The firearms world occasionally witnesses a refresh of an old favourite that actually makes sense. Enter Beretta's latest take on its venerable 90 Series, the 92X RDO Inox. This release is a thoughtful blend of classic Beretta aesthetics and contemporary performance demands. The "Inox" in its name signifies stainless steel, gracing both the slide and barrel. It certainly looks rather dapper but it's a practical choice designed to shrug off the elements and the rigors of frequent use. The 92X RDO Inox appears to be a pistol crafted to transition seamlessly from the competitive firing line to more rugged environments.

One of the more notable updates is the factory-milled slide, which readily accommodates an optical sight. Beretta offers five different footprint plates to fit a variety of popular red-dot sights. Now, before you cry foul about having to purchase a plate separately, consider it a pragmatic decision. It prevents a drawer full of unused mounting plates and allows the end-user to select exactly what they need, rather than being saddled with something they don't. For those who prefer a more traditional aiming solution, the dovetailed combat sights remain, providing a reliable backup or primary aiming system for the optics averse.

The pistol retains the Beretta Vertec frame, known for its comfortable, slim profile. This is paired with aggressively textured grips that promote a secure hold, even when things get a bit sweaty. The 1911-style grip angle aims for a more intuitive point of aim, a feature many shooters appreciate. Further enhancements for speed and efficiency include a bevelled magazine well and an oversized magazine release. These aren't just minor tweaks; they're design choices that reflect an understanding of the demands placed on a pistol in scenarios where rapid reloads and quick target acquisition are paramount, whether in a timed competition or a high-stress situation.

A truly commendable feature of the 92X RDO Inox is its short-reset trigger. This isn't the kind of flashy, attention-grabbing modification you see on custom builds, but it's arguably more impactful. The crisp and responsive trigger pull contributes significantly to both accuracy and the ability to deliver follow-up shots quickly. It shows Beretta’s focus on practical performance, providing a refined trigger system that handles the precision required for tight groups as adeptly as the speed needed for dynamic drills.

At an overall length of 8.5 inches and an unloaded weight of 33 ounces, the 92X RDO Inox proudly owns its full-sized stature. It makes no apologies for not being a compact or a featherweight. Instead, it leverages its dimensions to offer enhanced stability, mitigate recoil, and provide a substantial, reassuring feel in the hand. For shooters who prioritize control and consistent performance over concealability, this robust presence is not merely acceptable but desirable. It’s a bit like driving a sturdy sedan when everyone else is trying to squeeze into a microcar – sometimes, more is just… more.

Beretta plans to launch its new 9mm pistol in three models, each designed to suit various markets by offering 10, 15, or 18-round flush-fit double-stack magazine capacities. These pistols feature a double action/single action mechanism and are equipped with a slide-mounted G-style decocker lever, distinguishing them from models with the more common F-style safety decocker. Complementing this is a three-slot Picatinny rail, ready to accommodate a variety of accessories, from tactical lights to laser aiming devices, ensuring the pistol can be adapted to specific operational needs or simply to appease one's inner gear enthusiast.

“The 92X RDO Inox is built for those who want reliability they can trust in any environment,” said Broxton Carlile, Beretta USA Pistol Product Manager. “From the range to real-world defense, this pistol delivers performance, precision, and durability in a sleek, modern package.”

The Beretta 92X RDO Inox stands as a confident evolution of a platform with a storied past. It doesn't appear to be chasing fleeting trends but rather refining enduring principles. For those who appreciate the robust elegance of stainless steel, the undeniable utility of red-dot compatibility, and a reputation for steadfast reliability, this pistol represents more than just another new product release. It serves as a declaration that time-honoured tradition and modern innovation can indeed coexist harmoniously.

Ultimately, the 92X RDO Inox is Beretta’s way of saying they still know a thing or two about crafting a sidearm worthy of its place, whether nestled securely in a holster, resting peacefully in a safe, or perhaps even basking in the glory of a winner's circle. It seems Beretta isn't ready to let its iconic design fade into the sunset just yet.