Model range of guns Izh. Izhevsk hunting rifles. What to look for when purchasing

A gun that became a legend during its production years. The first domestic double-barreled weapon to be sold abroad. IZH-54 is a gun that, despite its exclusivity and high cost, immediately gained many buyers and fans, and over the entire history of production an incredible number of models have been produced and sold - more than seven hundred thousand units.

It really was a successful weapon. With it you could hunt any game and animals, even a bear. Initially, the gun was created as a specialized sporting weapon for a trench stand, but it also found other uses. It was this gun that brought the Soviet Union to the world market for smooth-bore sporting and hunting weapons.

This legend left as spontaneously as it came - the IZH-54 replaced a cheaper version, which was designed on its basis.

History of creation

After the end of World War II, the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant, which specialized in creating weapons, decided to replace the already outdated double-barreled shotguns with more modern options. The victory of the USSR in the war made it possible to remove from the German arms factory all the drawings of the German Sauer gun; it was the most successful project of German engineers. Using their equipment and technologies, the Izhevsk plant created a copy of German weapons, which interrupted all the unsuccessful projects of the domestic manufacturer.

Thus began the history of the creation of the IZH-49 shotgun, which became an analogue of the German Sauer-8. The first weapon of this brand appeared in 1949, at which time it was decided to reformat the plant to produce exclusively hunting and sporting weapons.

Over time, designer L. I. Pugachev completely redesigned the already outdated IZH-49 weapon, creating on its basis a completely new hunting rifle IZH-54. This was the first Soviet model of a double-barreled shotgun without a hammer.

What changed

The main external features of the gun were inherited from the ancestor, but all internal characteristics were radically changed:

• The Anson-Delay mechanism, which was the basis of the IZH-49, was thoroughly redesigned. He received more modern lower sears, which subsequently made it possible to make the block stronger.
• The chrome trigger indicators have also undergone changes, which have moved from the sides of the block to its upper part, moreover, they have become lighter and noticeably more visible in the twilight by finger sensations.
• The firing pins were separated from the hammers and moved into chrome-plated fire tubes.
• The automatic fuse has become more reliable and easier to operate.

If you look at the IZH model 1954 gun as a whole, it has grown from the outdated Sauer into a modern and functional gun, going down in history as a completely new weapon and at the same time retaining all the positive qualities of its German ancestors.

The gun received the number in its name from 1954, in which its production began. The weapon was produced for 15 years, until 1969.

IZH-54: characteristics

Throughout the entire production period, the products of the Izhevsk plant were of high quality, which only became better over the years. This was the reason for the export, which began in the early 60s. The Model 54 shotgun became the first weapon to be sold abroad, because previously there were simply no worthy ones.

It is worth listing what characteristics distinguish the IZH-54:

• 12 gauge, horizontal double barrel, which is ideal for weapons of this type;
• barrel length is 730 or 750 mm (depending on the year of production);
• nominal barrel diameter - 18.5 mm;
• the actual barrel diameter is from 18.25 to 18.9 mm;
• the weight of the trunks is on average 1600 grams;
• the stock on the IZH-54 is made of walnut, birch or beech and has a straight shape;
• loaded with 20.6x70 mm cartridges;
• the maximum pressure in the chamber should not exceed 700 kg per 1 cm2;
• the total length of the gun is 1170 mm;
• the weight of the weapon does not exceed 3.6 kg;
• butt design: “rifle” or “pistol”, straight neck;
• Accuracy declared for IZH-54: choke - 55-65%, pay - 45-55%;
• guarantee for “survivability” - up to 7500 shots (3750 per barrel).

Evolution of weapons

In 1957, the same Pugachev created a new gun, IZH-57. However, this did not lead to the closure of the old model. Quite the contrary! The new gun was produced in a small quantity (only 20 thousand pieces), but it became an experimental weapon on which various new developments were installed. As soon as customers liked these innovations, they were immediately installed on the IZH-54.

Also, throughout production, many innovations were added that were developed specifically for the IZH-57. These innovations include the hammer release mechanism, which was transferred from one gun to the second almost immediately after the 57th was put into operation.

Also, in connection with the production of IZH-57, new, more modern barrels and fire tubes were installed on the 54 model.

On early models of IZH-54, strikers were installed that protruded from the solid mirror of the block when the triggers were pulled. It was believed that triggers without a release made it difficult for the system to open the gun after shots. The system was replaced with a more modern version from the 1957 model.

Gun design features:

• triple locking barrels;
• durable steel box;
• hardened parts of the mechanism;
• thickened barrels, which made it possible to use a powerful charge for shooting;
• a common extractor for both barrels;
• the trigger releases easily and smoothly;
• quick assembly and disassembly of weapons.

Experiments

The main advantages of the new system were reliability and workmanship. After all, the fire tubes were made of a durable chrome-plated coating that did not give in to deformation and corrosion. However, the new system also had a disadvantage: it was very difficult to unscrew, which required the use of a special tool.

With the development of technology, attempts have been made to eliminate this drawback. The weapon began to be produced under the names IZH-26 and IZH-26E. These guns, in their design, took all the best from the IZH-54 and 57 models, but the main difference from the old modifications was a significant reduction in the weight of the gun.

