We’re in the midst of a micro-compact handgun craze. I fully acknowledge that fact. So why, in 2025, am I making the bold claim that you should try carrying the Beretta 92FS and all of its full-sized glory when there are much smaller (and lighter) handguns out there that still pack a 15-round punch? Well, hear me out. I promise I’ll make it worth your time.
Let’s start with the obvious. The Beretta 92FS is big. Really big. And it’s heavy. It’s not the first choice for traditional concealed carry, especially when compared to smaller, sometimes cheaper, and certainly more modern firearms.
While those micro-compacts are certainly appealing in their own right, there are distinct advantages to carrying a full-sized gun like the 92FS. Sure, it’s a lot bigger and beefier than the micro-compact handguns that are all the rage right now, but there’s just something about the 92FS that keeps me coming back to it, especially during the colder months when it’s a little easier to carry concealed.
The gun is accurate and incredibly reliable, never failing to go “bang” with each pull of the trigger, no matter how dirty it might be. And because of this, I still find it to be a viable carry option, even in today’s world where those little subbies, like the Hellcat and P365, rule the roost.
That said, the modern market and current carry trends are probably the best place to start. Let’s dive in.
The Rise of Micro-Compact Handguns
Over the past decade or so, micro-compact handguns have absolutely taken over the market. Models like the Sig Sauer P365, Springfield Hellcat, and Glock 43X have become a staple in most concealed carry rotations, with gun stores continuously selling them faster than hot apple pie on a cold November morning.
Their smaller frames and streamlined designs offer deep concealment, and they’re infinitely more comfortable to carry than full-size (and even most compact) handguns. And those little subbies have come a long way, too, especially when we’re talking about firepower and features.
When they first came to market, micro-compact pistols were plagued by an anemic capacity (usually less 10 rounds), poor controllability, and featureless designs. I carried a Glock 43 for a while, but I found it too snappy. I switched to a Walther PPS M2 when it was all the rage, but I always felt underprepared with its 6-round capacity (extended 8-round mags weren’t much of an improvement).
But later models, like the Hellcat and P365, managed to pack a heavier punch with more than 10 rounds on tap, all while maintaining a super concealable profile. Many of these models are also offered in optics-ready configurations as well, complete with night sights and serrated and ported slide options to boot. It’s not hard to see why they’ve become so popular.
And I ain’t knocking them, either. Lord knows I love the Hellcat — I regularly carry it during the summer months.
However, despite these advancements, they just don’t offer the same reliability, appeal, and overall “oomph” that a full-size 9mm like the Beretta 92FS does.
The Beretta 92FS is Hard to Beat
It goes without saying that the Beretta 92FS is about as far from a micro-compact as you can get. And that’s kinda the point.
The 92FS is a full-sized, steel-framed, double/single-action pistol known for its iconic design, service history, and pop culture acclaim. It’s the gun of John McClane, for heaven’s sake (you know, the protagonist in the Die Hard movies).
It’s a beast of a gun with a storied history, once serving as the M9 standard-issue sidearm for the American Armed Forces, as well as countless law enforcement agencies, both nationally and internationally, for more than 30 years.
Its distinct profile and heavy all-metal frame are absolutely unmistakable. In my opinion, the gun exudes confidence and an undeniable sexiness that’s just impossible to hate.
And in my experience, the 92FS still outshoots and outperforms darn near all of those easy-to-conceal subbies. In all my years of owning a 92FS and after firing thousands of rounds down range, I’ve yet to experience a failure with it.
From +P duty ammo and hollow points to your run-of-the-mill 115-grain ball ammo, the Beretta just eats it all. Chews it up and spits it out, no fuss about it.
I doubt many of us could say the same for our favorite subbie. I know I can’t.
Yes, It’s Big
Admittedly, the 92FS is not for everyone. It’s bigger, heavier, and bulkier than those tiny micro-compacts we discussed earlier. And to some, especially those smaller-framed shooters with smaller hands, it might just be too much gun.
The 92FS weighs about 33.3 ounces (empty), and the overall length comes in at just over 8 inches. Its beefy, full-size frame and 5″ barrel make it a bit of a beast to carry. I get that. And, when compared to something like the Sig P365 or the Glock 43X, the Beretta 92FS is just a tad harder to conceal.
But with the right holster, the right clothing, and the right mindset, it’s not impossible. That said, I’ve learned to make it work. With a holster like the Safariland 5198 Open-Top Concealment holster (my personal favorite), carrying the 92FS is relatively comfortable. And trust me, the confidence that comes with carrying the Beretta 92FS is totally worth it.
Reliability Matters
I kind of alluded to this earlier, but one of my biggest reasons for carrying the Beretta 92FS is that it’s just so darn reliable. Simple as that.
As the M9, it served honorably in every conflict from Desert Storm through the early years of the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT). And it’s easy to see why.
I’ve taken this handgun to the range countless times, and I’ve never had a single failure to feed, failure to fire, or failure to eject. Not a one. That’s a big deal, especially when thinking about self-defense. As such, I always have a little more confidence when carrying my Beretta than many other guns.
The Beretta is also infinitely easier to control (and, in my opinion, more enjoyable to shoot) than many of its smaller and much snappier micro-compact competitors. Thanks to that heavy, all-metal frame and longer grip, recoil is pretty much non-existent, which means better accuracy potential and faster shots on target for you.
It’s a decent trade-off, I think.
Top Holster Options for the Beretta 92FS
Now that we’ve discussed why the 92FS is worthy of carry in today’s day and age, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of actually putting it into practice. Contrary to popular belief among wannabe thugs, it’s not like you can just tuck the gun in your waistband and call it a day. A quality holster makes all the difference when carrying a full-size gun like the Beretta 92FS.
