The Beretta 92FS: A Look at Its History and Hollywood Career of the Legendary Gun

In 1985, the Italian arms company Beretta, with its military model of the Beretta M-92F pistol, won the entire American arms industry in a tender, winning the most significant order in the history of small arms for the supply and production of firearms of this series for the army and police of the United States of America. Overboard brands such as Colt, Smith Wesson, Browning, etc.

Beretta is the oldest gun manufacturer in the world. The company has existed for almost 500 years and has been run by the same family all this time. People have mostly stayed the same in the last 5 centuries. They still need the means to effectively attack and defend. The Beretta company is engaged in the production of perfect weapons.

The development of a new military pistol was started at Beretta in 1970. The design team, led by Carlo Beretta, developed two promising prototypes. The first pistol was of the Browning High Power type, and the second was of the Walther P38 type. From these prototypes, the index “92” appeared in the designation of serial pistols. It stood for “9 mm pistol, 2nd model.”

The first prototypes of the pistol appeared in 1975, and in 1976 its mass production began. Between 1978 and 1984, Beretta entered the American competition for a new 9mm military pistol. The Beretta 92F pistol was declared the winner of the competition. A contract was signed to supply 500,000 firearms to the US Army.

Currently, the Beretta 92FS pistol is one of the most popular types of personal defense weapons. The excellent reputation of this powerful military gun has contributed to the fact that it has become widespread not only in the United States but throughout the world.

The Beretta 92 pistol has become a staple in the US Army but has also gained popularity in many other markets. The Italians sold their product to different countries, and there was a place for it everywhere. Despite the company’s long history, the Beretta M 92 became one of its main successes. She brought the company a lot of money and has the most comprehensive range. The most exciting thing is that they are not trying to replace it but are systematically developing and modernizing it. There is even an option with fully automatic fire, and thanks to various films and TV shows, the Beretta has become absolutely recognizable.

Remember a few favorite films where Beretta shines on par with the main characters:

Director: Richard Donner
Writers: Shane Black, Jeffrey Boam
Stars: Mel Gibson, Danny Glover, Gary Busey
Guns: Beretta 92F, M1911A1, Walther PPK, Smith & Wesson Model 19, Uzi

“Lethal Weapon” is a classic action film that blends moments of intense action with humor and drama, setting the standard for the buddy cop genre. Released in 1987, it was directed by Richard Donner and written by Shane Black.

The movie revolves around two Los Angeles Police Department detectives, Martin Riggs and Roger Murtaugh. While Riggs is a reckless, borderline suicidal detective mourning the recent loss of his wife, Murtaugh is a seasoned, by-the-book officer who is just trying to make it to retirement without any major incidents. Despite their contrasting personalities and methods, the two are paired together. Throughout the movie, they pursue a gang of drug smugglers led by former Special Forces operative, General Peter McAllister and his enforcer, Mr. Joshua.

The Beretta 92F plays a symbolic and functional role in “Lethal Weapon”. It’s the sidearm of choice for Detective Martin Riggs, portrayed by Mel Gibson. This choice of firearm signifies a few things about Riggs:

Proficiency. Riggs’s skill with the Beretta showcases his proficiency as a marksman. He handles the weapon with a degree of familiarity and comfort that underlines his background as a former Special Forces operative.

Duality of Character. Throughout the movie, Riggs’s mental state is a point of concern. The Beretta serves as a constant reminder of the danger he poses both to himself and others. There are scenes where Riggs contemplates suicide using the weapon, underscoring the depths of his despair and the very real threats of his psychological struggles.

Iconic Moments. The Beretta 92F is central to several memorable scenes in the movie, from shootouts with the antagonists to tense standoffs. It’s a tool Riggs uses not just for combat but also to intimidate and challenge.

At the request of our customers, we have made a miniature of this gun in ⅓ scale and as realistic as possible to keep the mechanism running smoothly. Our handmade Beretta-92FS is a miniature model made of metal with carefully crafted notched wooden grips, just like a real Beretta. We worked on detailing and added an inscription on the barrel with a logo in the form of a stallion for bigger picturesque. Regarding functionality, this is a working model that works with 2mm centerfire cartridges. Movable hammer-trigger mechanism, bolt and fuse, removable dummy magazine, all this makes playing with the model as exciting as possible and takes you to the world of cinema heroes or real historical events.

The film was successful enough to spawn several sequels, each continuing the adventures of Riggs and Murtaugh. The Beretta, along with Riggs’s unique style of gunplay, remains a staple throughout the series. The combination of its sleek design, the sound of its action, and Gibson’s portrayal makes the Beretta 92F one of the more iconic firearms in cinematic history.

