Beretta makes its big combat autos in three formats. The most common is the “F” series, a traditional double- action (TDA) pistol that is self-cocking after the first shot, and whose slide-mounted decocking lever also functions as a manual safety when left in the down position. Many police departments have gone with the “D” series, which is double-action-only (DAO). The Elite is produced in the third format as a “G” model. The fire control mechanism is TDA, but the ambidextrous lever on the slide functions strictly as a decocking lever and not as a manual “safety catch.”

