Shotgun MP-135: characteristics, review, owner reviews and photos

• November 11, 2018
• Weapons and ammunition
• Natali Michaelis

The MP-135 pump-action shotgun was created on the basis of the well-known semi-automatic smoothbore weapon MP-155. Their design is similar in many ways, but there are also fundamental differences. According to reviews from hunters, the MP-135 has inherited unpretentiousness to operating conditions, unsurpassed reliability, as well as several minor defects that the manufacturer invites users to deal with on their own. Read about how good or bad this weapon is in our article.

Description

MP-135 is a twelve-gauge pump-action smoothbore hunting shotgun with a 76 mm chamber. Reloading is carried out by moving the forend along the tube of the under-barrel magazine. The chamber and barrel are chrome plated.

The stock is usually semi-pistol, made of plastic or solid wood. May have a pistol grip or folding stock. The MP-135 has a set of open sights, which consists of a rifle rear sight and a bronze or metal front sight.

You can find a more detailed review of the pump-action shotgun in the video below.

In it, a man unpacks his new weapon, shows the equipment and, along the way, talks about the advantages and disadvantages. We strongly recommend that you watch this video, because it is much more interesting than reading reviews from hunters on various thematic forums.

MP-155. History of appearance and design features

But in the modern world of technology, even in such a seemingly established industry as weapons production, 10 years is a very long time. Over such a period of time, progress quickly moves forward and the manufacturer needs to update the model range. The same thing happened with the MP-153 - by the end of the first decade of the 21st century, it began to become obsolete and lag behind global competitors in the following parameters:

— the options in calibers 12x76 and 12x89 were completely unified (i.e., they differed only in the chambers, but the dimensions were the same). The weight of the MP-153 is on average 3.45...3.5 kg, which was a lot even for the 12x89 caliber. Competitors' models weigh 3.1...3.4 kg, and among samples with an automatic inertial motor there are samples weighing 3 kg or even less;

— the “balance” parameter (the distance from the trigger to the center of mass of the gun), which affects the ease of holding and turning ability of the gun, is large in the MP-153 compared to its competitors;

— there were few additional options, for example, there was no possibility of adjusting the butt retraction vertically and horizontally, along the length, and in the basic configuration there was no seat for installing optics or an adapter bar for it;

— the gun simply became familiar to the buyer, which, in the face of a large number of competitors with new products in a wide variety of price ranges, in our time becomes a big drawback.

Appearance of MP-153 and MP-155

Based on the situation, it was decided to create a new model of a self-loading rifle. In December 2010, an order was issued to develop a new product, and work began. The development and development work was supervised by Chief Designer Alexander Usherovich Dorf.

But work on a new self-loading rifle did not begin immediately. A number of experimental works were previously carried out, during which various design solutions were tested and studied. For example, samples with different types of locking were developed and tested: with a rotating bolt, various options with a skewed locking element - a wedge. Various designs of gas engine pulse control units were tested. All this work was carried out at a time when the position of the MP-153 gun on the market was still quite stable. By the way, it should be noted that such research work in all areas of products to find and evaluate new solutions is constantly being carried out at the enterprise. As a result, at the time the work began, the layout and structural solution of the main components had already been determined.

Appearance of MP-153 and MP-155

It was necessary not only to create a new and more modern product, but also not to lose the advantages of the MP-153, namely:

• reliability, reliability and durability
• ability to reliably work with the entire range of ammunition
• possibility of increasing the magazine capacity by installing an extension cord
• Possibility of installing a pistol grip or folding stock

Therefore, they created a new product, starting from the proven design of the MP-153. The development was directly carried out by the head of the group for the production of repeating shotguns, Marat Shamilevich Sabirzyanov, and the young designer Vladimir Preobrazhentsev. At the development stage, a girl (!) joined the work - yesterday’s university graduate Ekaterina Shishkina. Significant assistance was provided by design engineer Oleg Yurievich Zayats. The work was supervised by Deputy Chief Designer Alexander Igorevich Kalugin, who also participated in the development and production of the MP-153.

The new gun was made in various calibers: 12x76 and 12x89. The caliber version with a chamber length of 76 mm became shorter by 11 mm and due to this it was approximately 90 g lighter. The bolt, box, frame and a number of other parts became shorter.

A new firing mechanism was developed. Compared to the MP-153, there are fewer parts in it, and the USM base is made of high-strength polyamide. Many people express doubts about the use of polymer for such a critical part, but polyamide with similar properties is used to make magazines for the Kalashnikov assault rifle, and they do not raise any doubts about the reliability and durability of anyone.

