You state the Walther in .380 ACP, however in Dr. No, it is stated as 7.65 which is .32 ACP. My cousin was hired for his FFL on the set of Sean Connery's last official movie as 007, "Diamonds are Forever" in Las Vegas, NV. One of the requests he had was to keep one of the Walther's used in filming. I now own that pistol.

Don't forget, in Dr. No I believe it was, M made him turn in "that damned Beretta" because it malfunctioned and almost got him killed...

To bad 25acp and even 32acp are getting so hard to find and terribly expensive. These little guns are so darn cool

When I first got my concealed permit in Texas I bought a Beretta tomcat in 32 ACP and I still like that little gun.

I've carried the Beretta for ten years, and I've never missed with it. : James Bond

My great aunt kept one of these in her nightstand for over five decades. Never fired it once...that we know of. It's been in my safe since she passed.

Nerd factoid: Bond’s first gun, was his old .455 Service revolver, that he kept as a backup, in the glove compartment of his 1938, 3.5 litre drop-head coupe. 😉

The gun change actually happened in the Dr No novel. In the previous book, From Russia with Love, the Beretta gets jammed and Bond almost gets killed! He ends up spending months in a hospital recovering from his injuries and when the Dr No story happens, M forces him to trade his Beretta for the Walther PPK in 32ACP. Later in the movies (Brosnan era) he changes again for the Walther P99

I absolutely love mouse guns. My grandpa handed me down his colt 1908 pocket hammerless in 25 acp a few years ago when he passed. He'd take me out and shoot water jugs with it when I was a little kid. I can't shoot it properly anymore because my fingers can barely fit in the trigger guard, I have large hands. If my grandpa was still alive today id be over a foot taller than him. Today it sits In my collection and will pass it down for generations to come.

In "Dr. No" (1962) Bond is summoned to M's HQ while he is gambling at the Le Cercle casino. Bond reports to M and is briefed; then M orders him, "Take off your jacket. Give me your gun." M examines 007's pistol, calling it "this damned Beretta again." What M is holding is not a Model 418, but a .32-caliber Model 1935. Maj. Boothroyd comments that Bond's Beretta is "nice and light in a lady's handbag." However, the M1935 is 2.5 ounces heavier than the .32-caliber Walther PPK. M insists that Bond surrender his favorite weapon and carry the Walther instead. The PPK is the better sidearm in that it is marginally lighter and DA/SA, but that's no reason to force Bond to give up a gun he has confidence using for a new and perhaps unfamiliar weapon. Maj. Boothroyd re-equips 007 and says the PPK has a "delivery like a brick through a plateglass window", actually no different than the surrendered Beretta. In fact, EON Productions could not find a PPK for the film, and Bond is given a PP model instead. There were other firearm-related problems in "Dr. No". In his confrontation with Professor Dent, Bond is shown using a "silenced" FN 1910 rather than his assigned PPK. Dent tries to murder Bond with a "silenced" M1911, which Bond calls a Smith & Wesson. Evidently, the script called for Dent to use a revolver, but the props department made yet another mistake.

Ian Fleming equipped Bond with the “.25 Beretta” because Fleming himself carried one during WWII when he worked as an intelligence officer.

My dad bought one in Italy when he was stationed in the Navy in the 1950’s. My son has it now. Very well made.

The fan was Geoffrey Boothroyd, a noted firearms writer who convinced Fleming to replace the Beretta with the Walther. In Dr No, Major Geoffrey Boothroyd was the armorer, and that character eventually developed into "Q"

I, too have a great affinity for mouse guns. I can remember back when if you wanted a little "always" gun, micro .380s were not around so that meant .25s or .22s, PPK and such were the next size up. I bought one of these several years ago for my 007 collection. While obviously old, it's apparently seldom been fired as the springs are still good and it runs great. It's a piece of art as well as a piece of history.

