Beretta 92 Slide Swap

Question
GCH,

I own a Beretta 92 9MM manufactured early 90's. Made in Italy. I've seen Beretta 96 .40 S&W slides and barrels (complete tops) on auction sites, and was wondering if I can swap out the entire top of my 92 for the 96? Trying to get the most of one gun. I know mags are a definite change.


Answer
Nelson,

Theoretically it should be possible, but I'm not sure what changes Beretta may have made to the design.  The .40 is definately a higher pressure cartridge than the 9mm, and guns that were built as a 9mm platform had to be "beefed up" for the .40 (cf. Glock, Browning HP).  I would call Beretta with the serial # of the gun and ask them if you can do it (they'll be glad to sell you the parts if it's safe to do).

Best to you.