This was done thanks to a complete redesign of the Griner bolt mechanism, instead of which a locking bar was installed. Unfortunately, the production savings on the IZH-26 are very noticeable. These were the first guns from the Izhevsk plant, which did not differ from their competitors in quality and manufacturability. Due to the fact that the gun did not gain as much popularity as its predecessors, it was replaced by the IZH-58.

Decline of history

All three models of the Izhevsk plant - 54, 57, 26 - were three modifications of one gun, so they are considered to be one whole. And many of their parts were simply similar in design to each other.

However, the IZH-58 has already become a completely new gun, revealing a different story for the Izhevsk manufacturer.

Initially, the 58 model, which poor hunters could afford, was designed as a cheaper version of the IZH-54 gun, the price of which was quite high. But the unexpected happened: the IZH-58 completely ousted model 54 from production. The history of the great gun ended in 1969. The cheaper model IZH-58 put an end to this great story.

Features of production technology

Today, the Izhevsk plant produces barrels using vertical forging machines, this technology is called “hot forging.” It is the most popular in modern production of serial weapons. However, this technology does not provide such manufacturing reliability as earlier ones, for example, “deep drilling”. Despite the fact that the latter is of higher quality than “hot forging”, it has not caught on due to its high cost. By the way, IZH-54 is a gun whose barrel was made of high-strength metal using drilling, which brought it famous quality and popularity.

If we talk about connecting the barrels, then initially this was done using the classic brazing system. Starting in 1961, this technology was replaced by a more modern solution: it became a connection in the treasury with a barrel coupling. By switching to a new soldering joint, the Izhevsk plant immediately killed two birds with one stone: it reduced the likelihood of the barrel shifting, which could lead to a malfunction of the gun itself, and significantly reduced the cost of weapon production. By the way, this technology is now used in the production of any modern gun.

The outer covering was also changed. Initially it was produced in three types: black chrome plated, black nickel plated and chemically painted coating. The first two were distinguished not only by their reliability, but also by their high cost. Therefore, in the early 60s, only chemical coating began to be used. This innovation destroyed the reliability of the IZH-54 itself. Reviews from owners say that in order for it to rust, it was enough just to leave it in a wet case.

Reliability tests

Making a gun was a very labor-intensive process, requiring nearly 70 percent of the work to be done by hand. Because of this, the gun turned out to be very durable, reliable and expensive.

Each weapon underwent individual testing, in which it experienced enormous stress. Thus, test cartridges, which had a charge of 35 grams of suspended shot, exerted a pressure of over 800 kg per square centimeter. The test cartridges were three times more powerful than the serial ones.

The maximum pressure exerted on the test model was 2000 kilograms per square centimeter. The cartridge fired successfully, the only thing that was wrong was a slight deformation of the barrel after the third shot.

A passport was issued individually to each gun; it recorded the characteristics that it showed during testing. Some passports indicated the name of the person who assembled and manufactured the gun. Each document was individually signed by the head of the workshop, which made each weapon more expensive and individual.

Weapon modifications 54 models

Over the entire history of production, many different models of guns were produced, of which two were basic serial ones, while the rest were simply modified models:

1. The main model of the gun was an ordinary weapon. It was produced with little use of manual work, with the application of a stamped design. The average cost of such a gun was 90 rubles, and if it was assembled in a more careful assembly, the price reached 120 rubles.
2. There is a custom modification of the gun with the letter “Ш” in the name, which has three varieties in ascending order of shooting accuracy: Ш1, Ш and Ш2. IZH-54 - a one-piece gun is endowed not only with good barrel alignment and high accuracy of fire. It differs from other models in its exclusive finishing and engraving. Images of all kinds of plants, animals and birds were also applied to its parts. In addition, the trigger mechanism parts are chrome-plated, and the fore-end and stock are made of expensive walnut varieties.
3. The second main option was a souvenir gun, which was distinguished by hand-made quality and exclusivity. The cost of such a model sometimes amounted to more than 200 rubles.
4. There was also an experimental model IZH-54, 16 gauge, which cannot be found now. It also includes the rarest model of amazing beauty Izh-54 “Sport”. It was produced only on special orders and included two pairs of barrels of different lengths.
5. An export model was also produced. It did not have such exclusivity in finishing, however, the wavy “Made in USSR” inscriptions were inscribed on the sides of the lasts.

Prestige and price

Legends can truly be made about the reliability of this gun. After all, these weapons are now being passed on to the third generation, and no one has any complaints about the quality of operation of the IZH-54. Reviews from owners in a number of cases indicate that they have never lubricated their gun or looked after it, but by all criteria they do not see any malfunctions.

It is no secret that ancient weapons radiate a special, almost magical, attraction. An ancient hunting rifle of good quality, perfectly preserved, is much more attractive for both collectors and hunters than modern weapons of fantastic appearance, made on CNC machines from duralumin and plastic.

