The Beretta M9 returns from Battlefield 3 and is the second sidearm to be unlocked. Attachments available include lights, lasers, barrel attachments, and both iron and optical sights. Handguns offer relatively high damage (even more so with revolvers) at very short range and low damage at distance. Hammers are in the proper positions for single action firing, if available.

As with Battlefield 3, most of the magazine-fed handguns share a new reloading animation. They offer a faster transition time than reloading a primary weapon. Handguns are the only class of weapon to be equipped in the secondary slot in multiplayer (with the single exception of the Serbu Shorty 870). 9.19 Metal Storm Technology Demonstrator.6.6 Desert Tactical Arms Stealth Recon Scout.6.5 Cheyenne Tactical M-200 Intervention.3.7 M26 Modular Accessory Shotgun System.3.2 Cobray Street Sweeper / Armsel Protecta Hybrid.