Most polymer 9mms use a tilting barrel that cams downward when the slide cycles. The PX4 Storm does not. It uses a rotating barrel that turns about 30 degrees during the action cycle, distributing recoil forces differently than the tilting design. Owners who have shot both systems back-to-back report reduced muzzle flip with the rotating barrel. Beretta is one of only two major manufacturers still producing a rotating-barrel polymer handgun.

The gun holds 17 rounds in a 27.7 oz frame with a 4-inch barrel. The DA/SA trigger provides a long, heavy double-action first pull followed by lighter single-action shots at roughly 4.5 lbs. The ambidextrous safety/decocker lets you lower the hammer safely and is unusual in polymer 9mms, where most competitors use striker-fired actions with no manual safety. The Picatinny rail takes standard weapon lights. Three interchangeable backstraps customize the grip size. No optic cut on the standard model.

The PX4 Storm's real advantage shows up in an unlikely place: new and recoil-sensitive shooters. The rotating barrel's recoil characteristics, combined with the 27.7 oz frame weight, produce noticeably less muzzle flip than tilting-barrel polymer guns of similar weight. Shooting instructors on owner forums frequently recommend the PX4 for students who struggle with snap and flinch on lighter striker-fired pistols.