I’m a professional shooter, and I’ve been out in the field, putting two popular guns to the test: the Beretta APX A1 Vs Taurus GX4.
I aim to figure out which stands out as the clear winner. I’ve always been fascinated by how different firearms perform under pressure, and let me tell you, this was one thrilling experience.
I’m here to walk you through every detail of my journey with these two guns.
| Feature | Beretta APX A1 | Taurus GX4 |
| Type | Striker-fired, semiautomatic | Striker-fired autoloader |
| Cartridge | 9mm | 9mm Luger |
| Capacity | 10+1, 15+1, 17+1 rounds | 11 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 4.25 inches | 3.06 inches |
| Overall Length | 7.55 inches | 6.05 inches |
| Width | 1.3 inches | 1.08 inches |
| Height | 5.6 inches | 4.4 inches |
| Weight | 29 ounces | 18.5 ounces (empty) |
| Trigger Pull Weight | 6 pounds (tested) | 6.6 pounds (tested) |
Overview of Beretta APX A1
The Beretta APX A1 is a sleek, striker-fired semiautomatic that’s been making waves in the shooting community. Its design and performance are something to talk about.
Specs
- Type: Striker fired, semiautomatic
- Cartridge: 9mm
- Capacity: Options of 10+1, 15+1, 17+1 rounds
- Barrel Length: 4.25 inches
- Overall Length: 7.55 inches
- Width: 1.3 inches
- Height: 5.6 inches
- Weight: 29 ounces
- Sights: Steel, serrated rear; tritium dot front
- Trigger Pull Weight: 6 pounds (as tested)
Overview of Taurus GX4
The Taurus GX4 is a compact, striker-fired autoloader that’s been turning heads for its impressive features and handling. It’s a gun that promises reliability in a small package.
Specs
- Type: Striker-fired autoloader
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Magazine Capacity: 11 rounds
- Barrel Length: 3.06 inches
- Overall Length: 6.05 inches
- Width: 1.08 inches
- Height: 4.4 inches
- Weight, Empty: 18.5 ounces
- Sights: Drift-adjustable rear, white-dot front
- Trigger Pull Weight: 6.6 pounds (as tested)
Features Comparison: Beretta APX A1 vs Taurus GX4
1. Ease of Operation
Beretta APX A1
The Beretta APX A1’s operation is a mix of robustness and precision. Its build quality and design scream durability.
During my field testing, the slide release demanded a bit more effort, which might be a hurdle for beginners or those with less hand strength.
However, this sturdy feel translates to reliable functionality. It’s like a well-oiled machine that just needs a bit of familiarity to operate smoothly.
Taurus GX4
Contrastingly, the Taurus GX4 offers a more user-friendly approach. Its slide stop is significantly easier to engage, which is a boon, especially for those who are new to shooting.
This ease was particularly noticeable when my wife, a novice to these models, tried them out. She found the Taurus GX4 remarkably easier to handle, indicating its broader appeal and suitability for a diverse range of users, from beginners to seasoned shooters.
Winner
In terms of ease of operation, the Taurus GX4 clearly has the upper hand. Its user-friendly slide stop mechanism is a game-changer, making it a more accessible and less intimidating option for new or less experienced shooters, compared to the slightly more demanding Beretta APX A1.
2. Trigger Feel
Beretta APX A1
The trigger of the Beretta APX A1 is a bit of a double-edged sword. It’s solid and gives a feeling of control, but it’s also on the heavier side, requiring a firm, decisive pull.
This might be challenging for those not accustomed to such resistance. During testing, my wife struggled with the trigger, which affected her shooting precision and overall comfort.
Taurus GX4
The Taurus GX4, on the flip side, shines with its trigger mechanism. It’s noticeably lighter and smoother, providing a more gratifying shooting experience.
This was particularly evident when I switched between the two pistols during testing. The Taurus GX4’s trigger contributed significantly to a more precise and comfortable shooting session.
Winner
The Taurus GX4 takes the crown in the trigger feel category. Its lighter and smoother mechanism offers a more enjoyable and accurate shooting experience, especially for those who find the heavier trigger of the Beretta APX A1 to be a bit cumbersome.
