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## 5.56 Nato

A modern classic you can trust for hunting and home defense. The lightweight 5.56 NATO  features a 7-grain steel core that can penetrate metal targets with ease. A consummate round for all single shot, bolt action, and semi-automatic rifles. 

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Russian guns - both antique and modern - are some of the most highly sought-after in the world. Gun enthusiasts idolize firearm inventors like Tokarev, Makarov, Kalashnikov, and Mosin the way a teenager does the members of a pop band. We'll take a look at five of the most used, collected, and influential Russian guns since the 20th century.  

## Most Well-Known Russian Pistols 

Modern Russian pistols are largely supplied from a design bureau in the same town as Tula Ammo. Some new models serve as the standard for various branches of military and police, but the Tokarev TT and Makarov pistol continue to hold their place of honor for official use. 

### Tokarev TT Pistol

![Russian Guns graphic 1](//images.ctfassets.net/57wxgy8frvdv/3rnYlDZNLwSQwDGRhmM6so/3c606cad2ee845e25d1b4c093a163a72/Russian_Guns_graphic_1.jpg)

Developed by Fedor Tokarev in the early 1930’s, the now out-of-production Tokarev pistol was the Red Army standard handgun until 1952. The TT uses the 7.62×25mm Tokarev cartridge and Browning's short recoil tilting-barrel [system](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TT_pistol) from the [M1911](https://www.ammoplanet.com/blog/the-ria-1911-history-on-a-budget) pistol.

Throughout its short time as the most cutting-edge design in Russian pistols, it was prized for being powerful, reliable, easy-to-maintain, and inexpensive-to-produce. Notably, it was the [first](https://www.rbth.com/science-and-tech/333951-top-guns-created-by-tokarev) pistol in the world with an entire trigger mechanism that could easily be removed as a separate part. After the collapse of the Soviet Union in the 1990’s, the TT remained the Russian mafia’s main weapon of choice. 

The Soviet military however, soon began searching for an alternative to become their Red Army standard firearm. The Tokarev TT had one major drawback: a lack of a safety mechanism. The pistol had a half-cock notch which prevented the trigger from being engaged until the hammer was manually maneuvered into the correct position. This was a marginal, but often ineffective guard against misfire. Multiple shot legs and dropped misfires later, the Tokarev TT was replaced with the Makarov pistol. 

### Makarov Pistol

![Russian Guns graphic 2](//images.ctfassets.net/57wxgy8frvdv/6rWCQwG3JL602h4cvIvrzo/7ef845ffd72fb2c03815e1e45bef157f/Russian_Guns_graphic_2.jpg)

Nikolay Makarov reportedly copied many features from the [Walther](https://www.ammoplanet.com/blog/imfdb-4-films-with-live-fire) PPK to create the Makarov pistol. Heavy for its size and wielding a stiff trigger-pull, this double-action pistol firing [9x18mm](https://www.ammoplanet.com/blog/9mm-vs-9mm-luger-whats-the-difference) Makarov rounds was a welcomed upgrade as the new Red Army standard handgun.

Two main factors brought about the Makarov pistol. First and foremost, the Soviet military desired to standardize the pistol round used and 9x18mm round was plentiful both in Russia and allied countries. Second, while hating the Nazis, Soviet officials had a deep appreciation for their guns. The German design elements of the Makarov pistol made it seem more modern in the eyes of USSR leaders. It also became a [favorite](https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/meet-makarov-gun-russia-elvis-pistols-51682) of state security agents in the USSR and in Soviet-allied countries. 

All-in-all, the Makarov pistol was better-made than the Tokarev, less clumsy, and actually possessed a safety. Unlike the out-of-production Tokarev it replaced, the Makarov pistol remains in production in Russia, China, and Bulgaria. Russian manufacturers Tula Ammo and Barnaul Ammo continue to supply 9x18mm Makarov rounds for anyone looking to feed their pistol with bullets from the homeland. 

## Other Prolific Russian Guns 

More than handguns, Russian platforms are most known for their contributions to the firearm landscape in the form the the RPG-7, the Kalashnikov Light Machine Gun (RPK), and the AK-47. 