In a broader context, the Beretta’s prominence in “Lethal Weapon” also mirrored its rising popularity in the real world during the 1980s and 1990s, both with law enforcement agencies and in popular culture.

— Now that’s a real badge, I’m a real cop, and this is a real fucking gun!

— Do you really think you have a chance against us, Mr. Cowboy?
— Yippee-ki-yea, motherfucker.

Director: James Cameron
Writers: James Cameron, William Wisher
Stars: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, Edward Furlong
Guns: Beretta 92FS, Browning Hi-Power, M1911A1, Taurus PT99AFS, Browning M2HB

“Terminator 2: Judgment Day” is a groundbreaking sci-fi action film from James Cameron, and it’s a sequel to the 1984 film “The Terminator”. Released in 1991, the film was not only lauded for its gripping storyline but also for its pioneering special effects, which set new standards for the industry.

The movie takes place several years after the events of the first “Terminator” film. Sarah Connor (Linda Hamilton) has been institutionalized due to her insistence on the impending doom of “Judgment Day,” where Skynet, an AI network, becomes self-aware and instigates a nuclear apocalypse. Her son, John Connor (Edward Furlong), who is destined to become the leader of the human resistance against Skynet in the future, is living with foster parents.

The crux of the film lies in Skynet’s attempt to eliminate John Connor before he can grow into his role as a leader. To achieve this, Skynet sends an advanced shape-shifting terminator, the T-1000 (Robert Patrick), back in time to kill the young John. In response, the human resistance sends a reprogrammed T-800 model (Arnold Schwarzenegger) to protect John.

The Beretta 92FS makes a brief but significant appearance in “Terminator 2”

Introduction of the T-1000. The first substantial introduction of the T-1000’s threat level comes when he confronts John Connor at the mall. The Beretta serves as the T-1000’s weapon of choice during this confrontation, highlighting his determination to eliminate John. The presence of the Beretta accentuates the immediate danger John is in, contrasting with the heavier artillery the T-800 wields.

Adaptability and Impersonation. The T-1000’s acquiring of the Beretta from a fallen LAPD officer also underscores its primary strength: the ability to mimic and adapt. By taking the officer’s appearance and weapon, the T-1000 seamlessly blends into the environment, making it even more dangerous as an assassin.

Contrast with the T-800. While the T-800 is often seen with larger and more formidable weaponry (like the iconic lever-action shotgun), the T-1000’s use of the Beretta underlines the differences between the two terminators. The T-1000 doesn’t rely on raw firepower but rather on precision, adaptability, and the element of surprise.

The scenes at the mall serve as an early climax in the film, with the Beretta playing a central role in depicting the urgency and peril of the situation. Like in other movies of its era, the presence of the Beretta 92FS in “Terminator 2” reflects its cultural and cinematic significance as a definitive sidearm.

The film progresses to showcase thrilling chases, strategic maneuvers, and poignant moments that delve into the nature of humanity, making “Terminator 2” a classic in both action and science fiction genres.

— I need your clothes, your boots and your motorcycle.
— You forgot to say “please.”

Director: Jean-Marc Vallée
Writers: Craig Borten, Melisa Wallack
Stars: Matthew McConaughey, Jennifer Garner, Jared Leto
Guns: Beretta 92FS, Mitchell High Standard

“Dallas Buyers Club” is a poignant and impactful drama based on a true story. Directed by Jean-Marc Vallée and released in 2013, the film delves into the AIDS epidemic of the 1980s and the desperate measures patients took to gain access to life-extending medications.

The story revolves around Ron Woodroof (Matthew McConaughey), a Texan electrician and rodeo cowboy who, in 1985, is diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. Given just 30 days to live by his doctors, and faced with a lack of effective treatments available in the U.S., Woodroof embarks on a mission to obtain and distribute unapproved drugs and supplements to fellow AIDS patients. These alternative treatments, which are more effective than what’s offered by the American medical establishment at the time, are sourced from various places around the world.

To circumvent the law, Woodroof establishes the “Dallas Buyers Club,” a membership-based system where the drugs are technically “free” but members pay a monthly fee. Along the way, he forms an unlikely alliance with Rayon (Jared Leto), a transgender woman and fellow AIDS patient, and together they navigate the challenges thrown at them by the FDA and the medical establishment.

The two-tone Beretta 92FS that Ron Woodroof owns plays a symbolic and emotional role in the film

Desperation and Despair. The most profound moment with the Beretta is when Woodroof, consumed by the weight of his diagnosis and the bleak outlook of his condition, contemplates ending his own life. The pistol becomes an emblem of the hopelessness and desperation that many diagnosed with HIV/AIDS felt during this period, especially when confronted with a medical establishment that seemed indifferent to their plight.

