The traumatic pistol "Groza" is a Russian traumatic pistol, designed and created by.
The need for self-defense has always generated a demand for traumatic pistols and other weapons. Sports shooting, in which traumatic weapons are also used, also played a role. In this aspect, it is worth paying tribute to the traumatic pistol “Groza”. The division into types allows people to choose exactly the right pistol for themselves. Each type has different characteristics for people of different body types, which means you can compare and find the best one.
Traumatic pistols "Groza" are the Russian analogue of the Ukrainian "Forts". Components are also produced in Ukraine. Production of the Thunderstorm series began in 2009 and continues to gain demand for its advantages over other analogues.
Types of pistols of the "Thunderstorm" series
The series is divided into models - 01, 02, 03, 04, 05 and their subtypes. Features of each type:
Model 01 is a compact and lightweight weapon designed for everyday carry and use.
Caliber - 9 mm RA. The amount of ammunition compared to other models is quite small, only 7 rounds, but the 8th round is usually placed in the chamber for convenience. The distance that is sufficient and optimal for shooting is 7 meters. The shape of the pistol is comfortable and does not have protruding sharp corners; it looks like a “Fort” 9P.
The pistol is made of steel and plastic inserts. The dimensions, as mentioned above, are small, only 145 × 23 × 115, and the weight is 0.52 kg. The barrel is made using “Evo” technology.
The Groza 01 traumatic pistol has a double-action trigger mechanism, but can only be fired by self-cocking.
Thus, the model is good for constant carrying with you, it can be easily hidden under clothes, even in the summer months. The number of cartridges in it is a maximum of 7, which is not enough for many, but it is possible to use part of the chamber for an eighth cartridge. But given its compactness, this is forgivable.
Model 02 is a durable and reliable pistol with a free-action bolt action. Made ideal for self-defense and sport shooting wear.
The mechanism is equipped with a flag-type fuse. This protects the owner from accidental discharge when carried in a pocket or when the pistol is dropped. The lever is located on the left side of the pistol housing slide.
The magazine can hold 15 rounds, which is good news.
The Thunderstorm 021 pistol, a subtype of the main model, will also serve as an excellent weapon.
Caliber - 9 mm RA, as in the first model. Can be equipped with tear gas or traumatic bullets.
Made of weapon grade steel and polymer handle. Designed primarily for shooting rubber bullets, because... When firing gas or noise bullets, you must manually release the shutter each time.
Dimensions are 180x33x131, and the barrel length reaches 95 mm. The evo barrel is a new distinctive feature of the Thunderstorm 021. The weight of the pistol without cartridges is 0.83 kg.
The trigger mechanism of the Groza 02 traumatic pistol itself is double, allowing you to shoot with both a pre-cocked hammer and self-cocking. The sight is carried out using the front and rear sights. In general, the pistol has improved characteristics, which gives it clear advantages. A noticeable difference from the first model is the staggered placement of cartridges, which are rearranged into one row when firing.
Sighting is carried out using the front sight and rear sight. In general, the pistol has improved characteristics, which gives it clear advantages. A noticeable difference from the first model is the staggered placement of cartridges, which are rearranged into one row when firing.
Model 03 is an improved version of previous models.
The caliber of cartridges in it has not changed, but the magazine now holds 17 cartridges. Weapon-grade steel and reliable assembly gave birth to the third generation of the series. As for the trigger mechanism, we can again see the double-action type, in which a safety is introduced and there is the possibility of blocking the trigger.
The checkerboard row of cartridges, as in the second generation models, ensures that they are alternately shifted into one row when firing. The recoil when firing is very comfortable and allows you to fire at high speed. This makes the pistol suitable for shooting sports, as it fits all the rules.
The appearance of the traumatic pistol "Groza 03" has been changed, starting from the length of the handle. Now it is longer and more convenient to grasp with two hands. Dimensions are 124x33x140, and weight is 0.92 kg without cartridges.
At the same time, having made an order in advance, the pistol can be received in a non-standard design: artistically designed, using nickel plating and with black polished bluing.
Model 04 - traumatic pistol "Groza 04".