### RPG-7

![Russian Guns graphic 3](//images.ctfassets.net/57wxgy8frvdv/QJ7ZMI5CNLqXNMRQNNdzf/907220794b0bf1db387b52eb6db2d68f/Russian_Guns_graphic_3.jpg)

Though frequently called a “Rocket Propelled Grenade,” the translation for the Russian Ruchnoy Protivotankovvy Granatomyot actually titles the [RPG-7](http://www.military-today.com/firearms/rpg_7.htm) a “hand-held anti-tank grenade launcher.” The predecessor to the 7 model was the RPG-2--an anti-tank armament based on the World War II German Panzerfaust and US Bazooka. The RPG-7 improved upon the range and armor penetration capability of the earlier model.

Among Russian guns, the RPG-7 has become one of the most widely used anti-armor weapons in the world. [Ruggedness](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RPG-7), simplicity, low cost, and effectiveness make it a desirable choice for combat against opponents wielding heavy artillery.

### Kalashnikov Light Machine Gun (RPK)

![Russian Guns graphic 4](//images.ctfassets.net/57wxgy8frvdv/F9i1TsO7dJa3jZg43WHT9/3939feb15c5e878c67e85e63793e3bf5/Russian_Guns_graphic_4.jpg)

1944 marked a significant increase in the Red Army’s offensive military operations. Thus, the infantry needed a lightweight and nimble machine gun. With the already widespread success of the Kalashnikov’s AK platforms, creating the RPK to function similarly made adoption of this light machine gun a breeze. 

Down to using the same [7.62×39mm](https://www.ammoplanet.com/blog/Ammo-modern-shooter-part-2) ammunition, the RPK functions identically to the AK-47. A thicker and longer barrel [increases](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RPK) the RPK's effective range and accuracy and enhances its sustained fire capability without permanent loss in accuracy. 

The barrel of the RPK-16 improves even further upon its previous generations with an interchangeable barrel to adapt to various mission scenarios. The short barrel can apply toward fighting on the street or between structures while the longer barrel attaches for open ground or desert operations. This also serves the practical purpose of allowing a soldier to [replace](https://www.all4shooters.com/en/shooting/pro-zone/rpk-16-russian-machine-gun/) a worn out or defective barrel with a new one without having to send it to a workshop or manufacturer. 

### AK-47

![Russian Guns graphic 5](//images.ctfassets.net/57wxgy8frvdv/3WMu9MZ0kwvqalwzbv4BjF/af54d5604fd299a023243b394231d6a8/Russian_Guns_graphic_5.jpg)

Completed in 1947 by Soviet Senior Sergeant Mikhail Kalashnikov, on the whole, the AK-47 is one of the deadliest weapons ever built. Its kill count even rivals nuclear weapons in sheer numbers. The AK-47 is chambered for the 7.62×39mm round. This medium-powered cartridge is not quite powerful enough for long-range sniping duty, but more than adequate to cause deadly wounds within the ranges at which almost all combat occurs.

The AK-47 has become the most recognizable weapon not only among Russian guns, but all weaponry across all time. While the Tokarev TT and the Makarov pistol have had some competition for Russian loyalty from the Glock platform, nothing--including American attempts to match AK performance with the M-16--quite compares to the AK-47 in popularity and all-around effectiveness. 

Over 30 countries produce [some](https://www.forbes.com/sites/niallmccarthy/2017/03/30/the-cost-of-an-ak-47-on-the-black-market-across-the-world-infographic/?sh=2caa55707442) 200 different types of Kalashnikovs around the world. Being both popular and produced en-masse has done nothing, however, to reduce the cost of acquiring these Russian guns as a civilian. According to a report from Global Financial Integrity, the price of an AK-47 increases the further it travels the more the price of the AK-47 increases. A smuggled rifle crossing the U.S.-Canada border may go up in price by as much as 560 percent.

The AK-47 rose sharply in popularity among the US military and Soviet allies following the Vietnam war. This “any man's gun” levelled the playing field between guerilla fighters and a superpower military force. The closest contest piece the US had at the time was the M-16, and it was riddled with maintenance issues--even known to frequently jam in battle. Once the greater 30-round capacity and dependability of the Kalashnikov was realized, many American grunts took to picking up conquered enemy AK-47’s at every opportunity.

