Encyclopedia of weapons. Experimental and prototype weapons of the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant (pistols)

diets 25.07.2019

diets

Izhevsk Mechanical Plant from the moment of its formation (in 1942) to the present day is engaged in the production of combat and service pistols. The plant is the largest enterprise in Europe for the production of these products. Since the war years, the famous TT pistols (Tula Tokarev) and Nagant revolvers have been produced at the plant. Since 1952, the development of the production of the world-famous Makarov pistol begins. Traditionally, with the production of a product, research work begins almost immediately to find new operational and combat capabilities of the basic design, as well as to study ways to improve the manufacturability of products.

In the 1950-60s, R&D was aimed at improving the combat effectiveness of the TT pistol with the development of its version with an increased magazine capacity (from 8 to 15 rounds), as well as lengthening the barrel of a standard Makarov pistol in order to increase bullet energy and accuracy of fire.

7.62 mm TT pistol designed by R.G. Sevryugin, prototype of the early 1950s. Magazine capacity 15 rounds, effective range 50 m

9-mm PM pistol designed by L.L. Gorbunov, prototype 1968. Magazine capacity 8 rounds, effective range 50 m

In the 90s, with the advent of computer simulation, microelectronics and new polymer materials, the company has developed a range of pistols based on PM with improved characteristics and special features.

The MP-448 Skif pistol was created in the late 1990s by the designer of the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant D.A. Bogdanov. The pistol was developed with the aim of creating the smallest possible mass and dimensions with high reliability in any conditions of use. The task of increasing manufacturability was also posed. The sample was designed using computer technology: first, its model was built, then a blank for the mold was created. At the heart of the development is the Makarov pistol (PM). Unlike the PM, the Skif pistol uses a lighter frame made of high-strength molded plastic, the shape of the handle and its inclination have been changed. This improved the ergonomics of the pistol and its stability when firing. To facilitate the possibility of shooting both from the right and from the left hand, it is possible to install a double-sided fuse box, a magazine latch on the right or left side of the handle. The gun is easy to maintain and operate - it has only 35 parts, including the magazine, incomplete and complete disassembly is carried out without the use of tools using a ramrod. In addition to the basic version, the MP-448S Skif-mini model is produced, which is smaller in size.

9-mm pistol MP-448 "Skif" designed by D.A. Bogdanov, prototype 1999. Magazine capacity 12 rounds, effective range 50 m, weight 0.64 kg

Pistol MR-443 "Bars" - a small-sized pistol with a high stopping power of ammunition. Differs in reliability, manufacturability, the increased safety at the address. The sample was developed by the designer of the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant D.A. Bogdanov in the early 2000s. The closest analogue of this product is PSM (small-sized self-loading pistol), which is considered the thinnest model used in the Russian armed forces. Unlike it, the MP-443, which is also small in size, uses more powerful cartridges - 9x18PM and 9x17K. The use of different ammunition is provided by replacing the barrel. The frame of the pistol is made of steel, which allows you to combine a comfortable handle shape that promotes instinctive aiming and sufficient strength when using the 9x18PM cartridge. Due to the push-button magazine latch, the time for reloading the pistol is reduced compared to the PSM pistol and the convenience of handling the weapon is increased. MP-443 "Bars" was intended to arm the operational staff as a weapon for concealed permanent carry (or the so-called "second chance" weapon - a spare pistol), as well as to arm the women who are part of the above structures.

9-mm pistol MP-443 "Bars" designed by D.A. Bogdanov, prototype 2005. Magazine capacity 6 rounds, effective range 50 m, weight 0.56 kg

Pistol MP-447 - unique sample with an electronic system, conventionally referred to as "BEER" (a pistol with the identification of the owner of the weapon). Its development by the designers of the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant under the leadership of S.V. Gulyaev was started in 1998 and completed in 2001. The design was carried out at the initiative of the enterprise. The main goal was to create service weapons for employees law enforcement with minimal risk of its possession and use by other persons. The design is based on the Makarov pistol. The electronic blocking of the trigger mechanism is removed only if there is a ring with a correspondingly programmed microcircuit on the middle finger of the shooting hand. Receiving a signal from it allows you to fire a shot using an electromechanical drive built into the pistol grip. MP-447 "BEER" was produced in small quantities as a premium weapon. Among the owners of the exclusive development are V.V. Putin, CEO Izhevsk Mechanical Plant V.S. Chuguevsky.

9-mm pistol MP-447 "BEER" (pistol with identification of the owner of the weapon) designed by S.V. Gulyaev, prototype 2001. Magazine capacity 8 rounds, effective range 50 m

Development of a new army pistol

State competition "Rook"
In 1991, the Ministry of Defense announced the R&D (research and development work) program under the code name "Rook". Its goal was to develop a new army pistol, which was supposed to penetrate protected and armored targets, as well as surpass the Makarov pistol in terms of power and magazine capacity. Initially, it was planned to create a modular sample, in which, due to the interchangeable set of barrel and magazine, different cartridges could be used - 9x18PM, 9x18PMM and 7.62x25TT.

Pistol "Grach-1" designed by A.I. Zarochintsev, prototype 1992

TsNIITOCHMASH (Klimovsk), TsKIB SOO (Tula) and the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant took part in the competition for the development of a promising army pistol. In Izhevsk, at the initial stages, three design options were worked out: Grach-1 (designer A.I. Zarochintsev), Grach-2 (designer V.A. Yarygin), Grach-3 (designers B.M. Pletsky , R.G. Shigapov).

The Grach-1 pistol is the first version of the Grach model, presented by the designer of the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant A.I. Zarochintsev at the first stage of the competition. The sample is a modular design that allows the use of cartridges of caliber 7.62x25TT, 9x18PM, 9x18PMM. To do this, it is enough to replace the barrel and magazine. IM ammunition is fired from a free shutter, and PMM and TT cartridges are fired from a semi-free shutter, with braking by powder gases discharged through a side hole in the barrel bore. The trigger mechanism of the sample is double action, which allows firing both self-cocking and with a preliminary cocking of the trigger. In tests in 1993 at the Rzhevka training ground, a strong sensitivity of the gas braking circuit to contamination with powder soot was revealed: after 60 shots, the gas brake stopped working, the shutter speed increased sharply. As a result, the load on the hand increased, and the survivability of the pistol was low. After 1300 shots, the frame was destroyed. After that, work on the Grach-1 pistol was stopped.

Pistol "Grach-2" designed by V.A. Yarygin, prototype 1992. Modular design chambered for 7.62x25TT, 9x18PM, 9x18PMM

Pistol "Grach-2" - a model developed by the designer of the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant V.A. Yarygin. At the first stages, the pistols were also a modular design chambered for 9x18PM, 9x18PMM and 7.62x25TT cartridges, but later it was decided to develop a design for the increased penetration cartridge 9x19 and 9 mm Para. Most of the design solutions of the gun are traditional in order to achieve high reliability. The principle of operation of automation is based on the energy of recoil with a short rollback of the barrel and its hard locking. The sample has a trigger mechanism with an openly located trigger, which allows firing only single shots both self-cocking and with a preliminary cocking of the trigger, unregulated sights. The safety of handling the pistol is ensured by the presence of a double-sided safety lever and a safety cocking of the trigger. On both sides, the trigger is covered with protrusions of the shutter-casing, which prevents it from snagging on clothing or ammunition, retains the firing mechanism when the weapon falls and ensures the safety of the shooter. The frame of the gun is steel, there is a version of the gun in a lightweight version with a frame made of high-strength plastic. In 2003, by decision of the Government of the Russian Federation, the “9-mm Yarygin Pistol” (PYa) was officially adopted by the Russian army. On October 9, 2008, the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs announced the transition from the Makarov pistol to the Yarygin pistol as a standard weapon. Today, PJs are being used by army units, internal troops, special forces of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation and other law enforcement agencies, and are award-winning weapons.

9-mm pistol "Grach-3" designed by B.M.

The Grach-3 pistol (PMM) is a modernized version of the famous Makarov pistol (PM). A new sample was developed by the designers of the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant B.M. Pletsky and R.G. Shigapov in the early 1990s to participate in the competition. They were faced with the task of creating a pistol for the high-impulse 9x18PMM cartridge specially designed for it. It has the dimensions of a standard 9x18PM ammunition, but at the same time it has a great penetrating effect. The PMM differs from the Makarov pistol of the 1951 model in a modified chamber design. Three additional helical grooves are made on its surface, which slow down the recoil of the shutter and smooth out the difference between firing standard and high-impulse ammunition. This made it possible to use both the 9x18PMM and 9x18PM cartridges in the new sample. Another difference between the PMM and the base model is the increased magazine capacity. The shutter delay button has become more convenient than in the PM. The PMM was adopted by the army in 1994 as a temporary measure until the development of the more promising Grach-2 scheme was completed.

