Beretta’s ‘Shark’ Pistol: The 92XI Squalo — SHOT Show 2024

in Levi Sim, SHOT Show 2024

Updated: August 30, 2024 BY Levi Sim

A major trend at SHOT Show this year is 2011 competition-style 9mm pistols, but Beretta’s new 92XI Squalo joins the 9mm race gun pack as a distinctly non-1911 option.

The 92XI (read: ninety-two-eleven) adds many favorite race gun features to the proven 92X platform. And the Squalo edition, which Beretta says means “shark skin,” adds limited edition styling.

Say, “ninety-two-eleven” and it makes more sense.

Race-ready

Out-of-box, the Squalo has an extended takedown lever like the classic gas pedal thumb rest. This is a powerful tool that helps you keep a proper grip.

Close up photo of the gun's left side showing the take down lever and the slide stop. the gun is pointing left. — An extended takedown lever offers a gas-pedal-like thumb rest.

DLC Trigger

Beretta’s X-Treme S trigger is flat-faced with serrations and all the components are DLC-coated. The diamond-like coating is exceptionally smooth and durable. Like other competition guns, the trigger is single-action only.

close up of the trigger and magazine release. — Squalo has a flat-faced trigger and an extended mag release.

More Race Features

Another favorite race feature is the extended magazine release. Squalo’s under-cut trigger guard allows a higher grip, while the front and rear strap serrations combine with the aggressive G10 panels for precise control.

SEE ALSO: Stop the Scope Glare! MK Machining’s ARD — SHOT Show 2024

More race features! The slide is cut and ready for MRDS-compatible optics. Plus, the hammer is skeletonized and there are generously sized safety levers on both sides of the slide.

Also, there’s a full-size Picatinny rail integrated into the dust cover. Lastly, the Squalo includes a Toni System flared mag well and magazine extenders on all three included magazines. That jacks the capacity of each Mec Gar mag to 18+4.

Close up of the hammer and right side safety lever. the gun is pointing right. — The skeletonized hammer and ambi safety are also favorite features along with the blacked-out serrated rear sight and fiber optic front sight.

The Picatinny rail under the barrel is full-size.

The Toni System mag well and mag extenders also come standard.

The fit and finish are as nice as you’d expect from Beretta. Hi-temp tungsten-colored cerakote finishes this whole gun for a truly cartilaginous fish-like color.