It quickly became apparent that anyone--from instructed recruits to untrained child soldiers--could master the basics of its few moving parts in a short amount of time. Among Russian guns, the AK-47 was so simple that “it could be [disassembled](https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/how-did-the-ak47-become-the-most-abundant-weapon-on-earth-2124407.html) and reassembled by Slavic schoolboys in less than 30 seconds flat” and so reliable that “even when soaked in bog water and coated with sand...its Soviet testers had trouble making it jam.” 

These Russian guns continue to be highly prized models for militaries and collectors alike. Do you have a favorite Russian firearm model? 


Russian Guns hero

Even non-gun enthusiasts have seen or heard of at least one of these "celebrities" of Russian firearms. How did they get to be so popular? Check out these prized and influential pieces from the former Soviet superpower. 

Most Iconic Russian Firearms

So, you [got yourself](https://www.ammoplanet.com/blog/best-handgun-for-beginner-shooters) a spiffy Springfield XD, and you’re wondering whether there are any modifications you can make to improve your experience? Look no further! We’ll discuss five different upgrades you can make to this firearm to customize it for you. 

## Trigger

A trigger upgrade is a common modification to handguns. The decision to swap out a trigger must be weighed carefully, however, due to some legal gray area that comes with it. 

Since most people purchase a Springfield XD for concealed carry--but more specifically self-defense purposes--the legal ramifications of any after-market change to a handgun have to be considered should you need to defend them in a court of law. 

Should you be caught in a situation where you need to defend the use of your handgun in a confrontation, you should note that the prosecution will look into any handgun modifications when contesting a claim of self-defense. Choosing a factory option trigger is safer than opting to install one yourself after the fact. 

![5 Upgrades for Your Springfield XD graphic 1](//images.contentful.com/57wxgy8frvdv/3fggxWPRWE0TxYPWH77a6O/3bee5c38e5791d9ce0c0e242fee06989/5_Upgrades_for_Your_Springfield_XD_graphic_1.jpg)

Nevertheless, you may find that you prefer a shorter, more crisp trigger pull than the standard 5.5lbs one that comes on the stock version. It’s understandable as a heavier trigger pull results in less accuracy. Plenty of drop-in trigger replacement kits provide a lighter (3.5-4.5lbs) trigger pull with a fast reset and shortened overall trigger pull length.

## Sights

Oftentimes, shooters find that the factory sights that come standard on a given firearm either wear out easily, or are simply not optimal for various lighting conditions. The good news is that there are plenty of sight modification options to choose from. 

If you’re going to stick with classic iron sights for your Springfield XD, you might consider upgrading them to a more high-tech night sight option. Fiber optic sights work by using the surrounding light from street lamps or moonlight in order to light up. These are a lightweight and inexpensive way to improve your ironsight visibility, but will not work well should you find yourself in a [situation](https://www.ammoplanet.com/blog/home-defense-part-1) in total darkness. 

Alternatively, you could opt for tritium night sights for your Springfield XD. Tritium, a radioactive hydrogen isotope, makes these night sights self-illuminating. While they carry more of an up-front cost, the fact that they only begin to dim after their 12-year half-life mark makes them a smart, long-term investment in accuracy.

![5 Upgrades for Your Springfield XD graphic 2](//images.contentful.com/57wxgy8frvdv/6uDSXCvFIkq1OMYajpbW2P/7da85a1d08ecd6eb90c34dbc9adfe04b/5_Upgrades_for_Your_Springfield_XD_graphic_2.jpg)

Finally, red dot sights could be your new best friend. Depending on the Springfield XD model you choose, fitting these sights may require milling of the slide (see below) or other adaptations to fit. Still, the fact that red dot sights have some of the most intuitive interaction with the way the human eye naturally focuses means this upgrade could greatly improve [accuracy](https://www.ammoplanet.com/blog/are-outdoor-shooting-ranges-better-than-indoor).

## Holster

While a holster doesn’t upgrade the firearm itself, a good quality holster can be the difference between clean and sloppy carry or between smooth presentation and a dangerous discharge. The [Fobus Yaqui Paddle Holster](https://www.ammoplanet.com/products/fobus-yaqui-pdl-all-xd-millenium-pro-rplfobussp11b) is your classic inside the waistband designed for lightweight all day carry. 

