The video opens with Clint from Classic Firearms introducing another unboxing, joined by Matt. They reveal a batch of Beretta 85BB pistols and immediately talk about how much they like this model. Clint mentions that he really likes the size of the 85, saying it fits very well in the hand. As a left-handed shooter, he especially appreciates that the safety levers are ambidextrous and fall naturally under his thumb, making the pistol feel like a fantastic fit. They point out that the 85BB is a fairly slim, single-stack .380 ACP pistol that comes with one magazine, which they believe holds seven rounds. The hosts describe it as a great little firearm that could work well for someone looking for a compact option to carry. They also comment on the packaging, noting that instead of a plain cardboard box, there is a molded plastic insert inside that keeps the pistol from rolling around, jokingly comparing it to a pizza box support. The insert and box feature the Beretta logo, reinforcing that these are genuine Beretta pistols.
Clint and Matt focus on how the Beretta 85BB feels in the hand. They emphasize that the single-stack configuration results in a very slim grip, which makes the pistol extremely comfortable and ergonomic to hold. Clint reiterates that the grip feels excellent and that the overall size of the pistol is very appealing. The ambidextrous safety is highlighted again as a major benefit, especially for left-handed shooters, since it is easy to reach and operate with the thumb. They describe the pistol as user-friendly for a wide range of shooters and note that its thin profile and compact dimensions make it a strong candidate for concealed carry. Overall, the controls are said to be well laid out, intuitive, and easy to manipulate.
The hosts compare the Beretta 85BB to other Beretta models they have previously offered, such as the 85S and the 81BB. They explain that these 85BB pistols are similar in many ways to the 81 series, but there are a few noticeable differences. One of the most obvious visual differences is the presence of white dot sights on both the front and rear of the 85BB. Because these are older surplus pistols, the white dots can look dingy or faded, but Clint suggests that a bit of careful cleaning will likely brighten them up. Matt notes that there are also internal mechanical differences, but the main user-facing change most people will notice is how the safety functions. On the 85BB, engaging the safety completely disconnects the trigger, leaving no movement at all when the trigger is pulled. This is contrasted with a typical 81, where, with the safety on, you can still feel spring tension and some movement. They clarify that these are the primary differences most shooters will notice between the 81 and the 85BB in regular use.
Clint demonstrates the operation of the Beretta 85BB’s trigger system, explaining that it is a double-action/single-action pistol. After verifying that the pistol is clear, he shows the double-action pull, then manually cocks the hammer to demonstrate the single-action pull. He notes that in single action there is a small amount of take-up before a distinct wall, followed by a clean break. The double-action pull is described as heavier and longer, as expected for this type of design, while the single-action pull feels lighter and more precise. They also mention that the pistol is chambered in .380 ACP, sometimes referred to as 9mm Short, and they briefly touch on how this caliber offers a balance of manageable recoil and adequate performance for training and defensive roles.
Attention turns to the overall condition and external details of the surplus Beretta 85BB pistols. From the examples they handle on camera, Clint and Matt remark that the finish looks very good, especially considering that these are surplus guns. Typical wear includes light scratches on the grips, small chips or dings at the bottom of the grip panels, and some finish wear on the barrel hood and high points where the slide cycles. They point out that the white paint in the sight dots varies from pistol to pistol: some have brighter front dots with more faded rear dots, while others show the opposite pattern. The pistols display standard Beretta markings, including the company name, logo, and indications that they were made in Italy. They also note that there appear to be two serial numbers present on the frame, but they are applied in a relatively discreet way, without large or overly conspicuous markings on the slide or frame. Overall, the wear is characterized as consistent with normal holster use rather than hard abuse.
The hosts discuss how a pistol like the Beretta 85BB fits into different shooting roles. They explain that .380 ACP handguns can serve as a practical step up from .22 LR for new shooters, offering more recoil and power while still being manageable and not overly intimidating. The slim, single-stack design of the 85BB is highlighted as especially suitable for concealed carry, particularly in warm weather when people are more likely to be wearing shorts and T-shirts and need a thinner handgun that is easier to conceal. They emphasize that .380 ACP is a capable defensive caliber when paired with appropriate ammunition and good shot placement. The location of the magazine release behind the trigger guard is also appreciated, as it matches the control layout many shooters are already familiar with, making reloads straightforward and intuitive.
Clint and Matt explain that, as with most surplus firearms, there is some variation from pistol to pistol in terms of cosmetic condition and small details. Some Beretta 85BB pistols have more intact white paint in the sight dots, while others show more wear. Certain examples may have color-filled slide markings, whereas others do not. They stress that buyers should expect normal service wear and not assume that every pistol will look brand new. However, the overall batch they are examining is described as being in good to very good condition, with solid finishes and sound mechanical function. For customers who are particularly concerned about appearance, Classic Firearms offers a hand-select option, where staff will look through the available pistols to find examples that best match higher cosmetic expectations within the surplus grading.
Near the end of the video, the hosts briefly step away from the Beretta 85BB discussion to mention a current giveaway: a Desert Tech HTI .50 BMG bolt-action bullpup rifle with a detachable magazine and a Zeiss optic. They reference another video where they use the rifle to shoot through multiple soda containers to demonstrate the power of the .50 BMG cartridge. Clint and Matt then remind viewers about Classic Firearms’ secondary YouTube channel, "Outside the Warehouse," which features lighter, more humorous content such as meme reviews and fun challenges. The video wraps up by summarizing the key points about the Beretta 85BB pistols: they are surplus .380 ACP, single-stack, slim, ergonomic handguns available in good to very good condition. Viewers are encouraged to visit ClassicFirearms.com for more information on the pistols and to enter the ongoing giveaway.
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