Defiance and Resistance. Apart from the aforementioned scene, the presence of the Beretta in other parts of the film can be interpreted as a symbol of Woodroof’s rebellious and defiant nature. In the face of systemic adversities and a condition that’s slowly taking his life, Woodroof’s ownership of the pistol can be seen as a refusal to go down without a fight.

“Dallas Buyers Club” offers an insightful look into the complexities of the AIDS epidemic, highlighting both the resilience of those affected and the inadequacies of the medical and political systems of the time. The performances by McConaughey and Leto were widely praised, with both actors undergoing significant physical transformations for their roles and subsequently winning Oscars for their portrayals. The Beretta, while not central to the narrative, provides a poignant symbol of Woodroof’s internal battles, adding depth to an already profound narrative.

Ron Woodroof (Matthew McConaughey) owns a two-tone Beretta 92FS pistol throughout the film, which is most prominently seen when he contemplates committing suicide.

W.POLAH MINIATURE GUNS: the Beretta 92FS in action:
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Director: David Chase
Writers: David Chase, Terence Winter, Mitchell Burgess
Stars: James Gandolfini, Lorraine Bracco, Edie Falco
Guns: Beretta 92FS, CZ 75, Desert Eagle, Glock 17, M1911A1

One of the most acclaimed television dramas ever created, offering a deep exploration of the modern American mafia combined with the personal struggles of its characters.

“The Sopranos,” created by David Chase, aired from 1999 to 2007. It chronicles the life of mob boss Tony Soprano (James Gandolfini) as he tries to manage the demands of his crime family while grappling with personal challenges, primarily those related to his mental health. Throughout the series, Tony frequently visits Dr. Jennifer Melfi (Lorraine Bracco), a psychiatrist, to discuss his anxiety, panic attacks, and the moral ambiguities of his life in organized crime.

The series delves into various aspects of Tony’s life, from his relationships with his family – both biological and “professional” – to his extramarital affairs and his experiences with his crew, including characters like Silvio Dante, Paulie “Walnuts” Gualtieri, and Christopher Moltisanti.

Firearms, given the nature of the mob life, are a recurring element in “The Sopranos,” symbolizing the power, danger, and unpredictability of the criminal underworld. The Beretta, being a popular firearm, makes appearances in various episodes.

One of the most significant appearances of the Beretta is in the fifth season episode “The Test Dream.” In this episode, Tony has an elaborate, symbolic dream that is laden with guilt and fears, reflecting his internal conflicts and insecurities.

Tony is handed a suppressed Beretta pistol and is told he needs to carry out a hit, a task referred to as “the thing” he has to do. The dream is a mosaic of past traumas, unresolved issues, and dark premonitions, with the suppressed Beretta serving as a physical manifestation of Tony’s suppressed emotions and the violent nature of his work.

The use of the suppressed Beretta in this dream is significant in several ways:

Suppression of Emotion. Just as the Beretta is suppressed to muffle its noise, Tony constantly suppresses his emotions and moral qualms to function as a mob boss.
Unfinished Business. The “thing” Tony needs to do with the Beretta can be seen as the unresolved aspects of his life, particularly the violent deeds he’s committed or sanctioned.
Confronting Fear. The dream culminates in Tony facing various characters from his past, suggesting his need to confront his actions and the repercussions they’ve had on his psyche.

“The Sopranos” is a rich tapestry of storytelling, expertly blending crime drama with introspective character studies. The Beretta, especially in “The Test Dream,” becomes more than just a firearm; it transforms into a powerful narrative device, symbolizing the complex interplay of Tony Soprano’s personal and professional life.

— I don’t care how close you are: in the end, your friends are gonna let you down. Family. They’re the only ones you can depend on.

The miniature gun Beretta 92FS has become popular among collectors due to its realistic design and attention to detail. Like our other models, this one also comes with a beautifully crafted wooden box to store the miniature and its accompanying accessories. You will receive a complete set perfect for playing, collecting, or gifting as a memorable present.

Order the miniature gun Beretta 92FS right now on our website:

About the Author

My name is Olha Polah, and I have been working in miniature weapons production since 2015. I started the mini firearms brand and have been running the brand’s Instagram page since 2016. The brand’s miniatures are popular worldwide, with fans in 25+ countries. I became the sole owner of the brand in 2018 and created a comprehensive line of miniatures. More than 60 models of miniature weapons from various historical periods have been created. In November 2023, I was interviewed by Robert Dunn for the GunTech magazine, where I talked about the hardships I had to endure in my business. I also run a newsletter for the brand’s customers, which has evolved into a full-fledged magazine with in-depth articles published on the wpolah.com.

My mission is to make people’s lives more joyful by sharing interesting facts about miniature weapons and inspiring everyone to express themselves.