If you are gun enthusiast, or perhaps you just own (or are looking to own) a firearm for protection and safety, you have surely heard of Beretta. You may have wondered how this company got its start, what makes it better than other firearm manufacturers, and what is up with that funky Italian name. Fortunately for you, you are in the right place to learn just these things! This is a 2-part series on the history of the Beretta firearm, so be sure to check back for the more recent happenings of Beretta.

Deep in the beautiful country of Italy, a city named Gardone is the source of a significant amount of high-grade iron ore. This ore proved to be a valuable source for iron working, and in the Renaissance Era, for fun making. Maestro Bartolomeo Beretta, the father of Beretta firearms, was living in Gardone in 1526 when his legacy began. He was known throughout the city for his master gun barrel making and highly regarded for his expertise. In fact, he was hired by the Arsenal of Venice to begin producing gun barrels, thus making his company the older gun manufacturing company in the world.

Jacomo, Bartolomeo’s son, also became a master gun-maker and he passed that legacy down through to his son, Giovannino. The talent and passion has trickled down through the generations over the past 500 years. The Beretta firearm family has continuously controlled the company throughout history–refusing to sell it or trade it off for a less demanding trade. They were committed to quality and excellence and each Beretta son did his part to ensure the good reputation of Beretta firearm. Today, Ugo Gussalli Beretta and his sons, Pietro and Franco, still maintain excellence in the production of Beretta firearms.