Its improvement was aimed at maximizing the weight of the weapon and reached 0.68 kg with dimensions of 94x34x130. The pistol frame is made of impact-resistant plastic, and the remaining elements are made of high-quality steel.
The magazine capacity is 15 rounds of 9 mm RA caliber. The optimal firing range is from 5 to 7 meters, and the speed can reach 40 rounds per minute.
"Groza 041" is a modernized version of the fourth generation. The back of the pistol is replaceable, which allows you to adjust the most comfortable size for the shooter’s hand. But even without this, “Thunderstorm 041” is the best in the “Thunderstorm” series on the principle of self-defense. It is convenient to carry it with you, hide it in a holster or under clothing, and at the same time its effectiveness is not lost - a fairly reliable weapon. The remaining characteristics do not differ from previous models, except that the magazine has been improved, making it impossible for cartridges to jam. The accuracy of the barrel is quite high.
Another noticeable advantage of the model is that there is no need to change the spring that holds the bolt-casing when changing the type of cartridges. And also when using any type of cartridges, their feed and bolt recoil work equally well.
All of the above makes the model better than other previous ones. Its improvement and modern design makes it popular among amateurs and shooting sports professionals.
Model 05 is the latest generation of the series.
The difference between the 04 and 05 models is mainly in the lengthening of the barrel. This ensured an increase in bullet speed and shooting accuracy. The basis for the development of the model was an analogue of the Fort-18R.
The automation system, as in other models, is built on the principle of recoil with a free shutter. A flag type fuse is also used. Thus, the overall design retains the rudiments of previous models. The dimensions of the pistol are 207x34x130 and weight is 0.75 kg. The length of the weapon (the barrel itself) is 124 mm.
The frame of the Groza 051 traumatic pistol is made of a combination of a plastic frame and steel inserts. An important addition to the “Grozy 051” is the ability to install a pointer or flashlight in the universal “Picantinny” rail in the front part of the frame. The magazine capacity is still 15 rounds of 9 mm RA caliber.
The improvement of the model consisted precisely in lengthening the barrel to allow shooting at a greater distance, but at the same time with high accuracy.
Owner reviews
“I chose a pistol that was more universal than just for self-defense, so I immediately dismissed non-steel samples. For the same reason, I did not consider T10, Inna and Groza-04. But Groza-02, in the version with a V3 barrel, “fell” in the hand. I’ll tell you a little about the barrel options: V1 - a barrel like Jorge/Fort’s, the teeth, if you look through the barrel in the light, overlap each other; V2 - the walls of the barrel are thickened, which allows you to shoot powerful cartridges, the teeth are the same as on V1; V3 - the walls of the trunk are the same as in V2, a gap has appeared between the teeth.
The pistol is well balanced and has a comfortable grip. It feels no heavier than a 10-charge Makarych, although the actual weight is greater. The quality of parts processing is at a high level. The pistol shoots, as they say, out of the box. That is, it is ideal for those people who do not want to bother with tuning. Convenient sighting devices are also a plus. In terms of ergonomics, I would give Groza-02 9.5 out of 10 (Makarych, for comparison, 5 out of 10). A big plus is the double-row magazine that can be converted into one row, which is designed to hold 15 rounds when the limiter is removed.
As for accuracy, it is also excellent. From 15 meters he consistently hit a 50x30 cm canister. For a “trauma” this is a very good result. The disadvantages include the rather large “teeth” in the V3 barrel and, as a result, not the highest power of the pistol. Although, in my opinion, this drawback is compensated by the possibility of trouble-free shooting with 80 J cartridges. The conclusions are as follows: the Groza-02 pistol is durable, reliable, has a long service life, and is accurate. Ideal for sport shooting. For self-defense, I would only recommend it if you use 80 J rounds.” Abrax.guns.ru
Design of Thunderstorm pistols
The design of the usm is based on the force of compressed springs, which are located on the rods under the barrel bore. The usm mechanism can only be double-acting. According to the double action type, it is possible to fire a shot with a self-cocking or pre-cocked hammer.
