In Russian legislation, traumatic weapons are defined as firearms of limited destruction. In European countries, this category is called non-lethal weapons. What is meant here is that such revolvers and pistols, although they cause damage to health, do not lead to death. Non-lethal weapons, which in our opinion cause injuries, have found widespread use among law enforcement officers. In many countries, police use traumatic weapons to disperse unauthorized rallies.
Recently, in colloquial speech, as well as in many media, the term “non-lethal” has become more often replaced by the term “less lethal”. This is due to the constant improvement of weapon models, which leads to an increase in their power and other impact characteristics. Russian-made traumatic weapons are traditionally considered more powerful, so our specimens would be more suited to the name “less lethal weapon.”
Where does thunderstorm come from?
Everyone understands that we are talking about a traumatic pistol, and not about a natural phenomenon, however, the history of the development and creation of the “Thunderstorm” model is quite rich and may be of interest to some fans.
Since 1999, the Vinnitsa KNPO plant in Ukraine has been producing the Fort-12R traumatic pistol. This weapon has earned popularity in the Ukrainian and Russian markets, primarily due to its reliability and durability. Average resource – 50,000 shots. Later, the assembly of the Fort pistol was moved to Russia, but since 2014, Ukraine has ceased cooperation on this issue, and production has suspended.
The Moscow company Technoarms decided to continue producing models based on Fort pistols. This model was called “Thunderstorm”.
Let us immediately note that all the debate regarding the comparison of “Fort” and “Thunderstorm” is meaningless, since these are two absolutely identical models.
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.
Series models
The Groza traumatic pistol is available in several modifications. While some models are intended for self-defense, others are used for sports and training shooting. For each weapon, you can name the main characteristics by which it is evaluated and receives feedback from its owners. In this regard, the manufacturer is ready to simultaneously present several modifications that will differ in purpose, material, size, and shot energy.
- "Groza-01" is a weapon intended exclusively for self-defense. Its compact dimensions allow you to carry a weapon on your person without arousing unnecessary suspicion in anyone.
- “Groza-02” or “Groza 021” is also a good means of self-defense, but differs from its “younger brother” in that it has a steel body, as a result of which its mass increases. By the way, this particular model is recommended for those who are just learning to shoot.
- The sports training model “Groza 031” is specially created for sport shooting. It has an extended barrel and an enlarged magazine. The energy performance of such a pistol is slightly higher than that of standard models.
- In the “Thunderstorm 041” model, the frame is made of lightweight polymer. This version is positioned as a professional weapon. The purpose of the means of self-defense also remains.
- The series also has a universal version - “Thunderstorm 051”. It is designed for both sport shooting and self-defense. All parts, with the exception of the frame, are made of steel.
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.
Like all other types of pistols of the Groza family, model 02 was developed on the basis of a Ukrainian-made complex called “Fort”. This particular type of weapon is based on the famous Fort-12T. Not only the design, but also most of the fundamental parts were taken from him.
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.
Main characteristics
In the production of model 051 pistols, manufacturers use innovative technologies, which, in particular, relate to the manufacture of barrels. These technologies are embodied in products that are designated “EVO”. Trauma gun owners should be aware that the earlier versions of the V4 and V4.1 barrels have gradually begun to be replaced. This trend can be seen among other manufacturers as well.
“EVO” barrels are distinguished by the presence of special partitions. These partitions make it impossible to fire a pistol with live ammunition. Also, these barrels provide a high accuracy rate.
The Thunderstorm pistol is based on real military weapons of 9x17 mm and 9x18 mm caliber, therefore it has the same components. Only the barrel, as stated above, is intended only for rubber bullets. The use of polymer materials has its positive aspects:
- the weight of the pistol is reduced;
- comfort when holding or constantly wearing;
- aesthetic appearance;
- corrosion protection.
The Groza pistol is chambered for 9 mm caliber cartridges. Such cartridges are considered the most common, as they are relatively inexpensive in cost. It is possible to choose energy characteristics when purchasing cartridges from different manufacturers.
The weapon is designed not only for shooting with rubber bullets, but also for using gas cartridges. With such a variety of cartridges, for the optimal choice you will need to know the range of uses of the weapon. Accuracy and speed are two indicators that are mutually opposite. That is why it is recommended to choose low-energy cartridges for sporting pistol models.
According to Russian law, a traumatic pistol magazine cannot contain more than 10 rounds. But with special registration, you can increase the magazine capacity, as the manufacturer allows it.
