In 2023, Beretta killed the 3032 and 21A Bobcat, much to my dismay, even though I own multiples of each. I love tip-up guns a lot and thought this was the end. Then, boom, SHOT 2024 gave us the 30X. I was excited to see a modernized Tomcat but was dismayed to see a lack of an updated Bobcat. I considered my dismay dismissed as Beretta had released the 20X. 

The Beretta 20X has given the Bobcat the X treatment. While most of the industry uses X to signify a compact slide on a full-sized frame, Beretta uses it to mark when its legacy designs get a modern spin. 

The Beretta 20X has a lot of the same features as the 30X. This includes multiple models available. The DonIt Yourself model features a slightly longer threaded barrel and suppressor height sights. The You’re On Your Own model lacks has a standard barrel and standard height sights. The sights are dovetailed and potentially interchangeable. 

Last year, Beretta showed an optics mount for RMSc optics, but I’ve yet to see it hit the market. As the owner of a 30X, I’ve been watching for it. Like the 30X, the trigger has been greatly improved. It features a flat trigger that’s much lighter in double action. The single action is also smooth and short. Both the hammer and trigger are skeletonized.

The 20X Bobcat

The barrel still tips-up but the 20X uses the ELS or effortless loading system. The old Bobcat had a tab to press downward. The new 20X features a button that deploys the tip-up barrel. I don’t see a huge difference in function between the new and old model but the button works fine. 

The magazine capacity has increased to eight rounds in total. It’s not a ton, but it’s nine with one in the chamber. My complaint is that the new magazine sticks out of the grip a bit. This nonflush fit grip means the gun is larger, and guns like the 20X shouldn’t be large. 

This is a pocket pistol. I want less bulk, not more. While I’m complaining about the magazine, I won’t complain about the magazine release. Beretta moved from the weird bottom grip-mounted button to a normal magazine release button right behind the trigger.

It’s a good improvement and much more ergonomic. The 20X is already available and snuck out shortly before SHOT. Street price sits at around $450 dollars. 

Specifications 

Magazine Capacity 8+1
Barrel Length 2.4″
Overall Height 4.3″
Overall Width 1.3″
Weight Unloaded 14.92 oz