The concept of PDW - Personal Defense Weapon, which appeared in the West, that is, a weapon for a free hand in the late 80s and early 90s, became relevant in the USSR. According to this concept, for arming military personnel servicing complex types of equipment, personal weapons should not be linear long-barreled machine guns or pistols, but shortened automatic weapons chambered for a fairly powerful cartridge.
The representative of this concept in the USSR army was the unsuccessful AKS-74U assault rifle. As a result of scientific work, the small-sized 9-A91 assault rifle appeared, capable of replacing the AKS-74U.
Automatic 9A-91 small-sized
History of creation
The 9A91 assault rifle was developed at the Tula Instrument Design Bureau (KBP) as a direct competitor to the small-sized SR-3 Vikhr assault rifle. The beginning of development dates back to the very beginning of the 1990s, serial production began in 1994
Purpose of the 9A91 assault rifle
Designed to destroy manpower, including those protected by body armor, as well as unarmored military equipment. This is an ideal machine gun for urban combat due to its small size, weight and anti-ricochet properties of the bullet.
9A-98. Photo bratishka.ru
Design features
The 9A-91 was a weapon with hidden capabilities for further modifications, opening up wide boundaries for its use. The machine was supposed to be equipped with an under-barrel 40-mm grenade launcher GP-95, but this attempt was not successful due to the insufficient weight and structural strength of the weapon. This is not surprising, since it was necessary to withstand powerful recoil when firing a 40 mm grenade. Also, based on the main 9-mm 9A-91 assault rifle, variants chambered for 7.62x39 mm, 5.56 mm NATO and 5.45x39 mm cartridges were developed, but they were not widespread. It is worth noting the version of the silent “sniper” rifle VSK-94, which was obtained by installing an awkward skeleton stock, mounts for optical sights and a silencer on the 9A-91. In later modifications of the 9A-91 assault rifle, it became possible to install special laser target designators and a PK-01 collimator sight.
The design of the 9A-91 assault rifle was based on a scheme with a gas automatic engine. When the bolt is turned, the barrel is locked. The trigger mechanism is trigger. The barrel is equipped with a removable spoon-shaped compensator similar to the compensator on the AKM.
Tactical and technical characteristics of the 9A91 assault rifle:
Caliber 9x39 mm 7.62x39 mm 5.45x39 mm 5.56x45 mm
Length with stock folded 384 mm
Length with butt folded down 604 mm
Weight without magazine 1.75 kg
Magazine weight with 20 cartridges 0.67 kg 0.53 kg 0.41 kg 0.43 kg
Initial bullet speed 270 m/s 570 m/s 670 m/s 680 m/s
Effective firing range 200 m 250 m 250 m 250 m
Rate of fire 700 - 900 rpm
Magazine capacity 20 rounds
Composition of the Automatic 9A-91:
- barrel with receiver: gas tube, pistol grip and sighting device;
- receiver cover with return mechanism and butt;
- bolt carrier;
- gate;
- translator fuse;
- trigger mechanism;
- forend pad;
- thrust nut;
- shop.
Photo of machine gun 9a-91:
Video about the 9a-91 machine gun:
Device and general design
Like most modern weapon systems, the 9-A91 uses automation based on the removal of gas energy with a rotating bolt with the barrel locked by 4 lugs. The trigger type trigger, the device is similar to the Kalashnikov assault rifle trigger. This, according to the master gunsmiths, was supposed to make it easier for professional shooters to study weapons.
When fired, gases entering the gas chamber push back a piston rigidly connected to the bolt frame.
When moving backward, the bolt cocks the hammer and ejects the spent cartridge case. Upon recoil, the compressed return spring pushes the frame forward, taking the cartridge from the magazine and sending it into the chamber.
The bolt in the frame body rotates, the protrusions of the stops fit into the grooves, the trigger is released, hits the firing pin and a shot is fired. After this, the cycle repeats.
Stamping and casting are widely used in production; the number of machined parts is reduced to a minimum. This significantly reduced the cost of weapon production, but at the same time, had a negative impact on its service life and accuracy.
The placement of controls is standard for Russian weapons. The dovetail strip is placed on the left side of the box. The magazine is box-type, made of metal, capacity 20 rounds, double-row placement with outlet in one cartridge.
The stock is folding, skeletal type, and fits onto the receiver cover.
The handguard and fire control handle are made of glass-filled polyamide and have optimal slopes and corrugations on the surface. These are the only polymer parts of the machine.