Research and development work on the creation of weapons for various purposes

At present, the PJ is a fairly promising design that has the potential in various directions for all kinds of requirements, both domestic paramilitary structures and foreign customers. The Vintuk pistol based on the Yarygin pistol chambered for 10x23T with a traumatic rubber bullet was developed by order of the FSB as a weapon of limited destruction. Unlike civilian models traumatic weapons this gun has an increased muzzle energy up to 120 J and an effective firing range of 10 meters.

Pistol of limited destruction MP-472 "Vintuk" designed by A.I. Lozhkin and A.B. Ushakov, prototype 2009-10. Used cartridge 10x23T, magazine capacity 16 rounds, effective range 10 m, weight 0.81 kg

PYa pistol designed by V.A. Yarygin, prototype chambered for 9x21, 2008. Magazine capacity 18 rounds, effective range 50 m, weight 0.81 kg

A variant of the Yarygin pistol chambered for the powerful 9x21 cartridge was developed at the request of the Ministry of Defense in order to be able to increase kinetic energy bullets for penetrating personal armor protection.

In the 1990-2000s. at the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant, a concept for the development of pistol production was developed. In accordance with it, the practical experience gained in the development of original designs of pistols was actively used with the possibility of supplies not only for domestic orders (for domestic cartridges and requirements), but with the advent of a more flexible system for supplying weapons for export (for foreign cartridges and requirements). There were lines of light and heavy pistols for various purposes.

9-mm pistol MP-444 "Bagheera" designed by R.G. Shigapov, a prototype of the late 1990s. Magazine capacity 10 rounds, effective range 50 m, weight 0.76 kg

The MP-444 "Bagheera" pistol is one of the samples of a family of weapons created by the designer of the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant R.G. Shigapov in parallel with the development of the Yarygin pistol line. It was conceived as the base model of a series of light pistols with high manufacturability for several calibers of ammunition. One of the design features of the pistol is the presence of a buffer, which significantly reduces the recoil momentum. The sight is permanent, with three white dots. The sample frame is equipped with grooves for installing an illuminator or a laser designator, and is made of high-strength polymer plastic to reduce weight. MP-444 "Bagheera" is easy to maintain and operate, incomplete and complete disassembly is carried out without the use of tools using a ramrod.

Pistol MP-445 "Varyag" designed by V.A. Yarygin and D.P. Varlamov, prototype chambered for .40S&W, 2000s. Magazine capacity 15 rounds, effective range 50 m, weight 0.88 kg

The MP-445 "Varyag" pistol is a model that became the basis for a series of so-called "heavy" pistols chambered for high power. Work on its creation began in 1997 by the designers of the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant V.A. Yarygin and D.N. Varlamov. The novelty of the development was the design of a series of both compact and full-size pistols, made on the same base with the possibility of changing the caliber, its orientation for export sales. The sample was developed in several modifications chambered for .40S&W (10x22 mm). These models, which have the same design, differ in external design. At the heart of the MP-445 design - circuit diagram the work of the Yarygin pistol. On the body of the pistol, in front of it, there are grooves for mounting laser designators and tactical lights. To reduce the weight of the pistol and improve manufacturability, a frame made of high-strength plastic was used. Samples were tested jointly with specialists from the FSB special forces. Pistols of the MP-445 series were created as weapons with the possibility of use in practical shooting competitions (IPSC), but so far remain experienced.

9-mm pistol MP-446R "Viking" designed by V.A. Yarygin and D.P. Varlamov, prototype 2000. Magazine capacity 15 rounds, effective range 50 m, weight 0.81 kg

The MP-446 Viking pistol is a sample created for delivery abroad under the 9 mm Para caliber cartridge, which is popular abroad. It was developed at the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant in the period from 1998 to 2000 by designers D. Varlamov and A. Kozin under the guidance of designer V .A. Yarygina. The design of the MP-446 is based on the schematic diagram of the operation of the Yarygin pistol. The magazine latch can be installed both on the right and on the left. The sample frame is made of high-strength injection molded thermoplastic. In 2001, the pistol was put into mass production with the possibility of sales only for export. With development sports movement practical shooting in Russia (1PSC competitions) in 2004, a sports version of the MP-446C pistol was developed for sale on the domestic market. The sports model provides for the possibility of completing the pistol with an elongated barrel, a sports sight and a steel frame. In 2006, a police version of the MP-446R pistol was developed with the ability to change special pads on the handle for specific anthropometric data of the shooter. Currently, the MP-446 pistol is produced and exported to Canada, Australia, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Peru and other countries.

Summing up, I would like to note that these specimens are only a small part of the weapon samples, reflecting the research and development work of Izhevsk gunsmiths in the second half of the 20th century, they represent only some areas in the development of military small arms.

Manufacturer: Izhevsk Mechanical Plant Years of production: since 1951 Total released: about 2 million (USSR) Options: See modifications Characteristics Weight, kg: 0.73 (without cartridges)
0.81 (equipped) Length, mm: 161,5 Barrel length, mm: 93,5 Width, mm: 30,5 Height, mm: 126,75 Cartridge : 9×18 mm PM Caliber, mm: grooves - 9.27 ± 0.075
by fields - 9.00 ±0.06
4 grooves 4.5 ±0.2 wide
groove pitch - 260 ±20 Work principles : blowback recoil rate of fire,
shots/min: 30 (combat rate of fire) Muzzle velocity, m/s: 315 Sighting range, m: 50 Maximum
range, m: 50 (effective)
350 (lethal) Type of ammunition: magazine for 8 rounds Sight : open Pictures on Wikimedia Commons: Makarov pistol (PM)

9mm Makarov pistol (PM, GAU index - 56-A-125 listen)) is a self-loading pistol developed by Soviet designer Nikolai Fedorovich Makarov in 1948. Since 1951, the PM has served as a personal weapon in the Soviet and post-Soviet armed forces and law enforcement agencies. Warranty resource 4000 shots. When replacing the return spring, designed for 5 thousand shots, the shot is up to 40,000 shots.

History of creation

In 1947-1948, a competition was held in the USSR for a new compact pistol for senior officers Soviet army. The TT pistol, and even more so the Nagant revolver, were already considered obsolete. In addition, it was decided to introduce two pistols into the army: a long-barreled automatic for line officers (the Stechkin automatic pistol became it) and a small-sized one for senior officers and as a "peacetime weapon". Under the terms of the competition, it was required to create a pistol with a blowback and a self-cocking trigger mechanism. As a starting point, the designers were offered the well-proven "Walter PP", produced since 1929. Initially, it was required to submit two samples - in calibers 7.65 mm and 9 mm, later settled on the newly created 9 mm cartridge 9 × 18 mm PM, slightly more powerful (bullet energy 300 J) than the 9 × 17 mm cartridge that was used in "Walter PP". The bullet of this cartridge has a better stopping power than the bullet of the 7.62×25 mm TT cartridge, despite the lower power. The moderate power of the cartridge allows the use of a fixed-bore, blowback design.

F. V. Tokarev, S. G. Simonov, S. A. Korovin, I. Ya. Stechkin, K. A. Baryshev, P. V. Voevodin, I. I. Rakov, A. A Klimov, G. V. Sevryugin, A. I. Lobanov, N. F. Makarov. All designs in size, layout and device were similar to the German prototype. Together with Soviet developments, they were also tested on competitive program Walther PP, Mauser HSc, Sauer 38H, Beretta M1934 and FN Browning model 1910/22. Based on the combination of characteristics, the Makarov pistol was recognized as the winner, but it was recommended to make a number of changes to the design. In 1951, the Makarov pistol under the designation PM was adopted for the army and law enforcement agencies.

Nikolai Fedorovich Makarov worked on the creation of his pistol day and night. According to the memoirs of the designer: “Suffice it to say that at that time I worked every day, practically without days off, from eight in the morning until two or three in the morning, as a result of which I finalized and shot samples two or even three times more than my rivals, which, of course, made it possible to perfectly work out reliability and survivability.

The general layout of the PM is similar to the Walter PP pistol, but Makarov has significantly improved basic system"Walter" in several directions: simplification of both the design itself and the handling of the pistol, its maintenance; multifunctionality of parts; improving the reliability of work in extreme conditions operation; increase in the strength of parts and service life; increasing manufacturability and the pace of mass production. The PM trigger mechanism is designed completely differently, the magazine latch and fuse are solved differently, the slide delay lever is added. The folding trigger guard, as a shutter travel limiter, was borrowed from the German design.

Makarov managed to almost completely eliminate the delays in firing caused by sticking a cartridge into the bevel of the chamber. The designer managed to achieve the ideal ratio of the height of the upper cartridge, the geometry and inclination of the bevel of the chamber, the mirror of the shutter-casing and the design of the ejector. In the PM, the upper cartridge in the magazine is located very high, almost at the level of the chamber, as a result, with the other above features, the cartridges are fed with a minimum angle and the risk of sticking is minimized. The PM design is simpler than the Walter PP, it has fewer parts by combining their functions.

