I have never owned a beretta.  My father has 2 small ones (unsure of model #s) from my grandfather and I'm kicking around the idea of getting him a new pistol for his birthday in a few months.  He doesn't really have any 'nice' pistols.  He enjoys them and has a few around but isn't the type of person to buy himself a brand new, $500+ handgun.  For reference he keeps a taurus in his truck.

I would also buy one for myself of the same model to make it more special when I present it to him.  I'm pretty set on the 92fs/m9/m9a1 for size, robustness, history, etc.  Am I overlooking any other models?  Can you guys lead me to a reputable dealer online?  I cannot find them in stock anywhere... my preference is towards the M9a1 for the light rail but honestly would be fine with any of the models because it will most likely be a range toy for me.  It seems like they aren't in stock anywhere.

Also, I know the beretta factory opened in TN.  Anyone know if they are being made there?  I would love to get them with Tennessee markings since I live here.  If anyone has a picture or can tell me how they mark it on the slide I would like to know (if they have a special TN rollmark, made in TN, etc.).

Thanks in advance!

I think the light rail screws up the aesthetics of the 92/M9 series. It looks so sexy as originally designed.

I agree, even though I carry a railed compact.

Buy 2 M9s. I think you'll be happy.

If you have any intention of using a wml  either buy the m9a1 or a surefire rail adapter.

Elite, Brigadier, Border Marshal..? Some would be out of production, unknown which generation Elite might be avail now..

The gold standard beretta is the 92fs or m9. Straight dust cover or slanted doesn't make a difference to me but to some they do.

If you want a rail the m9a1 - 92a1 is good too, little different than a standard 92 though has a slide buffer and a few other changes,

Inox, brigadier, m9a3, vertec would all add a premium on top of a regular 92 price

IMO an older beretta 92 Inox with all stainless controls is one of the sexiest there is. Not always easy to find though when your looking.

Can anyone comment on what the current tennessee markings are?  Or where I can find M9s online to get to my FFL?  I can't find them anywhere.

I've had many over the years and 2 of the 4 that I currently own will never be sold. First, the EliteII, which unfortunately they don't make any more. Second, is the Brigadier by Wilson, it's an amazing pistol.

jmho

92A1 always a solid choice. 

I've been thinking about picking up a Beretta myself after selling off my INOX 92fs years ago and the 92A1 looks like the best choice. Either that or an M9A1.

They are pretty awesome, hard to find though. I still need to get one myself someday

Bud's is selling M9 Commerials right now, which is what I'd buy if it's mostly gonna be a range gun.

A company called alumigrips makes the aluminum grips for beretta.  They offer a set that has a blank disk where the factory logo is laser etched on the factory model.  If you have a laser engraver near you, you could have a sentiment of some sort etched into the grips.

If I ever come across a like new 90-Two in 9mm. I'm buying one. 

Werent they convertible betweeen FS and G like the PX4? Just drive out a detent and spring?