Small-sized assault rifle 9A-91
In the late 1980s, while Klimov designers were working on the small-sized SR-3 Vikhr assault rifle, Tula gunsmiths from the Instrument Design Bureau (KBP) began working on an alternative version - the 9A-91 assault rifle.
In the West, small-sized weapons received the designation PDW (Personal Defense Weapon - free-hand weapon), the main purpose of which is to arm military personnel not associated with the main types of weapons - vehicle drivers, radar operators, etc., and should not interfere with their ability to carry out their duties. main responsibilities.
The designers of the KBP were faced with the task of creating a powerful small-sized weapon for the internal troops and internal affairs bodies of Russia, which could successfully replace both the 7.62 mm AKM / AKMS assault rifles and the 5.45 mm AK-74 / AKS-74 / AKS-74U.
In order to achieve high combat characteristics, the small-sized 9A-91 assault rifle, like the SR-3 “Whirlwind,” was created for special 9-mm assault rifle cartridges SP-5 and SP-6.
9A-91 modernized version
In 1992, the new weapon was first presented to the general public, and in 1994, mass production of the 9A-91 assault rifle was launched.
modernized version 9A-91 incomplete disassembly
Application
It is used in special units of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and in the troops of the Russian Guard as a small-sized and silent weapon. VSK-94 rifles have the same scope of application as the VSS Vintorez. Silent, accurate shooting at a distance of up to 400 meters is sufficient for these units.
Designed to knock out an armed enemy outside cover and behind small partitions, suppressing firing points.
It is noted that the sound of a 9-A91 shot with a PBBS (a device for silent and flameless shooting) is heard better than a shot from an AS machine gun, and the clanging of the machine’s mechanisms when fired is also noted.
Despite the lower cost, the machine has limited use. This is due both to the quality of production. And the machine’s characteristics don’t shine. Low manufacturing tolerances resulted in unnecessarily low accuracy when firing. The weapon is relatively heavy.
The PAB-9 cartridges used by the machine gun are of worse quality than the special SP cartridges, while at the same time the machine gun can use SP-5 and SP-6 cartridges for firing.
The price gain is obtained only due to the difference in the cost of materials, and not the production itself.
Despite this, the 9-A91 is a reliable, inexpensive assault rifle of limited use. A simplified analogue of the Vintorez complex for working in urban areas. In addition, its use specifically in the structures of the Ministry of Internal Affairs reduces the requirements for its reliability in extreme conditions. We can say that this machine is in demand and appeared at the right time and in the right place.
History of the development of the 9A-91 assault rifle
The eighties of the twentieth century were marked by the advent of more advanced personal protective equipment - helmets and armored vests. At the same time, gunsmiths were busy designing ammunition that would penetrate the armor plate. Soviet engineers at the Klimovsky Central Research Institute of TOCHMASH managed to create such cartridges - SP-6 and SP-5, which also give a subsonic speed of bullet departure from the barrel, preferable for shooting with a silencer attachment.
To complement the new cartridges, a compact-sized assault rifle was needed, which will be used by soldiers of special forces units of the Internal Affairs Department (internal affairs agencies) and state security. This was understood at the Tula Design Bureau - under the leadership of V.P. Gryazev successfully developed the 9A-91 assault rifle, initially designed to be equipped with a flameless and silent firing device (FBS).
There is another version regarding the motives for creating small-sized assault rifles 9A-91 and SR-3 “Whirlwind”. According to it, the Western concept of PDW (Personal Defense Weapon) became known in the USSR. The essence of PDW is to provide military personnel engaged in servicing military equipment (tanks, aircraft, etc.) with compact automatic personal weapons instead of single-firing pistols and long-barreled machine guns.
The new concept, in addition to the automatic fire mode, small dimensions and the ability to hold the weapon when shooting with one hand, required an increase in the power and penetrating power of the cartridge, as well as a reduction in the cost of the weapon.
The Gryazev assault rifle meets all the above requirements.
Development of the 9A-91 was completed in 1992, and two years later it first entered service with the Ministry of Internal Affairs. The pioneers in using the new product were the soldiers of the GUBOP “Lynx” detachment and the Moscow OMSN. Soon the internal troops of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation accepted the weapon into their arsenal. Today it continues to be used in the Russian Guard and police special forces.
In addition to Russia, the 9A-91 is armed with special forces soldiers of the Syrian Arab Republic, army units of the Special Operations Forces (SSO) of the Republic of Belarus and Mongolia.
It is curious that, contrary to the version about the PDW, there is no information about arming military personnel of the Russian Armed Forces working with equipment with this compact.
