Russia To Replace Aging Makarov Pistol With New 9-mm Hangun

In the coming months, the Russian Armed Forces will induct a new 9-mm handgun that will replace the aging Makarov pistol. “We are certifying a new pistol, the Strizh, which will replace the Makarov pistol in the next few months,” said Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin said on Wednesday. The Russian military and police have used the Makarov pistol, a standard issue weapon, for over 60 years. Arsenal Fireams, a Russian company, developed the Strizh with guidance from special forces instructors. The new handgun has better performance than the Austrian-made Glock 17, a favorite of special forces worldwide, Rogozin said. The Strizh has three safely mechanism to prevent accidental firing, it also has a slim-profile polymer frame, an easy-to-rack slide with rear and front serrations, an ambidextrous magazine release and a Picatinny rail for mounting special sights. It can hold 18-round or 30-round ammunition clips, and can be equipped with a flashlight and a laser sight and can also be fitted with a longer barrel and used as a machine-pistol.