Beretta 80X Cheetah .380 ACP 3.9in 13-Round
Pros & cons
What works
- 13-round standard capacity — surpasses most micro-compact .380s by 3-5 rounds.
- 24.5-oz all-metal frame — provides 6-8 ounces more mass than polymer competitors for reduced felt recoil.
- Optics-ready slide with serrations — milled for a red dot and offers positive manipulation from any angle.
- X-treme S trigger — features a consistent 4.5-lb single-action break after the initial double-action pull.
Trade-offs
- Proprietary optics footprint — requires a $40-$60 Beretta-specific mounting plate, not included.
- Fixed 3-dot sights — lacks night sights or a high-visibility front post for low-light threat identification.
- Gray anodized frame finish — shows holster wear and handling marks more readily than a coated black finish.
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Beretta 80X Cheetah is a modern, optics-ready micro-compact .380 ACP pistol engineered from the updated Cheetah platform for concealed carry. It retains the classic Beretta action within a reconfigured, smaller-profile Vertec grip frame paired with a 3.9-inch barrel. This model bridges traditional design and contemporary duty requirements for the civilian defensive handgun market.
What is the Beretta 80X Cheetah .380 ACP used for?
The 80X Cheetah is designed for primary or backup everyday concealed carry. Its specific mechanical purpose is to provide a familiar single/double action hammer-fired manual of arms in a package that conceals as easily as a polymer single-stack, while its 13-round standard magazine capacity significantly outmatches most micro-compact competitors. The optics-ready, serrated slide and tuned recoil spring system are direct concessions to modern shooter expectations for fast sight acquisition and manageable recoil impulse during defensive strings of fire.
How does the Beretta 80X Cheetah compare to a SIG Sauer P365-380?
The Beretta 80X Cheetah is a better choice for shooters who prefer a traditional hammer-fired, double/single action trigger and a manual safety over the striker-fired, constant trigger pull of the SIG P365-380. Mechanically, the Beretta's all-metal frame and slide assembly contribute to a higher empty weight of approximately 24.5 ounces, which aids in felt recoil reduction compared to the SIG's polymer frame, but at a trade-off of approximately $150 in base price. For shooters prioritizing pure minimalist concealment weight, our review of the Stevens 334 Rifle outlines a different approach to balancing weight and performance.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Beretta 80X Cheetah weighs 24.5 ounces unloaded and measures 6.8 inches in overall length, 4.9 inches in height, and 1.4 inches in width. Its 3.9-inch cold hammer-forged barrel provides a ballistic sweet spot for the .380 ACP cartridge, offering a full-power burn in a concealable package that is 0.7 inches shorter in overall length than the classic Beretta 92FS. The grip circumference is specifically designed for a medium-to-large hand, a critical factor often overlooked in micro-compact specifications.
Who is this NOT for?
This pistol is not suitable for shooters seeking the absolute lightest possible carry option or those averse to manual safeties. The all-metal construction, while superior for dampening recoil, adds a fixed weight penalty compared to polymer-frame pistols like the Glock 42. Furthermore, the proprietary optics cut requires a specific mounting plate (sold separately) and is not compatible with the nearly universal Shield RMSc footprint, adding cost and complexity for those who wish to mount a red dot sight immediately.
What's in the box?
You receive the pistol, two 13-round steel magazines, a cable lock, a user manual, and a hard plastic case. Notably, the case includes a molded insert for the pistol and a single magazine, but does not include an optics mounting plate, additional backstraps, or a magazine loader—common inclusions with some competitors. This reflects Beretta's focus on the core mechanical product rather than ancillary accessories, a philosophy we also see in utilitarian offerings like the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U.
Is the Beretta 80X Cheetah worth it at $846.99?
At $846.99, the 80X Cheetah justifies its price for the shooter who values Beretta's iconic hammer-fired reliability, appreciates the shootability of an all-metal micro-compact, and requires an optics-ready configuration out of the box. The investment buys a refined machining process, a tuned action, and a durable Nitron finish not found on budget-tier pistols. For those whose use case is purely range plinking or who prioritize the lowest possible price-per-round in a different platform, the value proposition shifts.
Key attributes
| upc | 082442976938 |
| manufacturer | Beretta |
| manufacturer part number | SPEC0716A |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| barrel length | 3.90" |
| caliber/gauge | .380 ACP |
| capacity | 13 + 1 |
| safety | Thumb |
| slide description | Optic Ready/Serrated |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the optics cut compatible with a Holosun 507K?
- No, not directly. The Beretta 80X uses a proprietary optics mounting footprint. You must purchase and install the specific Beretta optics mounting plate for the Holosun 507K (or other micro red dot), which is a separate SKU typically costing between $40 and $60 from Beretta or authorized parts vendors.
- Does this pistol fit in a Glock 43/XDS holster?
- Almost certainly not. The 80X Cheetah's slide profile, trigger guard geometry, and manual safety lever are unique. You will need a holster specifically molded for the Beretta 80X model. We recommend a Kydex holster from a maker like Vedder or T1C that lists explicit compatibility, as a proper fit is critical for both retention and trigger guard coverage.
- How long does shipping to an FFL take from Ironclad Armory?
- For in-stock items like the 80X Cheetah, Ironclad Armory processes and ships to your selected FFL within 1-2 business days. Transit time then depends on your location and carrier service level, typically adding 2-5 additional business days. You will receive tracking information via email once the shipment is scanned by the carrier.
- Can I return it if my local FFL won't accept the transfer?
- No. Firearms transfers are governed by federal and state law. It is the buyer's sole responsibility to confirm with their chosen FFL dealer that they will accept a transfer from Ironclad Armory BEFORE completing the purchase. Ironclad Armory's return policy does not cover refused transfers, and all returns on firearms require pre-authorization and a restocking fee for un-fired items in original condition.