Introduced in 1994, the Beretta 21A Bobcat is a compact semi-automatic pistol chambered in either a .22 Long Rifle or .25 ACP. The 21A was designed based on the Beretta Model 20, with enhancements and slight design changes. It features a unique tip-up barrel design and a double-action/single-action trigger mechanism.
Given the diminutive size of the 21A, it’s ideal for concealed carry. The most popular holster styles are pocket holsters and small inside the waistband holsters. That being said, the Bobcat also conceals well using a small belt holster or OWB holster.
Holsters & Magazine Carriers for the Beretta 21A Bobcat | |||
MTR Custom Back Pocket Holster  | MTR Custom Belt Scabbard Holster  | MTR Custom Crossdraw Holster | MTR Custom Front Pocket Model |
MTR Custom Dual Purpose Holster  | MTR Custom Paddle Holster  | MTR Custom Deluxe Full-Size Pancake Holster  | MTR Customer Deluxe Full-Size Quick Snap Holster  |
MTR Custom Adversary IWB Holster  | MTR Custom Small of the Back Holster  | MTR Custom Slimline Tuckable IWB Model  | MTR Custom Slimline Deluxe Full-Size Pancake Holster  |
MTR Custom Vertical Deluxe Full-Size Quick Snap Holster  | MTR Tuckable Adversary IWB Holster  | MTR Custom Pancake Belt Slide  | MTR Custom Double Magazine Carrier with Belt Slots  |
MTR Custom Single IWB Clip-On Magazine Carrier  | MTR Custom Double Mag Carrier with a Paddle  | MTR Custom Single Magazine Carrier  | |
Personally, I like the 21A carried in a front pocket as a last-ditch CCW option or as a concealed carry option when I’m wearing shorts.
Another potential holster option that works well with the 21A Bobcat includes ankle holsters. The small size and reduced weight make it a viable option for ankle carry.
Specifications
- Caliber: .22 LR or .25 ACP (although only the .22 version is currently available from Beretta)
- Barrel Length: 2.4 inches
- Overall Length: 4.9 inches
- Weight: 13.1 oz (loaded)
- Capacity: 7+1 rounds or 8+1 for the .25 ACP version
- Construction: Aluminum frame, carbon steel slide
- Sights: Fixed front and rear
Design and Operation
This pistol features a straight blowback operation, relying on the weight of the slide and recoil spring to cycle the action. Notably, it lacks an extractor and instead relies on gas pressure to eject spent casings.
The tip-up barrel design allows for easy loading and unloading, making it convenient for range use. The Bobcat features a manual thumb safety and a double-action/single-action trigger mechanism, allowing it to be carried with the hammer down for added safety.
It should be noted that since the Bobcat relies on gas from the fired round to eject spent casings, it can be somewhat fussy regarding ammunition, especially in the .22 LR caliber. Inexpensive range ammunition in the .22 caliber may not provide enough gas for a proper recoil, leading to cycling malfunctions.
The 22 caliber versions of the Bobcat offer a 7-round capacity, while the models chambered in .25 ACP featured an 8-round capacity. Currently, Beretta is only offering the 21A chambered in 22 LR.
In addition to the standard Bobcat model, Beretta has also offered the 21A in the following configurations:
Bobcat 21A Inox – This model was first introduced in 2000 and featured a stainless steel barrel and slide.
Bobcat 21A Covert – This variant was introduced in 2021 and features a threaded barrel designed for use with a suppressor.
FAQS
Here are some questions I commonly see being asked about holster options for a 21A Bobcat pistol:
Will a Bobcat in .25 ACP fit a holster made for a 22 caliber Bobcat?
Will a Bobcat in .25 ACP fit a holster made for a 22 caliber Bobcat?
The answer is yes. The .25 ACP version and .22 caliber version have identical dimensions, so both versions will fit in a holster made for a 22LR version.
Where can I find a magazine carrier for a .25 ACP caliber Bobcat?
Any of the magazine carriers displayed above can be ordered in a version to fit a single stack Bobcat magazine in .22 or .25 Auto.
I spent nearly 10 years working in law enforcement full time, followed by another 5 years as a reserve officer. After my LEO career, I transitioned into corporate security, where I spent 7 years doing corporate investigations and executive protection at one of the largest computer manufacturers in the world. After that, I started a gun holster company called Gunner’s Alley. I’ve been involved in the gun holster industry since 2002, so I have over 20 years of experience with holsters.