Today, among people who are seriously interested in hunting, it is considered a sign of good manners to own an IZH-54 gun, the price of which ranges from 7 to 250 thousand rubles. and depends on the following criteria:

• condition of the weapon: new or used;
• presence of defects on the barrel and butt: stains, scratches, chips, etc.;
• weapon firing volume;
• availability of documents;
• type of muzzle constriction: choke, payload;
• the presence of individual or exclusive (gift) finishing;
• manufacturing option: export or for domestic consumption;
• presence of original parts, such as a cover;
• model, year of manufacture, design features.

There is no need to even talk about the cost of rare specimens, but the truth is, when a true connoisseur is driven by passion, the price does not matter.

He produced and continues to produce high-quality weapons, on which entire generations of hunters are raised. The IZH-43 shotgun is a double-barreled horizontal rifle, which became the next stage in the plant’s activities for the production of mass smooth-bore weapons. The model was created on the basis of which, in turn, came off the assembly line as a cheaper version of the reliable but expensive double-barreled shotgun IZH-54. Today we will discuss the history of the appearance of the IZH-43 gun, characteristics, reviews and much more.

Production

The work of the designers of the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant to develop the IZH-43 shotgun began in 1984. Literally two years later, the model already entered mass production. Gunsmiths managed to make a cheaper, but technically more advanced model. The improvements affected mainly the safety and ejector mechanisms. The issue with the fit of the block to the receiver block was also resolved.

The task of creating an inexpensive universal one was completed one hundred percent. In 1995, the number of IZH-43 shotguns produced reached 300 thousand copies. The production of guns in different versions, for every taste and pocket, continues today. Only now the model is called MP-43. The model is bought not only by domestic hunters, but also by foreign connoisseurs of good weapons.

Design features

The main trump card of the IZH-43 gun is its characteristics. Reviews from experienced hunters indicate that the model is an excellent combination of price and quality. Now let's talk about everything in order.

The IZH-43 shotgun is a double-barreled smoothbore weapon, the barrel block of which is horizontal. In the breech, the barrels are fastened with a coupling connection. And along the length of the barrels, their connection is ensured by the lower and sighting strips. The gun is hammer-fired. The triggers are made in the form of a monoblock with strikers and a release.

In the process of improving the gun, triggers began to be produced separately from the firing pins. On some modifications of the gun, external devices are installed for cocking and smoothly releasing the springs. These devices are made in the form of false skins. In other versions with two triggers, the ability to smoothly release the hammers from cocking is possible thanks to the safety lock. In addition, there are also models on which only one trigger is installed.

The safety mechanism is automatically activated when cocked. It blocks triggers and sears. Horizontal guns IZH-43 have twisted cylindrical mainsprings. The gun can be with or without selective ejectors. The barrels of this model have permanent and replaceable chokes. Magnum version barrels with a chamber length of 76 mm can be equipped with a cylindrical drill. To lock the barrel unit, you need to slide the locking bar onto two under-barrel hooks.

Kalinin trigger mechanism

The first copies of the model had the index “43” or “43E”. They were equipped with a special trigger, which was developed by design engineer A. N. Kalinin. The main advantage of these guns was that they had two triggers, each of which could fire two barrels. When the front trigger was pressed, the right barrel fired, and then the left. From the rear trigger, the barrels fired in reverse order. If desired, you could shoot in the usual way - pressing the triggers one by one.

Soon the plant stopped producing double-barreled shotguns with such a trigger mechanism. Under the markings IZH-43M and IZH-43EM, they began to produce guns with a standard-action trigger. However, the plant retained the opportunity to equip its guns with the Kalinin USM. Such specimens were made individually, to order. A little later, the guns received their former markings. And since the 90s, the plant began producing shotguns with one trigger and the ability to switch the order of shots.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantages of a gun are mainly related to the combination of price and quality. Being relatively inexpensive, the IZH-43 double-barreled shotgun has a very good firepower, gives decent accuracy and sharpness when working with shot, shows good results when shooting bullets, and also has reliability and safe predictability in handling. The model has a good balance. The design of the trigger completely eliminates the possibility of an accidental shot. Without pressing the trigger, a shot is impossible.

As for the shortcomings, they, as befits inexpensive mass products, manifest themselves in different ways, depending on the batch and model. Experienced hunters who want to buy an IZH-43 gun carefully choose the best one among several models. Owners who are not lazy to work with a file also benefit, because most of the shortcomings can be eliminated on their own, at home. Several examples of such tuning are given below.

Home tuning

IZH-43 double-barreled shotguns often suffer from poor impregnation and processing of wooden parts. Self-impregnation and grinding (and in some cases even adjustment) of these parts helps solve the problem. The next problem is ejector failure. This is where you will need a file.

Sometimes when shooting, the safety guard of the triggers injures a finger due to its unfortunate shape. To get rid of this problem, you need to either redo it or cover it with a layer of protective material. Anti-corrosion coating in mechanical plants often leaves much to be desired. Therefore, many users additionally lubricate the gun with oil to prevent rust during long hunts.

Versions

Today the gun is produced under the name MP-43 in the following calibers:

1. 12th (70 or 76 mm).
2. 16th (70 mm).
3. 20th (76 mm).
4. 410th (76 mm).

The length of the chamber is indicated in parentheses.