3. Recoil Management
Beretta APX A1
The Beretta APX A1 excels in managing recoil, thanks to its slightly heftier frame and thoughtful design. This additional weight helps in keeping the pistol steady during firing, significantly reducing the perceived recoil.
This feature is particularly beneficial for maintaining accuracy and comfort over longer shooting sessions, making it a reliable choice for both seasoned shooters and those who spend extensive time on the range.
Taurus GX4
The Taurus GX4, being more compact and lighter, presents a different recoil profile. It has a bit more noticeable recoil, which is not a defect but rather a characteristic of its design.
This might be a factor for shooters who are sensitive to recoil or those who are new to shooting. However, the recoil is still within manageable limits, making it a suitable option for various shooting scenarios.
Winner
For recoil management, the Beretta APX A1 emerges as the superior choice. Its design and weight distribution play a crucial role in absorbing recoil, offering a steadier and more comfortable shooting experience.
This is particularly advantageous compared to the lighter and more compact Taurus GX4, whose lighter frame results in more felt recoil.
4. Handling and Ergonomics
Beretta APX A1
The Beretta APX A1 boasts a robust and sturdy feel in hand. Its slightly larger dimensions provide a good grip, enhancing stability during shooting.
However, this can be a bit challenging for those with smaller hands or less grip strength. The ergonomics are well thought out, but they cater more to experienced shooters or those comfortable with larger firearms.
Taurus GX4
The Taurus GX4, in contrast, is more compact and fits comfortably in a variety of hand sizes. This compactness aids in discreet carry and quick handling.
Its design seems more user-friendly, especially for those new to shooting or with smaller hands. The ergonomic advantage of the Taurus GX4 is evident in its ease of use and handling.
Winner
When it comes to handling and ergonomics, the Taurus GX4 outshines the Beretta APX A1. Its compact design and user-friendly ergonomics make it a more versatile choice for a broader range of shooters, compared to the larger and more robust Beretta APX A1.
Pros & Cons of Beretta APX A1
Pros
- Sturdy and robust build
- Good recoil management
- Tritium front sight for better visibility
Cons
- Stiffer slide release
- Trigger pull can be heavy for some users
Pros & Cons of Taurus GX4
Pros
- Compact and lightweight, easy to handle
- User-friendly ergonomics
- Smoother trigger compared to Beretta
Cons
- Some issues with ammo compatibility (light strikes)
- Sight could be improved for better accuracy
Similarities between Beretta APX A1 & Taurus GX4
- Both are 9mm caliber pistols
- Striker-fired mechanism
- Similar trigger pull weights
- Designed for semi-automatic operation
- Both have steel construction with polymer frames
- Suitable for both self-defense and recreational shooting
Differences between Beretta APX A1 & Taurus GX4
- Beretta APX A1 is heavier and bulkier compared to Taurus GX4
- Taurus GX4 is more compact and lighter than Beretta APX A1
- Beretta has a tritium dot front sight, while Taurus uses a white-dot front
- Beretta APX A1 has a longer barrel length compared to Taurus GX4
- Beretta is more suited for experienced shooters, Taurus is more beginner-friendly
- Taurus GX4 has better ergonomics for a broader range of hand sizes
Final Verdict
After thorough testing and careful consideration, it’s time for the final verdict between the Beretta APX A1 and the Taurus GX4.
Each pistol showed its strengths and appealed in different aspects. The Beretta, with its robust build and excellent recoil management, stood out for its reliability and steadiness.
On the other hand, the Taurus GX4 impressed with its user-friendly operation, lighter trigger, and superior ergonomics, making it an ideal choice for a broader range of shooters.
FAQ’s
Does Beretta APX A1 have a safety?
Yes, the Beretta APX A1 features a safety mechanism on the trigger, preventing unintended firing even if the pistol is dropped.
How many rounds does a Beretta APX A1 carry hold?
The Beretta APX A1 Carry version typically comes with a 6-round and an 8-round magazine, with options for a pinky extension or a flush-fit base plate.
Is the Beretta APX A1 FS a good gun?
Yes, the Beretta APX A1 Full Size is highly regarded for its good ergonomics, slide serrations, grip texture, accuracy, and reliability, making it an excellent choice in the optics-ready full-size 9mm category.
Is the Taurus GX4 snappy?
The Taurus GX4 is known for its manageable recoil and shootability, making it less snappy .