PM remained in service with law enforcement agencies after the collapse of the USSR in 1991. PM also continues to be used in the countries of the former socialist bloc, due to its simplicity and reliability. Currently, modifications of the PM are produced in Russia and Bulgaria.

AT Russian troops and law enforcement agencies, the Makarov pistol is gradually being replaced by the Yarygin pistol, PMM and other new models of pistols, but the PM continues to be in service.

Device

The action of the PM is based on blowback recoil. The barrel is locked due to the mass of the bolt and the elasticity of the return spring worn on the barrel.

The action of automatic blowback

Double action trigger mechanism with open trigger. The PM uses a free drummer, which does not have a spring holding it in the rear position. Theoretically, this can lead to spontaneous firing when the pistol is dropped from a great height, but N.F. Makarov believed that the drummer did not have enough mass to seriously consider this possibility.

The gun consists of 32 parts and the following main parts:

frame with barrel and trigger guard;
bolt with striker, ejector and fuse;
return spring;
screw handle;
shutter delay;
score.

After the magazine is inserted and the cartridge is sent to the chamber, the PM can be put on the fuse. In this case, the trigger is safely released from the cocking, the trigger moves away from the drummer and is blocked, the trigger goes forward and is also blocked. The shutter is also blocked (in the "Walter PP" the shutter is not blocked and the weapon can be reloaded with the fuse on). When the fuse is on, the PM is ready to be worn.

Shot from the PM

Before firing, the fuse box located on the left side of the rear of the bolt must be moved to the lower position, to the “fire” position (more convenient than in the “Walter PP”, where the lever must be moved to the upper position). The trigger will get on the safety platoon and the PM will be ready to fire by self-cocking. The first time you pull the trigger, the hammer is cocked at the same time, so the trigger requires more effort than when the trigger is cocked - about 3.5 kg. After the first shot, the trigger will be cocked (put on a combat platoon) and a short, light pressing with a force of about 1.5 kg is enough for a shot.

Once the safety is released, the hammer can be manually cocked, as in single action pistols, for a more accurate first shot. When cocking the trigger, the trigger pulls back. Now the first shot can be fired with a short press. The trigger can be removed from the cocking by holding it with your thumb and pulling the trigger. After the trigger is released and moves forward, the hammer will be set to a safety cocking, which prevents contact of the hammer with the firing pin when the hammer is not fully cocked.

Some parts, such as the mainspring and, in particular, the fuse, have a rather complex shape. But, in the future, a change in technology made it possible to simplify and reduce the cost of production.

Accuracy and dispersion

The PM has good accuracy for a compact pistol. When firing at 25 meters with standard 57-N-181 cartridges, the R100 dispersion radius is 75 mm, and at 50 meters - 160 mm. At a distance of 10 meters, the dispersion radius is only 35 mm.

The pistol battle is checked by shooting at 25 m in a black circle with a diameter of 25 cm, mounted on a shield 1 m high and 0.5 m wide. The accuracy of the PM battle is recognized as normal if all four holes fit in a circle with a diameter of 15 cm. , if it deviates from the control point by no more than 5 cm in any direction.

The dispersion radius when firing from a pistol brought to normal combat is characterized by the following numbers:

Assembly / disassembly of the pistol

Regular holster for PM

Disassembly of the gun can be incomplete and complete.

Partial disassembly is performed for cleaning, lubricating and inspecting the gun in the following order:

remove the magazine from the base of the handle;
lower the trigger guard down and move it to the left;
separate the shutter from the frame;
return the trigger guard to its place;
remove the return spring from the barrel.

Assembly after incomplete disassembly carried out in reverse order.

After the gun is checked for correct assembly:

remove the gun from the fuse;
put the shutter on the shutter delay;
remove the shutter from the shutter delay;
put the gun on safety.

Complete disassembly is carried out for cleaning in case of heavy contamination, after the gun has been exposed to rain or snow, when switching to a new lubricant and during repairs in the following order:

incomplete disassembly of the gun;
separation of the sear and slide delay from the frame;
separation of the handle from its base and the mainspring from the frame;
separating the trigger from the frame;
separating the trigger rod with the cocking lever from the frame;
separating the trigger from the frame;
separation of the fuse and drummer from the bolt;
separation of the ejector from the shutter;
store demolition.

Assembly after complete disassembly is carried out in the reverse order.

Frequent complete disassembly of the gun is not allowed, as it accelerates the wear of parts and mechanisms.

Modifications

A large number of combat, service and civilian modifications have been developed on the basis of the Makarov pistol.

USSR/Russia

Makarov pistol (PM)
TKB-023- a prototype with a polymer frame. Developed at the Instrument Design Bureau in the early 1960s. based on PM, was not mass-produced (the operational properties of the polymer frame did not meet the requirements of the customer).
IZH70(9 × 18 mm, 8-round magazine, adjustable sight) - commercial version, developed in the early 1990s as a "sports training pistol"

IZH70-17A(.380 ACP, 8-round magazine, adjustable sights)
IZH70-17AS(.380 ACP, 8-round magazine, adjustable sight, chrome finish, plastic mainspring)
IZH70-17AH(.380 ACP, HiCap, adjustable scope)
IZH70-18A(9x18mm, 8-round magazine, adjustable sight)
IZH70-18AS(9x18mm, 8-round magazine, adjustable scope, chrome finish)
IZH70-18AH(9×18 mm, HiCap, commercial version, adjustable sight)
IZH71-18(9x18mm, HiCap, fixed scope)
IZH71-17(.380 ACP, HiCap, fixed scope)

Baikal 442(sports pistol chambered for 9×18 mm, 8-, 10- or 12-shot magazines, modern version of the PMM with a push-button magazine latch)
MP-71(from 1996 until September 2008 it was produced under the name IZH-71) - service pistol chambered for 9 × 17 mm (.380 ACP)
MP-71N(until September 2008 it was produced under the name IZH-71-100- service pistol chambered for 9 × 17 mm, magazine for 10 rounds (.380 ACP))

Gas pistol Izh 79-8

Baikal MR-654K(pneumatic gas balloon, caliber 4.5 mm, replica MP-71N.

Baikal MP654KS(chrome plated MP654K)

MP-371(signal pistol for primers "Zhevelo" / KV21, uses imitators of cartridges for primers in the likeness of TT-S, outwardly looks like IZH-79-9T, entirely made of steel)

PMM

Literature

Bolotin D.N. History of Soviet weapons and cartridges. - St. Petersburg: Polygon, 1995
Zhuk A. B. Encyclopedia of small arms. - M .: Military Publishing House, 1998.
Unknown Makarov.//Weapons, No. 10, 2004, special issue.
M. Dragunov. In a fair fight.//Kalashnikov. Weapons, ammunition, equipment, 2008, No. 1, p. 14-25

Video

In the US, more and more people are choosing to take their personal safety into their own hands, and so there is a growing demand in the gun market for compact weapons that can easily fit in a pocket. The times when the choice of compact pistols and revolvers was limited to models chambered in .25 and .32 ACP are long gone. Today, there are a huge number of weapons in this category, and everyone can choose the right model.

We present you the best 12 compact pistols and revolvers according to the popular American magazine Tactical-life.

The market for compact weapons in last years grown seriously. There are two reasons for this: 1) more states are liberalizing concealed carry laws, and 2) law enforcement agencies are requiring their employees to carry spare weapons that are easy to hide.

To respond to market demands, they released the LC9 model chambered in 9mm, and then the LC9s in the same caliber (the s stands for striker trigger).

The LC9s is only 15.2 cm long and 2.2 cm wide. Thanks to its glass nylon frame, it weighs only 487 grams. For greater strength, inside the frame there is an insert made of metal alloy with guides for the casing-shutter. The shutter casing is made of hardened blued steel. Sight - mechanical, three-point, with the ability to correct for the wind.

Thanks to the striker trigger, the pistol works simply and reliably, which is very important for weapons designed for self-defense. When the casing-shutter is jerked, the drummer is cocked to the end with the help of the “tail” (as it is called in the Ruger company) in the rear part, and is held in this position with the help of a sear. When the firing pin is cocked, the trigger is very crisp, light, and has a short travel.

Characteristics:
Caliber: 9mm
Barrel Length: 3.12"
Total length: 15cm
Weight: 487 grams
Handle: glass nylon
Sight: mechanical, three-point
USM: percussion
Finishing: bluing
Magazine capacity: 7+1
MSRP: $449

Glock 42

At Glock, since 1982, they have hardly changed the design of the pistol, and all their full-size pistols have been complemented by excellent subcompact models. But, until recently, there was no pocket pistol in the Glock line. With the help of the manufacturer proved that their concept works in models of different sizes and calibers.

