MP-233 rifle: reviews, price, technical specifications, review

MP-233 is a double-barreled vertical rifle designed more for sport shooting than for hunting. Several modifications of the model with different design features are available.

By the end of the 90s, the Russian arms market represented mainly only hunting rifles of various modifications. The sector of weapons for sports and recreational shooting was filled with foreign models. At the beginning of the 21st century, the Izhevsk and Tula plants tried to correct this state of affairs.

Thus, in 2001, a sports line of double-barreled rifles appeared - MP-233.

Review of the MP-233 shotgun

The basis for the new models was the IZH-27 Sporting model. In comparison, the new rifle is more specialized and is positioned as a weapon for training. This implies not only high accuracy, but also sufficient weight and various modifications that reduce recoil and toss of the gun.

MP-233 is a double-barreled version with a vertical barrel arrangement. According to the designers, the side flint provides a better viewing angle for the shooter compared to a horizontal position.

Several modifications of the gun are produced, but only one model is in production - the MP-233 EA.

The design of the rifle allows you to install choke constrictions for different types of shooting, both for lead and steel shot - there are corresponding markings on the chokes. It is worth noting that it is also used as a hunting rifle, since the weight is not much greater than the weight of the model for running hunting: the heaviest rifle weighs up to 3.6 kg.

Photo of the MP-233 rifle

Advantages and disadvantages

MP-233 inherited all its advantages from its predecessor, but also has its own advantages. The most dramatic improvements include a removable firing mechanism. This makes it much easier to both maintain the rifle and repair it in case of extreme damage.

The undoubted advantages of the MP-233 line include the following qualities.

The accuracy of the fire is quite “standard” for IZHMEKH products: at a distance of 35 m, the shot hits a circle with a diameter of 750 mm. According to the owners, the accuracy when shooting a bullet is much more impressive, but for a hunting rifle. Even in the sports modification, accuracy when firing bullets is not standardized.
There are compensating holes in the receiver block. This not only allows the use of replaceable muzzle inserts, but what is much more important when shooting - it reduces the recoil and toss of the gun.
The barrels are made of weapon steel. In some models, not only the channels, but also the outer side of the barrel are chromed. Unfortunately, such a solution is rare. The same device causes less noise in the shot - some of the gases are released through the hole.
The trigger is mounted in a removable block - this makes cleaning and disassembling the gun much easier, and this method of storage - the rifle and trigger separately - increases safety. In addition, this allows you to replace the trigger mechanism with another option: in the MP-233 line, triggers are interchangeable.
The product’s not too heavy weight – depending on the model, from 3.3 to 3.65 kg – allows the gun to be used for hunting.
The buttstock is more ergonomic, with a rubber butt pad: sport modifications are, in principle, more comfortable and the MP-233 is no exception. The stock is most often made of dark walnut, and does not have any engravings or carvings. Many people consider the absence of this design an advantage.
The under-barrel hook is reinforced with a hard alloy insert to increase the working life of the mechanism.
The bar is wider - 10 mm, the front sight is fluorescent, clearly visible in the dark: a slight improvement, but it makes shooting in the dark easier. The bar can be modified as a dovetail.

The disadvantages of the product include such design flaws.

The thickness of the barrel walls raises doubts - up to 1 mm in thin places.
Most models do not have swivels.
The quality of the replacement muzzle liners leaves much to be desired.

Purpose

The MP-233 is positioned as a sporting shotgun. There is a reason for this: both the design itself and the high accuracy constitute an excellent opportunity for learning accurate shooting. The model is used for bench shooting.

The double-barreled shotgun is produced in 7 popular calibers in the hunting environment, so it is successfully used when hunting medium and small animals - fox, roe deer, as well as large birds - black grouse, wood grouse, and small birds - pigeon, woodcock. The large caliber allows you to hunt large animals - wolves, wild boars.

Replaceable muzzle inserts allow you to easily modify the rifle for different types of hunting.

