Baikal MP-156
Izhevsk Mechanical Plant · Shotgun · In Production · 2017
Also known as: MP-156, IZH MP-156, Baikal MR-156
Overview
The Baikal MP-156 is an inertia-operated semi-automatic shotgun chambered in 12 gauge with a 76mm (3-inch) Magnum chamber, produced by the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant under the Baikal brand. Introduced in 2017 as the company's first inertia-driven design, it shares its receiver, stock, trigger group, barrel and bolt with the gas-operated MP-155, differing chiefly in its recoil-driven inertia module. It feeds from a tubular magazine holding four shells and is marketed as an affordable hunting and sporting shotgun capable of cycling standard and Magnum loads.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3100 g (109.3 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1240 mm (48.82") |
| Barrel Length | 710 mm (27.95") |
| Action Type | Inertia Operated |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 4 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Tubular |
| Muzzle Velocity | 400 m/s (1312 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 3200 J (2360 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 40 m (44 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Smoothbore |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Wood |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 12 Gauge 3 Inch Magnum · primary — also known as 12 ga 3", 12 ga Magnum, 12/76, 12 bore 76mm
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Tubular Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Cross Bolt Safety
- Features: Interchangeable Chokes, Ventilated Rib, Magnum Chamber, Tubular Magazine
Production
Production years: 2017-present
Civilian hunting and sporting shotgun; produced alongside the gas-operated MP-155
Origin
Country of origin: Russia
Notes
The inertia module is mounted where the MP-155 places its gas piston rather than inside the bolt as on conventional inertia shotguns. Early production lots suffered high defect rates; reliability was substantially improved by 2019. The owner's manual specifies a minimum 32-gram shot charge for cycling and recommends break-in with heavier high-velocity loads.
Background
The MP-156 was Baikal's first attempt at an inertia-operated semi-automatic shotgun, sharing the majority of its parts with the gas-operated MP-155 to keep the design affordable for the hunting market.