Due to the low mass of the shutter, return springs are installed in the device. To make it easier to work with the shutter, there is a notch on its sides. The trigger mechanism is self-cocking. The fuse has two positions and is located on the left side of the product. The rear sight is adjustable only on models 021 and 031. Other versions of Groza have non-adjustable sighting devices.
System[edit | edit code]
OTs-14 was created on the basis of the AKS74U assault rifle, with which it is 70% unified. The mechanics have undergone changes only in connection with adaptation to the 9x39 mm special cartridge. The originality of the OTs-14 lies in its layout. Since installing an under-barrel grenade launcher on a regular one upsets the balance, the “Groza” was initially designed in conjunction with the GP-25 (a similar idea was implemented in the FN2000). To balance the grenade launcher, the magazine had to be placed closer to the butt (the so-called “bullpup” layout). This also makes it possible to reduce the size of the weapon (“Groza” is comparable in size to AKM and AKSU), but makes it impossible, for example, to shoot from the left shoulder (in this case, cartridges fly into the shooter’s face). Another innovation of the OTs-14 is one trigger for firing from a machine gun and an under-barrel grenade launcher. The mode switch is located above the trigger guard. This solution makes it possible to make the machine more compact. On the other hand, it is criticized for the fact that it takes time to switch - this reduces the practical rate of fire. The sights are located in the carrying handle and are quite identical to the AK. The mount for dove's nest sights must be installed additionally. After this, it is possible to install optical and night sights. Cartridge - 7.62x39 mm ("Groza-1"), 9x39 mm ("Groza-4"). The capacity of the box magazine is 20 rounds for Groza-4 and 30 for Groza-1. The Groza-1 and Kalashnikov assault rifle magazines are interchangeable. The underbarrel grenade launcher - a simplified GP-25 "Koster" - can be replaced with a forend with an additional handle. Thus, the OTs-14 can also be used as a pure assault rifle - although the lack of an under-barrel grenade launcher upsets the balance.
Advantages and disadvantages of a pistol
There are several methods for researching consumer opinion. Unfortunately, none of them can give an objective assessment of a particular weapon model. You can only collect statistical data. Analyzing the situation according to the above principle, it can be noted that the main complaints about the Thunderstorm pistol are related to the impossibility of carrying it discreetly. There is, of course, version 01, which is compact, but such models have already been discontinued. Other versions include an extended barrel. This is where the “cons” end.
The merits of the pistol were a topic of discussion in various forums. Indeed, “Thunderstorm” has won the hearts of fans of traumatic weapons.
- A durable body with a high-quality coating makes the barrel durable, and not only the condition, but also the appearance remains attractive.
- At the beginning of the article, the name of traumatic weapons in European countries was mentioned. The Thunder Pistol could indeed be called a less lethal weapon. Thanks to the elongated barrel, its lethal characteristics do not even allow the pistol to be called a weapon of limited destruction.
- To assess the stability of a weapon during recoil, it is necessary to remember basic knowledge of physics. An increase in shot energy will invariably lead to an increase in the impulse that the barrel itself acquires during the shot. The greater the mass of the barrel, the more inert it is, that is, it will have less recoil. The designer’s task is or, in which the gun will be moderately weighty. The weight of our specimen is ideally selected, which has a positive effect on the stability of the barrel when fired.
- Another advantage that owners highlight is accuracy. This indicator directly affects shooting accuracy. Here it is important not only to hit the target, but also not to hit, for example, the enemy’s head in case of self-defense. Often the victim becomes the perpetrator.
Repair/shooting
Any weapon needs periodic cleaning and repair. Cleaning the bore is carried out with a rag threaded through a loop on a piece of steel or aluminum wire.
The rag is soaked in gun oil and pulled through the barrel. In this case, it is important to clean the dirt from the grooves of the imitation cutting. The second cleaning option is a brush, which is used to clean barrels without welded inserts.
Replacement of damaged elements of the pistol is carried out by the manufacturer with the dispatch of spare parts by special communications. Receipt of such details is carried out at the OLLR at the place of registration of the weapon.
It is advisable to shoot new or repaired weapons.
Before zeroing begins, the “Groza” pistol is mounted on a rigid machine. Fire is fired at a target with a diameter of at least 300 mm from a distance of 5 meters.
For this purpose, cartridges with a rubber bullet are used, capable of providing a shot energy of at least 50 J. The purpose of zeroing is to determine the relative position of the sight and the target. When using a weapon in real conditions, you must remember this position and make adjustments when aiming.
Over the years of operation, pistols have proven themselves to be reliable weapons. Part failures are usually caused by mechanical shocks or prolonged and improper use. Currently, it continues to produce various variants of weapons.