Groza pistols have a fairly simple design mechanism, which allows you to quickly and easily disassemble the weapon.
A design feature of the Groza pistols is the installation of a special bushing behind the part in the chamber, which prevents the firing of a live cartridge, that is, metal bullets cannot be used for firing. Also, the automatic operation mechanism prevents the possibility of sticking the cartridge.
Getting permission
To begin with, it must be said that according to the law of Russia, or more precisely in Art. Criminal Code No. 222 states that there is no criminal liability for improper compliance with the rules for purchasing, storing and carrying trauma equipment.
Failure to comply with this law is punishable by administrative punishment (fine, rarely arrest).
To obtain a license you will need:
- collect and present all required documentation to the OLRR (licensing and permitting department) at your place of residence;
- undergo a medical examination;
- pay the state fee;
- come to an appointment with the local police officer and get a signature for the permit;
- take training courses on the use of weapons.
A medical report implies an examination by a therapist, narcologist, psychiatrist, or ophthalmologist. A license to purchase trauma medications will not be given to people who are registered with a psychiatrist or narcologist.
To obtain a permit, you must collect and present the following documentation to the OLRR:
- copy of civil passport;
- a statement in a special form indicating the type of weapon;
- 2 photos 3x4;
- certificate in form 046-1;
- referral to the local police officer;
- receipt for payment of state duty;
- referral to training courses.
To obtain a certificate of completion of training courses, you need to contact the training center with a referral.
It must be said that not every person can obtain a license to purchase trauma equipment. The following categories of citizens may be denied:
- people who have a criminal record;
- with serious psychological disorders or poor vision;
- minors;
- citizens who have been brought to administrative responsibility more than twice.
The purchase of trauma equipment must be approached with full responsibility:
You need to pay attention to where you bought the gun. A gun store or online resource must have a license to sell this type of product; no need to purchase pistols at a greatly reduced cost
Most often, a significant difference in price indicates a fake; this can be fraught with unpleasant consequences, especially for the health of the owner of the weapon; We must not forget that when buying a weapon on the Internet, the pistol must be sent only by the special communications service of the Russian Federation and nothing else; Also remember that no one can sell handguns or ammunition without a permit.
Weapons have always been a source of fascination, and when purchasing this product for yourself as entertainment, you must not forget that this is, first and foremost, a pistol, and it can be dangerous. When buying a traumatic weapon for specific purposes, you also need to remember all the operating rules.
Suitable Ammunition
Shooting from a pistol is possible only when using three types of cartridges: traumatic (rubber), noise and gas. But you need to take into account their power and compliance with the model. As emphasized above, the 9 mm RA caliber cartridge is suitable for Groza pistols.
Not all models in the series are equally suitable for all three types of ammunition, since you have to manually release the bolt. The fourth and fifth models are designed for high-power ammunition. When using training or sports weapons, the weapon may refuse to reload. In the rest - everything is at the discretion of the owner. Everything in this case depends on the installed spring, or rather its stiffness. To use powerful ammunition, you need a stiffer spring, for training - vice versa.
general information
Groza-02 is produced by Moscow, which has recently become a center for the development of shooting sports in Moscow and the Moscow region. All weapons produced by this company are of high quality, reliability and excellent performance.
The body of Groza-02, as well as the magazine and barrel, are made of special steel designed specifically for the production of weapons. This material makes the gun very durable and reliable. In this regard, of course, the weapon outperforms its “plastic” competitors. Incomplete and quick disassembly of the pistol will take a little time; no additional tools will be needed. Before leaving the factory, each pistol undergoes a whole range of checks, as a result of which each buyer receives an exceptionally high-quality weapon.
Assembly/disassembly
The assembly of thunderstorm pistols is carried out in stages, as well as disassembly. Starting with disassembly, the following steps are distinguished:
- Removing the cartridge magazine, which is located under the handle.
- On the right side of the pistol, you need to press the slide stop axis using a magazine or rubbing and remove it.
- The bolt carrier must be moved to the rear position and the rear edge raised - this will allow it to be removed.
- Next, you need to stick out the guide axle with the spring on it and separate them.
