Baikal IZH-46M

IZH46-LHG

Baikal IZH-46M is a single-stroke pneumatic air pistol designed and manufactured by the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant (Izhevskiy Mekhanicheskiy Zavod) in Russia. It is primarily used for 10-meter air pistol shooting competitions and is known for its precision, reliability, and affordability, making it a popular choice among both novice and experienced shooters.

Design and Features

The Baikal IZH-46M is a direct successor to the IZH-46, with several improvements in design and performance. It operates on a single-stroke pneumatic mechanism, which requires the shooter to cock the pistol by opening and closing the overlever, located at the top of the pistol, to compress air in a chamber. This action prepares the pistol to fire a single shot. The air pistol is chambered for .177 (4.5mm) caliber pellets, which is the standard caliber for 10-meter air pistol competitions.

One of the notable features of the IZH-46M is its adjustable trigger, which allows shooters to customize the trigger pull weight and travel to their preference. Additionally, the pistol comes with adjustable sights, including a rear sight that can be adjusted for windage and elevation, enhancing accuracy.

The grip of the IZH-46M is made from wood and is ergonomically designed to fit comfortably in the shooter's hand. The grip is also adjustable and can be replaced with custom grips to better fit the shooter's hand size and shooting style.

Performance

The Baikal IZH-46M is renowned for its exceptional accuracy and consistency, attributes that are crucial for competition shooting. The precision of the pistol is attributed to its high-quality barrel and the stable pneumatic power source, which eliminates the recoil and vibration found in other types of air pistols, such as CO2 or spring-piston guns.

Popularity

The IZH-46M has gained a strong following among competitive shooters due to its affordability compared to other air pistols of similar quality. It offers a cost-effective entry point for those new to the sport of 10-meter air pistol shooting, while still providing the performance and features needed for competition.

Maintenance

Maintaining the Baikal IZH-46M is relatively straightforward. Regular cleaning of the barrel and checking the seals for wear and tear are essential to ensure the pistol's longevity and performance. The simplicity of the single-stroke pneumatic mechanism also means there are fewer moving parts to maintain or replace compared to more complex systems.

Conclusion

The Baikal IZH-46M stands out as a reliable, accurate, and affordable option for 10-meter air pistol shooters. Its design and features cater to both beginners and experienced competitors, making it a staple in the sport of target shooting. The IZH-46M continues to be a testament to the quality and craftsmanship of the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant.