The Calibers of Russian Military Handguns: A Deep Dive
The question of whether Russian soldiers use 9mm or .45 ACP pistols is not straightforward. The answer depends on several factors, including the specific era, the branch of service, and the individual soldier's role. There's no single definitive answer. Unlike the US military's historical preference for larger calibers, the Russian military has a more diverse history of handgun calibers.
Historical Context: A Shift in Calibers
For much of the 20th century, Russian military handguns were not a primary weapon system. The emphasis was on rifles and submachine guns. However, various pistols have seen limited service, and their calibers have evolved. Early Soviet pistols often used calibers less common in Western militaries.
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Makarov PM: This is perhaps the most iconic Russian military handgun. It uses the 9x18mm Makarov cartridge, a relatively low-powered round compared to the .45 ACP. The PM was widely issued throughout the Soviet era and continues to be used by some units in Russia and other former Soviet republics. Its smaller caliber contributes to ease of handling and carrying more ammunition.
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Other Calibers: While the Makarov is prominent, other pistols and calibers have appeared in Russian military service over time. These were often less standardized and issued on a more limited scale. The .45 ACP caliber, favored by the US, has not seen widespread adoption in the Russian military.
Modern Trends and Current Usage
In recent years, the Russian military has shown a greater interest in modernizing its weaponry. While the Makarov remains in service, newer pistol designs are emerging, though often without extensive public information about their specifications. It’s likely that some units utilize more modern 9mm pistols, aligning with global trends towards this caliber. The 9x19mm Parabellum (9mm NATO) is more powerful and has better availability compared to the 9x18mm Makarov. However, the exact calibers used by specific Russian military units remain partially undisclosed for security reasons.
Beyond the Standard Issue: Special Forces and Variations
It's crucial to note that special forces units often utilize different weapons systems than standard infantry. These specialized units may use various handguns, depending on their mission requirements and individual preferences. Therefore, the presence of .45 ACP or other calibers within select units cannot be ruled out.
Conclusion: No Single Answer
In short, there is no simple answer to whether Russian soldiers use 9mm or .45 ACP. The 9x18mm Makarov remains a significant factor in the historical context, while more recent trends suggest a potential shift toward more commonly used 9x19mm handguns. However, specific details regarding current weapon deployments within various branches and specialized units remain partially classified. The Russian military's diverse history and ongoing modernization efforts make definitive statements difficult without access to classified information.