It has everything you'd expect from a .380 polymer pocket pistol with a striker trigger - an interchangeable dovetail three-dot sight, a no-force breech, a reversible magazine catch, and a slide lag. USM, which is called "Safe Action", consists of a trigger, striker and protection against a shot in the event of careless handling of weapons.

The Glock 42 features a new unique dual recoil spring and a 3.25" cold forged barrel. Interestingly, when firing, the barrel and the casing-bolt are rigidly linked, unlike most other blowback models chambered in .380. The result is a pistol with less recoil. Glock 42 is the best choice for pistols chambered in .380, and if you already have a full-sized Glock, then this model will serve as a great addition to it.

Characteristics:
Caliber: .380 ACP
Barrel Length: 3.25"
Total length: 15cm
Weight: 390 grams
Handle: polymer
Sight: mechanical
USM: "Safe Action"
Finishing: black, surface hardened

MSRP: $637

Has been producing pistols based on the Colt 1911 model since the mid-1980s, and has been very successful in this business. Their models have a modified trigger, and special frames, slides and barrels have made it possible to create an excellent product that costs only a little more than the standard 1911 model. The first resounding success came in 2011 with the Range Officer model. This is a great example of a .45 ACP match pistol priced under $1,000. But it's time to talk about the next successful model.

Differences from the Range Officer include a polished and thickened barrel, double recoil spring and full length guide rod. The 4" long stainless steel match barrel has a guide chute to feed the cartridge into the chamber. To reduce the weight of the pistol, the frame in it is made of aluminum alloy, and the almost 16 cm long housing-bolt is made of carbon steel. The same frame and slide are used on the more expensive Springfield Trophy Match and TRP models.

The rear sight with white dots is mounted on a dovetail, the front sight is red, made of fiber optics. It has a comfortable beaded grip, a slightly enlarged extraction window, a beavertail lug safety lever, a serrated trigger, and a lightweight skeletonized trigger with a trigger pull of 2.5 kg.

On the shooting range, it showed its best qualities - less recoil, and faster aiming between shots. From 15 yards, a group of 5 shots hit 1.5 inches. For the price of $989, you get a great pistol with premium features.

Characteristics:
Caliber: .45 ACP
Barrel length: 4 inches
Total length: 19cm
Weight: 800 grams.
Handle: with wooden lining
Sight: rear sight with white dots, front sight - red, fiber optic
USM: trigger
Finishing: parkerized
Magazine capacity: 6+1
MSRP: $989

As one of the most revered brands, it boasts one of the widest lines of pocket pistols. The company never stops, and today it can offer weapons for any category. The M&P Bodyguard 380 Crimson Trace pistol is the same M&P Bodyguard .380, but with an integrated Crimson Trace laser pointer. He still has the same polymer frame, casing-bolt and stainless steel barrel, with a mechanical sight and an external fuse. It is slightly larger than the models chambered in .25 ACP, but it is still an almost perfect pistol to carry in your pocket, and the vast majority of shooters correct with its recoil. This tiny only self-cocking pistol is one of the safest. The safety flag is quite rigid, and is slightly recessed into the frame to prevent accidental activation in case you do not use it at all. On the casing-shutter there are notches in the form of fish scales, on the handle there are recesses for the fingers. Comes with 2 magazines (one with a finger rest, the other without) made of stainless steel for 6 rounds.

Characteristics:
Caliber: .380 ACP
Barrel Length: 2.75"
Total length: 13cm
Weight: 348 grams
Handle: polymer
Sight: fixed, LCC
USM: self-cocking only

Magazine capacity: 6+1
MSRP: $449

M&P Bodyguard 38 Revolver Crimson Trace

This model also differs from the M&P Bodyguard 38 Revolver only in the presence of a laser pointer. Other than that, it's the same radical 5-round polymer revolver that was introduced in 2010. It is simple, lightweight, and can handle most of the popular .38 Special cartridges, also high pressure+P. The ambidextrous barrel ejection button, which is located on top, is an innovative feature of this revolver. This revolver offers the same firepower the same size as classic steel or alloy J-frame revolvers, while being lighter.

Characteristics:
Caliber: .38 Special +P
Barrel Length: 1.9"
Total length: 16.7cm
Weight: 407 grams

Sight: fixed, LCC
USM: self-cocking
Finishing: black matte finish

MSRP: $539

Kimber Manufacturing is known for its high quality Colt 1911 based pistols and rifles. But the market for pocket pistols also haunted them, and the company released the Kimber Solo Carry model. It is not like other subcompact pistols chambered in 9mm. Among sports shooting enthusiasts, a polymer frame is a must in the design. But the company managed to make an alloy frame that does not need steel inserts to reinforce it. Shutter housing - stainless steel, sight - three-point. The extraction window boasts generous dimensions, and all the outer corners of the gun are slightly “melted”.

Like most modern pistols, the Kimber Solo Carry is a percussion trigger. The fuse and magazine release button are ambidextral. Later, the Solo Carry DC (LG) model was released, which differs from its predecessor by the presence of a black diamond-like coating, which makes the pistol more durable and inconspicuous. Also on board there is a laser from Crimson Trace. With a total length of 14 cm, this model is a tidbit for lovers of the 1911, and the quality materials and workmanship prove the impeccable reputation of the manufacturer.

Characteristics:
Caliber: 9mm
Barrel Length: 3.12"
Total length: 14cm
Weight: 481 grams
Handle: made of synthetic material
Sight: fixed, LCC
USM: percussion
Finishing: DLC
Magazine capacity: 6+1
MSRP: $1,204

is a 5-shot revolver with a very bold design, as the right side of the frame is transparent thanks to the Lexan plate. The work of USM can now be observed in literally. The trigger is chrome plated and the shortened hammer is gold plated. The trigger itself has a Taurus Security System that allows you to immobilize it with a key.

Although the 85VTA View is based on the Model 85 revolver, external signs you will not find similarities in them. Its small grip is a step away from the design of a compact weapon. The barrel shroud is made of titanium, the loose barrel is made of steel. The front sight is cut right into the barrel casing. Entirely serves as a cutout in the upper part of the frame. The frame itself is aluminum, and the drum is made of titanium.

Characteristics:
Caliber: .38 Special
Barrel length: 1.41 inches
Total length: 14.4cm
Weight: 255 grams
Handle: ribbed polymer
Sight: mechanical
USM: self-cocking
Finishing: painted aluminum
Drum capacity: 5 rounds
MSRP: $599

A few years ago, Kahr Arms acquired Magnum Research Inc (MRI), which is famous for its But few people know that MRI also manufactures centerfire rifles, large-caliber single-action trigger revolvers and semi-automatic side-fire rifles. They also import several models of semi-automatic pistols from Israel. All of their Colt 1911 based pistols are made by Bul, and smaller models Desert Eagle manufactured by Israeli Weapons Industries.

The Desrt Eagle 1911U (Undercover) is a single-action aluminum-framed pistol chambered in .45 ACP. At the junction of the handle and the trigger guard there is a recess that makes it easier to hold the gun, and the location of the grip safety allows you to use a higher grip. The safety flag works clearly, as does the trigger, the trigger pull of which is 1.5 kg. This model does not have a firing pin safety.

Characteristics:
Caliber: .45 ACP
Barrel length: 3 inches
Total length: 17.4cm
Weight: 731 grams
Handle: grooved walnut
Sight: adjustable rear sight, dovetail front sight
USM: single action
Finishing: black matte finish
Magazine capacity: 6+1
MSRP: $946

The CCP model is available in two-tone or black Cerakote. Like other popular subcompact models chambered in 9mm, it also has a polymer frame and a striker trigger. But this model is different because it has a blowback and innovative gas piston technology.

Having disassembled the gun, you can see the merger of the old and new technology. It has a fixed barrel and a large recoil spring... and a "Soft Coil" semi blowback. When fired, powder gases are directed through a small hole in the barrel into a chamber located inside the frame. In other words, this is an auxiliary recoil absorption mechanism that is activated when fired. Due to this, a softer return spring is installed in the gun.

The gas piston, which is attached to the bottom of the shutter housing, enters the chamber when fired, and uses powder gases to create back pressure. As the bolt moves backwards, the piston is pushed out by propellant gases, slowing down the recoil of the bolt until the bullet leaves the barrel and releases the remaining internal pressure. After that, the shutter finishes its movement back, and the sleeve is ejected.

Thus, muzzle rise is reduced, and aiming between shots is faster.

Characteristics:
Caliber: 9 mm
Barrel Length: 3.54"
Total length: 16cm
Weight: 630 grams
Handle: polymer
Scope: white dots
USM: percussion
Finishing: matte black frame, stainless steel shutter
Magazine capacity: 8+1
MSRP: $469-489

Widely used by law enforcement agencies, elite military personnel and ordinary citizens who have taken care of their protection. Model P238, working on the principle of short-stroke barrel recoil, has become the most popular among all pistols from this manufacturer.

