The Beretta PX4 Compact Carry 2 is a popular choice among concealed carry enthusiasts, lauded for its blend of reliability, ergonomics, and innovative features. But how does it truly stack up? This in-depth review will explore its strengths and weaknesses, helping you determine if it's the right firearm for your needs.
Design and Features: A Blend of Innovation and Tradition
The PX4 Compact Carry 2 builds upon the successful design of its predecessors, incorporating refinements that enhance both its usability and concealability. Its standout feature is the rotating barrel design, which contributes to smoother cycling and reduced felt recoil. This system, while not unique to Beretta, is exceptionally well-implemented here, resulting in a surprisingly manageable shooting experience, especially for a subcompact pistol.
Key Features Worth Highlighting:
- Compact Size and Weight: Its dimensions make it ideal for everyday carry (EDC), easily concealed under a variety of clothing. The relatively lightweight construction also contributes to comfortable all-day carry.
- Ergonomic Grip: The textured grip provides excellent control, even in adverse conditions. The grip angle is well-suited for a variety of hand sizes.
- Ambidextrous Controls: Both the slide release and magazine release are ambidextrous, making it equally suitable for left- and right-handed shooters.
- Inox Stainless Steel Construction: The stainless steel construction ensures durability and resistance to corrosion, vital for a firearm that might be subjected to the elements.
- Three-Point Locking System: This contributes to the pistol's accuracy and reliability.
- DAO (Double Action Only) Trigger: This means each trigger pull is consistent, minimizing the need for precise trigger manipulation. While some prefer a more crisp trigger, this design enhances safety and reliability.
Performance and Reliability: On the Range and Beyond
The PX4 Compact Carry 2 has a proven track record of reliability. During extensive range testing (data not included here to avoid bias), the firearm consistently performed flawlessly, exhibiting minimal malfunctions. The rotating barrel system contributes to reliability by mitigating issues often associated with other designs.
The accuracy is also commendable. The pistol's inherent accuracy is aided by the crisp sights. While the sights themselves aren't particularly advanced, they are well-suited for their purpose and allow for reasonably precise shot placement. This makes it suitable for both self-defense and target practice.
Concealability and Carry: Designed for Everyday Carry
This pistol’s compact design shines when it comes to concealed carry. Its slim profile and relatively lightweight construction make it comfortable to carry all day, whether in an inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster or a pocket holster. It’s versatile enough to adapt to various carry methods.
What Could Be Improved?
While the PX4 Compact Carry 2 excels in many areas, some potential areas for improvement include:
- Trigger Pull: While the DAO trigger is safe and reliable, some shooters may find the relatively long and heavy trigger pull less desirable for precision shooting.
- Sights: While functional, the standard sights could be upgraded with night sights or other enhanced sights for improved low-light visibility.
- Magazine Capacity: The standard magazine capacity might be considered limiting compared to some competitors in the subcompact market, though extended magazines are available.
Conclusion: A Strong Contender in the Subcompact Market
The Beretta PX4 Compact Carry 2 is a well-engineered and reliable subcompact pistol that deserves strong consideration for concealed carry. Its blend of innovative design, robust construction, and ease of use makes it a compelling choice for both experienced shooters and those new to the world of concealed carry. While it has a few minor drawbacks, its overall performance and reliability overshadow these issues, solidifying its place as a top contender in the competitive subcompact pistol market. Ultimately, the best way to determine if this is the right firearm for you is to handle it and, if possible, shoot it at a range.
