The semi-automatic pocket handgun Beretta 21A Bobcat was created by Beretta in late 1984. It is available with a .25 ACP (6.35 mm) or .22 LR (6.35 mm) chambering. It operates with a simple blowback mechanism, a single- and double-action trigger system, and an exposed hammer. Between the grip holding screws on the left side of the grip is a magazine release button. Depending on the model, the slide and barrel are either constructed of carbon steel or stainless steel while the frame is an aluminum alloy. It has a thumb-operated, frame-mounted, rear-locking safety that also stops the slide. The hammer contains a safety notch for the half-cock. The "tip-up" barrel is one of this gun's distinguishing characteristics. To load the chamber with the slide in the closed position, the barrel turns on a pin beneath the muzzle. On the left side of the frame, above the trigger, is a lever that is used to release it. This makes it easier to load, unload, and check the condition of loads since for some persons, manually pulling the slide back might be challenging. The Bobcat was constructed without an extractor, depending instead on the pressure created by the fired cartridge's expanding gases to eject the spent shells from the chamber. The weapon's design makes a specific ejection route. The Bobcat ejects spent brass upward and rearward rather than to the side like many semi-automatic handguns.