The gun version is produced with drilled barrels in two versions: a cylinder with pressure and a choke, or a cylinder with pressure and a choke. The barrel of the IZH-43 model (12 gauge) has a length of 750 mm. For smaller caliber versions, the length ranges from 510 to 710 mm. Now let's look separately at all the additional modifications of the gun.

IZH-43E

This is a basic model that has a switchable selective type ejector. When the ejector is turned on, when the barrels are opened, only the used cartridge case flies out, while the whole cartridge remains in place. This is very convenient in cases where you need to quickly reload a weapon.

IZH-43-1S

The model differs in that it has only one trigger. At its top there is a switch that allows you to easily change the sequence of shots from the barrels. The IZH-43E-1S version differs from the previous one in that, like the IZH-43E model, it is equipped with an ejector mechanism.

IZH-43K

This 12-gauge double-barreled shotgun is suitable for those who like to transport weapons loaded and quickly cock the springs without opening the gun. The highlight of the model is the presence of false skins. To the surprise of the employees of the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant, the model aroused interest among American lovers of historical weapons. There is even information that models with false fire tubes were produced specifically for this market.

IZH-43KN

Full-fledged external hammer model. Available only in 12 gauge. When the hammers are cocked, the possibility of an accidental shot is reduced to zero. Even if you hit the trigger spoke, nothing will happen.

Versions of the IZH-43 gun can be called either as stated above, or with the marking “MR” instead of “IZH”. In addition to the listed ordinary models, they also produce piece guns, which are distinguished by excellent firing and beautiful finishing using precious metals. These are the characteristics of the IZH-43 gun.

Comments: 4

Izhevsk Mechanical Plant is considered the largest manufacturer of hunting smooth-bore weapons and some versions of rifled weapons. Its production exceeds 500 thousand barrels per year. Izhevsk hunting rifles are exported to more than 50 countries around the world.

Over-and-under shotguns

The most common “verticals” include 2 samples:

1. IZH 12 – gun of 12 and 16 calibers. The barrels are soldered together, which ensures the stability of the location of the impact points and their alignment during firing from different barrels with cartridges that differ in power. The length of the barrels is 730 mm, the weight of the gun is approximately 3.3 kg.

2. IZH 27 - a gun of 12, 16 or 20 calibers chambered for conventional cartridges with a 70 mm sleeve and Magnum cartridges with a 76 mm sleeve. The IZH 27 shotgun differs from the IZH-12:

• modified shape of the forearm and stock;
• the presence of a ventilated strip;
• simplified design of the locking mechanism;
• introduction of an ejector mechanism.

The gun is designed to use plastic and paper cartridges. When shooting with metal cartridges, accuracy decreases by 3-5%. The hunting rifle IZH 27, the price of which is 17-20 thousand rubles, is the basic model in the segment of affordable weapons.

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Price for hunting rifles from the Izhevsk plant

There are various hunting rifles from the Izhevsk plant on the market, the prices of which depend on their modification, caliber, leather material, etc. The average cost is within 15-20 thousand rubles. However, there are options such as the MP-18MN, the cost of the gun is only 8,000 rubles. And such an option as MP-233EA 12/76 walnut, barrel material: nickel, non-woven, Sporting forend is considered one of the most expensive, the cost of such a modification is almost 30,000 rubles. Below is a drawing of this modification:

More information about hunting rifles:

Shotguns with horizontal barrels

Among the “horizontal” models, the following models are widely popular:

1. IZH 54 – 12-gauge double-barreled shotgun. The barrels are detachable, 730 or 750 mm long, the chamber length is 70 mm. The outside of the barrels is coated with black chrome or nickel. The weight of the gun is 3.4 kg. IZH 54 is distinguished by good combat, adaptability and high survivability.

2. IZH 58 – double-barreled shotgun of 12, 16, 20 and 28 calibers. Compared to earlier versions, this model has a number of advantages:

• the box is made of durable structural steel;
• external screws replaced with pins;
• simplified method of attaching the stock to the box;
• The leaf springs of the mechanism are replaced by cylindrical screw springs.

The barrel length is 675-730 mm, the weight of the weapon is 3-3.2 kg.

3.IZH 43 – a gun of 12 and 16 calibers chambered for a cartridge with a 70 mm sleeve. Barrel length - 725 mm, channels and chambers are chrome-plated. Features of IZH 43 include:

• improved ejector design (2 independent springs were introduced, the contact area of ​​the levers with the ejector was increased);
• ease of loading and removing cartridges due to the absence of a small hook on the coupling;
• use of two universal triggers.

Hunting firearms are divided into three main types: smooth-bore, rifled and combined. All of them are very popular among hunters. However, the most widespread are smooth-bore shotguns, which provide the ability to shoot both stationary and flying or running prey of any size within a range of fifty to seventy steps. This distance is considered the most optimal killing distance.

Classification of hunting rifles

Rifled rifles, rifles and carbines are not so versatile. This type of weapon is designed for very accurate shooting at a distance of up to five hundred meters at a stationary or slowly moving object. As a rule, rifles are used when hunting large or medium-sized animals that can be difficult for humans to approach. Combined doubles, three-barreled and four-barreled guns - this group combines the capabilities of smooth-bore and rifled weapons, although it is somewhat inferior to the latter in shooting accuracy at long distances. They are considered special-purpose guns, so hunters, in addition to them, must have a rifled barrel or shotgun in their arsenal.

