The Pursuit of Precision
For firearms enthusiasts, the quest for accuracy and reliability is a constant one. Within the realm of compact, yet capable, handguns, the name “Beretta Cheetah 87 Target” often surfaces as a symbol of this pursuit. This pistol, a descendant of a respected family, has garnered a devoted following, appealing to target shooters and connoisseurs alike. This article undertakes a comprehensive exploration of the Beretta Cheetah 87 Target, meticulously examining its features, performance, history, and the reasons behind its enduring appeal.
Tracing Lineage
The Beretta Cheetah family, a line of semi-automatic pistols, has carved a significant niche in the firearms world. Distinguished by their sleek lines and dependable performance, these pistols offered a blend of power and manageability that resonated with shooters across various applications. The Model 81, 84, 85, and 89, each representing a slight variation in design and caliber, collectively contributed to the Cheetah’s legacy. The Beretta Cheetah series aimed to create pistols that were not only functional but also elegant and comfortable to handle. This design philosophy significantly impacted the overall impression of the firearms.
The Birth of a Champion
Born from this lineage, the Beretta Cheetah 87 Target stands out as a specialized variant. It was designed specifically to deliver outstanding accuracy and precision for target shooting. The introduction of the 87 Target marked a commitment to providing shooters with a dedicated platform optimized for competitive or recreational target work. It wasn’t just a scaled-down version of a larger pistol; it was thoughtfully designed to excel in its primary purpose. The distinguishing characteristics of this model set it apart from its siblings and established its reputation within the broader Cheetah family.
The Beretta Design Philosophy
Understanding the Beretta design philosophy helps appreciate the 87 Target. Beretta’s approach has always emphasized a harmonious balance between functionality, reliability, and aesthetics. Their engineers and designers carefully considered the ergonomics of the pistol, focusing on features that would enhance the shooter’s comfort and control. The goal was to produce a firearm that felt good in the hand, pointed naturally, and operated smoothly. The materials used and the construction process all reflected this philosophy. The Cheetah series, including the 87 Target, embodies this commitment to quality and innovation.
Crafting the Foundation
The Beretta Cheetah 87 Target’s frame is generally constructed from a lightweight yet durable aluminum alloy. This material helps to keep the overall weight of the pistol manageable, making it easy to handle, especially over extended shooting sessions. The slide, often made of steel, contributes to the pistol’s inherent robustness. This combination of materials delivers a good balance between weight, strength, and longevity. The manufacturing process itself adheres to Beretta’s well-established standards of quality control.
Defining the Profile
The Beretta Cheetah 87 Target typically features a specific barrel length, often longer than those found on other Cheetah models. This extended barrel is a key characteristic that significantly influences accuracy. The longer barrel allows for a greater sight radius, improving the precision with which the shooter can aim. This design choice is one of the primary reasons why the 87 Target is so popular among target shooters.
Focusing the View
The sights on the 87 Target are a notable feature. They are typically fully adjustable, designed to be precise for target shooting. These sights often consist of a front blade and an adjustable rear sight. The adjustability allows the shooter to fine-tune the point of impact to match their individual shooting style and the specific ammunition being used. The design of the sights allows for a clear sight picture, crucial for achieving consistent accuracy.
Grasping the Experience
The grip on the Beretta Cheetah 87 Target is often designed with ergonomics in mind. The grip can be made of wood or synthetic materials, and sometimes features checkering to help the shooter maintain a secure hold, even in less-than-ideal conditions. The comfortable grip allows for a natural and repeatable shooting stance, contributing to the pistol’s overall accuracy.
Safety Measures
The Beretta Cheetah 87 Target incorporates multiple safety mechanisms to ensure the pistol can be carried and handled safely. These safety features can include an ambidextrous manual safety, allowing both right- and left-handed shooters to operate the pistol. A firing pin block is a common feature, preventing the firing pin from moving forward unless the trigger is pulled, further minimizing the risk of accidental discharge. These safety measures are important elements in the overall design.
Trigger Dynamics
The trigger mechanism plays a key role in the overall shooting experience. The Beretta Cheetah 87 Target typically features a trigger mechanism offering single-action and double-action modes. The double-action mode allows for rapid first-shot capability, while the single-action mode allows for a lighter and crisper trigger pull, contributing to enhanced accuracy. The trigger pull weight, when in single-action mode, is often lighter, allowing for greater precision.
Size and Presence
The Beretta Cheetah 87 Target has specific dimensions and weight characteristics that influence its handling and overall feel. It is relatively compact, making it comfortable to handle and easy to manipulate. Its weight contributes to its balance and helps to absorb recoil. These features enhance the overall experience of shooting this classic firearm.