Further, the travel of the trigger was reduced, the nature of the trigger became drier. The safety has become more convenient due to its large size, the right position is “Safety” (covers the trigger), the left position is “Fire”. It became possible to change the sequence of its work. The retainer button, which is used to unload the magazine and place the gun on the slide stop when the magazine is empty, is made larger and more convenient than on the MP-153. The front part of the tray is fork-shaped for better direction of the cartridge into the chamber when the tray is raised. The trigger ensures safety when the bolt is not completely locked.

The sighting bar is arched, which makes it possible to obtain (in comparison with a ventilated bar) less weight and a more attractive appearance. For the new design of the rail, it was necessary to develop a new technology for mounting it on the barrel. The tin-lead solder used to attach traditional ventilated strips did not provide a strong connection due to the small contact area between the arch struts and the barrel.

Initially, a unique technology was developed for attaching the strap to the barrel using the welding method: studs were attached to the barrel by contact welding, holes were drilled in the strap, the strap was installed with holes on the studs and welded. The first batch was produced with this type of plank fastening. But due to the difficulties encountered when debugging the technical process, they switched to a more traditional soldering technology using silver-containing solder. But there were difficulties here too. The high temperature of soldering with this solder causes deformation of parts and the appearance of marks in the barrel bore at the soldering points.

To remove marks for MP-155 barrels, a more advanced technology for finishing mechanical processing of channels has been introduced - honing, which also improves the geometry of the channel. For the arched plank, we even had to develop a new guilloche technology (a pattern on the upper surface of the plank). With the traditional technology used on other models, the arches were pushed through. By the way, instead of a rib, an adjustable rear sight and front sight can be installed on the gun barrel. For some consumers this may be relevant.

MP-155 barrels can have lengths of 610, 650, 710 and 750 mm. The barrel can be with a seat for replaceable choke constrictions or with a cylindrical channel. Of course, the seat and the choke themselves are the same as in the MP-153.

But the most significant difference between the new model’s barrel is its interchangeability. Those. without finishing operations, you can change or install an additional barrel. Of course - after receiving the appropriate permission.

Specifications

Based on the technical characteristics, which can be found in the weapons passport, one can judge the advantages and disadvantages of a particular type of weapon. Although in most cases the values ​​​​set out on paper provide only half of the necessary information. For the second, you will have to contact the owners of this or that weapon and hear their opinion.

So, the technical characteristics of the MP-135 are as follows:

• weapon weight - 2.9 kilograms;
• length with wooden stock - 1235 millimeters;
• barrel length - 710 millimeters;
• magazine capacity – 4+1;
• possibility of increasing the store – available;
• working gas pressure – 105 MPa;
• the maximum permissible gas pressure in the barrel is 132 MPa;
• barrel – smooth, with a chrome-plated chamber and channel;
• caliber – 12;
• chamber - 76 millimeters;
• type – shotgun with pump-action reloading.

Based on these characteristics, you can compare a pump-action shotgun with a conventional single-barrel shotgun, but with faster reloading. The weapon can be used for training purposes or commercial hunting for medium and small game. The twentieth gauge does not allow you to hunt moose, wild boars, bears and other large animals.

Modifications and characteristics

The production of all guns in the Bekas line is based on a modular principle. In this regard, most parts of different versions and modifications are interchangeable. That is, the stock of a 12-gauge shotgun can be safely attached to a 16-gauge semiautomatic rifle. However, the guns still differ from each other. For ease of reference, we have divided the entire list of modifications into three categories.

"Bekas-16" and "Bekas-12"

Since the basic versions “Bekas-12” and “Bekas-16” differ from each other only in barrel caliber, we have placed them in one subsection. It is these models that serve as the basis for the development of all other hunting rifles and their versions. Both shotguns hold 6 rounds and also use a pump-action reloading system. Options may be as follows:

1. Basic. Classic pump-action shotguns, designed exclusively for hunting. They have a fixed barrel length (720 millimeters), and most parts are interchangeable. The possibility of installing additional choke constrictions and sighting devices is present.

