The Beretta 71 Pistol is the second model in the Beretta Model 70 series of pistols. Chambered in .22LR holding 8+1 in the chamber, these pistols are infamously associated with the Israeli Mossad when they were used to take down terrorists behind the Black September Munich attacks. These pistols are smooth shooters, single-action with fixed sights emplaced on top of the 3.5" barrel. The inclusion of a simple lever safety on the left-side of the frame allows for quick operation from safe to firing. Whether you are wanting a fun .22 to take to the range, a slim easily concealable self-defense pistol, or to simply have an incredibly interesting piece of history; these pistols are an exquisite must-have item. Beretta M71s are scarcely imported into the U.S.; doubly so without the welded on fake suppressors, so be sure to get these while supplies last!
Conditions are Good - Very good, blued finish, minimal wear potentially present on grips and metal parts.
These specific Model 71s have the earlier crossbolt safety, as opposed to the more prolific lever-action safety of the majority of later manufactured units. The only other differences will be a slight change in the Beretta logo on the grip, an M1911 style slide catch (as opposed to the circular slide catch of later models), and the grip cutout for the slide catch being at a straight angle; as opposed to being circular to accomodate the early model slide catch.
Includes one (8 round) magazine
Exact state will vary from pistol to pistol. Sold individually.
Historical fun fact: In reaction to an air hijackings by the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO), the Israeli state started emplacing soldiers designated "Sky Marshals" on planes armed with these Beretta Model 71s. One such Marshall Mordechai Rachamim, successfully used his M71 to take down neutralize multiple hijackers in separate anti-terrorist operations.
For more reading, please consult the following:
Israeli Mossad .22 LRS: The Reliable Pistols of the Mossad - Athlon Outdoors
"Beretta Automatic Pistols: The collector's and Shooter's Comprehensive Guide" by J.B. Wood
(Chapter 10 for the Model 70 Series Pistols)