In appearance, it resembles the Colt 1911, only without the barrel guide and grip safety. The location of the safety catch allows you to carry a pistol with a cocked trigger, and, if necessary, quickly transfer the pistol to a state of combat readiness.

Aggressive serrations on the grip in gray and black ensure a secure grip, and there is a recess at the junction of the grip and the trigger guard, which makes it easier to hold the pistol.

Characteristics:
Caliber: .380 ACP
Barrel Length: 2.7"
Total length: 14cm
Weight: 436 grams
Handle: Hogue G10 grips
Scope: SigLite Night
USM: single action
Finishing: black hard-anodized
Magazine capacity: 7 + 1 (or 6 + 1 with a short magazine)
MSRP: $752

Founded in 2003, SCCY makes handguns that are reliable, easy to handle, and affordable. The CPX range with a lifetime warranty is a great proof of this. The CPX-2 is a compact pistol chambered in 9mm with trigger action. The black resin frame has a 7075-T6 aluminum alloy insert. Trigger force - 4 kg, USM - only self-cocking.

Unlike some compact handguns, the CPX-2 sits comfortably in the hand. A distinctive feature of this model is the presence of a recoil absorber at the back of the handle, which compresses when fired. At the junction of the handle and the trigger guard there is a cut, and on the handle itself there are cutouts for the fingers.

SCCY has two main lines of handguns: CPX-2 and CPX-1. Both of them are compact pistols chambered in 9mm caliber with a trigger trigger only self-cocking. The only difference between the two is the ambidextral guard on the CPX-1. Since the USM of this pistol is self-cocking only, the safety cannot work as a safe cocking lever. These pistols offer maximum performance on a limited budget.

Characteristics:
Caliber: 9mm
Barrel length: 3.1 inches
Total length: 14.5cm
Weight: 425 grams
Handle: polymer
Sight: three-point
USM: self-ascending
Finishing: black nitride coating (CPX-2 CB) or matte black bezel with stainless steel shutter (CPX-1 TT)
Magazine capacity: 10+1
MSRP: $314 and $334

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The Makarov pistol

One of the first mass-produced PMs produced in 1949, the distinctive features of which are figured frames, a protrusion on the right side of the trigger guard and magazines with an oblique protrusion to turn off the slide delay.

PM pistol produced in 1977

The history of the creation of PM

A pistol designed by Nikolai Fedorovich Makarov was adopted to replace the TT, which did not meet the new requirements of the army for personal short-barreled weapons. During the Second World War, the soldiers and officers of the Red Army gained vast experience combat use personal short-barreled weapons, both domestic and captured, of various designs and manufacturers. The advantages, disadvantages and various features of most combat pistols of that time were identified. In particular, clashes at short and ultra-short distances, close combat in urban conditions showed insufficient stopping power of the cartridge bullet used in standard TT pistols, compared to the more effective 9 mm cartridges of the German Parabellums and Walthers, as well as several significant shortcomings of the weapons. For example, the TT did not provide a sufficient degree of safety in handling due to the lack of a safety mechanism, in addition to the safety cocking of the trigger, which did not allow you to safely carry a pistol in full combat readiness at all times. TT also had a fairly large length.

Its simple trigger mechanism worked only in single action mode, while the best German captured pistols had a double action trigger, allowing you to safely carry a pistol with a cartridge previously sent to the chamber, and the owner of the weapon could instantly open fire. It became obvious the need to develop and adopt a more advanced model of personal weapons that meets all the requirements of that time. And, in fact, the officers preferred to go into battle not with a pistol, but with a much more effective submachine gun, using a service TT or captured Walter only when absolutely necessary, if a more effective weapon failed or corny ran out of cartridges. So even during the war, it was decided to replace the Tokarev pistol with a modern model with higher combat and operational qualities. As a result, not only the requirements for personal weapons were revised, but also the overall concept of its use in the army.

The new pistol was supposed to have smaller dimensions and weight, a trigger mechanism that allows you to open fire without cocking the trigger, a greater stopping effect of a bullet, greater safety in handling and high reliability in difficult operating conditions. An experienced Makarov pistol was developed at the Tula TsKB-14 (later renamed TsKIB SOO) under the designation TKB-429, which just met the above requirements. At the beginning of the search for the best option and the early stage of development work, Makarov designed two versions of his pistol. One chambered for 7.65mm Browning, which gave an advantage in smaller dimensions and weight of weapons, the other chambered for a more powerful domestic 9 × 18. The 9×18 cartridge was created by engineer Semin before the start of the war. Its prototype was the German 9mm Ultra, developed by the German company GECO, however, having the same cartridge case length, these cartridges are not interchangeable, since the bullet diameter of the domestic cartridge is 9.2 mm. In terms of energy and bullet speed, the 9×18 (official designation 57-N-181) occupies a niche between 9mm Short and 9mm Parabellum, having more bullet stopping power than the former and at the same time the possibility of using it in blowback weapons, in comparison with second. The new Russian 9mm cartridge was shorter than the standard 7.62×25 cartridge, with lower muzzle velocity and bullet energy, and less penetration. However, due to the larger caliber, it not only possessed no less stopping power than the more powerful 7.62 mm cartridge, but even surpassed it in this quality. As a result, the choice was made in favor of a more effective 9 mm cartridge.

Makarov worked day and night on the creation of his pistol. According to the memoirs of the designer: “Suffice it to say that at that time I worked every day, practically without days off, from eight in the morning until two or three in the morning, as a result of which I finalized and shot samples two or even three times more than my rivals, which, of course, made it possible to perfectly work out reliability and survivability. Having chosen the scheme of operation of automation using recoil energy with a free shutter, the designer made the weapon small-sized, relatively light, very reliable in operation, easy to maintain and inexpensive to manufacture. In general, the overall layout and design of weapon components and mechanisms were based on the solutions used in the German Walther PP, but at the same time Makarov significantly improved them in several areas: simplifying both the design itself and the handling of the pistol, its maintenance; multifunctionality of parts; increase of reliability of work in extreme conditions of operation; increase in the strength of parts and service life; increasing manufacturability and the pace of mass production. The recoil spring is located around the barrel, which made the pistol more compact and lighter than designs in which this spring is placed under the barrel.

Makarov managed to almost completely eliminate the delays in firing caused by sticking the cartridge into the feed ramp. The designer managed to achieve the ideal ratio of the height of the upper cartridge, the geometry and inclination of the bevel of the chamber, the mirror of the shutter-casing and the design of the ejector. In the PM, the upper cartridge in the magazine is located very high, almost at the level of the chamber, as a result of which, with the other above-mentioned features, the cartridges are fed with a minimum angle and the risk of sticking is minimized. The same Walter PP is very "finicky" to the shape of the bullet of the used cartridges due to the low location of the upper cartridge in relation to the chamber. The reliability of the PM thanks to this design was proven not only in tests, but most importantly, in real combat operations - in Afghanistan, Chechnya, and other countries where local warriors were and continue to be fought. The trigger mechanism of the trigger type, double action with automatic setting of the trigger on the safety platoon has a much simpler and more technologically advanced design. Descent with a warning. Trigger force when firing with a pre-cocked trigger, in single action mode, is 2 kg, and when firing by self-cocking - 4.5 kg. The parts of the trigger are much stronger, more durable, and the mechanism itself is easier to maintain than the one used in the PP pistol. On the left side of the frame is the slide stop lever.

Makarov PM pistol device

On the left surface of the shutter-casing there is a safety lever, which, when turned on, blocks the drummer and safely pulls the trigger from the cocking. In the on position, the fuse blocks the sear and the shutter-casing, while the trigger does not touch the firing pin. The PM fuse is an original design that differs significantly from the Walter PP system, and the only significant similarity is the location. Makarov designed the fuse, which is turned off by moving the lever to the lower position, that is, by the natural movement of the thumb of the shooter's hand holding the weapon, while Walter's fuse is turned off by moving the lever up. Sights consist of a fixed front sight, made as part of a shutter-casing, and a rear sight fixed in a dovetail groove with the possibility of making lateral corrections. A magazine latch is located at the bottom of the handle. The gun consists of only 32 parts.

The PM has good accuracy for a compact pistol. When firing at 25 meters with standard 57-N-181 cartridges, the dispersion radius of R100 is 75 mm, and at 50 meters - 160 mm. At a distance of 10 meters, the dispersion radius is only 35 mm. It is necessary to separately note one of the design features of the PM - the multifunctionality of parts. For example, a two-bladed lamellar mainspring of a complex shape, in addition to its direct and main purpose, also performs the function of a hammer rebound spring by bending its wide feather, and the lower end of the spring is a magazine latch. Some parts, especially the fuse, have a rather complex shape. But later, a change in the production method made it possible to simplify and reduce the cost of the technological process. As a result, Nikolai Fedorovich created a pistol, which is an independent design with a number of original solutions, much more reliable, durable, simple and has a longer service life than the Walther PP taken as the basis.