I've always had an affection for these little handguns. My Grandmother had a little baby Browning 25 in a cookie jar which I now own. My father owned a little Beretta 950 in 22LR before I was born and later purchased a 21A in 22LR shortly after they were introduced in 1984. I grew up shooting that 21A. When Beretta introduced the 21A with factory threaded barrel, I knew I had to have another one. These little pistols are just a lot of fun to shoot and plink with and always put a grin on the shooter's face.

What great timing, I just bought James Bond's other gun the Walther PPK. I would eventually like to get the 418, but it being out of production makes it harder to get. I'm also currently reading through all 14 books, I'm on #12: You Only Live Twice.

Such a beautiful, simplistic piece.

The 25 ACP is more than anyone wants to get shot with. It was one of the most popular calibers for decades for a reason. It still remains in spite of the constant disparaging comments and poor quality manufacturing after laws banning their importation. Regardless, the old, well made, pistols that shoot that caliber, are very cool. Nice pistol.

What a cool little pistol. Was intrigued with some of the design features. Thanks for sharing.

It was also a status symbol every true gentleman carried at least a .25 as well as a quality watch on his person usually next to his flask or cigarette case

Actually, these little .25ACP guns were often called "mouse guns". Colt had one introduced in about 1909.

About 11 years ago I decided I wanted to add a 25acp to my collection. I wasn't particularly looking for any particular model. I hadn't seen any 25s for many years and figured I'd be lucky to find a Raven. About a month after I started looking, a friend at work told me about a new gun shop that had opened in the town between where I worked and where I lived. So the next time I worked days I went by this new shop and what did find in the display case but a little Beretta 25. They also had a custom Manlicher stocked 91 Mauser in .30 Argentine. Well for about $500 they both came home with me. The biggest shock came when the owner told me to wait just a minute then he went in the back and came out with a plastic trash bag and in the bag were 12 boxes of Norma and 1 box of Hornady ammunition for the 91. Over $300 worth of ammunition. Sometimes you just fall into a good deal. Since then I figure I've bought the owner of that little shop either a new truck or a really nice bass boat. Oh my little Beretta was made in1954 and is in very good condition. I keep it in an old Nylon case from a blood sugar tester, it fits like it was made for it.

I was so happy that you did a video on James Bond's Beretta 418. I was hoping someone would. I was looking at the finish and I thought it was colour case hardening. Bond carries a 950 Jetfire in Licence to Kill, he was given it before he rushes into his hotel room and bowls Q over who's sitting in a chair. I've always loved and wanted a 1911 because it was Agent 47's gun in the Hitman series. I want the Commander because it balances in my hand perfectly and 9mm Luger for less recoil, cost, noise.

If you want to get the full James Bond experience with that pistol, take the grip panels off and wrap grip tape around it. Fleming always described the Beretta as having a 'skeleton grip'. In Diamonds Are Forever, he further mentioned that the gaps have been taped - probably to make it easier to hold and less grating on the hands. Supposedly, Fleming considered removing the grip panels necessary to make the pistol more concealable - as it it already wasn't concealable enough.

Say what you want with all these micro carries. THIS is the best concealed carry 😄

This is absolutely the weapon of choice for WW2 spooky types - standard gangster gun. The petition by some Walter Mitty character of "need a bigger gun" is not the reality - at close range an accurate shot with a small caliber pistol is very fatal - especially if you use the victim's head or body as a silencer. It is perfect for close range and concealed carry use. Military generals and officials would carry these berettas as a side arm during world war two, on most sides of the conflict.

I absolutely love these historical reviews and the facts behind the weapons..thank you so much for this!

I ponder why James was forced into a heavier caliber...we're talking about Bond, James Bond, and he could do anything...I saw it in the movies...he always drew the winning hand, won the pretty girl, had dead on accuracy with every weapon...as a secret agent non pareil .25 auto was plenty for him, with added benefit of being extremely concealable...

