Mosin-Nagant M/27 Pystykorva

Oy Tikkakoski Ab · Rifle · Discontinued · 1927

Also known as: M27, Model 27, Pystykorva, Spitz

Overview

The Mosin-Nagant M/27 Pystykorva is a Finnish bolt-action service rifle, the Finnish Army's first major reworking of the Russian Model 1891. Adopted in 1927, it retained the M1891 receiver and magazine but fitted a new, shorter heavy-weight barrel for improved accuracy, a sturdier two-piece stock, a redesigned front barrel band and nose cap, and a distinctive hooded front sight whose protective ears earned the rifle its nickname Pystykorva ('spitz', after the upright ears of the spitz dog). Chambered in 7.62x54mmR, it served Finnish forces through the Winter War and Continuation War.

Specifications

Weight (empty)4110 g (145.0 oz)
Overall Length1185 mm (46.65")
Barrel Length685 mm (26.97")
Action TypeBolt Action
Firing MechanismStriker Fired
Trigger TypeSingle Stage
Magazine Capacity5 rounds
Magazine TypeFixed Box
Muzzle Velocity800 m/s (2625 fps)
Muzzle Energy3780 J (2788 ft·lbf)
Effective Range500 m (547 yd)
Maximum Range2000 m (2187 yd)
Barrel RiflingRight Hand
Rifling Twist241 mm (9.49")
Number of Grooves4
Frame MaterialSteel
Barrel MaterialSteel
Stock MaterialWood
FinishBlued

Calibers

Features

Service history

Operators

Conflicts

Production

Estimated total produced: 71,550 · Production years: 1927-1940

Most produced by Oy Tikkakoski Ab; roughly 2,550 made by VKT. Built on retained M1891 receivers and magazines.

Origin

Country of origin: Finland

Designer: Finnish Army weapons committee

Discontinued: 1940

Notes

Approximately 71,550 M/27 rifles produced between 1927 and 1940, the great majority by Oy Tikkakoski Ab, with a small number (around 2,550) by VKT (Valtion Kivaaritehdas). Many were built on receivers from older Russian-made M1891 actions.

Background

The M/27 earned its nickname Pystykorva, Finnish for 'spitz', because the protective ears flanking its hooded front sight resembled the pricked-up ears of a spitz dog. It was the first of the series of Finnish Mosin-Nagant refinements that culminated in the celebrated M/39.