F.V. pistols took part in the competitive tests. Tokareva, I.I. Rakova, P.V. Voevodina, S.A. Korovina, A.A. Klimova, GV. Sevryugina, S.G. Simanova and A.I. Lobanov, as well as foreign systems such as Walther PP, Mauser HSc, Sauer 38H, Beretta M1934 and FN Browning model 1910/22. At the same time, the standard TT was the reference pistol. The most severe test was the placement of pistols in a pit filled with sand and water. In this case, the Makarov sample demonstrated an undeniable superiority in reliability. Pistol designed by N.F. Makarov, according to the results of tests in 1948, was recognized as the best, but it was recommended to make a number of changes to the design. After some refinement, the pistol was put into service under the designation PM (Makarov Pistol) in 1951. At the same time, after all the necessary work to improve and prepare for mass production, its production was launched at the Izhevsk Machine-Building Plant back in 1949.

It should be noted that in the initial period of production, work was carried out in parallel to improve and adapt the design of the pistol to mass production and to develop the most suitable technology. The designers and technologists of the plant did a great job. Identified defects were eliminated, such as a small operational resource, a quick draft of the mainspring and other shortcomings. As a result, the original version of the PM pistol has undergone a number of changes, both internal and external. The experience of combat use in the army and law enforcement agencies indicates a very high reliability and ease of handling and maintenance of these weapons. Over time, shortcomings also emerged: a small stopping and penetrating effect of a bullet; small magazine capacity; narrow handle, with a small angle of inclination like that of the TT - 102 °, which does not provide full contact with the palm. Shooters with a low level of training or without regular training shooting with the PM demonstrate not high accuracy, since its handle and somewhat peculiar "grip" need to get used to.

When shooting from PM, especially when the bluing is erased, in side light, a reflection on the front sight is perceived as the absence of its side part. As a result, the shooter turns the weapon in the direction of the light and the bullets fall away from the center. As a disadvantage of the weapon, one can also consider the presence of a manually operated safety lever, which complicates the handling of the weapon. However, at that time, the concept of personal peacetime short-barreled weapons dominated, that is, light, compact, convenient, with the necessary accuracy at short firing distances and not burdensome in everyday wear. In the event of the outbreak of hostilities, personal weapons would no longer be any serious and significant on the battlefield. Therefore, the shortcomings of the Makarov pistol were not seriously taken into account, especially in comparison with its advantages.

The very first PMs were produced in Tula in a trial batch of 20 to 30 pieces. The numbers began with "TM", followed by numbers and the year. After that, the release of Makarov pistols was transferred to Izhevsk, where in 1949 a trial batch of 5000 copies was made, with numbers starting with "TM". The frames of early production pistols (1949 - 1953) are distinguished by a curly front part, and the trigger guard has a protrusion on the right side top edge. The side protrusion of the trigger guard, when pulled down, opened up access to the trigger, making it possible to remove it. In 1949, the number of the pistol was stamped on the rather wide front lower end of the shutter-casing. In later versions, the numbers were placed on the left side of the shutter-casing and frame. The slide delay at the bottom had an off lever, also called a tooth. After the last cartridge was used up, the shutter-casing became on the shutter delay, and at the moment of attaching the equipped magazine, the lever (tooth) of the shutter delay, interacting with the inclined protrusion of the window on the left side of the magazine, released the shutter-casing, sending the cartridge into the chamber. In order to ensure greater safety in handling weapons, the lever that automatically turns off the shutter delay was subsequently abolished. Now, in order to release the shutter-casing with the magazine removed or attached, it is necessary to press on the outer lug of the shutter delay. Such a decrease in the combat qualities of weapons, which increases the reloading time, of course, is a controversial decision, but justified by the practice of exploitation in the troops. The rear wall of the base of the handle of the PM frame of the release of 1949 with a flat surface does not have a bracket for clamping the mainspring, which is held directly by the handle and the screw. Since 1950, the shape of the rear surface of the base of the handle has been changed, due to the fact that the fastening of the screw holding the mainspring and the cheeks of the handle was constantly weakening.

In 1950, the production of the same curly frames began, but with the base of the handle, which has a mount for the mainspring clamp bracket and the clamp itself. The 1949 pistols were equipped with grip cheeks with a diamond-shaped cross-cut on the back surface, the color of which could be either black or brown. Later ones have a smooth back surface, and are only red-brown in color with various shades of it. From the second half of 1953, they began to produce pistols with a modified form of the trigger rod and a reduced free play of the trigger, as well as transitional models with a curly frame, a bracket for clamping the mainspring, and with a trigger guard that does not have a ledge. In 1954, the configuration of the flag safety lever changed somewhat. From the same year, the production of a new type of frame, with a thin front part, began, which is still used today. In 1970, a reduced rate of shooting was adopted - from 5000 to 2500 shots. In 1984, in order to ensure more convenient handling of weapons, the number of notches on the left surface of the shutter-casing was increased from ten to thirteen. Since 1988, the safety lever has been manufactured using the method of casting into a mold and subsequent milling. Around 1989, workmanship deteriorated. Gradually simplified the form of the shutter delay lever. The trigger and trigger also began to be made using the same method. The shape of the front part of the trigger guard was changed, which in the 90s began to be made by casting. In 1993, the production of pistols with a cast frame was launched.

One of the most important advantages of the pistol, created by Nikolai Fedorovich Makarov, is the reliability of work in the most difficult operating conditions. This quality has been proven not only in tests and operation in the army, but also in harsh combat conditions. The first major military conflict in which the PM took part, in more or less significant quantities, was the Vietnam War. In the incredibly harsh conditions of the war in the jungles of Southeast Asia, the Makarov pistol demonstrated excellent reliability. And then in Afghanistan, with minimal care and sand ingress, the PM worked flawlessly. In the First and Second Chechen Warriors, the Makarov pistol again proved its reliability, without letting the fighters down. Russian Army and Internal Troops at the right moment, when the cartridges in the machine shop ran out, or you had to act in close combat. Former and current officers, veterans of the Afghan war and two Chechen companies who had a chance to use their Makarov service pistol in battle, speak something like this: “In those conditions when both the pistol and your hands are all dirty, sometimes after a long absence of any kind of care for weapons, I very much doubt that then some foreign pistol would not have failed, and the PM saved the lives of many of our fighters. Of course, with a strong clogging of the chamber, the mirror of the shutter-casing, the grooves of the frame and the shutter-casing, the ejector spring, delays sometimes occur, but most of them are caused by careless handling of weapons and other shortcomings due to the fault of the owner.

In the early 1990s, as a result of the collapse of the Soviet Union and a significant reduction in government orders for the army and law enforcement agencies, Izhmekh began manufacturing export versions of the Makarov pistol for the civilian arms market. Such pistols differed mainly in the presence of a rear sight adjustable in two planes and enlarged cheeks of the handle with protrusions for the thumb. By the mid 1990s. new versions of the PM were presented: IZH-70 chambered for 9 × 18 with an adjustable whole; IJ70-17A (IZH-70-200), whose production began in 1994, uses the 9mm Short (9x17) cartridge, and its variants IZH-70-100 (chambered for 9x18) and IZH-70-300 ( under 9 × 17) are distinguished by magazines with a capacity of 10 rounds; in 1995, a service version of the PM, created for security structures, was released under the designation IZH-71 chambered for 9 × 17, produced in various versions, differing in magazine capacity and sights.

In accordance with the Law on Weapons, issued in 1997, which regulated the use of firearms by private security organizations, Izhmekh launched the production of PM chambered for 9 × 17 (9mm Short), the bullet energy of which was 20% less than the standard 9 × 18 cartridge. Such weapons are classified as service weapons. One of the newest variants of the PM is the Baikal-442, which is a sports and training modification of the Makarov pistol chambered for 9 × 18. The main differences between this weapon and its prototype are a trigger guard with a front ledge, a wider handle with a protruding diamond-shaped notch on the front and handle cheeks with side projections for the shooter's thumb. Shop with double-row arrangement of 10 or 12 rounds. The width of the handle is 34 mm. On a separate order, it is supplied with a push-button magazine latch located under the shutter delay lever and can be equipped with a laser designator and a micrometer as a whole, adjustable in two planes.