Ready! This way you will not completely disassemble the pistol. To put it back together, you need to follow the steps in reverse order.
Distinctive features of the models
Groza pistols of different models have the same type of ammunition. Moreover, each model has its own external and design differences. Shooting from "Groza 01" can only be carried out by self-cocking.
There is no safety lock in the mechanism, so the design of the trigger uses a spring, which makes the initial trigger stroke heavier. In this way, it was possible to significantly reduce the risk of spontaneous discharge when carrying or storing weapons. On other models, fuses are already present.
Early models used a low-capacity single-row magazine - only 7 rounds. Subsequent models began to be equipped with a more capacious magazine with a double-row arrangement of cartridges. Depending on the length of the handle, it can hold up to 17 shots.
Repair
Any weapon sooner or later needs cleaning or repair of components. Cleaning can be done using a brush or rag. The rag is put on a loop of wire and threaded through the barrel and absorbs gun oil. When cleaning, it is important to go over the groove area where dirt and oil can accumulate.
A brush is an option for cleaning barrels without welded inserts.
Repairs are carried out directly by the manufacturer with the damaged components sent to him at the place where the weapon was purchased.
Gas canister
Gas weapons (spray) are the first thing that comes to mind when mentioning weapons without a license. The cans are:
- gas;
- pepper;
- nerve-paralytic action.
Spray cans are especially popular among women because they weigh little, take up little space, and are easy to use. When purchasing this type of weapon, confirmation is required that the buyer is over 18 years of age.
The spray cans produced today contain pepper, its synthetic analogues, and tear substances.
Advantages of the can:
- used on the principle of liquid spraying;
- is inexpensive;
- easy to use, even mentally: not everyone can shoot a pistol, but spraying liquid is much easier;
- compact;
- Its small size and weight allow you to always carry it with you.
Flaws:
- It’s not a very frightening weapon; it won’t scare off an aggressor; the psychological effect is minimal. The attacker can speed up the movement and have time to prevent the victim from using the spray can (for this reason it must be used immediately).
- Even with watery eyes, the attacker can continue to attack.
- Do not use in a closed room (elevator, corridor, stairs), otherwise you may get hurt.
- You need to aim as accurately as possible and take into account the direction of the wind, otherwise the spray cloud may get into your eyes.
Shooting
Sighting is carried out before using a new or repaired weapon. To do this, a target (diameter of at least 300 mm) is installed at a certain distance (about 5 meters). The pistol is mounted on a special machine. Thus, zeroing serves to adjust the relative position of the sight and target. This will help the shooter aim in real conditions with minimal deviations. At home or in the field, shooting a pistol is quite problematic, and as a rule, it is simply not necessary. If you find yourself in a situation where such a measure becomes necessary, I recommend turning to professionals.
Revolver philosophy
Revolvers themselves are a kind of classic of the genre. Let us remember the same Colt revolver, which very quickly conquered not only the United States, but the whole world. Yes, the police knew how to use it, and many modern collectors show revolvers among the best models. In general, the appearance of “Groza” as a representative of the classic style of firearms (and traumatic, respectively) weapons is at a high level. If not to say that at the highest.
There is such wisdom among gunsmiths and weapon lovers that the revolver is a whole philosophy. It is for this reason that “Thunderstorm” also becomes a weapon that requires thoughtful, unhurried, balanced and thoughtful, and most importantly, careful use from its user.
We can draw another analogy. This time - with a mechanical watch. The whole point is that quartz seems to be better, more accurate. But that was not the case, however.
Use in real situation
The use of traumatic weapons is permissible in case of self-defense or for sports shooting. The Thunderstorm traumatic pistol should be used only in cases of extreme necessity, if life or health is in danger. In the case of self-defense, it is worth choosing medium-power ammunition that will only temporarily disarm the attacker, but will not cause him significant harm. Before operating the pistol, it is necessary to train with the least powerful cartridges that are intended for this purpose. This will prepare and reduce the likelihood of causing injury to third parties or yourself.
Is barrel length important when choosing a trauma weapon?
Why do many gun lovers choose dimensional trauma? The point here is not that such weapons exert more intimidation on the attacker. It all lies in the practical side of the issue.
