Selected Handgun Detail

Manufacturer
	Browning Corporation More Info

About the Gun

Compact pistol manufactured in Italy by Beretta under contract from FN Herstal (Belgium) and marketed as the Browning BDA 380 in the US. Fashioned after Beretta's Cheeta series but with a solid slide, a slide mounted safety/decock lever and rounded trigger guard.

Production

Production of this firearm began in 1977 and continued until 1997. It was primarily manufactured during the late 1970s through the 1980s, with assembly occurring in Belgium by Fabrique Nationale.

Market value

The MSRP for this gun is approximately $450. In 95% condition, the used market value ranges from $400 to $500 based on recent 2025 sales data and pricing trends.

Cartridge Specifications
Cartridge:	.380 Automatic
Alias:	9mm Browning Short
More Info

Analysis

This compact semi-automatic pistol in .380 Auto caliber offers a solid option for concealed carry and personal defense. Its accuracy is commendable for a firearm of its size, delivering consistent performance at typical self-defense ranges. The ergonomics are well-suited for most hand sizes, with a grip that provides a secure hold during firing. Reliability is a key asset, as it functions smoothly with a variety of ammunition types under standard conditions. However, maintenance can be somewhat cumbersome due to a design that requires more effort for disassembly and cleaning compared to simpler models. Additionally, sourcing replacement parts may pose a challenge, as availability is limited in some regions. The trigger pull is crisp, averaging around 5-6 pounds in single-action mode, which aids precision. Felt recoil is moderate, manageable for most shooters, though those sensitive to kick may notice it during extended sessions.