Source: www.gunsandammo.com
The Beretta APX is a recoil operated semi-automatic pistol with a single-action (SA) trigger made by the Fabbrica D' Armi Pietro Beretta SpA. With its 4.25” long barrel, the APX belongs to the category of the full-sized pistols and was originally designed for military and law enforcement purposes. The Beretta APX is available in two versions and relies on the use of either the famous 9mm Luger cartridge or .40 S&W cartridge, depending on the version chosen. The 9mm version comes with a magazine that can hold 17 rounds of ammo and the magazine of the .40 S&W version holds up to 15 rounds of ammo.
The Beretta APX pistol delivers superior performance in durability, reliability, ergonomics, trigger, and modularity and became very popular especially for range or competition shooting. However, there are still a few minor issues that can occasionally occur when using this gun. To find out more about Beretta APX Problems, keep reading.
Issue No.1 - BERETTA APX FAILURE TO EXTRACT PROBLEM
Source: www.pistol-forum.com
One of the common Beretta APX problems especially with the striker-fired handguns, including the Beretta APX, are the extractor problems. Like all modern pistols, the Beretta APX is designed to protect the shooter when something like this happens. Leaking gas is channeled into the magazine well, which usually results in the magazine itself projectile-ejecting. It can happen that the magazine body stays inside the pistol while the follower, remaining rounds, spring, and base-plate all jettisoned out the bottom. Then the extractor can blow off the pistol. The bullet can be then squirted out the muzzle and go downrange. However, the frame, slide, and barrel can still be all undamaged.
Or in the other case, a round is fired but isn't extracted out of the chamber. The extractor may require either tightening down or may require new springs in order to function properly. The extractor should have some play, but not too much. This fix is typically very easy and quite cheap. Fortunately the Beretta’s support is willing to help you, so in case you experience this issue, contact them directly to help you solve it. Eventually, you can find more info about the extractor problems and more problems with Beretta APX at the Pistol forum.
No.2 - BERETTA APX ACCURACY PROBLEM
Source: www.usacarry.com
Although the Beretta APX is known as quite reliable and accurate pistol, still some shooters experience minor accuracy problems with Beretta APX. For example, you may experience an abnormally large group size with no way to get a decent grouping with your APX. So what can exactly happen? If targets are set up at 15 feet and you shoot the whole cartridge, e.g. 10 rounds will be in about a three inch group and to the left of center. Which can mean a big issue for some shooters, especially when competition shooting. Fortunately, the problem with the accuracy can be solved and the APX’s accuracy can be improved by adding the right aftermarket accessories to it, such as a Beretta APX tactical light or laser.
No.3 - BERETTA APX SPARE PARTS PROBLEM
Source: www.americanrifleman.com
Another one of let’s say Beretta APX Problems that can cross your way with the Beretta APX is not enough spare parts available. You’re not going to find maintenance and repair parts easily for an APX, they’re just not a common tool, and they likely won’t ever be. This isn’t because of their quality, it’s because of marketplace forces that drive such things. And if you’re shooting a lot, as in, enough to build a real skill set, eventually you’re going to need some spare parts, magazines and so on. And they are not just hard to find, it also brings additional costs.
No. 4 BERETTA APX FAILURE TO EJECT PROBLEM
Extractor issues, sadly, aren't strangers to striker-fired handguns like the Beretta APX. In some scenarios, post-firing, the round doesn’t make its grand exit from the chamber. This can be linked to an extractor that’s either too loose or in dire need of a spring replacement. It's heartening to know that a quick, affordable fix is usually at hand. And if you're scratching your head over this, give a nod to Beretta’s stellar support team. They're just a call away. Dive deeper into this on Pistol forum, and you'll find a goldmine of shared experiences and solutions.
No. 5 BERETTA APX MAGAZINE PROBLEMS
Here's a puzzler. Some Beretta APX users have noticed their magazines parting ways with their components, especially post a gas leak. Picture this: the magazine remains snug inside, while its internals – the follower, rounds, spring, and base plate – make a dramatic exit. That's not the end; the extractor might occasionally bid adieu. While unsettling, the gun's main components – frame, slide, and barrel – generally remain unscathed. If you’re nodding in agreement or are just plain curious, USACarry has some riveting discussions on the topic.
BERETTA APX FAQ
Absolutely! The Beretta APX stems from Beretta's longstanding tradition of crafting top-notch firearms. Born for the military and law enforcement, it’s undergone rigorous tests and has proven its mettle. While every gun has its quirks, many users vouch for the APX's reliability. Keep it well-maintained, and it’ll be a trusty sidekick at the range or beyond.
Generally speaking, dry firing modern centerfire handguns, including the Beretta APX, is considered safe. It's a common practice for training and function checks. However, making it a frequent habit without snap caps might not be the best idea. Snap caps can absorb the impact and help prolong the life of the firing pin. So, if you're a dry firing enthusiast, investing in snap caps for your APX is a wise move.
You bet! The Beretta APX is known for its user-friendly design, and many shooters appreciate its slide's serrations, which cover the entire length. This unique feature offers a solid grip, making the slide easier to rack compared to some other pistols. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or a newbie, you'll likely find the APX's slide operation pretty smooth.
The Beretta APX is primarily a full-sized pistol, so it might be a bit chunky for some when it comes to concealed carry. But, with the right holster and clothing, it's definitely doable. If concealment is a top priority, Beretta also offers the APX Centurion and APX Compact versions, which are smaller and more tailored for concealed carry purposes. Always ensure you’re comfortable and familiar with any firearm you choose for concealed carry. Safety first!
CONCLUSION - IS beretta apx worth it despite its problems?
It is no surprise that the Beretta APX as well as many other striker-fired pistols experience a few minor issues from time to time. But it is no rule to experience all of them or even one. However, it is always good to know what can go wrong with your pistol. And it is also good to take under consideration, that the issue is not always the matter of the gun, but it can be caused by the shooter or ammo as well.
Besides the minor issues mentioned in this article, the Beretta APX seems to be a reliable pistol beloved by many shooters. It has a lot to offer especially for competition shooters, it delivers superior performance in durability and reliability, ergonomics, trigger, and modularity. Although, in my opinion, this particular pistol is definitely more suitable for experienced shooters. As the newbies can find it a little hard to shoot.
Overall, the Beretta APX is still well worth it, even if some issues may occur. If you’re not decided yet or need more information about the APX pistol, fortunately the internet is full of well-made Beretta APX reviews. And if you already decided to buy one, don’t forget to get a well-fitting Holsters For Beretta APX for it.