Production mods for Beretta 92

[jdavionic]

Since I've been using my 92F for IPSC matches, I thought I'd look at ways to make minor improvements to the gun. I've made a few changes.

1) I've got Pachmayer rubber grips, which appear to meet the rules since they don't change the profile of the originals (I don't think) and have had no mods for mag release.

2) I replaced the mag release with an extended release, which helped with reloads a bunch.

3) I've done the D spring change out.

4) Polished trigger and sear to smooth the trigger out

Aside from buying a new gun entirely, anyone have ideas for further mods that will not violate the rules for use in production?

The only one that jumps to my mind is a recoil reducer. I've found a couple - Springco & Buffer Technologies (both sold by Brownell's). Any opinions on either?

I'm a little concerned about compromising reliability though. This gun is also my bedside gun. To date, it has been incredibly reliable. I don't want to play too much with the trigger or spring configurations if it means that the reliability takes a hit. The overtravel & pre-travel is significant on this gun; but I think my hands are somewhat tied for shooting production.

Any help / opinions are certainly appreciated. Thanks.

[ichy_trigger]

2) I replaced the mag release with an extended release, which helped with reloads a bunch.

You can only do this if this release is a factory option.

Instead of using a recoil reducer, try going down in spring weight a bit. You may also want to play with different bullets weights and loads. if you reload, use a heavy bullet and a fast powder.

Other than that, PRACTICE!

[cougar_guy04]

Originally Posted by ichy_trigger

You can only do this if this release is a factory option.

I think in another thread he mentioned using the extended release off a different 92 IIRC.

[ichy_trigger]

Originally Posted by cougar_guy04

I think in another thread he mentioned using the extended release off a different 92 IIRC.

Ok, I was not aware of that.

[jdavionic]

Originally Posted by cougar_guy04

I think in another thread he mentioned using the extended release off a different 92 IIRC.

I believe it's offered on the later models. My version of the gun is pretty old.

[jdavionic]

Originally Posted by ichy_trigger

Instead of using a recoil reducer, try going down in spring weight a bit. You may also want to play with different bullets weights and loads. if you reload, use a heavy bullet and a fast powder.

I do make my own ammo...so varying loads is certainly an option.

WRT spring weight, my concern is that I can go with the heavier rounds but what will that do when I want to use my Hydrashocks in a time of need? I guess I could experiment...e.g., drop from the std 13 lb down to 11 lb and see how it works. But won't a lighter spring cause the slide to slam harder or is that compensated with using heavier, slower rounds?

[ichy_trigger]

basicaly, you want the spring to absorb enough of the force so that the spring is not being used against you, ie: pushing the gun back into your hand while its on the rearward travel. You will get a sharp snap at the end of its travel but its not much and you will find that your sights return to the target quicker. When you get done shooting a match, put your stock spring back in if you so desire. This is one reason why alot of folks that compete, do so with a different gun. When I started shooting USPSA I had a Sig 229. I purchased a second Sig 229 and did all of my mods to that one. You can certainly use the same gun you protect yourself with though.

I assume your shooting a 9mm, the PF on factory foder is right around the PF you need for the games. Your carry loads will be hotter so a lighter spring may not have any ill effects. I do keep my carry guns with stock spring weights though.

[Brickboy240]

I'd be careful with lightening the recoil spring...you might sacrifice the reliability.

Strange, but I actually found the 92F Beretta to be one of the softest recoiling 9mms out there. One of the most reliable, too.

-Brickboy240

[chupacabrachus]

Originally Posted by Brickboy240

.....
Strange, but I actually found the 92F Beretta to be one of the softest recoiling 9mms out there. One of the most reliable, too.

-Brickboy240

Ever shot one w/ a brigadier slide? It's extremely mild.

[ichy_trigger]

Originally Posted by Brickboy240

I'd be careful with lightening the recoil spring...you might sacrifice the reliability.

Strange, but I actually found the 92F Beretta to be one of the softest recoiling 9mms out there. One of the most reliable, too.

-Brickboy240

Well, if he lightens the spring and it isnt reliable, that will show up for sure in a match. Reducing spring weights by 1-2 lbs. NORMALY will not affect the reliablity but can improve the feel of the gun. USPSA shooters dont mod their guns to make them unreliable, its the other way around.