Smoothbore weapons

Depending on the number of barrels, it can be single-barrel, double-barrel, for example, “vertical” or “horizontal”, three-barrel - tees, and multi-barrel. The latter option is extremely rare among hunters. Most often, hunters use smoothbore shotguns, designed not only for shooting prey, but also for military purposes - for close combat. They mainly use twelve-gauge cartridges. The value of a smoothbore shotgun as a type of military weapon lies in the fact that it can cover a wide area with one shot. This compensates for inaccuracy when aiming. Shots are fired at distances from fifty to seventy meters.

Most popular model

This is IZH-18. Being one of the first smooth-bore single-shot shotguns, it is used mainly for commercial hunting. Known all over the world, it is intended primarily for those professionals whose main principle is to hit the prey with the first shot. If they miss, such hunters provide the game with the opportunity to escape.

History of creation

After World War II, hammerless single-barreled shotguns with a folding barrel were designed and put into mass production at the famous mechanical plant in Izhevsk. These were IZHB and 3KB models. Almost twenty years later, in 1963, a new hunting weapon appeared at their base, which received the index “IZH-18” at the factory.

In the new model, the designers retained all the positive characteristics that the previous models had. Nevertheless, significant changes were made to IZH-18. As a result of these innovations, the balance and appearance of the weapon were improved, and its weight was reduced. The creators have made a more reliable trigger mechanism in the new model, and the fore-end and butt have become more comfortable. From 1964 to this day, the IZH-18 gun has been mass-produced at the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant. Due to its simple yet very reliable design, which is combined with a high degree of safety, it is popular. Moreover, he is well known not only in Russia, but also abroad.

Specifications

IZH-18 is equipped with an internal trigger. As a result of the impact on its profile protrusion, when opening the barrel by pressing the lever on the trigger guard, cocking occurs. This method is quite convenient.

In case of a misfire, you can wind the hammer without opening the barrel by simply pressing the lever. The IZH-18 shotgun has a non-automatic safety lock that locks the trigger. It also has an indicator to remind you that it is cocked. The firing pin is made separately and is spring-loaded. It is they who ensure the release of the striker when the firing mechanism is triggered. The firing pin is inserted from the outside and secured in the gun block with a screw fire tube.

On the Izh-18, the price of which depends on the modification, it is possible to install a barrel of any drill type. If desired, you can use choke tubes that have various constrictions. A set of them, as a rule, is usually sold complete with the gun itself.

The IZH-18 barrel and chamber are chrome-plated. Locking occurs using an under-barrel hook. Therefore, when removing the forend, the barrel is immediately removed without the application of force. Structurally, it is provided that it is held only by the steel end part of the forend and the under-barrel hook. The barrel is removed by opening the latch.

For ease of maintenance, as well as in the process of preparing for transportation, the IZH-18 gun is very quickly and easily disassembled into three components: the barrel, the forend and the butt. The stock, as a rule, is made of birch or beech, and for piece versions - of walnut. The neck is mostly pistol-shaped, less often - straight.

Modifications

IZH-18, the price of which varies depending on the configuration and model, is produced mainly in the following calibers: 12 and 16, 20 and 28, 32 and .410. It is used when shooting with smoky or smokeless powder. The chambers of the IZH-18 models 12 gauge or 28 are made for a paper sleeve, and those of the 32 or .410 are made for a metal sleeve. In addition, some models use plastic options. The chamber is chrome plated and has a length of seventy millimeters.

The IZH-18 model leaves the factory in two versions: with an ejector and an extractor. In the first case, the gun is assigned the index “E”. The new variations were respectively named IZH-18 M and IZH-18 EM (modified). Changes have been made to the base model. They not only increased the reliability of the weapon, but also increased the durability of the gun. For example, there are rectangular protrusions in the upper part of the grenade hook. When closing, the barrel rests on the box on the front walls. The IZH-18 stock, or rather its neck, became a little thicker in the front and rear parts of the forearm, and the ejector head became narrower. The following modifications - IZH-18E-20M and -410M are produced in 20 and .410 calibers, respectively, chambered for the Magnum cartridge. Their chamber is seventy-six millimeters long.

Options

The barrel length of the IZH-18 (caliber 12 and 16) is 725 or 735 millimeters. The rest of the guns have 675-680 mm. The barrel is chrome plated. It does not have an aiming bar, but it does have a front sight. Models of the twelfth and sixteenth calibers weigh no more than 2.8 kilograms, and the rest are smaller - no more than 2.6 kg. The IZH-18 gun is equipped with a reliable safety lock, ensuring a high degree of safety during operation. The weapon cannot be fired until the barrel is completely closed. This happens thanks to a locking mechanism. When a rifle is dropped with the hammer cocked or from an impact, no shot is fired, since the trigger, when released from the combat cock, becomes automatically on the safety cock, without hitting the firing pin.

Peculiarities

The IZH-18 shotgun and all its modifications are perfectly balanced. Thanks to this, aiming is quite fast. The reliability of this domestically produced smooth-bore weapon is increased due to the fact that the trigger mechanism is structurally placed in a box. IZH-18 opens by pressing the locking lever upward. The latter is located below the block behind the safety bracket. At the moment when the hunter raises the lever, the barrel of the gun, unlocking, goes down. And at this time the trigger is cocked.

IZH-18 is guaranteed to have a “survivability” of at least eight thousand rounds. Moreover, if the operational requirements are properly met, this parameter almost doubles. Currently, the basic model for single-barrel hunting models or fittings, which are produced at the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant, is this particular gun.

IZH-27 is a Soviet double-barreled hunting rifle designed for commercial and amateur hunting. IZH-27 was developed under the leadership of A. A. Klimov and has been mass-produced since 1973.

Starting with the development of two models - a single-barreled shotgun of the Kazan (ZK) system and a double-barreled IZH-49, Izhmekh specialists created a full range of hunting weapons. Products at that time were marked with the designation “IZH” in combination with numbers that indicated the year of manufacture, for example, IZH-49, IZH-54, IZH-56, etc. Subsequently, in the 60s, the numbers in the markings of guns began to mean the project number, for example, IZH-18, IZH-25, IZH-27.

With the wider distribution of weapons on the foreign market, it became necessary to abandon the designation “IZH”. This is due to the fact that the abbreviation “IZH” is inconvenient to transcribe. It was necessary to select a designation that contained the semantic content of the product marking, and the designation should have the same graphics and sound in Cyrillic and Latin.

In the 90s, when developing new models of weapons, they decided to label products with the abbreviation MP in Latin, which means Mechanical Plant. From now on, all new weapons developments from Izhmekh are assigned this marking. Previous weapon models until 2008 remained with the old designation “IZH”. In order to establish a uniform standard in the designations of weapons produced by the enterprise, the plant replaced the designation “IZH” with the MR marking, i.e., for example, on guns instead of IZH-18, IZH-27, IZH-43 there will be Mr-18, MR -27, MP-43, etc. The digital designation on models produced before 1996 remained the same, and since September 2008, the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant switched to marking weapons with the designation “MR”.

One of the most common types of weapons is the MP-27, a double-barreled hunting rifle with a vertical barrel arrangement - the most popular weapon of the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant.

This model was preceded by the IZH-59 “Sputnik” and IZH-12 shotguns developed by Anatoly Andreevich Klimov.

IZH-12 is the first “vertical” that became widespread in the Soviet Union and won the gratitude of hunters for its reliability and unpretentiousness. In the early 70s, a group of designers (N.V. Repin, A.A. Klimov, G.Ya. Protopopov) modernized the IZH-12 gun. The following innovations were introduced into this model: the shape of the stock and fore-end was changed; instead of the usual one, they made a ventilated aiming bar; the fuse was made automatic, adding interceptors (trigger interceptors) for reliability; installed an ejector; changed the shape of the box at the junction with the stock; A rubber butt pad was installed on the butt.

The new model received the index IZH-27 (MR-27). The MP-27 hunting rifle with vertical barrels is available in various calibers and is a classic hunting weapon.

The series includes shotguns of 12, 16 and 20 calibers. The weight of the guns is from 3.1 to 3.65 kg, depending on the length of the barrel and caliber, the length of the barrels is 660-750 mm. Choke constrictions - permanent or replaceable. The barrels have a front sight and a ventilated rib. The bores and chamber are chrome-plated, the outer surface is oxidized. The connection of the barrels to the block is carried out due to the under-barrel hooks and the hinge axis. Locking occurs using a locking bar that fits into the groove of the rear grenade hook. When the barrels are opened, the hammers are cocked. The trigger mechanism allows for a smooth release of the hammers from cocking when closing the barrels. The automatic fuse has trigger interceptors and locks the sear. The cartridges are removed from the chamber using an extractor.

Modifications of the MP-27 shotgun

Over the four decades of serial production of the MP-27, a whole family of models has grown on its basis: with an ejector and a single trigger mechanism (MR-27EM, MP-27M-1S, MP-27EM-1S), sporting shotguns (MR-39, MP-39E, MP-27EM-1S in the “Sporting” version, combined shotguns (MR-94 and MP-94 “North”), double-barreled rifled shotgun (IZH-94 in the “Express” version), MP-27M in the “Junior” version and etc.

The gun is produced in serial, including export, piece and souvenir versions in several different modifications:

MR-27M (previously called IZH-27M)— a gun without an ejector, with two triggers. The MP-27M with an interchangeable block of barrels with an oval-screw drill is a universal smoothbore shotgun.

It has a block of 12/76 caliber barrels and an interchangeable block of barrels with an oval-screw drill (Lancaster drill), the gun is ideal for hunting large game. Thanks to the additional stabilization of the bullet by rotation, obtained due to oval-helical drilling, the gun ensures that the bullet will hit the kill zone at distances of up to 100 m with bullet cartridges (with Brenneke and Gualandi bullets). This ensures acceptable scree characteristics when shooting shotguns. The design of the replaceable barrel block makes it possible to adjust the position of the dispersion centers of both barrels. The replaceable receiver unit is equipped with an open sight, adjustable horizontally and vertically. It is possible to install an optical sight.

MP-27M "Junior"- light and compact modification of the basic model.

The gun is aimed at women and teenagers, so the main dimensions of the stock have been changed relative to the basic ones, taking into account the physical characteristics of this group of users. A lightweight bolt box, the dimensions of which are adapted to small calibers, reduced-length barrels, and the presence of a shock absorber, make the gun very comfortable to use and during hunting.

MR-27EM (formerly called IZH-27EM)- a gun with a selective ejector - it ejects only the spent cartridge case and, if necessary, can be turned off.

Has two triggers. The MP-27EM modification of the shotgun is equipped with an ejector that ejects only the spent cartridge case. If necessary, the owner of the gun can turn off the ejector in the field without disassembling it and without using a special tool. The gun is indispensable for various types of hunting that require quick reloading. In the photo - with interchangeable barrels 720 and 660 mm.

MR-27M-1S (previously called IZH-27M-1S)- a gun without an ejector.

The firing mechanism with one trigger allows you to fire from both barrels in the desired sequence. The firing sequence is changed by pressing the trigger from the rear.

The MP-27E-1C model implements an original solution: switching the order of shots from a constant sequence “lower barrel - upper” to the reverse by pressing the trigger forward. This ensures ease and speed of switching and logical manipulation.

MR-27EM-1S (previously called IZH-27EM-1S) is a gun with a selector-type ejector - it ejects only the spent cartridge case and, if necessary, can be turned off. The firing mechanism with one trigger allows you to fire from both barrels in the desired sequence. The firing sequence is changed by pressing the trigger from the rear.

MP-27 piece shotguns

Along with serial products, factory craftsmen make guns according to individual orders of consumers, creating beautiful examples of highly artistic weapons: unique piece guns with artistic engraving of the “Classic”, “Prestige”, “De Luxe”, “Exclusive”, “Collectible” classes.

The quality of assembly and fit of the guns is very high. They are practically devoid of the disadvantages of serial models. Excellent barrel bluing, improved balance, improved locking mechanism with a carbide insert. Smoother fuse action. The stock and forend are perfectly fitted.

The assembly of each gun is carried out by one fitter, carefully and efficiently fitting all the parts, manually adjusting and fitting, which ensures high reliability of the mechanisms.

Adjustment of the stock to the anthropometric parameters of any person (left, right stock, protrusion under the cheek, different stock lengths, etc.) is done manually. It is possible to configure MP-27 shotguns with two pairs of barrels: - 1st pair - standard, length 720-750 mm, choke, half. Choke constrictions 0.5; 1.0 mm. - 2nd pair - length 675 mm; barrels cylinders.

Some MP-27 shotguns of 12x76 caliber are equipped with an additional block of barrels with a 20-gauge Lancaster drill with a chamber length of 76 mm. On guns, at the request of the customer, it is possible to carry out any decoration or inscription using hand engraving, precious metals, and artistic painting. Engraving compositions are made in a wide variety of techniques - armor engraving, notching and notching of precious metals and their alloys, creating a unique range characteristic of the style of weapons engraving of the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant.

The engraving is complemented by decorative carvings on the butt and fore-end. To coat metal parts, in addition to traditional oxidation, silver plating, nickel plating, and titanium nitride coating can be used. Guns made to order meet the requirements of the most sophisticated connoisseurs of fine weapons.

What to look for when buying IZH-27 (MR-27)

1. Pay attention to the soldering of the barrels. If a white coating is visible from under the connecting strip, then it is better to leave such a gun in the store. Very soon the connecting strip will come off.
2. Pay attention to the muzzle of the barrels. They should be perfectly round and of the same thickness. There should be no difference in sizes and no admonitions from sellers: “they are all like this.”
3. Pay attention to the chrome plating in the barrels - it should cover the barrels completely and there should be no stains on it.
4. The plank should be perfectly flat, there should be no indentations or bulges.
5. The front sight should be exactly in the middle of the bar. The trunks must be perfectly straight, the rings in the trunks are even and completely coaxial. It happens that even by eye it can be seen that the trunk is pulled to the side. This is especially worth paying attention to.
6. When shaking the gun, nothing in it should dangle or rattle.
7. The gun should be assembled and disassembled normally. There are new guns that need to be covered almost at the knee.
8. Among the available options, pay attention to the wood of the forend and butt. Choose a gun with the most tightly fitted wooden and metal parts.

Choice between TOZ-34 and IZH-27 (MR-27)

The choice between these guns is quite difficult, since both guns are completely popular and there are a lot of them on sale. The price category is approximately the same. They have been produced at the factories of our homeland for a very long time and successfully.

The first difference is the trunks. Traditionally, barrels in TOZ are considered better than in IZH-27. In Izhevka, the side strip comes off more often, which indicates that the soldering of the barrels was initially worse.

The barrel locking of these two models is quite good and reliable; they have worked great for many years. The spiral mainsprings in the IZH-27 (MR-27) practically do not break, but the figured springs in the Tozovka are susceptible to failure, so it is advisable to have a spare set of springs at home. The striker cocking levers also often fail.