AT Russian Federation civilians, under the Law on Weapons, since the time of the Bolshevik coup, do not have the right to own short-barreled weapons, unlike many European countries, and even more so the United States, with civilized and democratic legislation, where Russian pistols are exported and can be bought relatively freely by ordinary citizens or those with a residence permit. As a result, for the domestic market, the manufacturer of Makarov pistols and its various variants was forced to develop the following products based on the combat PM: air gun MP-654K caliber 4.5 mm; gas IZH-79-8 and MP-79 chambered for 8 mm cartridge; traumatic 9 mm pistols Izh-79-9T "Makarych" and MP-79-9TM, as well as MP-80-13T chambered for .45 Rubber. Leaving aside the pneumatic gun for sport shooting and gas models, which have proved to be extremely ineffective for self-defense, the most popular are traumatic products that shoot rubber balls.

PM has become widespread not only in the Warsaw Pact countries, but also in many friendly countries. Soviet Union countries and later around the world. Wherever the Makarov pistol was used, its highest reliability and simplicity were noted, as a result of which this weapon became very popular even with a large selection of much more modern and samples from leading arms companies in Europe and the USA. Makarov pistols, in addition to the Soviet Army and law enforcement agencies, were in service and manufactured under license in the GDR, Bulgaria, China and the Dominican Republic. After the reunification of Germany, the release of PM was launched by the famous German arms manufacturer - Simson. Despite all its advantages, the Makarov pistol by the end of the 1980s did not meet the requirements for personal short-barreled weapons. Due to the widespread use of personal armor protection equipment (PIB) in the armies of most countries of the world and the vigorous activity of terrorist organizations, the weapon had to use a powerful cartridge with a high penetrating and stopping effect of a bullet, and have high firepower. In order to create a new, more efficient pistol, design work was launched at the Grach competition.

A temporary solution to the problem was the PMM pistol (Makarov Pistol Upgraded) chambered for 9 × 18 PMM with a reinforced powder charge and a lightweight bullet with a steel core and a conical warhead. The pistol itself differs from the prototype in a simpler form of the shutter-casing, enlarged cheeks of the handle with side protrusions for the thumb, as well as an increased-capacity magazine with a two-row arrangement of cartridges. Compared to the PM, the PMM pistol has higher combat qualities, which, however, are inferior to Western counterparts. The 9x18 PMM cartridges are not interchangeable with standard cartridges and cannot be used in weapons chambered for 9x18. Due to some confusion, there were problems with breakdowns of standard PMs. The PMM has not become widespread, and the PYa pistol, which won the Grach competition, cannot yet replace the PM due to financial difficulties. As a result, at present, the Makarov pistol still remains a service weapon in the army and police. Nevertheless, in spite of everything, the Makarov pistol combines the best qualities of a compact personal short-barreled self-defense weapon. It is compact, very reliable, durable, safe, easy to handle and maintain. Despite the small, by modern standards, resource, some PM pistols, mainly produced in the 1960s. with the best workmanship have a very large shot and at the same time function reliably.

So the Soviet "Makarovs" in shooting ranges have shot up to 40,000 shots. The resource of the return spring averages from 5000 to 7000 shots. Modern PMs, as a rule, cannot withstand more than 5000, since they, in fact, are not designed for this. Another example of reliability - one owner of an old combat PM fired only about 52,000 shots from his pistol without a single delay. With proper experience and training, the pistol demonstrates excellent accuracy, even with standard grip cheeks. For example, the author knows the following result - when shooting at a distance of 25 meters with a series of five shots, when shooting from two hands at a low pace, with Barnaul cartridges with shell bullets, the maximum diameter of a group of hits was 60 mm! Even today, with a huge range of the latest and most advanced models from leading manufacturers such as Glock, Beretta, Steyr, Walther, Smith & Wesson and Sig Sauer, many people who are well versed in weapons choose a proven, trouble-free Makarov pistol to protect their lives.

Countless discussions have been held on the suitability of the Makarov pistol as a compact self-defense weapon. In these disputes, as a rule, there are two dominant parties with opposing opinions. Those who consider the PM an unsuitable weapon for such use, given the huge selection of the latest models, cite as seriously justified arguments the presence on the arms market of a huge selection of the latest designs from leading manufacturers that are ahead of the Makarov pistol not only in technical and technological terms, but also in the most important in this aspect of the use of qualities. As a comparison, as a rule, pistols with polymer frames are indicated, with double-row or single-row magazines. Note that the length of the PM is 161 mm, and the width is 30.5 mm. Here it is necessary to give a couple of examples. The new super slim Walther PPS in 9mm Parabellum with a 6, 7 or 8 round single row magazine, the same length as the PM but only 23mm wide! The well-proven Glock 26 of the same caliber, with a two-row magazine with a capacity of 10 or 12 rounds, with a slightly shorter length and width than the PM.

Pistols like the ones above outperform the PM by several times in terms of combat and operational qualities, and they all fire the more effective, most widely used 9mm Parabellum cartridges in the world. It is impossible to disagree with such arguments, especially when you know the features of each of the given pistols. Modern models of approximately the same dimensions are much lighter, much more convenient to hold and handle than the PM, and surpass it in firing accuracy and firepower. Supporters of the expediency of wearing a Makarov pistol for self-defense point to its high reliability in extreme operating conditions and simplicity of design. Arguments are given that it is quite possible to learn to shoot from the PM with very good accuracy, if you train enough, that it is quite convenient and not burdensome to carry covertly, and the effectiveness of the cartridges used has been proven for decades practical application in law enforcement agencies and the armed forces of Russia and the former USSR.

Even now, in the presence of modern pistols in Russian special forces, many prefer the old and proven PM, despite the relatively large length and insufficient smoothness of the trigger, more weight than modern models and a slightly smaller magazine capacity. However, proponents of the PM generally agree that its cartridge is only effective if the opponent does not use personal protective equipment. After all, even not expensive modern lightweight Kevlar body armor perfectly protects against PM shots. But here it should be clarified that the Ministry of Internal Affairs does not encounter an enemy using NIB, and special forces soldiers have the opportunity to choose weapons for a more powerful and effective cartridge. But why are Makarov pistols still in very stable and good demand today in those countries of the world where citizens have the opportunity to choose any modern compact pistol, similar to those given as an example? This happens for several reasons. At the same time, it should be clarified that Makarov pistols are most popular in the Baltic countries, other states that were previously part of the USSR, as well as in Eastern Europe generally.

Many of those who buy a Makarov pistol are former law enforcement officers and are very familiar with this weapon, getting used to it and learning how to shoot well from it. The owner of a Makarov pistol about his weapon: “I have a German PM. Highly good gun! In terms of strength, in my opinion, it is not inferior, and probably surpasses the Izhevsk pistols from the times of the USSR. The quality of surface treatment and bluing is significantly higher than the output of all those countries in which PM was produced. The interior surface finish is excellent. There are no scratches or marks machining. The accuracy of shooting is generally the same as that of most PMs. However, the fundamental factor when buying a PM is not only its reliability, but also its low cost. A significantly more affordable price often becomes a decisive argument. At the same time, almost all leading experts in the field of personal weapons and their use, including the United States, point to an excellent combination of price and quality of the weapon itself. The Makarov pistol provides the buyer with excellent qualities of a compact personal weapon at a very affordable price.

For this reason, PMs are bought both in Western Europe and in the USA, where the level of well-being of the population is higher, and people have the opportunity to purchase much more modern, but also more expensive weapons. You should not forget about the huge selection of pistols in the same USA. A resident of California about the popularity of PM: “Makarov is respected in America. I can judge because they are not stale in our stores, they are quickly bought up, despite the availability of almost anything. I don’t know how it is in other states, it will only appear in our store, after 2-3 days it was already taken away. In general, there is an opinion here that Russian weapons are reliable.” In addition, the owner of the PM about his pistol: “Of course, I got used to the PM for about two months, until I shot. But now I wear it every day. In the city, that's it. Small, 8 rounds in the magazine and one in the chamber, and most importantly, reliable. I'm not afraid that there will be problems with him. It's psychologically very important to carry a gun you trust." The Makarov pistol, or as it is now called in the USA - Russian Mak, together with the Kalashnikov assault rifle in the West, are the standard of reliable, functional, unpretentious, practical and effective weapons.

PM - Makarov pistol caliber 9 mm (GRAU Index - 56-A-125) - a self-loading pistol developed by Soviet designer Nikolai Fedorovich Makarov in 1948. Adopted in 1951. Is a personal weapon in the Soviet and post-Soviet armed forces and law enforcement agencies.

Pistol PM - video

A pistol designed by Nikolai Fedorovich Makarov was adopted to replace the TT, which did not meet the new requirements of the army for personal short-barreled weapons. During the Second World War, soldiers and officers of the Red Army gained vast experience in the combat use of personal short-barreled weapons, both domestic and captured, of various designs and manufacturers. The advantages, disadvantages and various features of most combat pistols of that time were identified. In particular, clashes at short and ultra-short distances, close combat in urban conditions showed insufficient stopping power of the cartridge bullet used in standard TT pistols, compared to the more effective 9 mm cartridges of the German Parabellums and Walthers, as well as several significant shortcomings of the weapons. For example, the TT did not provide a sufficient degree of safety in handling due to the lack of a safety mechanism, in addition to the safety cocking of the trigger, which did not allow you to safely carry a pistol in full combat readiness at all times. TT also had a fairly large length.

