1A62

The 1A62 is a Soviet-era semi-automatic pistol designed in the late 1950s and early 1960s. It was developed as a replacement for the earlier 1A45 pistol, which had been introduced during World War II. The 1A62 was chambered for the 7.62×25mm Tokarev cartridge, a rimless bottleneck round originally designed for the TT-33 pistol. The weapon was intended for use by officers and military personnel, offering improved reliability and performance compared to its predecessor.

The 1A62 features a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) trigger mechanism, allowing for both quick target acquisition and controlled follow-up shots. Its design incorporates a slide-locking system that prevents accidental discharge, enhancing safety. The pistol also includes a manual safety lever, located on the slide, which locks the hammer when engaged. The grip is ergonomically shaped to accommodate various hand sizes, and the pistol is equipped with a front and rear sight for accurate aiming.

Production of the 1A62 began in the mid-1960s and continued for several decades, with variations introduced over time. It was widely used by Soviet military forces, law enforcement agencies, and exported to allied nations. The pistol saw service in conflicts such as the Vietnam War and the Soviet-Afghan War. Despite its service in the military, the 1A62 was not adopted as a standard issue for frontline troops, as the Soviet Union primarily relied on the Makarov PM (9×18mm Makarov) for general service.

The 1A62 was gradually phased out in favor of modernized variants like the 1A71 and later the 9×19mm Glock pistols introduced in the 1990s. Today, the 1A62 remains a collectible among firearms enthusiasts and historians, appreciated for its historical significance and mechanical reliability. It is occasionally encountered in civilian markets, particularly in countries where Soviet-era firearms are still in circulation.