They share the trigger mechanism fitted with an escaping disconnector, which is typical of all Beretta pistols of that period.

A short time afterward a second version (Model 19) appeared, with an automatic grip safety fitted on the frame backstrap.

In 1926 a third version (sometimes known as Model 1926) was introduced, in which the firing mechanism was completely redesigned to incorporate a disconnector similar to that used in the Beretta M1923.

Although considered by some underpowered for combat, it found favor with high ranking Italian officers during the Second World War.

[3] At the end of the fifth novel, From Russia, with Love, Bond is unable to draw the Beretta at a critical moment when its suppressor catches on the waistband of his trousers, and is very nearly killed as a result.

This incident leads to an order from his superior officer, M, to start carrying a new duty weapon in the opening chapters of the sixth novel, Dr. No.

Major Boothroyd, the MI6 armorer and "the greatest small-arms expert in the world" in M's opinion, insists that Bond trade it for a weapon with more stopping power.

He carries both guns during a mission in Jamaica for this novel, but only fires the S&W; in subsequent stories, he relies on the PPK.

In the film, the character of Boothroyd references his real-life counterpart's comments when he describes the Beretta: "Nice and light, in a lady's handbag.