You can get used to the high trauma and high weight, but what about concealed carry? The fact is that, in the case of a small physique, it will not be possible to carry such a weapon covertly, and this is one of the main guarantees of effective self-defense.
On the other hand, a long barrel is very useful in sports shooting, where such a pistol is so often used. Thanks to this, the energy and speed of the bullet increases, it is less influenced by the wind, so it flies further and better. That is why for sports shooting it is better to use traumatic guns, which are close in size to combat weapons.
But the length of the barrel should not be determined as the most important criterion when choosing a trauma weapon. The fact is that a long barrel allows you to improve the effectiveness of both weak and strong cartridges. If in the first case there is nothing critical, then in the second case a shot at the attacker can become critical for him. In this case, the owner of a traumatic pistol cannot avoid problems with the law.
To sum up the review in conversation about the length of the barrel, we can say that this is an important parameter, but not decisive, moreover, it can have a negative impact on the owner
The main thing you should pay attention to in this situation is the design of the barrel, the entire effectiveness of the gun depends on it
Characteristics and prices of traumatic weapons
Having understood the technical characteristics of models, the price of which varies from reasonable to expensive, you can compare and choose the one that suits you.
Features, description, characteristics and prices of pistols of the “Groza” series:
The Groza 01 traumatic pistol is available in the range from 23,000 to 25,000 rubles at various retail outlets. It has been certified and designated as a weapon of limited destruction. For a compact and secondary weapon, it fulfills its role perfectly.
SPECIFICATIONS
Caliber | 9 mm R.A. |
Gun length, mm | 145 |
Gun height, mm | 115 |
Gun width, mm | 23 |
Weight with loaded magazine, kg | — |
Weight with magazine without cartridges, kg | 0,52 |
Magazine capacity, cartridges | 7 |
"Groza 02 and 021" is already more advanced. The price of this model fluctuates around 25,000 rubles. But given its technical advantages over the first, the price will be justified. Thus, the Thunderstorm 02 traumatic pistol becomes an analogue with an average price and characteristics.
SPECIFICATIONS
Caliber | 9 mm R.A. |
Gun length, mm | 180 |
Barrel length, mm | 95 |
Gun height, mm | 131 |
Gun width, mm | 33 |
Weight with loaded magazine, kg | — |
Weight with magazine without cartridges, kg | 0,83 |
Magazine capacity, cartridges | 10 |
The price of the traumatic pistol “Groza 03” is already higher and reaches 30,000 rubles. Model traumatic pistol thunderstorm 031 - from 30,000 - 32,000 rubles. The model is even more comfortable to use and adaptable to ammunition.
SPECIFICATIONS
Caliber | 9 mm R.A. |
Gun length, mm | 210 |
Barrel length, mm | 124 |
Gun height, mm | 140 |
Gun width, mm | 33 |
Weight with loaded magazine, kg | — |
Weight with magazine without cartridges, kg | 0,92 |
Magazine capacity, cartridges | 10 |
Execution* | — black polished bluing — nickel plating — artistic design |
Note: * The “GROZA-031” pistol in a special version is available only by pre-order
The fourth generation is available at a price of 23,000 rubles. The price reduction is mainly due to the low weight and dimensions with the same technical characteristics.
SPECIFICATIONS
Caliber | 9 mm R.A. |
Gun length, mm | 180 |
Barrel length, mm | 95 |
Gun height, mm | 130 |
Gun width, mm | 34 |
Weight with loaded magazine, kg | — |
Weight with magazine without cartridges, kg | 0,68 |
Magazine capacity, cartridges | 10 |
The traumatic pistol “Groza 05” is sold at a price of 25,000 rubles. This is the most advantageous offer from the manufacturer. The improved mechanism and lengthening of the handle will provide even more comfortable conditions of use, especially in emergency situations. The price of the traumatic pistol Thunderstorm 051 reaches the same levels and is considered the most updated and modern version of the entire series.