I have several potent handguns, but purchased a High Standard .22 revolver a few years back. An R-106 with three inch barrel. I bought it used from a Turner’s Sporting Goods. A woman had sold it to them. Nine shot swing out cylinder. Yes, it is a rim fire, but it also can quickly bypass a dud round and still have eight rounds. I “bought it for my wife” for emergencies because it doesn’t intimidate with loud muzzle blast for a woman not keen on guns but will use one in an emergency.

Your reviews on these old classic firearms are my favorites. I'd like to see many more of this type. Thank you.

I had a jetfire back in the 70's. Loved it. Interesting review.

I used to have almost nothing but mouse guns. Loved 'em, and they were really cheap to collect. A certain very unpopular politician convinced me I needed something more serious, very soon. All the mouse guns went, and service weapons replaced them. The way things are going.... probably the right choice! Anyway, one day at the range with a bunch of friends, we were playing, "betcha can't hit...". I hit a small steel plate at 50 yards, with my .25 Baby Browning, first try. From then on, all my friends called it my "long range gun".

I would really like to see you revive your "Why I own a gun" series. That's what got me watching your channel years ago and I always enjoyed those stories. There's got to be more stories you have since then, maybe stories that others have shared with you. Anyway, great channel as always.

Found the predecessor to this firearm,a model 1919 type II from 1923 or 1924 from what i can tell.Looks as nice as this one with really cool original stamped metal grips.Gonna add it to my .25 collection this weekend.Colt 1908 (1925),beretta 950B (1964),Astra cub (1967),beretta model 20 (1984).

Just got a 21a in .25acp. I LOVEEEEE IT. Traded the 21a in .22lr away.

I once had a PPK. I thought it was one of the most beautiful guns I ever owned, However, it was miserable to shoot. I sold it gladly.

I really like my Beretta Pico, in 380 ACP. Thanks for the share!!

That grip safety is wild

in the Books, He really hated the Beretta Model 418, but when he got issued the Walther PPK, M said that for now on he would carry that as his Primary Sidearm.

Your videos are by far the best! Loved this one too.

Inherited a Colt 1908 "Vest Pocket" which is very similar to the 418-- .25ACP and grip safety. Cleaned it up and found it fun. However, it recently started jamming. Inspired by the mention of a spring kit from Wolff, so paused video to order a kit for my Colt. Thanks for that.

A magazine full of .25’s in the gut from close range, which is what it is meant for, will discourage most attackers ! Also this gun will not disturb the cut of a gentleman’s suit. This is a get-off-me gun only !

the 418 showed how Bond used his brain over firepower to win the fight, and his gun was the last resort.

sootch00 makes some of the most enjoyable and quality videos, It's funny, but I find myself watching the same video over and over again through the years because the quality and nostalgia is so good, it makes the refresher course that much more enjoyable!

We can see this Beretta also in the first Bond movie " Dr. No" with Sean Connery at the beginning, Bond was in the Office of "M" who said to him " this dammn Beretta again" and he order Bond to change his pistol for the Walther PPK, after Bond put it in his shoulder holster, he want to smuggle his beloved small Beretta out of Ms office in a small Box, but "M" said " leave it here 007 and he must gave it to him. I know in Flemings novels, who did not have anything to do with the movies with the same titles, Bond use always this Beretta, not one word of the Walther PPK. Thanks alot for uploading. Best regards from Vienna, Austria 🇦🇹

Great video as is your usual! Thank you for this. I have the little bobcat and just love it. My Dad was a mouse gun lover and had one of those early beretta in .32 acp. Brownings , mausers, Astra, S&W, etc. Fun stuff. God bless all here.

Mauser 1914 .32ACP? My grandma's nightstand pistol. Barrel was shot out and would not have stopped anyone other than scaring them for how loud it was. I did not keep it. Gave it to a brother in law of mine.

Guns like this keep me coming back to this channel

“Ha! Nice try, Mr. Bond, but I’m wearing a thick sweater!”

nice history lesson and appreciate the demo!