1. "Bekas-1". These 12-gauge and 16-gauge shotguns were designed exclusively for self-defense or security purposes. The barrel length of such a gun is only 535 mm, so the model is practically unsuitable for hunting. The magazine capacity has also been reduced to 3 rounds (+1 can be placed in the chamber).
2. "Bekas-2". Another model for self-defense, which differs from the previous version in that it does not have a butt. Instead, the weapon is equipped with a pistol grip and a sling swivel for attaching a leather belt. Ideal for those who are used to shooting pistols. It is not recommended to use this version for hunting purposes.
3. "Bekas-3". A universal gun that is suitable for all occasions. The kit includes several choke tubes, as well as a removable stock and pistol grip, so the model can easily be transformed from a hunting version to a self-defense model and vice versa. The barrel length is 680 mm.

Thus, the Bekas-12 and Bekas-16 shotguns are the simplest pump-action semi-automatic weapons, but at the same time they can be used for different purposes (depending on which version the buyer chooses).

"Snipe" "M" and "Auto"

Unfortunately, the standard Bekas-12 and Bekas-16 shotguns are not to the taste of all hunting enthusiasts. That is why I did not delay the release of the Bekas-M and Bekas-Auto modifications, which turned out to be extremely successful. They are also produced for 12- and 16-gauge cartridges, have a similar design to their ancestors, and are also unified with the original versions. However, the new models still have some significant differences from the old versions.

"Bekas-M" is a single model, sharpened for 12 and 16 gauges (barrel size depends on the version). The modification improved some systems, which made it possible to improve the technical characteristics of the weapon and get rid of some shortcomings. The most significant difference from its progenitor is the ergonomics of the pump-action shotgun. The recoil has become much less, and holding the Bekas-M in your hands is much more convenient than the original. The model also comes with several choke constrictions designed to increase the shooting distance.

“Bekas-Auto” and “Bekas-M-Auto” are models equipped with a gas engine. That is, the gun is reloaded using a special gas release mechanism: during a shot, part of the powder gases act on the piston, which opens the bolt, activates the extractor, cocks the trigger, and also supplies a new charge from the magazine. This principle of operation can be compared with a Kalashnikov assault rifle. The gun is also equipped with a smart powder gas discharge system, which does not allow the engine to take more energy than it requires.

Characteristics of "Bekas-12M"

Considering that the Bekas-12M shotgun is the most popular model of the entire line, it would be unfair not to get acquainted with its technical characteristics in more detail. Here is the information taken from the weapons passport:

The accuracy of the Bekas-12M is 55% when firing from a distance of 50 meters with cartridges with a standard load of gunpowder and shot (almost 10% more than the progenitor Bekas-12). This is due to the longer barrel, as well as the additional choke in the kit.

"Bekas" VPO-201/VPO-202

“Bekas” VPO-201 and “Bekas” VPO-202 are the two latest modifications developed by the weapons manufacturer. The Bekas-12M design was used as a prototype for the weapon, but the system began to be equipped with a gas unit (as in the Auto versions), which received some innovations that increased its reliability and durability.

"Bekas" VPO-201 is a classic shotgun chambered for 12x76 mm cartridges, made in a traditional style using a wooden fore-end and butt. The latter has a more ergonomic shape, making the gun equally effective for both women and men. The receiver has a Weaver bracket that allows you to mount optics.

“Bekas” VPO-202 is a modification of “Bekas” VPO-201, which comes with two barrels that differ in length. The long one is intended for shooting with shot and buckshot, the short one is used mainly for bullet shooting. The kit also includes magazine extensions for 3 or 6 rounds.

There are also several versions for the Bekas VPO-201 and Bekas VPO-202 shotguns:

• VPO-202-04 - version with two choke tubes (including “Paradox”);
• VPO-202-05 - semi-automatic with a gas engine and a ventilated aiming bar;
• VPO-202-07 - a gun with two barrels (535 mm and 750 mm) and choke tubes included;
• VPO-202-09 - version with choke tubes, two barrels and a replaceable handle included;
• VPO-201M is a self-loading shotgun with a simplified gas unit and 2 barrels included.

In general, the VPO-201 and VPO-202 shotguns are almost the same, except for the configuration. The second version is more suitable for those who like to transform their model from a hunting unit into a gun for self-defense and vice versa. Also, professional hunters using different ammunition will be able to benefit from the Bekas VPO-202.

Advantages

According to reviews, the MP-135 has a number of undeniable advantages, which we will be happy to tell our readers about.

• It is possible to purchase an additional barrel that fires steel shot and is also equipped with internal threads for changing the choke.
• The gun is equipped with a mechanism for intercepting cartridges, which greatly simplifies the operation process.
• The ergonomics of the weapon ensure comfortable use in almost any weather conditions.
• A half-pistol stock is considered quite successful, as it allows you to quickly take aim or shoot effectively in the air.
• Recoil is well absorbed with the help of a massive shock-absorbing butt plate.

It is also worth paying special attention to the firing mechanism, which has two degrees of trigger locking: using a mechanical safety device located behind the trigger guard, as well as an automatic one - which will not allow a shot to be fired if the weapon is not completely closed. Such features make the operation process as safe as possible, which is especially useful for novice hunters.

Design of "Bekas" shotguns

Perhaps the main design difference between the Bekas shotgun and other pump-action shotguns produced in Russia is the presence of a rather uncharacteristic modular principle. That is, individual elements are not only quickly disassembled, but also replace each other quite easily. It’s not that it was a pioneer in this regard, but finding weapons with such a feature on the Russian market is not easy. In addition, the smoothbore pump-action shotgun has the following design features:

1. Cold forged steel. Before a weapon barrel is made, the metal undergoes a low-temperature treatment, which significantly increases its strength and resistance to extreme temperatures.
2. Chrome plating and bluing of the barrel channel. The first procedure is used to increase the service life of the gun, as well as to give hunters the opportunity to use cartridges with an increased amount of gunpowder. Blackening also serves as additional protection against corrosion.

1. The receiver of the gun is cast and made of aluminum alloy. It has a special window through which cartridges are fed into the magazine, and spent cartridges are also ejected. This design is simple and very convenient.
2. Unregulated trigger mechanism. Unfortunately, owners of Bekas rifles will not be able to adjust the stiffness of the trigger on their own. But connoisseurs of the classics will be pleased, because guns with hammers are not often produced these days.
3. Flag type fuse. That is, this small lever has two positions: “on” and “off”. If the gun is not ready for combat, then not only the trigger will be blocked, but also the bolt frame - it will simply catch on two locking hooks.
4. The cartridge cutter is another device that contributes to the security system. By pressing a special button, you can quickly remove all the cartridges from the elevator, which will significantly save the hunter’s time.

The standard sighting device, which is presented in the form of a classic bronze front sight, deserves special attention. There is no rear sight, but there is a ventilated rail that reduces the windage of the weapon, and also allows the use of an additional body kit (collimator or optics). The most important thing is that the device is designed for a dovetail mount - two grooves located at a distance of 11 millimeters from each other.

Flaws

Now it’s time to talk about the shortcomings of a pump-action shotgun, of which, alas, there are many. As mentioned earlier, when purchasing a weapon, the owner may encounter a number of minor problems that he will have to solve on his own. There can be so many of them that they are rarely repeated by other users. However, you were still able to collect the most common reviews about the MP-135, which talk about the most well-known shortcomings.

• Quite poor quality assembly, which is observed in almost all mechanisms and parts of the weapon. Because of this, owners often have to correct defects themselves by using a file or sandpaper.
• The metal parts of the weapon have a rather weak bluing and are resistant to corrosion, which is why it is necessary to regularly replace parts with new ones or carry out cleaning procedures.
• The MP-135's handguard is too far from the butt, which forces you to squint while aiming. For people with low vision, this can be a significant problem.
• Carrying a weapon on a shoulder strap will be almost impossible, since the rear sight and rifle front sight are designed in such a way that they will constantly hit the human body.

It is also worth noting that pump-action shotguns are not the most suitable option for hunting in Russia. And the point is not that it is not effective enough. Its owner in certain circles risks being subjected to obstruction, since a vertical or horizontal double-barreled shotgun is considered the traditional option for a Russian hunter. Although this kind of thinking does not exist in all circles.

MAKSIMOV.SU

One of the symbols of the dashing 90s of the last century in Russia was the pump-action shotgun. As a rule - imported. Everyone used it: bandits, shooting athletes, hunters and security guards of all stripes.

Being a very inexpensive weapon “over there”, in our country the foreign “pump” cost quite a lot of money - “business in Russian”, how could we not do without it.

The photo from the screensaver and the first photo below are by Aleksand Ivanov,
for which special thanks to him. In the photo there is an MP-133 gun, but this does not change the essence

But that's it

or many, in spite of everything, wanted to have a “puff”, promoted by many American films and alluring with its very involvement in the Western world. It was important then. Not now.

But in Russia

, taking into account the situation, they quickly learned how to make pump-action shotguns, simultaneously improving them according to the requirements of the time. And today we can purchase modern Russian-made “pumps” in hunting stores. Today we will talk about the new Izhevsk hunting rifle MP-155.

