Beretta Model 418 Bantam .25 ACP, 1956 Italian-Made Two-Tone Alloy-Frame Micro Pistol, 7+1 Capacity
Manufactured in 1956 in Italy, this Beretta Model 418 Bantam is a lightweight, two-tone micro pistol with hallmark Beretta design features. It pairs a blued open-top slide with a bright alloy frame, uses a fixed, exposed barrel, and runs a striker-fired straight blowback system with a rear cocked-striker indicator. Compact and well-appointed, it offers a 7+1 capacity in .25 ACP and carries U.S. market recognition under the Bantam name.
Italian-made at Gardone V.T., the pistol shows the correct slide legends and configuration for mid-1950s C-suffix production. The left slide is marked "P. BERETTA – CAL. 6.35 – GARDONE V.T." with a faint "MADE IN ITALY" on the right, and it retains the period-correct fixed sights and heel-type magazine catch. It is also culturally associated with the early James Bond novels, adding notable context for collectors.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Overall Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: This firearm is in great shape. There are minor, superficial scratches and small blemishes present on the exterior. The bore is clean and shiny.
What’s Included
- Beretta Model 418 Bantam pistol
- One 7-round factory Beretta magazine stamped "Cal. 6.35 P. BERETTA"
This Model 418 Bantam reflects the lightweight alloy-frame variant that Beretta marketed in the U.S. during the 1950s. The two-tone appearance—blued slide over a bright alloy frame—gives it a distinct look while helping keep weight down for discreet carry. Its micro size makes it notably compact without sacrificing the 7+1 capacity in .25 ACP.
The design centers on Beretta’s open-top slide and fixed, exposed barrel, features known for smooth cycling in a straight blowback format. The striker-fired system includes a rear cocked-striker indicator, and a manual safety lever provides on-gun control. The heel-type magazine catch aligns with period European practice and retains the included factory 7-round magazine.
Sighting is straightforward and correct for the model, with a small front blade and a rear notch integral to the slide. The slide carries rear serrations for positive manipulation. Black checkered plastic grips with the Beretta logo complete the factory presentation while offering secure purchase on a very compact frame.
Markings and origin are clear and desirable: Italian manufacture at Gardone V.T., with the left-side "P. BERETTA – CAL. 6.35 – GARDONE V.T." legend and a faint "MADE IN ITALY" on the right. The C-suffix serial format aligns with mid-1950s production, and the documented 1956 manufacture date places this example squarely in that period of Bantam production and U.S. marketing.