Testing the Limits
Accuracy testing plays a vital role in assessing a firearm’s performance. During tests, the Beretta Cheetah 87 Target often demonstrates its capabilities. The results of these tests can showcase the potential of this pistol in the hands of a skilled shooter. The size of the group produced on the target is a good indication of the pistol’s accuracy.
A Gentle Hand
The recoil of the Beretta Cheetah 87 Target, chambered in .22 Long Rifle, is typically very mild. This minimal recoil makes it easy and comfortable to shoot for extended periods, making it an ideal choice for both experienced shooters and those new to firearms. The light recoil also allows for quicker follow-up shots, important for target shooting.
Ease of Use
The ergonomics of the Beretta Cheetah 87 Target greatly impact the user’s experience. The design of the grip, the placement of the controls, and the feel of the trigger all contribute to how comfortable and easy the pistol is to shoot. The pistol is designed to naturally fit in the hand, allowing for easy pointing and control. This contributes to its popularity among shooters.
Target Performance
The Beretta Cheetah 87 Target is ideally suited for target shooting due to its many features. The adjustable sights, the longer barrel, the crisp trigger pull, and the comfortable grip all work together to create a pistol that is highly accurate and rewarding to shoot. The design allows for consistent and precise shot placement.
Taking it Apart
Disassembly of the Beretta Cheetah 87 Target is typically straightforward, but always begin by ensuring the firearm is unloaded and safe. Familiarize yourself with the parts and the disassembly sequence. Proper field stripping is essential for cleaning and maintenance. Understanding the process is important before disassembling the firearm.
Keeping it Clean
Cleaning and maintaining the Beretta Cheetah 87 Target is essential for its long-term reliability and accuracy. A regular cleaning routine, using the appropriate tools and solvents, will help to keep the pistol in good working order. Proper lubrication of moving parts is also critical for smooth operation. These steps will maximize the lifespan and performance of the pistol.
Continuing Care
In addition to regular cleaning, preventive maintenance is also recommended. This can include inspecting the pistol for wear and tear and addressing any potential issues before they become serious problems. Routine inspection is a great way to keep your Beretta Cheetah 87 Target functioning as intended.
The Positive Side
The Beretta Cheetah 87 Target has numerous advantages. The accuracy is outstanding, thanks to its design and features. The ergonomics contribute to its comfortable handling. Its reputation for reliability is well-earned. The adjustable target sights enhance precision, and the light recoil makes it a pleasure to shoot. These elements contribute to the many advantages of this pistol.
Considering the Drawbacks
While the Beretta Cheetah 87 Target boasts many desirable qualities, some potential drawbacks exist. Availability might be limited, as it is not as widely produced as other .22 pistols. The potential cost may be higher depending on condition and market. The magazine capacity might be smaller when compared to some modern .22 pistols. These considerations can affect any buyer’s ultimate choice.
Standing in Comparison
Comparing the Beretta Cheetah 87 Target with other .22 pistols highlights its strengths and weaknesses. When compared to pistols like the Browning Buck Mark, the Smith & Wesson Model 41, or the Ruger Mark IV, the 87 Target often distinguishes itself through a combination of its features. Understanding these comparisons offers perspective on the relative merits of different .22 pistols.
Who Is It For?
The Beretta Cheetah 87 Target is suitable for a variety of shooters. Target shooters will appreciate its accuracy. Plinkers will enjoy the low recoil. Enthusiasts and collectors value its classic design. It also suits those looking for a reliable and accurate handgun. It is an ideal choice for those seeking a quality firearm.
Finding Your Place
The Beretta Cheetah 87 Target is suited for several applications. Recreational target shooting is one of its primary uses. It is also a good option for those who want to improve their shooting skills. It can be a great tool for introducing new shooters to the sport, thanks to its ease of use and low recoil.
Assessing Value
The market price for a used Beretta Cheetah 87 Target can vary based on its condition, rarity, and local market conditions. Researching current prices before buying or selling is important. Considering the price, one can assess whether the asking price makes financial sense given the pistol’s condition.
Where to Search
Finding a Beretta Cheetah 87 Target can be an enjoyable task. Gun stores are a good place to begin the search. Online auctions and marketplaces are other sources. Gun shows and private sales can also be fruitful avenues. Careful research and comparison shopping will contribute to a good outcome.
Concluding Thoughts
In conclusion, the Beretta Cheetah 87 Target is a classic .22 pistol that embodies the ideals of accuracy, reliability, and elegant design. Its features, from the adjustable sights to its comfortable grip, make it a joy to shoot. For those seeking a precise and classic .22 pistol, the Beretta Cheetah 87 Target remains a compelling and rewarding choice. It continues to be a favored choice among shooting enthusiasts seeking both performance and a touch of classic design in their firearms.