Based on the MP-155 self-loading rifle

not long ago the MP-135 pump-action shotgun was created. The main difference between the MP-135 and the previous pump-action shotgun MP-133 is its unification with the MP-155. As a result, the weight of the new “pump” has become significantly lower: about 2.9 kg for the version with a wooden butt and forearm. The versions of the MP-135 shotgun can be the same as the MP-155 with the following differences.

Added

options with barrel length 510 and 540 mm. At the end, Russian hunters and athletes received a rather interesting gun, which has good tuning potential and good performance characteristics.

Detailed information

the design features of the MP-135 have not yet been published. This article, written using information directly from the gun's designer, aims to fill that gap.

MP-135
History of creation, design features
Repeating shotgun

with reloading with a movable forend (which has a more popular term “pump-action shotgun” throughout the world), the MP-135 replaced the previous model MP-133, which, in turn, was created on the basis of the popular self-loading shotgun MP-153 and had with it high degree of unification.

Speaking

about unification, we mean the use of identical parts or technological equipment necessary for large-scale production. This allows for relatively small production volumes of pump-action shotguns to ensure their affordable price.

When to replace MP-153

The new MP-155 self-loading shotgun arrived, and the need arose to create a new pump-action shotgun, more modern and, accordingly, having a high degree of unification with the base model.

Group of specialists

engaged in the development and production of the MP-155 self-loading shotgun, almost with the same staff began work on a new pump-action shotgun. General management was carried out by Chief Designer Alexander Usherovich Dorf.

Directly by development

The head of the group for the production of repeating shotguns, Marat Shamilevich Sabirzyanov, and young designers Vladimir Preobrazhentsev and Ekaterina Shishkina were engaged in the work.

Direct

The leadership was carried out by Deputy Chief Designer Alexander Igorevich Kalugin, who, by the way, participated in the development and production of the MP-133.

As a base

For the new “pump”, a shorter and lighter version of the MP-155 shotgun in 12x76 caliber was taken. The pump-action shotgun, being more utilitarian, is used to a lesser extent as a hunting weapon in Russia.

That's why

Environmental requirements are not so significant for him. Accordingly, the 12x89 caliber, originally created for steel shot, is not so relevant here (it should be noted that all this gimmick with steel shot and 89-mm chambers generally looks awkward and has long become irrelevant).

Trigger mechanism MP-135

Externally, practically no different from the base model. The bolt release button when the hammer is cocked is located in the same place as the self-loading shotgun holder button - in front on the right. You need to push it back and down. The button is located as far away from the control hand as possible to prevent accidental pressing of it.

USM base

made of high-strength polyamide. The safety is triangular in shape, located behind the trigger guard, and when turned on, locks the trigger.

Right position

the fuse is “Protection”, the left one is “Fire” (a red stripe is visible). It is possible for the user to independently change the sequence of his work to the opposite one. The trigger ensures that no shot is fired when the bolt is not completely locked.

The barrel can have a length from 510 to 710 mm.

Sights - arched bar or adjustable rear sight and front sight. The bore is cylindrical; some guns have a seat for replaceable choke constrictions.

Geometry

The seat and choke constrictions themselves are the same as in the MP-153 and MP-155. The gun barrels are also interchangeable, i.e. without finishing operations, you can change the barrel or install an additional one.

The principle of reloading a gun is traditional.

To carry out the reloading cycle, you need to vigorously jerk the forend back and forth. It is necessary to emphasize what exactly is energetic: when moving the forend slowly back, there is a risk of non-ejection of the spent cartridge case or cartridge. The MP-135 does not have a bolt stop: when the cartridges are used up, the bolt is not locked in the rearmost position.

someone

This is alarming at first - the MP-133 had a bolt delay, and after using up the cartridges, to return the bolt forward, you had to press the interceptor button on the right side of the receiver.

It could seem,

that there seems to be no need for an interceptor button in the MP-135. But this is not so - the button makes assembly easier. When the bolt frame is inserted into the receiver, it rests against the interceptor, and to retract it you must press the button.

To the question

There is no clear answer among users about the need for a shutter lag. There are convinced supporters of both its presence and absence. If there is a great need for modification of the MP-135 with a bolt stop, the plant can switch to its production without any problems. Interestingly, gun owners can independently return this option to their guns.

Necessary

lengthen the recess in the right rear of the bolt frame under the interceptor petal forward by approximately 10 mm. This can be done with some effort using a regular file. Here it is important not to overdo it and not to make the frame too thin in a narrow place.

Receiver

The gun is made of high-strength aircraft grade B95 aluminum, just like its self-loading counterpart. On top of the box there are dovetail seats for installing optics or adapter strips.

Gate

also generally similar to that in the MP-155, with the exception of the absence of a recess for the handle. Locking is carried out on a wedge swinging in a vertical plane. The ejector and extractor are responsible for removing a spent cartridge case or unfired cartridge.

There is a cut-off mechanism

supply of cartridges from the magazine, located on the left side of the receiver and designed for ease of replacing a cartridge from the chamber. For example, you have cartridges with a certain shot number in the chamber and magazine. It was necessary to fire a cartridge from another equipment.

Procedure:

turn on the cut-off by turning its flag back, sharply pull the fore-end towards you, in this case the cartridge will be thrown out of the box, and the next one from the magazine will not be fed into the tray. Place the required cartridge into the window for ejecting the spent cartridge case and return the fore-end forward - the bolt will send the cartridge into the chamber and lock the barrel. That's it, you can shoot.

For each

the next shot, after moving the fore-end back, put the cartridge into the window. If there is no longer a need to cut off cartridges in the magazine, return the cut-off flag to the forward position.

There is a nuance:

if you do this with the forend pulled back, simply push the cut-off flag forward with your thumb; under no circumstances should you hold it down - otherwise the cartridge may not come out of the magazine. It is not recommended to disassemble the cut-off mechanism, since the screw securing the cut-off spring is tightened with a sealant lock and there is a risk of tearing off the screw slot or its head.

MP-135

has the ability to adjust the retraction of the butt, both vertical and horizontal. The butt itself does not have a horizontal outlet, it is symmetrical.

Able

supplies to the retail chain, an insert is installed on the gun between the butt and the receiver, which ensures that the butt is retracted to the right. You can turn this insert over, and then the outlet will be to the left - this is convenient for left-handed shooters.

Comes with a gun

Two inserts are supplied: one increases the vertical outlet by approximately 7 mm, the second reduces it by the same amount. The inserts can be installed together or separately.

Eat

possibility of adjusting the length of the butt. The gun, depending on the configuration, is supplied with a short or long butt pad. You can purchase and install another butt plate yourself and thereby change the length of the butt by 1 cm.

Handguard

borrowed without changes from MP-133. The butt and fore-end can be plastic or wood. The average weight of the new “pump” has become significantly less than the previous model - the MP-135 in “wood” weighs approximately 2.9 kg.

On the gun

A folding stock can be installed. Currently, it will be a stock of the same design as on the MP-153/133. A new folding stock, more ergonomic, is being developed.

It's clear,

that when creating a new gun, it was not possible to avoid some childhood diseases, but it must be said that work to eliminate shortcomings and improve the model is carried out constantly and as quickly as possible.

If

the owner of the MP-135 has minimal plumbing skills or has the opportunity to contact a specialized workshop, which means it makes sense to additionally chamfer the feed tray and polish it.

Certainly,

You can start talking about the traditional need to modify domestic guns with a “file and sandpaper,” but this is not always relevant. Many of our hunters successfully use Izhevsk guns, without even knowing about the possible shortcomings. Those who know and see it write about it to the plant and on specialized forums.

Let's hope,

that IZHMEKH will find the strength to carry out the minimum necessary finishing work on the weapons being produced, even if this has a slight effect on the selling price. Still, the modern hunter does not want to participate in fine-tuning the new gun he has just purchased, quite rightly.

Conclusion

“Pump” ideologically and constructively has North American roots.

It was from the USA, where several large companies have long produced a large number of pump-action shotguns, that in the 1990s. The fashion for the “pump” came to Russia. Surely many readers remember this unimaginable boom in everything American, incl. weapon.

The Nado never became the “people’s” gun in our country. The fashion for it passed, and all the variety of foreign pump-action shotguns dissolved among security officers, “self-defense workers” and athletes, and some simply melted in blast furnaces.

The "pump" is by no means a bad weapon.

Quite the opposite. You just need to correctly understand the niche of its most effective use. On the one hand, such a weapon for hunting differs little from the self-loading weapons with an under-barrel magazine that are familiar to us.

But

hunting with a pump-action shotgun in Russia (in Europe too) is still considered a sign of bad manners (although the stupid drunks from the domestic “film masterpiece” “Peculiarities of the National Hunt” ran through the forest with a “pump gun”).

