Five centuries is not a milestone; it’s a legacy few companies in any industry can claim.
In 2026, Fabbrica d’Armi Pietro Beretta will mark 500 years of continuous firearms manufacturing, tracing its origins back to a single transaction in 1526 that quietly launched the longest-running firearms dynasty in history.
As Beretta prepares to celebrate this historic anniversary, the company isn’t just looking back at where it’s been; it’s opening a window into where the firearms industry is headed next, with a year-long global celebration that blends heritage, innovation, and the future of design, technology, and craftsmanship.
Everything started on the 3rd of October 1526, when Bartolomeo Beretta supplied 185 arquebus barrels to the Arsenal of the Republic of Venice. A simple transaction on paper, yet that trade sparked what would become the longest-standing dynasty in the history of firearm manufacturing.
“From that moment on, there has always been a member of our Family guiding the company. Today, we stand at the 15th generation, and we are still here, in Gardone Val Trompia, loyal to our legacy, proudly Italian and strongly bounded to the Valley and its people, but with eyes toward the world… and the future. All these centuries have passed but that fire, that passion that moved us then, is still burning today, not only in our Family, but in all the people that have worked to make this company a world-renowned brand – and a state-of-the-art manufacturing company.” Claimed the 15th generation of the Beretta Family: Pietro Gussalli Beretta, President & CEO of Beretta Holding, and Franco Gussalli Beretta, President & CEO of Fabbrica d’Armi Pietro Beretta S.p.A.
This is a once-in-a-lifetime milestone for the Italian gunmaker – “and we are going to celebrate all year long, with the goal of involving as many people as possible – making them feel part of this anniversary. This is not just a celebration of our Family and our people, this is a tribute to every single hunter, shooter or outdoor lover that made Beretta what it is today, and to the ones that will make Beretta what it will be tomorrow.” stated Carlo Gussalli Beretta, 16th generation of the Family.
In 2026, Beretta will open its doors and reveal the secrets hidden in its long history – the achievements and the challenges that marked its legacy, and the projects to keep the company at the forefront of research, technology, and manufacturing.
Many events will be held around the world to welcome as many enthusiasts as possible into Beretta’s celebrations – and for the lucky ones who will have the chance to visit Beretta headquarters in 2026, the experience is going to be unforgettable.
“This is not just a celebration of our 500 years; this is a window on our next 5 centuries, a view on the future of firearm industry. This anniversary gave us further boost to work on projects never seen before. The solid Beretta team has been working extremely hard, combining what we’ve learned from the past with our vision and the upcoming developments in other industries, to create some of the most unexpected products in firearm history – in every field, and for every passion Beretta can support.” said Carlo Ferlito, CEO and General Manager of Fabbrica d’Armi Pietro Beretta S.p.A.
The Company from Gardone has many surprises in store for 2026, starting with the products.
Beretta will launch:
- 10 unique one-off pieces, magnifying design, art and innovation
- 7 limited and special editions, celebrating Beretta’s past icons, and anticipating new ones
- New product platforms that will lead Beretta product range in the next years
But the celebration goes far beyond firearms. Exclusive apparel, commemorative accessories, and unexpected collaborations with leading brands from other industries will provide people with new ways to connect with this historic moment and with the deeper cultural significance of the firearm world.
Prepare for a year unlike any other — a journey through extraordinary celebrations, groundbreaking innovations, and immersive experiences. A journey that honors five centuries of heritage while boldly shaping the next five.
About Beretta Holding
Beretta Holding S.A., a family-owned manufacturing group, draws on 500 years of expertise in the light firearms sector. Led by President & CEO Mr. Pietro Gussalli Beretta and Vice-President & CEO Mr. Franco Gussalli Beretta, the group comprises over 50 subsidiaries worldwide, offering firearms, ammunition, optics, clothing and accessories.
With nearly 6,000 dedicated employees, a portfolio of 20 prestigious brands, and annual revenues exceeding EUR 1.6 billion, Beretta Holding stands as the parent company of some of the world’s most respected firearms manufacturers including Beretta, Benelli, Sako and Holland & Holland. The group also leads in the optics and ammunition sectors through renowned brands such as Steiner, Burris, RWS, Norma Precision, and SwissP.
Headquartered in Luxembourg, Beretta Holding blends tradition and innovation across its three strategic pillars: manufacturing, distribution, and services. With 20 global production sites, a robust international distribution network, and a growing retail and lifestyle presence, the group delivers excellence and heritage to hunters, sport shooters, and defense professionals worldwide.
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