Prerequisites for the appearance
Basic requirements for weapons created within the framework of this concept:
- increased power and penetrating power of the cartridge;
- automatic fire mode;
- Can be used with one hand;
- compact size and light weight;
- low production cost.
At the turn of the 80s and 90s, a fairly large number of new weapons suitable for these requirements were created at the weapons factories of the USSR. Both submachine guns for pistol cartridges of various types, and for intermediate and special cartridges.
A prominent representative of such samples is the 9-A91, an assault rifle chambered for the 9 mm PAB-9 cartridge.
The purpose of the machine
Gryazev’s assault rifle meets the needs of the National Guard and special police forces. They manage to effectively knock out terrorists and other especially dangerous armed criminals, eliminate enemy personnel, including suppressing firing points during army special operations.
True, there are critical reviews about weapons. According to their authors:
- The 9A-91 is not silent - the shot and the clanging shutter are heard too well;
- The performance characteristics leave much to be desired, namely, the product’s weight is relatively large and its accuracy is low;
- The quality of ammunition produced specifically for the 9A-91 is inferior to other cartridges.
Nevertheless, the weapon is quite reliable for special police forces and members of the National Guard, inexpensive and quite suitable for eliminating criminal elements in the city. So Gryazev’s brainchild deservedly remains in demand. At the same time, using it in extreme conditions, where special forces often find themselves, is risky.
The best 9mm carbines
9-mm caliber carbines (PCC, Pistol caliber carbines - carbines chambered for a pistol cartridge) are gaining more and more popularity every year around the world. It is for this reason that today we will talk about their main advantages, as well as give a brief description of several of the most prominent foreign-made models.
The content of the article
Advantages of 9mm carbines
Comfortable shooting
Long-barreled weapons using 9mm cartridges have a fairly comfortable firing sound, which is much quieter than weapons chambered for .223 caliber or larger cartridges. This allows you to shoot for a long time even without the use of special protective equipment (headphones).
Despite the fact that a 9-mm caliber carbine is usually lighter than its full-fledged brother, its recoil is much lower compared to classic long-barreled weapons, which makes it easy for even girls to handle the PCC.
Home defense
Civilian carbines chambered for 9 mm pistol cartridges (most of which are developed on the basis of full-fledged carbines, but do not have an automatic fire function) have a combination of small dimensions and low weight. This allows you to use them with the greatest comfort both outdoors (such weapons will not create much difficulty even during long walks on foot) and at home in case of self-defense (the compact size allows you to move and shoot effectively even in the tightest spaces). By the way, in this parameter such carbines are significantly superior to classic models such as AR-15 and AK.
In addition, a short carbine will be more accurate and stable in the hands of a beginner than a pistol, especially in stressful situations, due to the intuitive grip and the length of the aiming line, longer than a pistol and shorter than a full-fledged rifle.
Training and sports
The affordable price of 9 mm cartridges (compared to rifled cartridges of more serious calibers) allows them to be successfully used during training without large financial costs.
As we know, in the case of long-barreled weapons, the longer the barrel, the higher the initial speed of the bullet. The same rule applies to the 9mm pistol cartridge. At the same time, most long-barreled carbines in the specified caliber have sufficient accuracy for shooting at a distance of up to 100 meters, which is more than sufficient distance for sports shooting.
The best 9mm carbines
Best Budget Option: Ruger PC Carbine
The first RSS from this company was the 9 mm carbine, which went into production back in 1996, which was initially created as a purely police version, intended for transportation in a car and use at short distances (when the use of a weapon more powerful than a pistol was undesirable).
The production of this carbine did not last long - until 2007, after which its production was suspended, and the company switched to other models of long-barreled weapons, designed for more classic calibers. But, after 10 years (in 2007), Ruger returned the PCC to the market, having previously updated its appearance and design. The base model for it was one of the variants of the popular Ruger 10/22 series (but, accordingly, converted to 9 mm). The main changes were the trigger mechanism, the barrel (in addition to increasing the caliber, it received a number of longitudinal grooves to reduce weight and better cooling during prolonged shooting) and the upper part of the box, on which a picattini rail was installed for quick attachment of sighting devices).
The total unloaded weight of the carbine is only 6.8 pounds and the length is approximately 34 inches. During transportation over long distances, it can be easily disassembled by separating the barrel with the forend from the receiver (and thus reducing its length by almost half).
Additional options included in the basic carbine kit include 3 spacers, which can be independently installed under the butt plate and thus adjust its length (which is very convenient for shooters with long arms), and a special adapter. The latter allows you to attach to the weapon not only its own magazines, but also magazines from a Glock pistol. The average price of this carbine on the American market ranges from 450 to 600 dollars, which makes it the most budget RSS at the moment.