Thankfully, Safariland has been in the game for a while, offering some of the best concealment and duty-rated holsters ever to hit the market for the ole Beretta. Here are a few of those.
Safariland 1051 ALS Shoulder Holster
Now, I know that shoulder holsters aren’t everyone’s cup of tea. But it’s hard to deny the comfort and concealability of a shoulder holster. The Safariland 1051 shoulder holster is unique in that it can be configured for both vertical and horizontal carry, which is a nice feature.
I typically prefer a vertical position with my shoulder holsters as I think it offers a faster draw while keeping your handgun closer to your body for better concealment under a jacket, blazer, or flannel shirt.
But that’s just me. If you prefer the horizontal position, no sweat. Just pop out a few screws, adjust the orientation of the holster on the nifty “paddle” built into the strap system, and reinstall the screws. Easy peasy.
This particular shoulder holster also comes equipped with a built-in Automatic Locking System (ALS) that provides a super-tight lockup, meaning your gun stays put and won’t budge until you want it to. Safe. Secure. I like it.
Obviously, a shoulder holster isn’t great for concealment outside of cold-weather conditions where you’re more likely to wear some sort of outwear like a jacket or flannel shirt, so that’s something to keep in mind. But man, they’re so stinkin’ comfortable.
Instead of placing the weight of the pistol on your hip, a shoulder holster redistributes the weight of the gun more evenly across your shoulders. And they’re super comfortable when driving or sitting. No more overcompensating for that heavy bulk of steel on your hip!
Safariland Low Signature Concealment Holster
For those who aren’t partial to shoulder holsters, the Safariland Low Signature Concealment Holster is a more traditional option. Crafted of Safariland’s proprietary SafariLaminate material, this holster is not only incredibly strong, withstanding just about anything you can throw at it, but it also has a non-abrasive suede lining, so it’s not gonna scuff and marr the Beretta’s finish.
While I’m intentionally rough on my guns and gear, it’s still nice to know my holster ain’t gonna ugly-up my heat piece.
The Low Signature Concealment holster also features an Automatic Locking System (ALS), which automatically locks your gun in place. It ain’t going anywhere until the simple release lever is actuated by your thumb using your natural shooting grip.
I typically wear this holster in spring and late fall, where bulkier clothing helps eliminate printing. That said, this particular holster features a low-profile, compact design, and when used with a contoured hip paddle, it sits super-snug against your body, so it’s not all that hard to conceal.
Safariland 5198 Open-Top Concealment Holster
If you want a holster that’s a little more geared toward everyday carry without the “hassle” of a thumb break or locking system, this particular model is a solid option. It features a super low-profile design, so it’s super easy to conceal, even with a full-size gun like the Beretta 92FS (how’s that for an oxymoron?). It sits super close to the body and features a nice, compact profile.
This not only helps reduce the risk of printing, but I find that it’s also super comfortable to carry. Even when seated, the holster rides comfortably against my hip without digging in.
The open-top design is also pretty convenient. It works well with optics-equipped 92-series handguns (not my cup of tea, but to each their own). Now, I usually opt for holsters with the ALS or SLS locking system, as I prefer that extra layer of security.
But man, drawing from this holster is just so fast and smooth. This makes sense, because while it’s a very capable concealment holster, it’s also an IDPA-approved design, so it’s also great for competitors. Speed over security; that about sums it up, right?
As for construction, the 5198 open-top concealment holster features thermoformed SafariLaminate construction with a proprietary STX finish. Sensing a pattern here? I guess it’s safe to say that I like SafariLaminate holsters.
They’re incredibly durable. They take a beating and keep running strong, which is a huge advantage if you’re at all like me; a rough-and-tumble and fairly clumsy bull in a china shop. SafariLaminate material isn’t soft, but it’s also not like some polymer holsters that are more susceptible to burrs and microscopic ridges that wreak havoc on firearm finishes.
A Host of Other Options
There are plenty of other holster options out there and I could (and probably will, later) write an entire series on the best holsters for the Beretta 92FS, including duty holsters. But these few options at least offer a starting point.
If you’ve already decided to give carrying a 92FS its fair shot, you’re going to want to figure out what works for you. You might love the options I’ve shared, or you might decide I’m totally full of it and go with something else. And that’s totally fine.
But I wasn’t going to leave you hanging, especially if you’re still apprehensive about carrying some old “Italian Steel.”
Bigger Is Sometimes Better
At the end of the day, carrying the Beretta 92FS is a personal choice. It’s not a “conventional” concealed carry gun, and it’s certainly not for everyone. Smaller-framed shooters will likely find it too big and heavy, and those who prioritize deeper concealment with pocket carry and IWB/appendix holsters are likely to laugh at the suggestion. But for me, the 92FS offers a level of reliability, accuracy, and confidence that’s hard to beat.
Yes, it’s bigger and heavier than many of the current crop of micro-compact guns, but it’s also a proven and legitimately battle-tested handgun that, I think, deserves a place in your carry rotation.
Maybe it’s not your summer carry piece. And it’s likely not going to be your go-to appendix carry gun (if you figure out how to do that comfortably, I’m all ears). That’s fine. All I’m saying is that, while big and somewhat heavy, with the right holster, the Beretta 92FS is a great sidearm. I don’t carry it every day. I don’t even carry it often.
But when I do… man, it’s just a solid heat piece. Seriously, though. I know there are lighter and more comfortable and concealable handguns out there, but give the Beretta 92FS a shot. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
