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Beretta 87 Cheetah Review: A Timeless .22 LR Pistol

The Beretta 87 Cheetah is a classic .22 LR pistol known for its reliability, accuracy, and elegant design. Discontinued in 2015, it remains a sought-after firearm for target shooting, plinking, and training. This Beretta 87 Cheetah review will delve into the features, performance, and overall value of this iconic pistol, exploring why it continues to hold a special place in the hearts of shooting enthusiasts. We’ll explore the ergonomics, accuracy, and overall shooting experience, helping you determine if a used Beretta 87 Cheetah is right for you. This in-depth Beretta 87 Cheetah review aims to provide a comprehensive overview.

Overview of the Beretta 87 Cheetah

The Beretta 87 Cheetah is a single-action/double-action (SA/DA) semi-automatic pistol chambered in .22 Long Rifle. It’s a scaled-down version of the larger Beretta Cheetah series, known for their open-slide design. This design not only looks distinctive but also aids in reliable cycling. The Beretta 87 Cheetah boasts a lightweight alloy frame, a steel slide, and a comfortable grip, making it a joy to handle. Its compact size and manageable recoil make it an excellent choice for shooters of all experience levels.

Key Features

Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
Action: Single-Action/Double-Action (SA/DA)
Frame: Alloy
Slide: Steel
Barrel Length: 3.8 inches
Overall Length: 6.8 inches
Weight: Approximately 23 ounces
Magazine Capacity: 8 rounds
Sights: Adjustable rear sight, fixed front sight

Design and Ergonomics

The Beretta 87 Cheetah is renowned for its sleek and elegant design. The open-slide design is a signature Beretta feature, offering a clear view of the barrel. The alloy frame keeps the weight down, making it comfortable to carry and shoot for extended periods. The grip is well-contoured and provides a secure and comfortable hold, even for those with smaller hands. The controls are easily accessible and intuitive, making the pistol easy to operate.

Grip and Handling

The grip of the Beretta 87 Cheetah is designed for comfort and control. Its ergonomic shape fits naturally in the hand, providing a secure and stable grip. The textured grip surface further enhances control, even when shooting with sweaty hands. The lightweight frame and manageable recoil contribute to a pleasant shooting experience, reducing fatigue and allowing for better accuracy. The pistol’s balance is also excellent, making it easy to point and shoot accurately.

Sights

The Beretta 87 Cheetah comes equipped with adjustable rear sights and a fixed front sight. The adjustable rear sight allows shooters to fine-tune their accuracy, ensuring precise shot placement. The sights are clear and easy to see, even in low-light conditions. Some models may feature upgraded sights for enhanced visibility. While basic, the sights are functional and effective for target shooting and plinking.

Performance and Accuracy

The Beretta 87 Cheetah is known for its accuracy and reliability. The combination of a high-quality barrel, a smooth trigger pull, and comfortable ergonomics contributes to its excellent shooting performance. The pistol is capable of producing tight groups at reasonable distances, making it a joy to shoot at the range. The .22 LR caliber offers minimal recoil, allowing shooters to maintain a steady aim and improve their accuracy. Many users find the Beretta 87 Cheetah to be exceptionally accurate for a handgun of its size and caliber.

Trigger Pull

The trigger pull of the Beretta 87 Cheetah is generally regarded as smooth and consistent. In single-action mode, the trigger pull is light and crisp, allowing for precise shot placement. In double-action mode, the trigger pull is heavier and longer, but still manageable. The trigger resets quickly, allowing for rapid follow-up shots. Overall, the trigger is well-designed and contributes to the pistol’s excellent shooting performance.

Reliability

The Beretta 87 Cheetah is renowned for its reliability. The open-slide design aids in reliable cycling, reducing the likelihood of malfunctions. The pistol is well-built and durable, capable of withstanding years of use. Regular cleaning and maintenance will ensure that the Beretta 87 Cheetah continues to function flawlessly. While .22 LR ammunition can sometimes be finicky, the Beretta 87 Cheetah generally handles a wide variety of ammunition types with ease.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Excellent accuracy
Reliable operation
Comfortable ergonomics
Lightweight and easy to handle
Elegant design

Cons

Discontinued model (may be harder to find)
Limited magazine capacity (8 rounds)
Can be expensive on the used market
.22 LR ammunition can be unreliable in some cases

Alternatives to the Beretta 87 Cheetah

While the Beretta 87 Cheetah is an excellent pistol, there are several alternatives to consider. These include:

Beretta 89 Gold Standard: A target version of the Cheetah series.
Walther PPK/S .22: A classic .22 LR pistol with a similar size and design.
SIG Sauer P226 .22: A reliable and accurate .22 LR pistol with a larger capacity magazine.
Ruger SR22: A modern .22 LR pistol with a polymer frame and adjustable sights.

[See also: Walther PPK/S .22 Review]

[See also: Ruger SR22 Review]

Is the Beretta 87 Cheetah Right for You?

The Beretta 87 Cheetah is an excellent choice for shooters who appreciate quality, accuracy, and classic design. It’s a great pistol for target shooting, plinking, and training. Its manageable recoil and comfortable ergonomics make it suitable for shooters of all experience levels. However, its discontinued status and limited magazine capacity may be drawbacks for some. If you’re looking for a reliable and accurate .22 LR pistol with a touch of elegance, the Beretta 87 Cheetah is definitely worth considering. Finding one in good condition may require some patience, but the reward is a timeless firearm that you’ll enjoy shooting for years to come. The Beretta 87 Cheetah continues to impress even today. This Beretta 87 Cheetah review should help you decide whether to purchase one. For those seeking a reliable and accurate .22LR handgun, the Beretta 87 Cheetah is a strong contender. Many consider the Beretta 87 Cheetah a top-tier .22LR pistol.

Conclusion

The Beretta 87 Cheetah is a timeless classic that continues to impress shooters with its accuracy, reliability, and elegant design. While it may be harder to find due to its discontinued status, it remains a highly sought-after firearm for target shooting, plinking, and training. Its comfortable ergonomics and manageable recoil make it a joy to shoot, while its solid construction ensures years of reliable performance. If you’re looking for a high-quality .22 LR pistol with a touch of history, the Beretta 87 Cheetah is definitely worth considering. Hopefully this Beretta 87 Cheetah review helped you understand the value of this firearm.