Best 9mm Carbine for Training: Sig Sauer MPX
Entering production in 2015, this model became the world's first submachine gun with a completely closed bolt, protected from not only soil and dirt, but also water. The total length of the carbine is 33 inches, 13.3 of which are in the suspended barrel, providing maximum shooting accuracy even at long distances (the end of the barrel is threaded for installation of a silencer manufactured specifically for this model).
The weapon is made entirely of metal and has no plastic elements. The butt of the carbine is adjustable, with three adjustable lengths. The fire switch is completely similar to the M16 rifle, and the magazine replacement button is double-sided, which allows both right- and left-handed people to use this weapon equally comfortably. The gas exhaust system is universal, non-adjustable and provides fast automatic reloading when firing all types of 9 mm cartridges, regardless of the bullet weight.
The MRX is equipped with a picattini rail and allows the installation of all types of optical, diopter and collimator sights. Due to its reliability and undemanding requirements for ammunition, this 9 mm caliber carbine almost immediately gained respect among fans of practical shooting, and is currently used by many athletes not only in the USA, but also in other countries.
Silencer carabiner: CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1
The Scorpio, introduced by the company to the general public back in 1961, has undergone a number of very significant changes over this long period of time, as a result of which the EVO 3 model, launched on the market in 2015, has virtually no similarity in terms of mechanics with the original model.
The most important advantages of this carbine are its compactness (which becomes even larger in the transport position - thanks to the folded butt), the ability to install a silencer (PBBS), as well as its extremely low weight - after all, all its main components (of course, except for the barrel and bolt) are made of polymer . Thanks to the latter property, its total weight (unloaded) is just over 3 kg. At the same time, the good balance of the weapon ensures comfortable shooting even with cartridges with heavy bullets.
The gas exhaust system is made on the principle of a short piston stroke, and guarantees recharging without delay. The carbine barrel length with the suppressor installed is 16 inches, the total length is 34.7 inches. As an additional option, the manufacturer offers a muzzle brake designed specifically for the Scorpio, which significantly dampens recoil and allows you to comfortably shoot powerful cartridges for a long time (for example, during training).
The butt of the carbine is completely polymer, with adjustable length (3 options), folding. The total length of the weapon (without muzzle devices) when folded is only 24 inches. Fixation of the folded butt to the receiver is carried out due to neodymium magnets installed in them, providing reliable fastening and allowing long-term shooting without the risk of the butt falling into place on its own. Other important features include double-sided fire switches and double-sided magazine release buttons, which allow both left- and right-handed people to use the carbine without any inconvenience.
If we talk about the existing shortcomings of Scorpio, the main one is the very tight descent on products that go on sale - about 5 kg. For this reason, it is recommended to adjust it yourself and reduce this force.
Best 9mm AR Carbine: Wilson Combat AR9
The AR9 carbine is a weapon fully capable of firing 9mm pistol cartridges, manufactured using AR components. It is available with barrel lengths of 14.7 inches (the barrel is lightweight due to longitudinal grooves) and 16 inches (with both a lightweight and non-lightweight barrel). For all these options, it is possible to install both a muffler and a flash suppressor from Wilson Q-COMP Flash Hider, which simultaneously reduces the brightness of the shot and plays some role as a muzzle brake.
This carbine is loaded with cartridges both using the native magazine installed on it, and using pistol magazines from Glock or Beretta, which significantly increases its versatility. All fire control, reloading and magazine replacement controls are completely identical to AR rifles. The carbine release has an unregulated trigger force (its value set at the factory is slightly less than 2.5 kg).
The total length of the weapon when ready to fire is 33 inches. The buttstock is adjustable, with the ability to set it to any length (which distinguishes this model from the carbines described above). The forend is perforated, providing rapid cooling of the barrel during intense shooting. The only drawback of this weapon is its weight (after all, it is made entirely of metal), which makes it not the best option for long-term training or moving over rough terrain. At the same time, as a carbine, carried in a car or intended for home defense, the AR9 model has practically no equal in the PCC class.
Best 9mm Bullpup Carbine: IWI US Tavor SAR/X95
This RSS combines a futuristic appearance (which the bullpup layout gives it) with high shooting accuracy and reliability of the trigger mechanism (which, by the way, is almost completely copied from AK series assault rifles). Reloading is carried out according to the inertial principle, and the carbine can use both cartridges with heavy and light bullets - there are no delays or wedges.
