P. Beretta Mod. 418 .25 ACP Postwar A-Suffix (1951) Micro Pistol, Blued Steel, Italian-Made
This P. Beretta Mod. 418 is a postwar A-suffix series micro pistol, proof-dated 1951. It is chambered in .25 ACP (6.35mm) and built with a steel frame and slide in the classic open-top Beretta architecture. Marked MADE IN ITALY with Gardone Val Trompia proofs and a 1951 date stamp, it features the period "CAL.
6.35" slide marking and black hard-plastic PB monogram grip panels.
Known for its compact size and straightforward design, this example combines a 2.36 inch barrel with a straight blowback, striker-fired, single-action system. A rear firing-pin cocking indicator, grip safety, and fixed iron sights round out the configuration. The model was exported under names such as "Bantam" and later "Panther," and is often cited as the likely early "Beretta .25" carried by James Bond.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Fair - Generally clean, some residue or smudges, slight corrosion.
Bore Rifling: Fair Rifling - Worn rifling, slight loss of definition.
Specific Condition Notes: The finish shows wear and discoloration throughout, with scattered scratches and blemishes.
What’s Included
- P. Beretta Mod. 418 Postwar A-suffix .25 ACP pistol (manufactured 1951)
Proof-dated to 1951, this A-suffix Mod. 418 represents the early postwar evolution of Beretta’s micro .25 ACP line. The slide is marked "CAL. 6.35," and the pistol carries Gardone Val Trompia proofs, a 1951 date stamp, and MADE IN ITALY export markings that establish clear provenance.
Its mechanical setup is straight blowback, striker-fired, single-action, combining simplicity with compact dimensions. The open-top slide with a long top ejection cut is a signature Beretta feature of the era, aiding reliable ejection in a very small platform.
Controls and features include a grip safety and a rear firing-pin cocking indicator for immediate visual and tactile status. Fixed iron sights consist of an integral front blade and rear notch. The pistol wears black hard-plastic PB monogram grips, with a steel frame and slide in a blued finish.
Period references note export branding as "Bantam" and later "Panther," and this configuration is often cited as the likely early "Beretta .25" associated with James Bond. The 2.36 inch barrel, micro size, and steel construction align with the compact personal-defense pistols Beretta produced in the 1950s.