Plinking Pistols

[Tye G. Wolfe]

We all know the term and we all use it almost on a daily basis. I have 12 .22Lr revolvers, semi-autos handguns and rifles that at one time or another has been used for plinking. It is a fun way to join with friends and strengthen friendships. Not all of my .22lr's would normally be used for plinking but any reliable .22Lr can fit the bill. A few of my favorite plinkers are my Unique Model 52, both Jennings Model J-22's and of course both my Beretta model 87BB and my Beretta Model 70. The Beretta Model 70 is a special little handgun in that it has various barrels to be used for varied uses. The Beretta Model 70 also has the dubious honor of being used with a silencer and in the hands of an Israeli Massod, was the perfect assassin's weapon. Amazing what a little 40 grain lead pill behind the ear will do.

Beretta Model 70 with standard 3 inch barrel installed and 3 inch target barrel



Beretta Model 70 with 6 inch target barrel installed

[Tye G. Wolfe]

The up dated version of the Model 70 is the Beretta Model 87BB. I have found the Beretta Model 87BB every bit as well built as the Beretta Model 70 but thus far I have not found the particular ammo it likes. I am sure once I find the .22Lr ammunition it likes best the 3 inch groups I am getting now will no doubt shrink considerably.

Beretta Model 87BB .22Lr

[On Target LLC]

The Model 87BB is my favorite out of the two Beretta's you have here! How do they shoot and handle? I'm not savvy on the Beretta .22's!!!!!!!!!

[Tye G. Wolfe]

On Target LLC wrote

The Model 87BB is my favorite out of the two Beretta's you have here! How do they shoot and handle? I'm not savvy on the Beretta .22's!!!!!!!!!

John...

Fof the most part I like the Model 70 better than the Model 87BB. Right now the Model 70 seems to just eat anything I feed it and do it with a fair degree of accuracy. I would say groups on the average of 1 to 2 inches at 7 yards regardless of the ammo I use. I am getting groups in the 3 to 4 inch range with the Model 87BB at this time. I feel as if I have not found the ammunition that the Model 87BB actually likes and shoots the best. I just need to find the time to go out and buy a bix of as many different types of .22Lr ammo I can find and try them out. I am sure that once I come across the right ammunition the true potential will actually be seen.

They both shoot great otherwise without real problems. They go bang when the trigger is pulled and except for the differances in accuracy are equally reliable. I can't remember the last time I had a failure to fir or to eject. As long as the cartridge fires bith guns just run perfectly.

Take care and good shooting,
Tye