Adopted in 1895 by the Russian Empire and continuously produced through the Soviet era, the M1895 Nagant was the primary sidearm of Red Army officers, political commissars, tank commanders, and reconnaissance teams during World War II. Built in 1940 just prior to the Axis invasion (Operation Barbarossa), this piece represents peak pre-war machining fit and deep factory bluing before late-war wartime production shortcuts were implemented.

Mechanical & Gas-Seal Architecture

• Proprietary Gas-Seal System: Features Léon Nagant’s ingenious mechanism where the 7-shot cylinder cams forward over the rear breech of the barrel during cocking. This seals the cylinder gap, preventing velocity loss and gas blow-by when firing the unique recessed-bullet 7.62x38mmR cartridge.

• Double-Action Fire Control: Standard military double-action/single-action configuration with an exposed spur hammer, integral frame sights, and bottom frame lanyard ring.

• Grips & Furniture: Fitted with original factory diamond-checkered hardwood grip scales and matching contoured wood grip insert.

• Holster Rig: Complete with an authentic Red Army flap holster featuring stitched belt loops, brass closure stud, internal divider, and an external pocket fitted with its original steel cleaning rod.

Source & Provenance (Sauce)

• Manufacturer / Arsenal: Produced at the historic Tula Arsenal / Soviet State Ordnance, dated 1940.

• Cyrillic Markings: Retains crisp matching factory serial numbering with the wartime Cyrillic “ЖО” (ZHO) prefix stamped across the frame, cylinder, and sideplate.

• Acceptance Proofs: Clearly defined Soviet five-pointed star arsenal cartouche and standard military acceptance test stamps on the frame.

• Condition & Mechanics: Complete mechanical integrity with positive cylinder advance and tight gas-seal lockup, mirror-bright bore with sharp rifling, and authentic period patina.

Availability

Available at: Armfoundry.com