The supply of spare parts is also ongoing without interruption. These circumstances allow us to say with confidence that “Groza” pistols will be present on the Russian traumatic weapons market for a long time.
Purchase of injury
Perhaps not a single law is formulated in such a way that there are no explanations or exceptions to it. A competent lawyer will always find a loophole to make legal a process that at first glance seems illegal. As for purchasing weapons, you should remember that you have a special permit. For some types of weapons such permission is not required.
For example, pneumatics can be bought freely. But according to Russian law, it is necessary to purchase weapons of limited destruction only after receiving official permission from the licensing authorities.
There are special weapons stores where, with permission, anyone can be offered a weapon. If it is not in stock, you can order the desired model through the seller. Buying a weapon in a store will save the potential buyer from possible problems. The transaction will take place legally, with the issuance of relevant documents. Without these documents it will be impossible to register the trunk.
Separately, I would like to draw attention to sites that sell trauma products. We don’t argue, they offer a favorable price, and the product catalog contains any model. However, the sale of weapons that require licensing is quite problematic according to all the rules. Although you can often find useful information on these sites.
For example, a buyer finds the desired model in a catalog, finds out its cost, reads a short review, and then heads to a gun store. Some reputable online stores allow you to order goods online. They are guaranteed to provide all the accompanying documents for the selected barrel, and will also make every effort to ensure that the buyer has the right to purchase the weapon. We will not provide a list of these sites, since new stores are opening and old ones continue to operate. It is advisable to find out such information on thematic forums.
As for the cost, it depends on the seller. Some stores tend to run regular promotions. You can only focus on the average. The average cost of a Thunderstorm pistol ranges from 15 to 25 thousand rubles. The only exception is model 031. Due to the additional rail for equipment, its price reaches 30 thousand.
Purpose
In general, this weapon is intended not only for effective self-defense in the event of emergency situations of a criminal nature, but is also suitable for sports shooting. It won't even fit, but it will fit perfectly. All this became possible thanks, among other things, to the high strength of the revolver, as well as its long service life. Of course, a weapon will not save you from a simultaneous attack by 10 hooligans, but for such purposes only a machine gun is suitable. And so the revolver demonstrates very decent characteristics, which, in fact, justify its popularity.
Revolvers of the "Groza R" series
The Groza traumatic revolvers attract special attention from consumers. They are similar in purpose to “Groza” pistols, that is, they serve as a means of self-defense and as a sporting weapon. Technoarms currently presents eight types of revolvers, which differ both in external design and design features. To select a specific model, you need to have an overview of the characteristics of all modifications.
During operation, revolvers of the “Groza” series showed themselves exclusively on the positive side. All models have common qualities: durability, reliability, shooting accuracy and relatively low weight. Each modification is equipped with a double-type trigger. The difference is in the length of the barrel, weight, material from which the frame is made, and color. Sighting devices are adjustable.
Weapons of limited destruction, that is, traumatic weapons, include such models as Groza R-02, Groza R-03, Groza R-04 and Groza R-06. The mechanism of the Groza R-02 revolver allows you to fire six shots before fully reloading. The clip contains six rounds. They are simultaneously loaded into the drum and also simultaneously removed by simply pressing the extractor, which allows you to quickly and conveniently reload the weapon. The first shot can be fired when cocking the hammer, but there is the possibility of self-cocking. In terms of muzzle energy, the Groza R-02 is inferior to its “brothers”.
The Thunderstorm R-03 revolver is a copy of the R-02, with the exception of an elongated barrel. It was this change that led to an increase in impact characteristics. Although the Z-03 cannot be called the most powerful revolver, in some respects it has surpassed the previous version.
The R-04 is positioned as an accurate and fairly powerful revolver. Adjusting the sighting device in two planes allows you to achieve almost professional shot accuracy. This model is universal, as it is ideal for training, sports and as a means of self-defense.
The exceptionally sporty version “Groza R-06” is considered the most powerful among other models. It is not suitable for self-defense for the reason that carrying a weapon with a barrel length of 152 mm is inconvenient. This model is also the heaviest. The increased mass allows for targeted shooting, as it adds stability to the weapon.
P-03C
This “Thunderstorm” model is also designed for effective self-defense. Traumatic cartridges made from rubber materials are used as ammunition. The caliber of cartridges is 9 millimeters.
The “Groza R-03S” revolver is a modern weapon, which is manufactured at the plant in accordance with technology. High-quality weapons-grade steel is used in the manufacturing process. That is why such weapons have a long service life and high reliability. Among other advantages of the pistol, it is worth noting its large resource.
