Beretta - Accokeek,MD - 400,000 sq. ft.
***11 tools at a cost of over $60K/EA. for production with close tolerances & no metal stampings
***No stamped parts whatsoever all forged & machined
***Dimensional component tolerance the width of a human hair
***Each 92 Series proof fired w/55-60K proof load and magnafluxed for stress and cracks
***Each 92 Series unit cyled on a machine 300+ times to insure proper functioning
***Each 92 Series pistol fired 10-15 times before leaving factory
***Final QA station to inspect fit and finnish after all testing and assembly is completed.
Grip screws and barrels must be scrupulously oiled to ward off rust. Locking blocks must be checked frequently.
Average slide life: 75K rounds
Average frame life: 35K rounds
If the Italianos are better, and I don't dispute that, think of what you will be getting when all the above is factored in.
I hated Berreta's for many years, and we all know about service on the East Coast, not just with Gun makers, but I will go on record as saying that they are very proactive in terms of the big picture when it comes to indentifying major problems and quickly addressing them.
Furthermore, to this date, Beretta is not playing ball with the socialists like Glock,Sig and Colt. That in and of itself is worth something. They have publicly stated that "smart gun" technology is a disaster in the making and they have expended thousands to take on HCI in the courts and win at it.
Being a major owner of Benelli, they have taken the Shotgun line away from HK and have turned the Service and Parts Department around. If you are an avid Duck Hunter, as am I, this is a major accomplishment as Benelli is THE weapon for waterfowl hands down.
Yes, Beretta is not perfect but they have done some things right in the RKBA struggle and we need to support them based on those merits.
Have ah good un'---- WB
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"When guns are outlawed;I will be an outlaw."
[This message has been edited by Will Beararms (edited January 03, 2000).]