The 9×18 cartridge was created by engineer Semin before the start of the war. Its prototype was the German 9mm Ultra, developed by the German company GECO, however, having the same cartridge case length, these cartridges are not interchangeable, since the bullet diameter of the domestic cartridge is 9.2 mm. In terms of energy and bullet speed, the 9×18 (official designation 57-N-181) occupies a niche between 9mm Short and 9mm Parabellum, having more bullet stopping power than the former and at the same time the possibility of using it in blowback weapons, in comparison with second. The new Russian 9mm cartridge was shorter than the standard 7.62×25 cartridge, with lower muzzle velocity and bullet energy, and less penetration. However, due to the larger caliber, it not only possessed no less stopping power than the more powerful 7.62 mm cartridge, but even surpassed it in this quality. As a result, the choice was made in favor of a more effective 9 mm cartridge.

Incomplete disassembly of the PM

After the last cartridge was used up, the shutter-casing became on the shutter delay, and at the moment of attaching the equipped magazine, the lever (tooth) of the shutter delay, interacting with the inclined protrusion of the window on the left side of the magazine, released the shutter-casing, sending the cartridge into the chamber. In order to ensure greater safety in handling weapons, the lever that automatically turns off the shutter delay was subsequently abolished. Now, in order to release the shutter-casing with the magazine removed or attached, it is necessary to press on the outer lug of the shutter delay. Such a decrease in the combat qualities of weapons, which increases the reloading time, of course, is a controversial decision, but justified by the practice of exploitation in the troops. The rear wall of the base of the handle of the PM frame of the release of 1949 with a flat surface does not have a bracket for clamping the mainspring, which is held directly by the handle and the screw. Since 1950, the shape of the rear surface of the base of the handle has been changed, due to the fact that the fastening of the screw holding the mainspring and the cheeks of the handle was constantly weakening.

One of the most important advantages of the pistol, created by Nikolai Fedorovich Makarov, is the reliability of work in the most difficult operating conditions. This quality has been proven not only in tests and operation in the army, but also in harsh combat conditions. The first major military conflict in which the PM took part, in more or less significant quantities, was the Vietnam War. In the incredibly harsh conditions of the war in the jungles of Southeast Asia, the Makarov pistol demonstrated excellent reliability. And then in Afghanistan, with minimal care and sand ingress, the PM worked flawlessly. In the First and Second Chechen Warriors, the Makarov pistol again proved its reliability, not letting down the fighters of the Russian Army and the Internal Troops at the right time, when the cartridges in the machine gun magazine ran out, or they had to act in close combat. Former and current officers, veterans of the Afghan war and two Chechen companies who had a chance to use their Makarov service pistol in battle, speak something like this: “In those conditions when both the pistol and your hands are all dirty, sometimes after a long absence of any kind of care for weapons, I very much doubt that then some foreign pistol would not have failed, and the PM saved the lives of many of our fighters. Of course, with a strong clogging of the chamber, the mirror of the shutter-casing, the grooves of the frame and the shutter-casing, the ejector spring, delays sometimes occur, but most of them are caused by careless handling of weapons and other shortcomings due to the fault of the owner.

In the Russian Federation, under the Law on Weapons, since the time of the Bolshevik coup, civilians do not have the right to own short-barreled weapons, unlike many European countries, and even more so the United States, with civilized and democratic legislation, where Russian pistols are exported and they are relatively free ordinary citizens or those with a residence permit can buy. As a result, for the domestic market, the manufacturer of Makarov pistols and its various variants, was forced to develop the following products on the basis of the combat PM: air pistol MP-654K caliber 4.5 mm; gas IZH-79-8 and MP-79 chambered for 8 mm cartridge; traumatic 9 mm pistols Izh-79-9T "Makarych" and MP-79-9TM, as well as MP-80-13T chambered for .45 Rubber. Leaving aside the pneumatic gun for sport shooting and gas models, which have proved to be extremely ineffective for self-defense, the most popular are traumatic products that shoot rubber balls.

PM became widespread not only in the countries of the Warsaw Pact, but also in many countries friendly to the Soviet Union, and later throughout the world. Wherever the Makarov pistol was used, its highest reliability and simplicity were noted, as a result of which this weapon became very popular even with a large selection of much more modern and samples from leading arms companies in Europe and the USA. Makarov pistols, in addition to the Soviet Army and law enforcement agencies, were in service and manufactured under license in the GDR, Bulgaria, China and the Dominican Republic. After the unification of Germany, the release of PM was launched by the famous German arms manufacturer - Simson. Despite all its advantages, the Makarov pistol by the end of the 1980s did not meet the requirements for personal short-barreled weapons. Due to the widespread use of personal armor protection equipment (PIB) in the armies of most countries of the world and the vigorous activity of terrorist organizations, the weapon had to use a powerful cartridge with a high penetrating and stopping effect of a bullet, and have high firepower. In order to create a new, more efficient pistol, design work was launched at the Grach competition.

So the Soviet "Makarovs" in shooting ranges have shot up to 40,000 shots. The resource of the return spring averages from 5000 to 7000 shots. Modern PMs, as a rule, cannot withstand more than 5000, since they, in fact, are not designed for this. Another example of reliability - one owner of an old combat PM fired only about 52,000 shots from his pistol without a single delay. With proper experience and training, the pistol demonstrates excellent accuracy, even with standard grip cheeks. For example, the author knows the following result - when shooting at a distance of 25 meters with a series of five shots, when shooting from two hands at a low pace, with Barnaul cartridges with shell bullets, the maximum diameter of a group of hits was 60 mm! Even today, with a huge range of the latest and most advanced models from leading manufacturers such as Glock, Beretta, Steyr, Walther, Smith & Wesson and Sig Sauer, many people who are well versed in weapons choose the proven, trouble-free Makarov pistol to protect their lives.

Pistols like the ones above outperform the PM by several times in terms of combat and operational qualities, and they all fire the more effective, most widely used 9mm Parabellum cartridges in the world. It is impossible to disagree with such arguments, especially when you know the features of each of the given pistols. Modern models of approximately the same dimensions are much lighter, much more convenient to hold and handle than the PM, and surpass it in firing accuracy and firepower. Supporters of the expediency of wearing a Makarov pistol for self-defense point to its high reliability in extreme operating conditions and simplicity of design. Arguments are given that it is quite possible to learn to shoot from the PM with very good accuracy, if you train enough, that it is quite convenient and not burdensome to carry covertly, and the effectiveness of the cartridges used has been proven by decades of practical use in law enforcement agencies and the armed forces of Russia and the former USSR.

Many of those who buy a Makarov pistol are former law enforcement officers and are very familiar with this weapon, getting used to it and learning how to shoot well from it. The owner of a Makarov pistol about his weapon: “I have a German PM. A very good pistol! In terms of strength, in my opinion, it is not inferior, and probably surpasses the Izhevsk pistols from the times of the USSR. The quality of surface treatment and bluing is significantly higher than the output of all those countries in which PM was produced. The interior surface finish is excellent. There are no scratches or marks of machining. The accuracy of shooting is generally the same as that of most PMs. However, the fundamental factor when buying a PM is not only its reliability, but also its low cost. A significantly more affordable price often becomes a decisive argument. At the same time, almost all leading experts in the field of personal weapons and their use, including the United States, point to an excellent combination of price and quality of the weapon itself. The Makarov pistol provides the buyer with excellent qualities of a compact personal weapon at a very affordable price.

An employee of a special unit of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation with extensive combat experience about the Makarov pistol: “Even despite its venerable age, it still remains in service, it is actively used both in battle and at the shooting range. A classic pistol for civilian and police use. Of course, this is not a pistol for target or high-speed shooting, but placing three bullets in the center of a standard target (a circle with a diameter of 10 cm) is not a problem for this "old man". He is capable of more. Some of our PMs allow you to put five holes in a circle of 6 cm. As for the small stopping effect of a bullet, I can say that this is what people say, at best, killing paper targets, and never shooting in a combat situation. It is important to hit the vital organs of the "target", otherwise even a rifle bullet will not guarantee a reliable defeat. Some problems are created by Pst steel-core bullets, which sometimes ricochet off solid obstacles. In recent years, the situation with ammunition for PM has changed, cartridges have appeared with bullets that have an increased stopping effect and increased penetration. For example, the PPO law enforcement cartridge allows the use of weapons (pistols and submachine guns) in enclosed spaces, in settlements, with a low probability of dangerous ricochets due to the absence of a solid core in the pool. There is information about the poor quality of PPO cartridges, unstable characteristics, but the cartridges supplied to our unit do not present unpleasant surprises and the weapon works like a clock with them ... "