Varieties

The MP-233 is available in 6 calibers with chamber lengths of 70 and 76.2 mm, which allows the use of cartridges with different case lengths. The marking is deciphered as follows: 2 – double-barreled shotgun, 3 – smooth-bore shotgun with a vertical barrel arrangement, 3 – model number.

Despite the intended purpose - sports, the line offers 8 different modifications, differing mainly in the design features of the trigger mechanism.

Actually, the MP-233 is a shock-type trigger with two triggers.
MP-233A - equipped with one trigger. The sequence of shots can be changed using the push button. As a rule, for sport shooting a model with one trigger is chosen, for hunting - with two.
MP-233V - there are 2 triggers, each of which is universal, that is, it can serve as a single trigger mechanism.
MP-233E - equipped with an ejector: the device ejects the spent cartridge case, and only slightly shifts the unfired one.
MP-233 S – the rifle is equipped with a trigger with 2 universal hooks, but the model is equipped with an additional trigger mechanism with one trigger. If necessary, they can be easily reinstalled.
MP-233EA - model with an ejector and trigger with a universal type trigger, it is possible to change the sequence of shots.
The MP-233EV is equipped with an impact trigger with 2 triggers and an ejector.
And finally, the MP-233ES is equipped with two types of triggers: with two hooks and with one. In addition, an ejector is mounted on the model.

The stock can be made in a regular way or have a more designer design in the “Classic” style.

The rifle can be equipped with one or more receiver units. In this case, each barrel block is additionally marked.

Technical characteristics of the MP-233 are described below.

Limiter spring for MP-233

More about weapon design

The basis of the new sporting shotgun was taken from the old domestic model - IZH-27 Sporting. The new rifle has two barrels located vertically. As the designers considered, this arrangement (the so-called side flint) provides the shooter with a more comfortable viewing angle than if the barrels were positioned horizontally.

The gun is designed in such a way that it can use devices for muzzle constriction (chokes). If shooting is to be done with lead shot, then one choke is used, if the shooter intends to shoot with steel shot, then another choke is used. To avoid confusion, the chokes are marked accordingly.

Like any other weapon, the MP-233 has its advantages. There are also disadvantages. To understand the positive and negative characteristics of a gun, it is necessary to conduct a detailed review of them.

Specifications

The design features of the models described above actually have little effect on the technical performance of the rifle. Both the ejector and the various USM devices are designed to provide only greater ease of use.

The difference in weapon parameters is determined by the length of the chamber and barrel.

Parameter	Parameter value
Caliber	12	16	20	28	32	12	20	.410
Length, mm	Chamber	70	76,2
trunk	660, 725, 750	660, 710	660, 710, 750	660, 625, 750	660, 710, 750
Bore diameter, mm	18,4	16,8	15,7	14,0	12,5	18,4	15,7	10,3
Gun weight, kg	3,4	3,65	3,1	3,6	3,3	3,2
Average maximum gas pressure, MPa	65/78	68/78	72,83	90/105
Muzzle constriction, mm	DR	+0,4	—	—	—	—	+0,4	—	—
C	0,0	0,0	0,0	0,0	0,0	0,0	0,0	0,0
IC	0,25	0,25	0,25	0,15	0,12	0,25	0,25	0,12
M	0,5	0,5	0,5	0,25	0,25	0,5	0,5	0,25
I.M.	0,75	0,75	0,75	0,40	0,38	0,75	0,75	0,38
F	1,0	1,0	1,0	0,6	0,5	1,0	1,0	0,5
T	1,25	—	—	—	—	1,25	—	—
XF	—	—	—	0,8	0,7	—	—	0,7

The weight of the rifle is given without ammunition.

Characteristics of varieties

If we talk about weapon calibers, then a total of 6 varieties are produced (in other words, the MP-233 comes in six calibers). The chambers are of two varieties: the first has a length of 70 mm, the second has a length of 76.2 mm. It is clear that with different lengths of chambers it is possible, accordingly, to shoot charges with different lengths of cartridge cases.