SPECIFICATIONS
Caliber | 9 mm R.A. |
Gun length, mm | 207 |
Barrel length, mm | 124 |
Gun height, mm | 130 |
Gun width, mm | 34 |
Weight with loaded magazine, kg | — |
Weight with magazine without cartridges, kg | 0,75 |
Magazine capacity, cartridges | 10 |
The price of the Thunderstorm revolver varies in the range of 20,000 rubles. These are more compact and certified LLCs. But, of course, not for everyone. We will look at them in another review.
The choice of one model or another depends on the characteristics and purpose you request. The most balanced versions are 04, 05. A determinant with the required dimensions and weight, magazine capacity and other important characteristics and you will definitely acquire a new weapon for self-defense.
Stun gun
The power of the discharge can throw an adult off balance.
In some types, you can adjust the discharge power. The most vulnerable spots of a person for a stun gun:
Advantages of a stun gun:
- deprives the attacker of the ability to move for a short time, and the victim can escape;
- hits the target from a distance of about 4 meters (models that shoot with electrodes have this capability);
- compact, small in size, does not take up much space;
- does not arouse suspicion, it can be disguised as a mobile phone;
- will not provoke the attacker to further aggression.
Flaws:
- most models require direct contact with the attacker;
- We are dependent on batteries, we need to take care of them: always change or charge them, otherwise the owner of a non-working stun gun will be in danger and will anger the aggressor even more if he tries to use it;
- In winter, a shocker will not always have an effect through a thick layer of clothing.
When choosing a stun gun, it is better to purchase one with a higher current strength.
Why you should choose a trauma from the “Thunderstorm” series
The main advantages of assembling pistols of the “Groza” family:
- Manufacturing the barrel using the new EVO technology - designing a non-coaxial drilling sleeve to prevent the use of metal bullets. This also reduces the load on the weapon and extends its service life.
- High shooting accuracy and accuracy.
- High-quality weapons-grade steel - the reliability and durability of the pistol.
- Almost all models have spacious magazines.
- Ability to operate trauma equipment using cartridges of different types and power.
- Easy assembly and disassembly of the weapon.
- Comfortable handle and comfortable operation.
Make the right choice and provide the highest level of protection for yourself and your loved ones!
Description
The Thunderstorm-021 pistol, reviews of which are given below, is produced by the Russian company Technoarms. The company is located in the Moscow region, in Narofominsk, and is a leader in the production of small arms and traumatic equipment. The basis for the weapon in question is an analogue of the Ukrainian-made Fort brand. Many components are identical to the specified type.
Traumatic weapons are made from special weapon steel and are distinguished by a high level of reliability and a significant margin of safety. Partial disassembly can be done without additional tools. Complete dismantling is recommended only in exceptional cases. High build quality is confirmed by numerous tests and tests.
EVO technology
As evidenced by reviews, “Groza-021” and analogues with barrels processed using EVO technology have proven themselves to be extremely positive. First of all, this is manifested in improved reliability and accuracy when firing. In addition, this design has the following advantages:
- Stable accuracy, regardless of the type of cartridge.
- There is no need to frequently change the spring mechanism.
- Optimal operation of the bolt and ammunition feed is observed at any power level.
- Technological design features increase the reliability of the weapon.
Device
The Thunderstorm-021 pistol (reviews from experts and users confirm this) is equipped with an automatic system that operates on the principle of receiving blowback. In this case, the casing is held in place by a return spring. It is located in a frontal position directly under the barrel, which is mounted on the frame. The trigger mechanism of the pistol has a double action:
- Shot after pre-cocking the hammer.
- Firing by self-cocking.
In the second case, there is an option for open placement with subsequent activation of the trigger.
The safety fuse is responsible for safety during operation and storage. Its lever is located on the left side of the bolt. The mechanism is turned off by moving the lever to the lower position. The sight consists of a rear sight and a front sight, which is fixed in a groove like a “swallow’s nest”. If necessary, lateral adjustments can be made. To make aiming easier, there are white marks on the rear sides of the rear sight.
The magazine for Groza-021 has a double-row staggered arrangement of cartridges with subsequent feeding of one element at a time at the output. The clip lock is located on the left side of the bolt frame; the handle is made of polymer.
