Centurion is the name Beretta gives to a compact frame mated to a shorter slide, and this 92X RDO FR puts that idea in a black finish. The barrel is 4.25 inches, and the magazine holds 15 rounds of 9mm.

The RDO in the name means the slide is cut for a red dot optic, so you can mount a sight without paying a gunsmith. FR points to the frame with a rail. A pistol built to take an optic from the factory is a handy thing to have if you plan to try one, though iron sights still work as a backup. Read the manual before the first range trip, since controls differ even between pistols that look alike.

Compared with a full-size 92, the Centurion is easier to carry and a little quicker to bring on target. You give up a bit of sight radius, but the platform stays smooth and mild in recoil. For anyone who wants a Beretta they can actually carry, this is the size to consider.

The pistol is new. It ships to your FFL dealer, and the background check is completed at the counter.