As for modifications of the MP-233, there are eight of them:

The original model MP-233 with a strike type USM and having two triggers;
MP-233A. It only has one trigger;
MR-233V. This modification also has two triggers. However, here each of the hooks can operate in a universal mode, being essentially a single-trigger mechanism;
MP-233E. A distinctive feature of this modification is the presence of an ejector, that is, a special device capable of ejecting a used cartridge case;
MR-233S. This modification is equipped with a trigger, which has two universal triggers. At the same time, there is also an additional trigger, which has one hook. If necessary, both mechanisms can easily be swapped;
MP-233EA. This variety also has an ejector, as well as a trigger, which has a universal hook. When firing from this model, you can change the sequence of shots;
MR-233EV. This model has two triggers, an ejector and an impact trigger;
SR-233EC. This modification can be equipped with two types of triggers, which may have one hook or two. In addition, the model is equipped with an ejector.

Each modification comes with one or more receiver units.

Design

The main components of the MP-233 rifle are a detachable receiver unit with a forend attached to it, a trigger mechanism and a receiver with a butt.

The barrels in the box are secured with a locking bar. The barrels are unlocked using the release lever, which is located in the upper part of the receiver. When the barrels are opened, the locking plate and lever are locked in place by a delay. When closing the gun, the delay releases the locking bar.

The barrels are placed in a vertical plane, fastened with a breech coupling and interbarrel strips. The handguard is fixed to the block using a lever latch. In the pre-choke zone there are compensating holes that reduce recoil.

In models with the “E” index, an ejector is installed - an automatic cartridge ejector. Only the shot one is thrown out, the unshot one is moved somewhat. In other rifles, the spent cartridge case slides out, but must be removed manually. The ejector mechanism is easy to disable: just turn the disconnector 90 degrees.
The trigger is an independent unit that can be easily detached from the box. The triggers are made separately from the firing pins; cylindrical springs are used as combat springs. The hammers are cocked when the gun is opened. The hooks are anodized with titanium nitride, which significantly increases corrosion resistance. 3 types of triggers are used: with two triggers - when you press the first one, a shot is fired from the lower barrel, and when the rear one is pressed, a shot is fired from the upper barrel. The order is changed by moving the pusher button. Changing modes is controlled only by a button and does not return to its original position when opening the gun;
The trigger with 2 universal hooks offers a different operating mode: the first time you press any of them, a shot is fired from the lower barrel, the second time – from the top;
A trigger with one trigger operates similarly; the sequence can be adjusted with the pusher button.

When turning the lock lever, the automatic safety is activated. It blocks the sears and triggers, eliminating the possibility of an accidental shot.

In rifles with 2 triggers, the presence of a fuse allows the hammers to be released shock-free from cocking. To do this, before triggering, it is necessary to remove the cartridges from the chamber, move the fuse forward and release the hooks.

A wide aiming bar and 2 front sights are standardly mounted - plastic and light, made of stainless steel.
The stock is butt-shaped, with a high comb, and made of walnut. There is a rubber shock absorber.

The rifle can be equipped with barrel blocks or muzzle inserts. Chokes are compatible with chokes. The chokes are thin-walled, so you need to be careful when handling them.

Advantages and disadvantages of a gun

The advantages are:

Has good combat accuracy. For example: at a distance of 35 meters, a shot is capable of hitting a target whose diameter does not exceed 750 millimeters. If you shoot bullets, the accuracy is much higher;
The barrel block is equipped with special compensating holes, thanks to which it is possible to use replaceable muzzle liners. However, much more importantly, thanks to this, there is less recoil when firing. In addition, due to the compensating holes, the noise when fired is reduced, since almost half of the gases go into the holes;
High-quality weapon steel was used to make the barrels. The barrel is chrome-plated inside. Sometimes there are also samples in which the barrel is chrome-plated on the outside;
Original installation of the trigger, which is a removable unit. Thanks to this, cleaning and disassembling the weapon is much easier. In addition, it is safer to store the gun separately from the trigger. If the mechanism fails, it can be easily replaced with another one;
It weighs relatively little - 3.3-3.65 kg (this depends on the specific modification);
The MP-233 stock is quite ergonomic, with a rubber butt plate. The butt, as well as the stock, are wooden and smooth, without any carved decorations;
Wide aiming bar (10 mm wide), the front sight has a fluorescent attachment, making it much easier to shoot in the dark.

