Beretta Model 87BB Cheetah Target .22 LR SAO Pistol with 5.75-Inch Weighted Barrel (Made in Italy, 1989–1990)
This rare Beretta 87BB Cheetah Target is a factory-weighted, single-action-only .22 LR pistol produced in Italy for a short run between 1988 and 1991. The heavy 5.75-inch barrel, open-top slide, and micrometer-adjustable sights set it apart as a purpose-built target variant. Collectors value the limited production, Italian CIP proof marks, and CAT 5507 import code, while shooters appreciate the crisp SAO trigger and ambidextrous safety.
Finished in deep blue over a carbon-steel barrel and black-anodized aluminum frame, this example retains its factory-checkered walnut grips with PB medallions and ships with its original box, case, manual, and one 10-round magazine.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Condition: Excellent – Clean, mirror finish with sharp lands and grooves.
What’s Included
- Beretta factory cardboard shipping box (white, labeled)
- Beretta blue plastic pistol case
- Beretta Serie 81 instruction manual
- 1× 10-round factory Beretta steel magazine (Made in Italy)
Produced in 1989–1990, the 87BB Target combines the proven Cheetah series frame with a heavier, weighted barrel sleeve that adds stability for precision shooting. The pinned blade front sight sits on the barrel weight, while the rear sight offers micrometer adjustments for windage and elevation.
The pistol operates in single-action-only, delivering a short, light trigger pull ideal for target work. An ambidextrous frame-mounted safety lever and automatic firing-pin block enhance handling confidence without compromising the crisp break.
The open-top slide design, a Beretta hallmark, promotes reliable ejection and reduces reciprocating mass. The slide’s rich blued finish complements the anodized alloy frame, keeping overall weight near the factory-specified 700 g despite the heavy barrel assembly.
Checkered walnut grips with inset PB medallions provide a secure, classic feel, rounding out a package equally attractive to collectors and shooters seeking a scarce Italian-made Cheetah variant.