Review: On the Range with Beretta’s APX A1 Compact

I had the opportunity to spend some time on the range with Beretta’s APX A1 Compact. I feel like I’ve been there right along as this family of firearms grew over the years. Way back in March of 2017, I attended Beretta’s Tactical Summit, where they launched the original APX, their first striker fired pistol. Then, in October of 2021, at the USCCA Concealed Carry and Home Defense Expo, I witnessed the launch of the APX A1 Carry. A media event soon followed this in May of 2022, where the APX A1 FS 9 (full size) was released. Whew! The APX family just keeps growing. 

Sponsored by Crimson Trace

APX A1 Compact

I brought the APX A1 Compact to the range a few times. As with the other pistols in the family, I found it a very accurate shooting pistol with random ball ammunition and both Hornady’s Critical Defense and American Gunner. Even though I’ve been struggling to pick up the sights on other pistols, I quickly lined up the red-fiber-optic front sight with the wide-notched solid-black rear sight. This allowed me to get my shots off faster when working on my speed. I just wanted to keep shooting since it was so easy.  

I also appreciate the ergonomics of the APX A1 Compact. It’s one of those pistols that fits nicely in my grip and allows the sights to come easily into my line of vision on the draw. When I handed the pistol off to another person on the range to shoot, he had no problems hitting the center of the target. His hands are much larger than mine, and he liked how it fit in his hands, which is not always the case when we shoot the same handgun. 

Following are some of the features I really like about the APX A1 Compact: 

• Low bore axis – Provides more managed recoil, making accurate follow-up shots easier.
• Interchangeable backstraps – Three different-sizes of backstraps allow a more comfortable fit for various sized hands. 
• Aggressive slide serrations – The deeper serrations on the front and rear of the slide make it easier to operate with wet or gloved hands.
• Picatinny rail – It’s easy to add a light and/or laser for home defense.
• Stippling – On both sides, near the front of the barrel, are two areas of stippling. I like the feel of these for both my trigger finger when it’s not on the trigger and the thumb of my support hand when shooting. This feature also is a great reference point for newer shooters. 
• 15-round magazines – Extended magazines are available as after-market accessories. 
• Ten-round version available- My friends in other states are not left out.
• Optic ready slide – An ideal feature for anyone who uses a red-dot optic. 

With an MSRP of $499.99, Beretta’s APX A1 Compact is an excellent addition to the APX, and definitely one you’ll want to add to your collection.  

Ciel Tech Long Sleeves T-Shirt

Have you ever checked out Beretta’s clothing line? While on the range I wore the Ciel Tech Long Sleeves T-Shirt. Aside from being super comfy it also offers the following well needed features when on the range:

• UPF 50 sunblock
• Moisture wicking fabric
• Odor control
• Insect control

Available in five colors, ranging in sizes from XS through XXL you can’t go wrong with the Beretta Ceil Tech.  

Read more information about the APX A1 Compact here.

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  About Michelle Cerino

  Michelle Cerino, aka Princess Gunslinger, first entered the firearms industry in 2011 as co-owner, president and trainer at a national training company. She immediately began competing in both 3-Gun and NRA Action Pistol, becoming a sponsored shooter. Michelle is currently a columnist and Managing Editor of Women’s Outdoor News, as well as owner of Pervenio LLC. She also manages social media for Vera Koo and FASTER Saves Lives. Michelle encourages others to step out of the comforts of home and explore. View all posts by Michelle Cerino →