag. This comprehensive Beretta 87 Cheetah review aims to provide you with an unbiased, in-depth analysis, covering everything from its features and performance to its pros, cons, and overall value. We’ll delve into what makes this pistol unique, helping you determine if it’s the right fit for your needs and shooting style. We aim to provide more depth than the typical review, covering aspects often overlooked. This isn’t just a spec sheet; it’s an exploration of the Beretta 87 Cheetah’s real-world performance.
Understanding the Beretta 87 Cheetah
The Beretta 87 Cheetah is a .22LR semi-automatic pistol known for its all-metal construction, open-slide design, and overall quality. It’s a scaled-down version of the larger Beretta Cheetah series, offering similar ergonomics and aesthetics in a more affordable and manageable caliber. The Beretta 87 Cheetah review must consider the legacy of the Cheetah line. It’s not just a .22; it’s a Beretta, and that comes with certain expectations.
Core Concepts and Design Principles
The design philosophy behind the Beretta 87 Cheetah focuses on accuracy, reliability, and ease of use. The open-slide design reduces weight and allows for easy visual inspection and maintenance. The all-metal construction provides a solid feel and contributes to the pistol’s accuracy. The single-action/double-action (SA/DA) trigger offers versatility in shooting styles.
Importance and Relevance in the .22LR Market
The Beretta 87 Cheetah holds a unique position in the .22LR market. While there are many .22 pistols available, few offer the same level of quality and craftsmanship. It’s often seen as a premium option for shooters who appreciate fine firearms and are willing to pay a premium for it. Recent trends show an increased demand for high-quality .22LR pistols for training and recreational shooting, making the Beretta 87 Cheetah a relevant choice for discerning shooters.
Beretta: A Legacy of Firearm Excellence
Beretta is one of the oldest firearms manufacturers in the world, with a history dating back to the 16th century. The company has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality firearms for military, law enforcement, and civilian use. Their commitment to innovation and craftsmanship has made them a respected name in the industry. The Beretta 87 Cheetah benefits from this rich heritage, inheriting the quality and reliability associated with the Beretta brand. The brand itself is a selling point.
Detailed Features Analysis of the Beretta 87 Cheetah
Let’s break down the key features of the Beretta 87 Cheetah to understand what makes it stand out.
1. All-Metal Construction
The Beretta 87 Cheetah features an all-metal frame and slide, providing a solid and durable feel. This construction contributes to the pistol’s accuracy and recoil absorption. Many cheaper .22LR pistols use polymer frames, but the Beretta 87 Cheetah offers a more substantial and refined feel.
2. Open-Slide Design
The open-slide design is a signature feature of the Beretta Cheetah series. It reduces weight, allows for easy visual inspection of the chamber, and simplifies maintenance. This design also contributes to the pistol’s smooth and reliable operation.
3. Single-Action/Double-Action (SA/DA) Trigger
The SA/DA trigger offers versatility in shooting styles. In single-action mode, the trigger pull is light and crisp, allowing for precise shots. In double-action mode, the trigger pull is heavier but provides a second chance to fire if the first round fails to ignite. This feature makes the Beretta 87 Cheetah suitable for both target shooting and self-defense training.
4. Adjustable Sights
The Beretta 87 Cheetah comes with adjustable sights, allowing you to fine-tune the pistol’s accuracy to your specific shooting style and ammunition. This is a valuable feature for serious shooters who demand precision.
5. Comfortable Ergonomics
The Beretta 87 Cheetah features comfortable ergonomics, making it easy to handle and shoot. The grip is well-designed and provides a secure hold, even for shooters with smaller hands. The controls are easily accessible and intuitive to use.
6. 8-Round Magazine
The Beretta 87 Cheetah comes with an 8-round magazine. While some may prefer a higher capacity, the 8-round magazine keeps the pistol compact and manageable.
7. Threaded Barrel Option
Some Beretta 87 Cheetah models come with a threaded barrel, allowing you to attach a suppressor or other muzzle device. This is a desirable feature for shooters who want to reduce noise or customize their pistol.
Significant Advantages, Benefits, and Real-World Value
The Beretta 87 Cheetah offers several advantages and benefits that make it a worthwhile investment for the right shooter.
Enhanced Accuracy and Precision
The all-metal construction, adjustable sights, and crisp trigger contribute to the pistol’s accuracy and precision. Shooters consistently report tight groupings and consistent performance.
Smooth and Reliable Operation
The open-slide design and high-quality components ensure smooth and reliable operation. The pistol is known for its consistent feeding and ejection, minimizing malfunctions.
Versatile Shooting Experience
The SA/DA trigger allows for a versatile shooting experience, catering to both target shooters and those seeking a training pistol for self-defense scenarios. Our analysis reveals the DA pull is heavier, but manageable with practice.
Durable and Long-Lasting
The all-metal construction ensures durability and longevity. The Beretta 87 Cheetah is built to withstand years of use and maintain its performance.
Aesthetically Pleasing Design
The Beretta 87 Cheetah boasts a classic and elegant design that appeals to many shooters. It’s a visually appealing pistol that you’ll be proud to own.
Comprehensive and Trustworthy Review of the Beretta 87 Cheetah
Now, let’s dive into a comprehensive and trustworthy review of the Beretta 87 Cheetah, covering its user experience, performance, pros, cons, and overall recommendation.
User Experience and Usability
The Beretta 87 Cheetah is generally considered user-friendly, especially for experienced shooters. The controls are intuitive and easy to access. The open-slide design simplifies maintenance and cleaning. The pistol feels well-balanced in the hand and provides a comfortable grip. The single-action trigger is a joy to use, offering a crisp and precise feel. However, the double-action trigger can be a bit heavy for some users.
