Beretta Service

[terryg]

So I sent my 3032 Tomcat in for repair at the beginning of September. It was beginning to show some cracking in the frame - which was a problem with the Tomcat. I was not the original owner and even if I was, it was well outside of the warranty period. I called them and explained things, they didn't promise anything but recommended I send it into service and see what they would do.

So I wrote a short letter explaining that I wasn't the original owner but I had purchased it from the original owner. I said that I had read that, for this type of failure, Beretta had a good reputation for extending warranty coverage - etc.

I have been tracking the status online for a while and it has said, and still says today, 'being evaluated'. Well, today UPS delivered a brand new Wide-Slide 3032 Tomcat to my door. The enclosed letter confirms that it has been 'upgraded'. So all, and all, a really good service experience for me.

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But, I am considering whether I should try to sell it. I had been contemplating a different BUG/summer carry piece anyway. In the beginning - before I got my CHL - I thought the tip-up barrel was really cool for getting one in the pipe easily. But of course, as you all know, once you carry all the time - you don't actually load and unload your carry weapon very often. You check the chamber a lot - but don't need to unload as much as I thought you would.

Plus, I am starting to really not like the lack of an extractor and am wanting something bigger than a .32. I am looking at the S&W bodyguard 380. I know the LCP is quite popular. I'm just not sure I want a SA, striker fired weapon with no safety as a pocket gun. I know its a long pull - but is it stiff enough for pocket carry.

[bigred90gt]

Plus, I am starting to really not like the lack of an extractor and am wanting something bigger than a .32. I am looking at the S&W bodyguard 380. I know the LCP is quite popular. I'm just not sure I want a SA, striker fired weapon with no safety as a pocket gun. I know its a long pull - but is it stiff enough for pocket carry.

Sounds like Baretta served you well with their service. Thumbs up to them.

As for pocket carry, I suggest getting a pocket holster for anything you carry in the pocket (handgun wise). Yes, the trigger pull is long and stiff, but a pocket holster adds an extra bit of security, will keep the handgun oriented properly in your front or rear pocket (unless you buy the cargo pocket holsters, the handgun will roll in a cargo pocket), and does not add much bulk at all to the package. Plus, if you do carry in your pocket, I'm sure you know this, but dont carry anything else in that pocket so that there is nothing to hang up on the trigger, ESPECIALLY if you decide to not carry in a pocket holster.

I tried the Blackhawk holster for my Diamondback, but had a problem with the holster staying on the pistol when drawing it. I purchased a DeSantis Nemisis holster for it, and am very pleased.

[terryg]

As for pocket carry, I suggest getting a pocket holster for anything you carry in the pocket (handgun wise). Yes, the trigger pull is long and stiff, but a pocket holster adds an extra bit of security, will keep the handgun oriented properly in your front or rear pocket (unless you buy the cargo pocket holsters, the handgun will roll in a cargo pocket), and does not add much bulk at all to the package. Plus, if you do carry in your pocket, I'm sure you know this, but dont carry anything else in that pocket so that there is nothing to hang up on the trigger, ESPECIALLY if you decide to not carry in a pocket holster.

I tried the Blackhawk holster for my Diamondback, but had a problem with the holster staying on the pistol when drawing it. I purchased a DeSantis Nemisis holster for it, and am very pleased.

Good advice. Yes it would be in a pocket holster. I don't know who made the cheap one I have. It came with the Tomcat when I bought it from my friend.

[gwashorn]

I had a problem with my Tomcat that I had owned for over 10 years. Called them up and same status as you, not updated after a couple of weeks. Called them to check cost to repair and they said.... YUP! It is on its way, no charge. Got it fully rebuilt, sent the old parts, 25 round test firing report and spent case plus a new 1 year warranty. that is what you call service.

Gary

[cougartex]

Glad to hear that Beretta took care of your guns. I have never had a problem with Beretta Customer Service, but several have.

[shootthesheet]

The Tomcat is heavy and underpowered. My wife loves her Tomcat because of the trigger but she doesn't carry. I am glad to hear it was a good experience.

As far as a .380 there are some good choices now. They are lighter but I hate the triggers on the ones I have fired to include the P3AT. I would even suggest you look at some single stack 9MM that are only a slightly bigger than the .380s available. If you find something with a good trigger and light weight in .380 or 9MM I hope you let us know. My wife and mother both are looking for something with a good trigger that is small and light. Light is 7-10 oz empty for them even if it kicks. Thanks for the report on Beretta service.