Great review! Thank you very much!

Love when Sootch reviews James Bond's guns. James Bond is the reason I got a '67 PPK, and Die Hard/Lethal Weapon is the reason I got a Beretta 92FS. Movies just have the coolest weapons.

Nice lil gun

You always have a good show. Thanks

I had good luck on a Beretta at a gun show as well a few years ago. Picked up a Beretta 21a in .25 ACP with wood grips in perfect condition for $250. I share your yen for mouse guns. I have 5 Berettas and a number of others, including Colt, Seecamp, Astra and Jennings models. They are fun to shoot because they are difficult to shoot.

I had a Beretta 950 Jetfire .25acp years ago. Loved it, got it for a song used but in like new condition. Traded it in for a North America Arms mini revolver in .22 magnum. Years later I wish I'd never gotten rid of it!! Ive been a SERIOUS Bond fan since i saw Goldfinger when it came out and was always facinated with the guns and gadgets!! I have a small collection of Bond gadgets, some that are actual spy agency items that werent used in Bond movies but still actual secret service items. I do have the iconic miniature German made Minox "B" camera used in virtually all the Bond movies with removable measuring chain, leather case, flashbulb flash unit with leather case, a digital color multi-function wrist watch camera by Casio. He had one but was made by Seiko, looks exactly same. Also bought the infamous Henry take-down survival rifle with scope which was first used in From Russia With Love, twice. First time was sniping the agent climbing out of the window of the bldg. Then again when he shot the guy in the helicopter who dropped the grenade and blew the helicopter up. Then was used again in Goldfinger by Tilly Masterson who was trying to take out Auric Goldfinger at the mountain pass. It was shown a 3rd time in, On Her Majesties Secret Service starring George Lazenby, a one time Bond part for George who was a Sean Connery lookalike and a Great movie! I purchased an early 70s Bauer .25acp a year ago on mint condition which is about the same size as the .25acp Beretta which was Bond's first gun. Its actually shorter by half inch on length and height. Always wanted one and will have to fill in as his .25acp Beretta till i can at least find another 950 Jetfire at a descent price. LONG LIVE BOND and all his memories! I have all his movies mean time to relive the excitement! With exception of Daniel Craig who Stunk! He didnt have what it took to continue the legacy!! Too much a twirp and all stunts and special effects were Cheesy and looked like a cheap crappy video game!!

Excellent review, as always Sootch. I got a Baby Browning, and also why I got into reloading. I paid 40 clams for a box of 25acp @ rk, a couple years ago, WHEN I could finally find it!

I found a Beretta model 418 at a gun show here in Tennessee four years ago I got a good price on it and I love it

Beretta made some fine little pistols. I was hooked on them after getting my 21A 22lr years ago. Now I am going to have to hunt one of these.

Great video Sooch, enjoyed it, I’d love to have one of those little 418’s

Great video, Mr. Don! Those mouse guns are very fascinating.

I really enjoyed the video. I too have a model 418 and like you I’m a James Bond fan, I collect first edition of Ian Flemings books, they’re more costly than the handgun. You know what would have been a nice touch would have been to show the gun with a From Russia with Love novel, even an older paperback. There is a market for them too. It’s good to know that Wolf’s Springs have replacements. The video was very informative. Thanks for doing it.

The original handgun was the Beretta in 25 ACP but what people don’t know is that the Walther that they gave him in Dr No was chambered in 32 ACP not 380

Really very nice >>>>>>> Thank you .

I love little guns Thanks for the video

Man these little mouse guns looks so fun.

Great looking little pistol, fun.😁

I won one on Proxibid a couple of months ago for $300 had to replace every spring in it. I was able to track down some magazines for the beretta 1919 the early model of the 418 and the mags are compatible. One of the best carrying and shooting hand guns I own but it doesn’t like fiocchi ammo PMC and PPU run well.