Kalash inside out
“Groza” was created in the early 1990s by designers V.N. Telesh and Yu.V. Lebedev in Tula, at the Central Design and Research Bureau of Sports and Hunting Weapons (TsKIB SSO). The developers sought to create a melee weapon that combines high penetration and modular design with maximum compactness and mobility.
The new complex is based on the compact version of the Kalashnikov AKS-74U assault rifle, which has proven itself well in the airborne troops. The length of this “landing” machine gun with the butt folded is slightly less than half a meter, with the stock unfolded - about 75 cm. To reduce the length of the weapon, but at the same time not “fold” the butt, in the new machine it was decided to use a bullpup scheme, in which the magazine is located behind handle, not in front of it.
In order not to make significant changes to the design of the weapon body, the butt plate, which replaced the butt, was fixed directly to the rear wall of the receiver. As a result, the most compact version of the “Groza” received a length of just over 60 cm. The use of a machine gun already in service made it possible to significantly unify the two samples, as a result of which 70% of their parts are interchangeable. And along with this 70 percent, “Groza” inherited the legendary reliability of the AK.
When creating the OTs-14, the designers sought to best integrate the grenade launcher into the complex. The difficulty was balancing the weapons. There were complaints from army units and law enforcement agencies: when installing the GP-25 grenade launcher (namely, it was planned to be used for the OTs-14) on a Kalashnikov assault rifle, its front part became too heavy, making it difficult to fire from the AK itself.
The problem was solved without making the back of the machine heavier, but by lightening the grenade launcher, depriving it of a pistol grip, a trigger guard and the trigger itself. The Groza has only one trigger, but on the left side of the receiver there is an AB/GR rotary switch, which allows you to choose whether to fire bullets or grenades.
Slow bullet
The ammunition used in the OTs-14 is no less remarkable than the complex itself. We are talking about powerful intermediate cartridges 9x39 mm (SP-5, SP-6 and PAB9). This ammunition is known primarily because it is used in Russian special weapons - AS Val, 9A-91, SR-3 Vikhr assault rifles, VSS Vintorez and VSK-94 sniper rifles.
9x39 is a very unusual cartridge. It has a subsonic ejection speed from the barrel, and therefore can be used most effectively in weapons equipped with a silent firing device. In this case, the sound of the shot is weakened so much that the click is indistinguishable from several tens of meters, and in battle conditions or a noisy urban environment, determining the location of the shooter becomes almost impossible.
However, this is only one of its advantages. Another huge advantage of the 9x39 cartridge is the long and heavy nine-millimeter bullet, which has a powerful stopping effect. In addition, in the SP-6 version, the bullet has a heat-strengthened steel core inside, which ensures penetration of 8 mm thick steel plates and class 3 body armor according to the Russian classification (class 3 is armor that provides protection against AK bullets with a caliber of 7.62 ). With this cartridge, the “Groza” becomes an almost ideal melee weapon, including against an enemy protected by body armor and an armored helmet.
In addition to the version chambered for 9x39 mm ammunition, a modification of the OTs-14 chambered for the AK 7.62 cartridge was also developed. It did not become widespread due to the fact that the performance characteristics of the ammunition did not quite correspond to the tasks performed with an automatic grenade launcher system. After all, the “Thunderstorm” was planned to be used specifically for combat at short distances, including in confined spaces, and the intermediate cartridge 7.62 is redundant in this case, since it has a firing distance of 600-800 m, and in a confined space it can give a strong ricochet. In addition, AK bullets are more focused on shooting through the enemy, rather than stopping and instantly incapacitating them. 9x39 mm is optimal in this case.
The OTs-14 “Groza” automatic grenade launcher system was produced in limited quantities. The version chambered for 9x39 mm was adopted by the Ministry of Internal Affairs in 1996 and is still used by special police forces. The complex is supplied in a large hard case, which, in addition to the machine gun itself, contains a grenade launcher, a silent firing device, an additional barrel with a front handle, an optical sight, two spare magazines and a weapon belt.
STALKER without Thunderstorm is like a highlander without a goat!