American Rifleman did a piece on Beretta’s new offering the M9A3.   The M9A3 incorporates new materials and design improvements.  Those changes include removable, modular wrap-around grip panel, a Picatinny accessory rail, removable tritium night sights, and an extended and threaded barrel for suppressor compatibility.”  Some of those changes have already been incorporated into the Marines M9A1.

Beretta stated in its M9A3 announcement that, “After listening closely to the needs of U.S. Army and other Service small arms representatives, we determined the M9, much like its counterpart legacy weapon systems like the M4, M16 and M240, was capable of being upgraded through material and design changes,”  Funny, seems it took a whole new pistol program to communicate to Beretta that will be offering the M9A3 at a lower cost than the Army’s current M9.  Offering numerous improvements and at a cheaper price is a unique coincidence.

The timing is undoubtedly Beretta’s answer to the Army’s Modular Handgun System (MHS) program discussed here at GruntsandCo in July.  The program includes requirements such as a modular grip to fit different shooters, a threaded barrel for suppressors and a rail for lights and laser pointers.  The new Beretta doesn’t address all the requirements though especially the interest in other calibers voiced by the Army.  I’ll continue watching developments in this evolving saga with keen interest.