Had a .25 jetfire. Great pistol

Carried the Beretta 21 replace it with the Tomcat....both very concealable and reliable....always in the pocket.....

Awesome video

Pretty slick find👍

Awesome gun 25 acp thanks for sharing sootch00

Nice find. Looks handsome. I've never seen one "in the flesh." I'm also a mousegun fan and I'm with you on the Jetfire. My 1964-make example is downright pretty and slick (like all the pre-'68 Italian versions, it lacks the safety lever, having been designed for "Condition-Two" carry.

Interestingly enough, despite this, being James Bond’s gun, for the first five novels, in the films, James bond never uses this gun whatsoever. Even in the scene and Dr. know where he’s turning in his Beretta for the PPK come on the gun in the movie is a Beretta 1934. The Beretta model 418 has only appeared twice in the entire bond film series. Once in the film, adaptation of from Russia, with love in a blink, and you’ll miss it appearance. The second time in the opening credits of the living daylights.

Bond's PPK was in .32. He carried his 418 with a "silencer" attached.

Awesome 💯 👌 pistol!!

Beautiful pistol.

The barrel and recoil spring disassembly process is just the same as the one for the 34/35 models.

The Beretta is history. Born in 1526 Gardone Val Trompia 🇮🇹

I have one I put an entirely new Wolff spring kit in. It still stovepipes rounds. The first 3 or 4 shoot fine, then it hangs up. Assuming it's the mag? Can't find another mag anywhere to test.

I got an FIE Titan 25 ACP that I love.

"This damned Beretta again"

" It's anemic and not really a carry gun but better than a sharp stick.." Care to stand in front of it while someone empties it and see how "anemic" it is ? Shot placement. It's a hell of alot easier to stay on target with a 25 or 32 for that matter, than a snappy micro 380. My Father was a butcher and many a beef creature was "retired" with his 32 Marlin and a sharp Forschner. In the right hands a 22/25/32 is a fine self defense weapon.

Talking of anemic guns, it always amazed me how popular .32 rimfire revolvers seem to have been, judging by how many come up on the antiques market. 🤔

Coooool 😍

The prices of this pistol already up! Because every Bob n Billy jumped on GB after this video to get one of those 😂

I am looking to purchasing this gun!

Movie History. Fun stuff.

Ian Fleming owned a Browning .25 , serial number 257024 , built in 1920-1921 . He was issued this firearm in WW II . The model was a ( Colt 1908 ) . There was a story that it was his father's from WW I , however that cannot be true because Valentine Fleming his father was killed in 1917 in WW I , and the .25 Browning was made in 1920 . Fleming took his .25 Browning to Jamaica almost yearly and his firearms were not properly licensed in England . Fleming wrote a letter to a official in 1953 to correct that oversight . A interesting situation in Jamaica but it was back in the 1950-1960's . Fleming carried it for self defense on the island. Fleming did not own a Beretta . Source : Colt Forum article Help identifying Ian Flemings Police Positive . That gun was a Official Police 38 Special , with a four inch barrel , serial number 718128 , listed in his estate . You can just picture Ian Fleming the creator of James Bond , carrying his Colt/Browning .25 acp , in a discreet shoulder holster while gambling at a Jamaican cassino , mixing with all kinds of characters , sounds like Casino Royale !

You can still buy a 21A Bobcat in .25 Auto from Beretta

Bond carried that Beretta in exactly zero movies. He surrendered either an M34 or an M35 for the blued PPK in Dr. No.

I Blame you Sootch for my crippling GB addiction!!!

I like it

I have the exact same pistol with Pearl grips

Model 418 reminds me of another italian .25, its called an FIE Titan. Similar stature

Just as a side note: Was it a book? Or PPK's box, if I remember right...?

I have the .22 short model with a long barrel.

Have the Taurus PT-25 ,very simular w/ the tip up ..Love shootin it but the cost per round is a bummer

nice