Now about the shortcomings: there are few of them, but they are there. Here are the most important of them:

Many users express dissatisfaction with the barrel walls, the thickness of which in some places does not exceed 1 mm;
Again, many users are dissatisfied with the lack of swivels (most modifications do not have them);
And, again, users claim that the replacement muzzle inserts are of low quality.

It may happen that, having listened to popular feedback, designers in the near future will think about improving some of the qualities of this weapon.

Options and packaging

The configuration varies greatly depending on the model. This may include:

cardboard box - regular packaging for Izhevsk guns;
product passport is a required element;
additional trigger – in some models;
additional barrel blocks - in some models;
choke constrictions;
if there is an additional element, a special key is included in the kit.

Appearance of MP-233EA

More information about the configuration and charges

If the buyer wishes to purchase this weapon, he should know that it is sold in disassembled condition. The buyer must assemble the gun himself - after he has purchased it. As for the configuration, it largely depends on which model the buyer wants to purchase.

In general, the package includes:

The gun itself;
A cardboard box is a traditional packaging container for weapons produced in Izhevsk;
Some models may come with a second trigger;
Also, some models come with additional receiver units;
Each modification is equipped with choke constrictions;
If any additional element is attached, a special key is attached to it.

Before shooting, it is necessary to remove the factory grease from it, lubricate the gun itself and assemble it.

Operating principle

The rifle is delivered to the buyer in disassembled form. Before operation, it is necessary to thoroughly clean the parts from factory grease, lubricate them with gun oil and assemble the product according to the instructions.

For shooting, cartridges with lead shot are used, as well as with steel, but only on models with the corresponding marking on the barrels - “Steel shot”. Replaceable choke constrictions are also marked: “Lead” - for lead shot, “Steel” - for steel shot. Double-marked 12-gauge nozzles are designed to accept any shot.
Rifles with a chamber length of 70 mm allow the use of all cartridges with a case of the corresponding length, with the exception of cartridges marked “Max.10bar”. Models with a 76.2 mm chamber allow the use of all types of cartridges.

In the new rifle, the unlocking lever is allowed to be short - it is not installed in the central position. In this case, finishing is carried out manually.

Loading a gun is done as follows:

the muzzle is turned away from people and animals;
turn the locking lever to the right until it stops;
shift the trunks down to the limit;
put cartridges into the chamber;
return the trunks to their original position.

To fire, the safety is turned off. They do this at the last moment, when the rifle is aimed at the target.

Changing the choke constrictions is carried out in the normal manner: to rest the ends against the protrusion on the barrel bore and so that the liner is flush at the cut end. The tightness is checked before firing and after every 50–100 shots. It is recommended to lubricate the restrictions before screwing in with thick motor oil - type 10W50, 10W60, with the addition of graphite grease or graphite.

After shooting, the restrictions must be unscrewed and cleaned.

More about rifle loads

As for the characteristics of the charges used in shooting, such charges can be of two varieties: for shooting with lead shot, and also for shooting with steel shot. At the same time, it is extremely important to know that you can shoot steel shot only from those whose barrels are marked “Steel shot”. As for the replaceable choke constrictions, they are also marked accordingly.

If you can read “Lead” on the barrels, then this means that you can shoot with lead shot, and if you can read the inscription “Steel”, then from such barrels, accordingly, you can shoot with shot made of steel. If both symbols are read on the barrels, then it follows that they can fire two types of shot. If the chamber length is 70 mm, then in this case you can shoot any cartridges that have the corresponding sleeve length, except for cartridges marked “Max.10bar”, but you can shoot from models with a chamber length of 76.2 mm all types of cartridges.

