Baikal-442
Izhevsk Mechanical Plant (Baikal) · Pistol · Discontinued · 1998
Also known as: IZH-442, MP-442, MP-442 Rook, Izh-442
Overview
The Baikal-442 (IZH-442, also marketed as the MP-442 Rook) is a Russian double-action/single-action semi-automatic pistol developed in the late 1990s by the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant as a commercial evolution of the Makarov PM. Chambered in 9x18mm Makarov, it retains the proven fixed-barrel blowback action of the Makarov but adopts a wider frame and a double-stack magazine holding up to 12 rounds, along with a redesigned wraparound grip for improved ergonomics.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 730 g (25.8 oz) |
| Overall Length | 165 mm (6.50") |
| Barrel Length | 93.5 mm (3.68") |
| Action Type | Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Double Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 12 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 315 m/s (1033 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 303 J (223 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 50 m (55 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Number of Grooves | 4 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 9x18mm Makarov · primary — also known as 9mm Makarov, 9x18 PM, 9x18mm
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Decocker
- Features: Double Stack Magazine, Fixed Sights, Wraparound Grip
Production
Production years: 1998-2000s
Limited commercial production; exact figures undisclosed
Origin
Country of origin: Russia
Designer: Izhevsk Mechanical Plant design bureau
Notes
A sporting/commercial derivative of the Makarov PM line, closely related to the modernized PMM. Export models were also offered in .380 ACP (9x17mm) for civilian markets.
Background
The '442' family carried the Baikal sporting-goods brand that Izhevsk Mechanical Plant used to sell civilian Makarov derivatives abroad after the Cold War, turning a Soviet service pistol into an export commodity.