Developing a micro-compact self-defense handgun that is pleasurable to shoot is no small task. Often the results are ill-fitting guns that are difficult to control due to their small size and significant felt recoil during firing. Fortunately, things have been changing on that front in recent years, with one company, in particular, having a long-standing history of addressing these concerns—Beretta.
The most recent proof of this is Beretta’s new 30X Tomcat, a semi-automatic pistol chambered in .32 ACP. Combining timeless design with a dash of modern innovation, the Tomcat presents itself as a prime choice for those seeking a dependable, discreet option for concealed carry. In this review of the 30X Tomcat Do It Yourself (DIY), we'll look into the features, design, historical significance, and performance of this small yet mighty pistol offering.
Immediately noticeable with the Beretta 30X Tomcat is its ultra-compact size. Weighing in at 16.5 oz. and measuring only 5.3” in overall length, this pistol is an ideal size for those seeking a firearm that offers both concealability and ease of use. If you have ever found yourself struggling to "dress around your gun" due to printing by your current carry option—no matter how many times you changed clothes—this .32 may be what you've been looking for. Designed with Beretta’s Effortless Loading System, the Tomcat’s push button and tip-up barrel allow users to chamber a round without having to rack the slide. While there have been several notable easy-to-rack slides introduced in recent years—most of them marketed toward women—this tip-up is an extraordinary feature for those who may struggle with grip strength or hand dexterity due to age, injury or even conditions like arthritis. This innovative design alone makes the Tomcat a standout in a crowded field of micro pistols.
Despite its small stature, you can expect an eight-round capacity. While some may argue that the .32 ACP is a less powerful cartridge than more popular defensive options like 9mm, the caliber’s extremely manageable recoil makes it ideal for shooters who prioritize comfort and control, especially during extended range sessions. After all, if a pistol is too uncomfortable to practice with regularly enough to become proficient, it will just sit in a nightstand drawer. This is the opposite of what we want with a pistol with which you might need to defend your life.
Additionally, the Beretta 30X Tomcat comes equipped with a threaded barrel, enabling the use of suppressors, a welcomed capability that is rarely found in pistols this small. As far as sights go, options featuring a threaded barrel are paired with blacked-out suppressor height sights, which you can choose to keep or swap out for your preferred set. Coating the 30X Tomcat is a black Cerakote finish, offering additional protection against the elements. Further consideration is given to those who are left-handed, with the inclusion of an ambidextrous safety. With these thoughtful details, it's clear that Beretta designed this firearm with everyday carry by shooters of all types in mind.
The design of the 30X Tomcat is a nod to Beretta's past while incorporating modern-day enhancements that today's shooters will appreciate. It's built on the platform of the original Beretta 3032 Tomcat, a model that has been a trusted companion of many since its inception in the 1990s. The original 3032 Tomcat model (which is still offered) was known for its compact size and ease of use, qualities that the 30X embodies to this day. The design lineage can be traced back to the Beretta 950 and 21A Bobcat, both chambered in smaller calibers like .22 LR and .25 ACP, which also featured the same innovative tip-up barrel that we see in the modern-day 30X. This innovative design allows the shooter to load the chamber without pulling back the slide. Not only does this make it easier for shooters with weaker hand strength, but it also reduces the possibility of a misfeed or jam when chambering a round—further cementing the Tomcat's reputation for reliability. Another design standout is the pistol's ergonomic grip. Despite its diminutive size, the grip feels comfortable during handling, keeping the gun well-balanced and secure during the entire firing process regardless of hand size. Lastly, the unique yet simplistic design of this gun lends itself to easy disassembly and cleaning, which is especially beneficial for new shooters or those who simply don't enjoy cleaning their firearms!
Despite its size and .32 ACP chambering, the Beretta 30X Tomcat delivers impressive performance. On the range, the pistol's minimal felt recoil makes it a pleasure to shoot, which is essential because people simply won't train with a firearm that they don't enjoy. Whether you're just starting out or have been shooting for decades, you'll find that the Tomcat provides excellent control and accuracy at close-range distances—precisely where it shines as a self-defense tool. Most self-defense scenarios happen within 7 to 10 yards, and within that range, the 30x Tomcat performs beautifully. We saw this first-hand by running several boxes of Federal Premium Personal Defense Hydra-Shot Deep 68gr. 32 ACP through it without any hiccups.
Extending our testing distance out to 15 yards, we saw consistent groupings of approximately one inch. In self-defense situations, aside from reliability, accuracy, and speed are often more critical than raw power, and the Tomcat excels in both.
For anyone searching for a reliable, compact and easily concealable firearm for everyday carry, the Beretta 30x Tomcat should be high on your list. Its thoughtful features combined with the historical pedigree of the Tomcat line make it a standout choice in the world of micro pistols. The tip-up barrel is a game-changer for those who may struggle with traditional slide manipulation, while its low-recoil, easy-to-control performance ensures that it’s accessible for shooters of all experience levels. Beretta's attention to detail and commitment to producing firearms that serve a wide array of users is evident in the 30X Tomcat. Regardless of your experience level, this pistol will meet your needs for concealed carry, self-defense, and general range practice. Simply put, the Beretta 30X Tomcat offers the perfect blend of history, innovation, and performance, making it a trusted solution for your carry needs.
The 30X Tomcat comes in four different configurations, with a starting MSRP of $599.
Specifications
Model: Beretta 30X Tomcat
Manufacturer: Beretta
Caliber: .32 ACP
Frame Size: Micro Compact
Barrel Length: 2.8 “
Overall Height: 4.6”
Overall Width: 1.3”
Weight (unloaded): 16.5 oz.
Action: Semi-Automatic
Grip Width: 1.36 “
Overall Length: 5.3”
Sight Radius: 3.4”
Magazine Capacity: 8 rounds