On the other side,

the concept of using a “pump” brings it more into the niche of specialized weapons for security activities and war (“12-gauge pumps were seriously used by the Americans in trench battles back in WWI, where it received the nickname “trench broom” for its effectiveness).

Pump-action shotguns

have always been distinguished by their reliability, simplicity of design and low cost. Therefore, the MP-135 is guaranteed, albeit not a rush, but a steady demand in the Russian market.

For his invaluable assistance in preparing this article, the author is once again sincerely grateful
to gunsmith-designer Marat Shamilyevich Sabirzyanov.
The article was published
in the magazine “Hunting”

Disassembly

For the purpose of repair and lubrication work, the weapon must be partially disassembled. Thanks to the relatively simple design of the gun, it will be quite simple even for a beginner. You just need to follow the algorithm below.

1. We unload the gun by holding the holder lever and moving the forend.
2. Unscrew the nut on the magazine and remove the forend.
3. We move the bolt frame back and put it on hold.
4. We remove the barrel from the receiver by sliding the pin-ring along the magazine.
5. Press the shutter stop button and hold the shutter.
6. Remove the cocking handle.
7. We take out the pusher and the bolt frame along with the bolt cylinder.
8. We knock out two pins and remove the trigger mechanism.

After all repair or lubrication work has been carried out, the weapon must be reassembled in the reverse order. Assembly and disassembly must be carried out with extreme care, since even minor damage to any part can lead to disruption of the entire mechanism.

Lubrication

Lubrication is carried out only after partial disassembly of the gun and exclusively with gun oil, which can be purchased at a specialized store. It is strictly forbidden to hold this event in the cold. A comfortable table or workbench located indoors is best.

To lubricate the muzzle channel, dip a cleaning rod in gun oil. Never use plastic or folding options, as they will severely scratch metal surfaces or bend. Also, do not forget to lubricate the bolt and other mechanisms that are most susceptible to contamination with gunpowder with a cloth. Remember that lubrication should be carried out after each use of the weapon and no later than every other day.

History of creation

The development of the first Bekas began in 1997 at the Vyatsko-Polyansky Machine-Building Plant. The first sample used 16-caliber cartridges for firing, as well as a pump-action reloading system. Like most Russian shotguns, the new model was rather coldly received by hunting enthusiasts. Although it could not have been otherwise, since Russian arms factories extremely rarely took on the creation of pump-action shotguns, and even more rarely produced a high-quality semi-automatic model. However, she didn’t give up.

At the turn of the century, the Bekas-16 gun received its first modification called Bekas-12M. In the new model, not only the concept of the barrel has changed, but also serious design changes have been made. For example, the pump has undergone a noticeable modernization, which in the new version began to work much easier and more confidently. And a year and a half later, a gun was released, called “Bekas-12M-auto” - in it the semi-automatic reloading mechanism was replaced with an automatic one (reloading was carried out using a gas engine).

Today I have developed about 10 different modifications for the Bekas gun, each of which has several design options. However, all guns also have a huge number of similarities with the original, so lovers of the classics can choose any gun and will definitely not go wrong. The most recent development at the moment is considered to be the VPO-202 model, developed on the basis of the modernized Bekas-12-Auto. More details about this and other modifications in the next section.

Shooting

The weapon must be zeroed with the same cartridges that will be used during hunting. Regardless of whether you are setting up an open sight or a collimator, the initial zeroing should be carried out from a distance of no more than 10 meters. It is recommended to use metal targets with shooting range markings, as well as a special machine for securing weapons. If you do not have such equipment, use a sandbag or any convenient horizontal surface. The type of choke constriction plays a very important role, since the spread of shot depends on it.

It is recommended to adjust sights indoors, since the flight of a ballistic projectile is influenced by various natural factors: precipitation, wind force and air humidity. However, going to the shooting range is not always possible. In this case, you should wait for a clear and windless day and go out into an open field, where there is no possibility of meeting a random passerby.

After firing three shots, it is necessary to determine the average point of impact and make appropriate adjustments to the sighting device. Repeat the procedure exactly until the difference between the point of impact and the point of aim is minimal. After this, the distance to the target is doubled and the process is repeated. The maximum distance for shooting with shot is about 40-50 meters.

