Tokarev TT33 (Russia)
| Length | 19.6cm / 7.65in |
| Weight | 830g / 1.80lb |
| Muzzle velocity | 420m / 1,380ft per second |
| Cartridge | 7.62mm |
| Magazine | 8 rounds |
Similar in design to the American M1911A1, the Tokarev TT33 automatic pistol was introduced as the standard Red Army sidearm in 1933 (hence the '33 in its name). In an attempt to upgrade an automatic pistol, the TT33 was produced in massive numbers and was carried by virtually all sections of the Red Army.
The simple and effective design offered few thrills, but did incorporate new materials such as plastics for the grips. Clever machining also made the weapon ultra-reliable in the most arduous conditions. The design was later copied under licence by the many soviet states that emerged after the war. Not a pretty weapon, the TT33 offers a workmanlike robust approach to pistol manufacture.
