Introduction
The Mosin-Nagant, known as the “Russian bolt-action rifle”, is a legendary weapon that played a central role in many of the major conflicts of the XXᵉ century. Appreciated for its robustness, mechanical simplicity and firepower, this rifle became an emblematic symbol of the Soviet military forces.
Origin and History: Franco-Russian Collaboration
The Mosin-Nagant saw the light of day in 1891, thanks to a collaboration between Sergei Ivanovich Mosin, a Russian officer, and Léon Nagant, a Belgian gunsmith. This bolt-action rifle was adopted by the Russian Empire to replace the obsolete weapons of the time. Chambered in 7.62x54R, a powerful and accurate ammunition, it quickly became the standard weapon of the Russian army.
During the First World War, the Russian Revolution and the Second World War, the Mosin-Nagant proved its reliability on the battlefield, even under the most extreme conditions.
Technical specifications
Here are the Mosin-Nagant’s main specifications:
– Caliber: 7.62x54R
– Operating system: Bolt-action rifle
– Magazine capacity: 5 cartridges (blade-loader)
– Total length: 1,232 mm (standard M91/30 version)
– Barrel length: 730 mm
– Weight: 4.0 kg (unloaded)
– Effective range: 500 m (up to 800 m with scope)
– Material: Wood and steel
Robustness and design
The Mosin-Nagant is renowned for its robust design. Constructed from solid wood and steel, it is designed to withstand harsh climatic conditions, including the extreme cold of Russian winters. The latch mechanism is simple and reliable, requiring little maintenance.
Its long barrel favors a stable trajectory for 7.62x54R ammunition, offering remarkable accuracy for a rifle designed at the end of the XIXᵉ century.
Mosin-Nagant variants
The Mosin-Nagant is available in several versions to suit different needs:
1. M91/30: The most common model, used during the Second World War.
2. M38 and M44: Shorter rifle versions, ideal for mobile infantry.
3. PU Sniper: Variant equipped with a PU scope for precision shooting, popularized by Soviet snipers.
Each variant retains the Mosin-Nagant’s reliability while adapting to specific needs.
Ballistic performance
The 7.62x54R cartridge is one of the oldest military munitions still in service today. With an average muzzle velocity of 850 m/s and a kinetic energy in excess of 3,000 joules, it offers exceptional power. This makes the Mosin-Nagant an effective weapon not only for combat, but also for big-game hunting.
Comparison with other rifles
Compared with other military rifles of its time, such as the Mauser K98 or Lee-Enfield, the Mosin-Nagant stands out for its mechanical simplicity and low production costs. However, its 5-round magazine and slightly less fluid bolt action make it slightly slower in rate of fire.
Modern applications
Today, Mosin-Nagant remains very popular for a variety of uses:
1. Sport shooting: Its precision and history make it a popular weapon with shooters.
2. Collecting: Vintage models, especially those from the Second World War, are highly sought-after by collectors.
3. Hunting: Its powerful ammunition makes it ideal for big game hunting.
4. Historical re-enactment: Used to depict historical conflicts, this is a popular choice for enthusiasts.
Conclusion
The Mosin-Nagant is much more than just a military rifle: it’s a testament to Russian history and gunmaking ingenuity. Its robustness, reliability and affordability make it a must-have choice for collectors, sport shooters and history buffs alike. To own a Mosin-Nagant is to own a piece of history, a weapon that has stood the test of time.
