This edition of the TFB Field Strip series will cover the Beretta U22 Neos pistol.  The disassembly for the Neos is quite a deviation from the standard semi-auto pistol and is quite unique in that regard.  The Neos is chambered in .22 LR and has been quite handy for dispatching nuisance animals, teaching marksmanship to newbies, or just plinking on the cheap.

The layout of Beretta’s Neos pistol is a little different when it comes to the magazine release.  The release is on the right side of the pistol, but it’s actually very well placed for right-handed shooters (sorry lefties). Due to the grip angle of the Neos, the magazine release’s placement doesn’t require an awkward shift of the firing hand.  The grip angle is harsh even when compared to the much complained about Glock grip angle, however, it has never bothered me and my whole family loves shooting the Neos.

BEFORE YOU FIELD STRIP ANY WEAPON, REMEMBER the four rules of gun safety:

1. All guns are always loaded.
2. Never let the muzzle cover anything you are not willing to destroy.
3. Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on the target.
4. Be sure of your target and what is beyond it.

TFB FIELD STRIP: BERETTA U22 NEOS

Step 1.

Lock the slide to the rear and inspect the chamber, making sure there is no ammunition in the gun.  Keep the slide locked to the rear.  Depress and hold the button with the cross, it sits above the trigger guard.  At the same time, turn the wheel behind the button clockwise (if you’re holding the Neos upright).  This will separate the barrel assembly from the frame.  The locking wheel may or may not fall out.

Step 2.

Pull the slide to the rear to release it from the slide stop’s grip.  Then slowly ease the slide forward off the frame.  The recoil spring can also be slid off the firing pin assembly.

This is as far as the recommended field strip process goes for the Beretta Neos.  You can reassemble in reverse order.  When Beretta designed the Neos, there were optional grip modules of various colors as well as a conversion kit to turn the Neos into a rifle.  Switching the grip module is simple, and I’ve detailed the process below.

Use a hex key to loosen and remove the screw at the base of the grip.  Once the screw is removed, you can use the same hex key to unlock the tab above the trigger guard.  It just needs a little forward and downward pressure.  The grip can then be removed or replaced with another.  CAUTION: After the grip has been removed, place your thumb on the slide stop while handling the chassis.  There is a tiny spring holding the slide stop in place and it can be easily lost.  You can probably figure out how I know. Fortunately, my floor didn’t conceal it long.

As before, reassemble in reverse order.  You can view the Beretta Neos’ manual HERE.  There was also a safety recall years ago, which you can check to make sure your model has the updated firing pin HERE.