Tuning

Weapons can be easily upgraded to increase technical characteristics or give them a more colorful appearance. A variety of designs and paints are used for this. For example, you can replace a regular pistol grip with a folding stock. The MP-135 has a dovetail sighting bar, so it is possible to install an optical or collimator sight on it, which will improve the quality of shooting at medium distances. You can also replace the plastic stock with a wooden one, giving the weapon a more antique style, or paint it in military camouflage. And installing an under-barrel flashlight will allow you to hunt at night.

Reviews

The MP-135 will require from the hunter not only the ability to use weapons, but also knowledge of plumbing, as well as the availability of all kinds of tools. This does not mean that after purchase the weapon will be completely unsuitable for hunting, but it will have to be brought to mind. Judging by the reviews, the biggest problems are caused by the reloading mechanism and the unevenly positioned aiming bar. Most likely, after purchase you will have to carry out partial disassembly and lubrication, as well as zeroing and adjusting the open sight.

Analogs

The predecessor of the weapon is the MP-133, which was discontinued a long time ago, but you can still find it from some owners in order to purchase the gun second-hand. Unlike the 135 model, it does not have so many disadvantages and will cost no more than 10 thousand. If you are offered to purchase such a gun in good condition, then feel free to agree!

The American Remington-870 is also quite similar in design to the domestic pump-action shotgun. It boasts improved characteristics and the absence of all of the above problems that are typical for its Russian counterpart. However, Remington has one significant disadvantage - the price. Since these are imported weapons, the cost for one set can reach 50 thousand rubles. In addition, branded cartridges also cost a lot of money, and “feeding” an American with domestic models would be quite stupid.

In conclusion, we can say that the MP-135 is a fairly good option for commercial hunting, however, a large number of defective models and a high price compared to domestic analogues make this gun not the most popular among Russian hunters.

Advantages and disadvantages

One of the main distinguishing features of a pump-action shotgun is that this type of weapon has an extensive list of both positive and negative aspects. Let's start with the advantages of "Bekas":

1. Reliability. The gun is capable of operating even in extreme conditions (from –30 to +50 degrees Celsius), and the pump-action mechanism works flawlessly, even if the weapon is used in the rain. The warranty period is 4 years (or 4000 shots).
2. Interchangeability of main components and elements of the “transformer” type. That is, if one part is damaged, you can safely use a part from another spare structure to replace it. Getting spare parts is also not difficult at any store.

1. Possibility of using cartridges with almost any amount of powder and shot charge. Of course, it is not recommended to exceed the recommended mark of 6 grams of “Falcon”, otherwise it will have a bad effect on the “health” of the weapon.
2. Convenient design. Despite the fact that most Bekas shotguns have a pump-action mechanism, it is not difficult to partially disassemble the weapon. The same applies to the trigger, which has a design similar to other smooth-bore models.
3. High rate of fire. Due to the fact that the magazine capacity is 6 rounds (+1 in the receiver), and the pump-action mechanism operates smoothly and softly, changing ammunition in the chamber does not take much time.
4. Wide range of models. Despite the fact that most of the guns in the Bekas line are very similar to each other, they still have certain design features designed to meet the needs of potential buyers.

Unfortunately, the Bekas gun is not without shortcomings, characteristic of most pump-action models produced at Russian arms factories (well, ours are not able to produce mechanical semi-automatic devices). Here are just 5 main flaws that owners complain about:

1. Not the best build quality. Buyers now and then come across models that have a gap between the receiver and the butt or burrs on the muzzle. Yes, most of the shortcomings can be corrected yourself, but the purchase experience will not be the same.
2. Inconvenient butt. It is not suitable for every hunter, but only for a man of average build. For teenagers or women, the gun will seem too bulky, and there is no possibility of adjusting the length of the butt (except for installing the butt plate).
3. Poor ergonomics. This is especially true for the interchangeable pistol grip, which was designed for hunters with large hands. The recoil during a shot is also felt strongly, despite the fact that the weapon does not have the smallest weight (3.6 kg).
4. The too loud sound of cocking and reloading is a drawback that is present in almost all pump-action shotguns. The cartridge must be fed into the chamber in advance, otherwise the duck or hare may hear the hunter preparing to shoot.

1. Not the best gun for take-off shooting. All because of the mass of 3600 grams (for 12 cal) - not every hunter will be able to quickly take aim at flying prey from such a unit. Although for most experienced shooters this drawback should not seem significant.

However, the armory is striving to correct its shortcomings and those shortcomings that are typical for pump-action shotguns in general. For example, if you purchase a gun marked “Auto”, then the minus due to the loud cocking of the hammer and reloading will be irrelevant, since a special gas release mechanism is responsible for these actions.