Disassembling weapons

To clean and lubricate the rifle, follow a series of steps, following the instructions exactly. It is worth remembering that you do not need to make excessive efforts to disassemble the MP-233.

The procedure is as follows:

pull the triggers, after making sure that there are no cartridges in the chamber;
by pulling the forend latch at the bottom of the box, turn the forend in the direction of the barrels and disconnect them;
turns the unlocking lever all the way to the right;
open the trunks and detach them from the box;
Having drowned the button located at the base of the trigger, remove the mechanism.

This is quite enough for cleaning and lubrication.

Complete disassembly also includes separating the buttstock by unscrewing the retaining screws and removing the butt, disassembling the locking mechanism and disassembling the ejection device. The scheme in the latter case is slightly different depending on what is installed on the model - an ejector or a regular ejector.

Complete disassembly is required only for repairs. To change the USM, an incomplete one is sufficient. Assembly is carried out in reverse order.

How to properly load a gun

It is clear that most owners already know how to do this correctly, however, when charging the MP-233 there may be some additional nuances. Here is the correct sequence for loading a rifle:

The muzzle must be turned in the direction where there are no people or animals;
The locking lever must be turned all the way to the right;
The trunks need to be moved down as far as possible;
You need to place a charge in the chamber;
The barrel must be returned to its original position.

Before you shoot, you must remember to turn off the safety. It is necessary to change the choke constrictions in accordance with the instructions that are included in the package when purchasing it in a store: after the shooting is finished, the choke constrictions must be unscrewed and must be cleaned.

Tuning

Most practical modifications - changing the receiver unit, trigger, are provided by the manufacturer itself. But, of course, gun owners don’t stop there.

Most often, they get rid of the second fly: it coincides with the first and has no practical significance. You can replace both front sights with one fiber optic one - the latter is simply glued.

The bar can be modified to be a dovetail bar.

The stock of the MP-233 is also subject to replacement - it is recommended, however, to install wood so as not to upset the balance.

Owner reviews and prices for the MP-233 and MP-233 EA hunting rifles are given below.

Hunting rifle MP-233EA Sporting 12/76

Tuning: some techniques and features

The manufacturer himself took care of most of the weapon tuning. The gun is designed in such a way that it is possible to change the trigger, as well as the barrel block, in normal mode. However, there is no limit to people's imagination in terms of improving their own weapons. And therefore, many owners are sophisticated in additional tuning.

In this sense, the second front sight is most often removed, since it essentially has no practical use. You can also, if desired, remove both flies and glue a fiber optic one in place.

Anyone who doesn't like the butt can change it too. Here, however, it is important to know that the original wooden stock must also be replaced with a wooden one. If, for example, you put a plastic stock instead of a wooden one, then the balancing will certainly be disrupted.

In general, the MP-233 rifle is a very successful domestically produced weapon that can compete with many foreign analogues. It is intended for both sporting and hunting. The MP-233 can be used for shooting for sporting purposes; it is also quite possible to hunt small and large game with it.

Reviews

The MP-233 has been around long enough to earn a reputation as a pretty decent hunting rifle. Not everyone, of course, finds such a function as an ejector, for example, useful, but on the whole the line has found its fans.

Particularly successful is the implementation of the trigger in the form of a removable block. Also, the presence of compensating holes is considered a successful solution.

The criticism is not so much the design itself as the quality of execution. Unfortunately, finding a truly well-made gun is not easy. The same doubts are raised by the muzzle constrictions: many note their excessive thinness and fragility.

Analogs

The direct competitor of the MP-233 as a sporting shotgun is the TOZ-120 rifle, designed essentially for the same purpose. The advantages and disadvantages of both models are still the subject of debate.

MP-233 is one of the first attempts by the designers of the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant (known for the models MP-133, MP-18MN, MP-94 Express, Sever, MP-161K, MP-142K, MP-143, OP-SKS and etc.) create a sports gun. The model, however, turned out to be successful enough to be used for regular hunting on medium-sized, large, and small animals.

A comparison of Bekas RP12 and MP-233 is given in this video: