Mil. Surp. ammo for the 1911 or the Beretta 92FS

DirtFoot

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Before I get started forgive me for not knowing everything on this topic. I'm looking to get my first handgun and I'm trying to make sure I make a good first choice. I've chosen two models, the 1911 (likely going to be a Norinco gun) and the Beretta 92FS. I love the reliability that these service firearms both offer, and that they are both lefty friendly especially the Beretta.

I know the .45 ACP isn't too hard to find in military surplus. But the 9mm caliber for the Beretta 92FS seems more difficult to find (for me at least). So here's my question I think it's the 9 Luger the Beretta takes, I think I have that right. Maybe I'm getting something wrong. But I cannot seem to find 9mm Luger anywhere in Mil. Surp.

Does anyone know where to find it in surplus? Can anyone tell me if I've got the caliber I'm searching for wrong (it's been known to happen)?
 
The Norinco 45acp (think this is what you are talking about) is about the cheapest around, now is a little scarce. I've never heard of any 9mm surplus ammo. Tons of factory ammo in this caliber. Buy in bulk and you can save some money. If you get a reloading kit, save your brass and reload your own.

Obviously 9mm is cheaper, the Beretta might be your best bet for less expensive ammo.

Lots of info on these pistols if you do a search.
 
If you're new to handguns, then you might not know that the only real way to get cheap ammo is to load it yourself. Surplus is extremely scarce (I've never seen it, but it must exist). Factory reloads are only very slightly cheaper than virgin factory ammo.

If budget is a big concern and you want to shoot lots and you don't want to reload (at least not yet), then 9mm is definitely the way to go. If you're willing to reload pretty much right out of the gate, 45 is more reasonable, but still significantly more costly. If you're really on the fence about which pistol, then that ought to be the deciding factor, IMO.

Should mention that there is a surplus pistol ammo option in 7.62X25. It IS widely available (be careful to get range-approved ammo), with a very interesting and cheap pistol to go with it: TT33. Some buzz about a new shipment of unissued condition Polish TT33 here on CGN.
 
If budget is a big concern and you want to shoot lots and you don't want to reload (at least not yet), then 9mm is definitely the way to go. If you're willing to reload pretty much right out of the gate, 45 is more reasonable, but still significantly more costly. If you're really on the fence about which pistol, then that ought to be the deciding factor, IMO.

Should mention that there is a surplus pistol ammo option in 7.62X25. It IS widely available (be careful to get range-approved ammo), with a very interesting and cheap pistol to go with it: TT33. Some buzz about a new shipment of unissued condition Polish TT33 here on CGN.

Agreed, if you go for 9mm, look for Blazer ammo, $13 box (50 rounds) reasonnable...

I have two Tokarev TT33 1945, yes it's fun to shoot, and the most cheapest ammo on the market, but never as reliable as a Beretta 92fs, which 92fs I have to. Shooting surplus ammo bring lots of crap in the gun, so be prepare to any surprise with this....., if the Beretta is already in your choice as a first handgun, go for it, you will not regret this choice, mine has 2000 rounds without any jamming issue and I feed it with Blazer ammo only, those Blazer rounds goes also in my Beretta PX4 Storm (9mm), Ruger Mark III (22lr), work flawless each time.
 
9mm isn't hard to find. Are you looking specifically for "9mm Luger" in the description?

9mm Luger = 9mm Parabellum = 9mm NATO = 9x19mm
 
9mm isn't hard to find. Are you looking specifically for "9mm Luger" in the description?

9mm Luger = 9mm Parabellum = 9mm NATO = 9x19mm

The distinction between those different 9mm rounds is what was confusing me, although I admit I could have looked more closely or considered looking up SAAMI.

Thanks to everyone with the suggestions. For me balancing the bullet budget is relatively important, not by any means the most important thing. Baretta 92fs here I come!

McGirt, always solid responses!
 
9mm isn't hard to find. Are you looking specifically for "9mm Luger" in the description?

9mm Luger = 9mm Parabellum = 9mm NATO = 9x19mm

JUST MAKE SURE TO WASH YOUR HANDS AFTER HANDLING...its best to get the "###" off before it has too much time to seep in!!!
 
go for the 92fs, dont over think it,
the 92 fs, is a fantastic gun.
9mm is generally cheaper .
factory ammo ,reloads , surplus ammo, all available and cheaper than 45acp.
 
You may want to consider the newer beretta 92A1. It looks the same they just improve on the platform to make the take down easier.

I havne't heard that before. Can it be easier than the 92FS? All you do is push a button and then a lever on the opposite side of the slide.

Has anyone else tried the 92A1?
 
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