In the removable forend of the IZH-27 (MR-27), there are wood breaks or cracks. The non-removable forend in the TOZ is free of these shortcomings.

In terms of manufacturability, we can definitely say that the quality of the barrels in the TOZ-34 is better, and the IZH-27 has a more reliable mechanism.

One of the main differences between the guns is their different weight: the IZH-27 gun is heavier than its Tula counterpart. Therefore, the TOZ is more practical, it is preferable on running hunts, where in the evening the gun begins to weigh a pound. The benefit of a heavy gun is the ability to shoot powerful rounds and less recoil due to the weight. Shots from a heavy gun tire the shooter less. It's no secret that now many domestic guns are defective. When choosing Soviet-made guns, you should pay attention to the wear and tear of the guns.

In TOZ systems, where for disassembly it was necessary to pull back the lever and simultaneously press the trigger, very often the mechanisms are already practically broken.

Conclusion: the guns are about the same in quality. You need to choose from hunting methods and suitability for you personally.

Storage and care of the IZH-27 (MR-27) gun

The gun must be stored in a dry place. When storing a gun, the hammers must be pulled and the barrels separated. The gun lock must also be released. To do this, you need to click on the small dog inside the trunk landing nest. All parts must be lubricated: barrels, block, forend and hinge axles. As planned, the chrome lining of the barrels should make them easier to maintain, but it often comes off after the first shots.

It is necessary to clean the barrels after every hunt in which at least one shot was fired. This will keep you from getting trunk rash. If there is a lot of soot, the trunks can be washed in warm water and then wiped dry with a rag. If there is a sheen of lead in the trunks, it is necessary to remove the lead using a soft copper brush. When the shackle appears, it is necessary to tighten the tightening screw located in the butt from time to time. To do this, you first need to remove the shock absorber pad by unscrewing two screws. If, during a fall, the firing pins are retained on the interceptor, there is no need to press the triggers hard; the firing pins are removed by completely opening and closing the barrels. You cannot click empty, without cartridges in the barrels. This reduces the life of the strikers, pins and springs. If it is necessary to release the triggers, you need to insert already fired cartridges. When disassembling the gun, the hammer can be released by moving the lever to the side with the triggers clamped. You need to open and close the gun smoothly, with both hands. This will protect the gun from being shaken.

A round bullet should be 0.2 or 0.3 millimeters smaller than the muzzle of the barrels.

The diameter of the bullet with a belt should be 0.8-1 mm less than the muzzle. The belts can be 0.5-1 mm larger than the muzzle. To check a bullet with belts, it is necessary to release it into vertically standing barrels. Under its weight, it should stop at a distance of 1-2 centimeters from the muzzle. It is better not to shoot cartridges with larger powder loads than recommended by the manufacturer. It is also better to avoid shooting with old cartridges; it is better to reload them.

Review from the owner of IZH-27M (MR-27M)

• The sighting bar on the gun is ventilated; in summer, the phenomenon of mirage from the heat is less pronounced.
• The weight of the gun is generally greater than that of imported models, so the gun wobbles less, and because of this, recoil is compensated for more.
• The stock is quite thick, and thanks to this, when dropped on a weapon, it remains intact. Thin-skinned “foreigners” are more suitable for foreign “park” hunting.
• The quality of the chrome plating is terrible; after every hunt, when it’s wet, the gun becomes covered in rust before you even get home.
• The fit of wooden and metal parts to each other is, to put it mildly, weak. There are problems with the stock and the fact that it is wiped and begins to gain moisture. You can restore the stock yourself and apply water-repellent impregnation, after which the stock will look very good, and problems will no longer arise.
• The only thing there won't be any problems with is the mechanics. Everything works like clockwork, subject to minimal cleaning of the weapon after each hunt and complete cleaning of the smoothbore weapon after the end of the hunting season.
• After firing charges with an increased amount of shot, a stutter appears in the vertical plane. When you hold a gun by the butt and shake the barrels. It can be removed by simply tightening the screw in the butt. But it is written in the passport that it is necessary to tighten the fastening screw from time to time. It is still necessary to use a standard amount of gunpowder and shot.

Technical characteristics of IZH-27

Parameter		Meaning
Caliber
							"Magnum"
Length, nominal value, mm	chamber
Barrel bore diameter, nominal value, mm
Muzzle constriction, nominal value, mm*	upper barrel F (choke)
	lower trunk M (pay)
Average value of the maximum gas pressure developed by cartridges during weapon operation, MPa (kgf/cm2), ns more
Weight of the gun, kg, ns more

Conclusion

The weapon is good, but manufacturers would allow fewer manufacturing defects, which are growing every year. If you have the opportunity to buy an IZH-27M with a production date before 1991, and it will be in excellent condition, buy it! Neither you nor your children, who will inherit it if you take proper care of it, will regret it.

The quality of the guns that Izhmekh produces today is, to put it mildly, unsatisfactory. Sometimes you just want to come to the factory and buy a gun from them, so that you can choose one gun out of hundreds.

Video: TOZ-34 vs IZH-27 (MR-27)