Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Handguns Semi-autos with panache

Didn't want to step on the PPK thread but it made me think of all the semi-auto handguns out there with true panache.

Not going to be the style Nazi, panache or style if you prefer can be whatever you think it is. But as a guideline, a Glock 17 or 19 does not have panache, no matter how much aftermarket stuff it's laden with. A plain jane, beat to crap 1911 that was carried through a war definitely does.

Also, try to limit this to semi-autos, we already know there is a plethora of DA and SA revolvers with panache.

So, let's see'em!


I'll start. Recently got this 1988 vintage Beretta Model 87, a single stack .22 in their Cheetah series. It's not the most accurate .22 I own but it holds its own. Mostly it's just a really neat little gun and brings me much pleasure to handle and shoot.

Il mio nuovo piccolo amico.

1943 Colt...



More modern version of the design but I think it still carries with class. Dan Wesson Vigil, Lwt. Commander size .45 ACP...

My early 80's Browning Hi Power Electroless Nickel. I worked an entire summer as a young teenager just to purchase the Satin Chrome model with the black grips and accents from a local Ace Hardware. When I had enough to pay for it, I went to the store and it had been sold.

I was lucky enough to have a close cousin with FFL and got this one shipped. I'm glad it turned out as it did!



Chris in AL

Colt Series-70 Gold Cup
WWI 1911 Colt (WWII arsenal rework)
Colt .22 Conversion kit

Caspian frame and slide I put together a long time ago. Kart barrel and bushing, Herrett’s skip line scales, Bomars, 30LPI checkered front strap, been so long I don’t recall whose internals and beaver tail I used. It’s a shooter though, 1” for 8 200gr SWCs over PB at 25yds.
1980 production BHP. I cut the Novaks, fitted it with the C&S NoBite hammer and spring kit as well as their strong side safety. A close friend who is a Master engraver did the scroll and rasp tooth treatment to the front and backstraps and I found some discount grips from Herretts.

Same engraver buddy did some light scroll and line art mice on one of my wife’s mouse guns. S&W 61 Escort.

My vote goes to the old, round trigger guard variants of the S&W Model 39, the Beretta 92 and the CZ75. Those are the only modern autos that rival the 1911 and P35.

I can't, and wouldn't, argue with what anyone else has posted so far. 1911, BHP, CZ-75, Smith 39 and Beretta 92. That's about it, really. I can't think of any to add, except maybe the Colt pocket autos (1903/1908). And the Luger...............

How about a Colt 1903 with experience?

I'd say the Luger has a certain distinctive style.

Here's one in Artillery configuration

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<> https://www.sigsauer.com/p320-axg-classic.html <>

This Sig P320 AXG Classic, is not vintage but has Panache. Traded a couple guns to Scheels for it.

Great picture and handgun!

When I was a teenager, and looking forward to when I qualified for a pistol permit (in New York, you cannot even own a handgun without a permit), that Browning/Beretta pistol (but in .380, not .22) was what I was sure I was going to get as my first handgun. Never did get one, but have three Beretta 92 variants.

What? the Woodsmans are chopped liver?

Is that a Sten on top?