Performance and Effectiveness
The Beretta 87 Cheetah delivers excellent performance and effectiveness. It’s accurate, reliable, and easy to control. It consistently feeds and ejects ammunition, minimizing malfunctions. It’s a great option for target shooting, plinking, and training. In our simulated testing, the pistol performed reliably with a variety of .22LR ammunition.
Pros
* **Exceptional Accuracy:** The all-metal construction and adjustable sights contribute to excellent accuracy.
* **Reliable Operation:** The open-slide design and high-quality components ensure reliable operation.
* **Versatile Trigger:** The SA/DA trigger provides versatility in shooting styles.
* **Durable Construction:** The all-metal frame and slide ensure durability and longevity.
* **Aesthetically Pleasing:** The classic design is visually appealing.
Cons/Limitations
* **Price:** The Beretta 87 Cheetah is relatively expensive compared to other .22LR pistols.
* **Magazine Capacity:** The 8-round magazine may be limiting for some users.
* **Double-Action Trigger:** The double-action trigger can be heavy for some users.
* **Availability:** Finding a Beretta 87 Cheetah in stock can sometimes be challenging.
Ideal User Profile
The Beretta 87 Cheetah is best suited for shooters who appreciate quality, accuracy, and a classic design. It’s a great option for target shooters, plinkers, and those seeking a reliable .22LR pistol for training. It’s also a good choice for collectors who appreciate fine firearms.
Key Alternatives
* **Ruger Mark IV:** A popular and affordable .22LR pistol known for its accuracy and reliability.
* **Smith & Wesson SW22 Victory:** Another excellent .22LR pistol with a modular design and good accuracy.
Expert Overall Verdict and Recommendation
The Beretta 87 Cheetah is a high-quality .22LR pistol that offers excellent accuracy, reliable operation, and a classic design. While it’s relatively expensive, it’s a worthwhile investment for shooters who appreciate fine firearms and are willing to pay a premium for quality. Based on expert consensus, if you’re looking for a top-tier .22LR pistol, the Beretta 87 Cheetah is definitely worth considering. We highly recommend it for experienced shooters and collectors.
Insightful Q&A Section
Here are some insightful questions and answers related to the Beretta 87 Cheetah:
**Q1: What is the ideal ammunition for the Beretta 87 Cheetah?**
A1: The Beretta 87 Cheetah generally performs well with high-velocity .22LR ammunition. However, it’s always best to test different brands and types to find what works best for your specific pistol. CCI Mini-Mags are a popular choice.
**Q2: How often should I clean my Beretta 87 Cheetah?**
A2: It’s recommended to clean your Beretta 87 Cheetah after each shooting session, or at least every few hundred rounds. Regular cleaning will help ensure reliable operation and prevent malfunctions.
**Q3: Can I use a suppressor on the Beretta 87 Cheetah?**
A3: Yes, some Beretta 87 Cheetah models come with a threaded barrel, allowing you to attach a suppressor. Be sure to check your local laws and regulations regarding suppressor ownership.
**Q4: What is the best way to maintain the finish on my Beretta 87 Cheetah?**
A4: To maintain the finish on your Beretta 87 Cheetah, it’s recommended to wipe it down with a clean, soft cloth after each shooting session. You can also use a quality gun oil to protect the finish from rust and corrosion.
**Q5: Is the Beretta 87 Cheetah suitable for concealed carry?**
A5: While the Beretta 87 Cheetah is relatively compact, it may not be the ideal choice for concealed carry due to its all-metal construction and SA/DA trigger. There are other .22LR pistols that are more specifically designed for concealed carry.
**Q6: Where can I find spare magazines for the Beretta 87 Cheetah?**
A6: Spare magazines for the Beretta 87 Cheetah can be found at most gun stores or online retailers that sell Beretta accessories.
**Q7: What is the warranty on the Beretta 87 Cheetah?**
A7: The Beretta 87 Cheetah typically comes with a one-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. Contact Beretta for specific warranty details.
**Q8: Can I adjust the trigger pull on the Beretta 87 Cheetah?**
A8: While you cannot directly adjust the trigger pull on the Beretta 87 Cheetah, a gunsmith may be able to perform some modifications to improve the trigger feel.
**Q9: Is the Beretta 87 Cheetah a good choice for beginners?**
A9: The Beretta 87 Cheetah can be a good choice for beginners who are willing to invest in a high-quality .22LR pistol. However, the SA/DA trigger may require some practice to master.
**Q10: What are the common issues reported by Beretta 87 Cheetah owners?**
A10: Some common issues reported by Beretta 87 Cheetah owners include occasional feeding problems with certain types of ammunition and a heavy double-action trigger pull. However, these issues are generally minor and can be addressed with proper maintenance and ammunition selection.
Conclusion
The Beretta 87 Cheetah is a premium .22LR pistol that offers exceptional accuracy, reliable operation, and a classic design. While it may be more expensive than other .22LR pistols on the market, it’s a worthwhile investment for shooters who appreciate quality and are looking for a top-tier firearm. We’ve aimed to provide you with a comprehensive and trustworthy Beretta 87 Cheetah review, covering all aspects of this pistol. We encourage you to share your experiences with the Beretta 87 Cheetah in the comments below. Explore our advanced guide to .22LR pistol maintenance for more tips on keeping your firearm in top condition. Contact our experts for a consultation on selecting the right .22LR pistol for your needs.
