Nirbheek

Ordnance Factories Board · Pistol · In Production · 2014

Also known as: Nirbhik

Overview

The Nirbheek is a lightweight double-action revolver produced by India's Ordnance Factories Board at the Field Gun Factory in Kanpur. Chambered in .32 S&W Long with a six-shot cylinder, it uses a titanium-alloy frame and wooden grips to keep weight down to around 525 g, allowing it to be carried in a purse or bag. Launched in 2014 and marketed primarily toward women as a personal-defence sidearm, its design draws on earlier Webley & Scott and Smith & Wesson revolvers.

Specifications

Weight (empty)	525 g (18.5 oz)
Overall Length	178 mm (7.01")
Barrel Length	76 mm (2.99")
Action Type	Double Action Revolver
Firing Mechanism	Double Action
Trigger Type	Double Action
Magazine Capacity	6 rounds
Magazine Type	Rotary
Muzzle Velocity	223 m/s (732 fps)
Muzzle Energy	158 J (117 ft·lbf)
Effective Range	15 m (16 yd)
Maximum Range	50 m (55 yd)
Barrel Rifling	Right Hand
Frame Material	Titanium
Barrel Material	Steel
Stock Material	Wood
Finish	Black

Calibers

.32 S&W Long · primary — also known as .32 Long, .32 Colt New Police, 7.65x23mmR

Features

Firing modes: Semi Automatic
Feed systems: Revolver Cylinder
Features: Titanium Alloy Frame, Wooden Grips, Six Shot Cylinder, Lightweight Carry

Service history

Operators

Indian civilian licence holders · adopted 2014

Production

Production years: 2014-present

Low-volume civilian production; sold through Indian licence-holder channels

Origin

Country of origin: India

Notes

Named after the 2012 Delhi gang-rape victim (popularly called 'Nirbhaya'); marketed as India's first firearm aimed at women. Its high price drew criticism at launch.

Background

The Nirbheek was named in memory of the 2012 Delhi gang-rape victim and pitched as India's first gun designed for women, small enough to slip into a handbag, though its six-figure rupee price tag put it out of reach for most of the buyers it was meant to protect.