This weapon is produced in two modifications - SAR and X95, built on a single base. All fire control flags and magazine release buttons on them are double-sided, making it easier for left-handed people to use the carbine. In addition, both versions can use both their own magazines and magazines from the Uzi submachine gun.
The first of these models, the SAR, is an earlier model and features a far-set handle, a full-length top bar, and a shortened bar placed on the side. The second modification – X95 – has a handle that is close to the shooter, Picatinny rails located on both sides and the bottom of the forearm, as well as a reduced trigger pull, making aimed shooting more comfortable. The carbine weighs about 3.5 kg, the barrel length is 17 inches. It comes with a magazine with a capacity of 32 rounds.
Shooting from this weapon will not cause any difficulties even for novice shooters, as it is well balanced and easy to control. The only criticism here would be its short length, which may require some getting used to for shooters with long arms who are used to working with full-size carbines.
Original article: Best 9mm Carbines [2019 Tested]
Ammunition for 9A-91
The original 9A-91, unlike some modifications, can be loaded with three types of warheads:
The third of the listed cartridges was designed on the initiative of the leaders of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation, who saw the need to create cheaper ammunition than those developed at the Central Research Institute of TOCHMASH. Both SP charges seemed too expensive because a special range of metals and alloys were used in their production. Users have complaints about the ballistic properties of SP-5 and 6.
The design feature of PAB-9 is a heat-strengthened steel core. Despite its existing shortcomings, it successfully defeats militants, penetrating armor armor.
Features of operation of "Saiga-9"
Although the Saiga-9 is considered a carbine, due to the use of pistol cartridges, the recoil when firing from it is practically not felt, which is what made this weapon a favorite among athletes. This ensures high safety when shooting, since the weapon does not deviate from the firing line due to recoil, and injuring yourself due to such recoil is quite problematic.
Reloading after each shot occurs automatically (as with other models of Saiga series carbines), which allows you to completely empty the magazine by alternately pressing and releasing the trigger.
The Saiga-9 handle is more ergonomic than that of a Kalashnikov assault rifle, since it is still a civilian model. Since the stock has a folding frame design, this greatly facilitates transportation and storage of the carbine. Some users who often have to shoot in the cold season complain that the metal is very cold on the cheek when aiming. Since smoke and other products of burnt powder enter the shooter's eyes when shooting, it is recommended to use safety glasses when shooting.
Parameters of accuracy and range of fire when shooting
The Saiga-9 carbine is produced using the following types of cartridges:
- Chambered in 9x19 cartridge, which is also known throughout the world under the names “9 mm Luger”, “9 mm NATO” or “9 mm Parabelum”. The initial bullet speed when using this cartridge can reach 410 m/s;
- 9x21 is a less common caliber, when used, the initial bullet speed is up to 390 m/s.
Spiral rifling in the barrel helps improve shooting characteristics; the bullet begins to rotate around its axis, resulting in an increase in its flight range and overall accuracy.
The effective combat range of the Saiga-9 is about 100 meters. If the distance increases, the accuracy of the battle suffers. Unfortunately, this is the main problem of all short-barreled models of small arms. In poor lighting conditions, aiming becomes quite problematic, since the aiming line of the carbine is quite short. The Saiga-9 receiver has a Picatinny-type sighting rail. With its help, you can install various sighting devices on the carbine, although it is recommended to install collimator sights for weapons of this type. Thanks to the weak recoil of the Saiga-9, the sight practically does not go astray when firing, which allows you to fire a series of well-aimed shots without repeated “aiming”.
Caring for the Saiga-9 automatic carbine
Like any small weapon, the Saiga-9 automatic carbine requires regular maintenance. This process includes the following operations:
- Visual inspection;
- Cleaning, including partial or complete disassembly;
- Lubricating the carbine mechanisms with specialized oils and solutions;
- Adjustment of sighting devices that could be knocked down during shooting.
To clean the carbine you will need the following accessories included in the delivery kit of the model:
- A ramrod, which is a long rod, onto the end of which nozzles of various types can be attached;
- Wiping - a special attachment for a cleaning rod in which a cloth is attached for wiping the bore;
- Oil can with oil;
- A screwdriver that will be needed when partially or completely disassembling the weapon.
It is recommended to clean the weapon immediately after use. In case of heavy contamination, cleaning should be carried out with complete disassembly.
If you are considering the Saiga-9 as your first hunting weapon, then it is better to refrain from purchasing it, since this carbine is not suitable for the role of a universal hunting weapon. But for self-defense and sports shooting, it will have no equal in its category.