If you’re a lucky lefty, this [left-hand holster from Fobus](https://www.ammoplanet.com/products/fobus-pdl-hlstr-spfld-xd-9-357-40-lh-rplfobussp11lh) might be your new favorite side-kick. Low-profile design with high-density polymer make this holster about as smooth and compact as they come. 

If you like to keep your options open, both the [MFT Minimalist](https://www.ammoplanet.com/products/mft-minimalist-hlstr-springfield-xds-rplmfth2sfxdsaiwbm) and [Glaco Walkabout 2.0](https://www.ammoplanet.com/products/galco-walkabout-2-0-spg-xd-4-amb-bk-rplgalwk2-440b)  offer ambidextrous options. And you get your pick of material, with the former molded in a Kydex-style polymer while the Galco model comes in premium steerhide leather. 

## Mounted Light &/or Laser 

Mounted lights and lasers are a popular type of modification for self-defense handguns. Mounted lights can help you better identify your target in low-to-no lighting conditions and serve to obscure the eyesight of an [opponent](https://www.ammoplanet.com/blog/home-defense-part-1). 

Lasers are helpful for making sure that you shoot at what you intend to shoot. In this way, they can help improve accuracy in both daylight and dark conditions. However, red laser sights typically have an effective range of about 10 yards and green light lasers top off at about 25 yards. 

![5 Upgrades for Your Springfield XD graphic 3](//images.contentful.com/57wxgy8frvdv/Ga2aKTw31bpv76qYCcDZO/34851e13a30c256538b5c3b710dfa791/5_Upgrades_for_Your_Springfield_XD_graphic_3.jpg)

It’s important to consider what kind of conditions you’re most likely going to need your weapon for when deciding whether lights, night sights, or a mounted laser is the right choice for your Springfield XD upgrade.  

## Milled Slide

Finally, a milled slide could achieve exactly the “level-up” look you’re going for. Some claim milled sliding is only done for “cool-factor.” While the visual effect is striking, having a milled slide on your Springfield XD can serve two important purposes: 

One is grip. The added friction that a milled slide brings provides more grip for you to rack the slide. Especially should you find yourself in less-than-ideal gun-handling [conditions](https://www.ammoplanet.com/blog/what-an-8-year-old-can-teach-you-about-home-defense-part-2) (e.g. slick, sweaty, or worse - blood-covered), having plenty of traction to grip the slide could be life-saving. 

Additionally, a milled slide is sometimes the only way to achieve a red dot mount or other frame modifications. If you have the option, check in advance whether the Springfield XD model you’re opting for can receive the optics kit of your choice before making the decision to buy. 

Whether you decide to go with modified or stock, [pistol](https://www.ammoplanet.com/blog/who-needs-a-tactical-pistol) or rifle, antique or brand-spanking-new, we’ll be here to help make sure you’ve got the ammo to go with it. Check out our supply of ammo for every type of shooter right here at AmmoPlanet. 


5 Upgrades for Your Springfield XD hero

Enthusiatic gun owners modify their pieces all the time for the sake of more stabilized grip, better accuracy, or even just to give their firearm a personlized touch. Here are five basic upgrades you should be aware of if you're looking to "level-up" your Springfield XD.   

5 Upgrades For Your Springfield XD

Gun enthusiasts of all types are often on the move. 

Whether heading out for a range day, hunting, competition, a weekend trip, field training, or just everyday carry, dedicated shooters need reliable ways to transport their precious guns and ammo. 

For keeping ammo safe and dry from the elements in buildings and vehicles, you’ll likely want to invest in some high-quality [ammo cases](https://www.ammoplanet.com/blog/the-best-ammo-cases-for-storing-and-transporting-ammo) and storage options. 

However, for range-day activities that require some legwork, or if you simply want an extremely agile way to carry your shooting essentials in any situation, a tactical backpack is a smart way to maximize your packing capacity. 

## What Is A Tactical Backpack and Who Needs One? 

While the term “tactical backpack” is somewhat nuanced, a pack of this type is most recognizable by its material and design. Many tactical backpacks can double as an everyday carry (EDC), but they differ from the average urban backpack in several ways. 

A good quality tactical backpack is made of a rugged, usually polyester-based material meant to withstand the elements. 

Additionally, while the average pack or bag has a handful of large open compartments, a tactical backpack should sport copious amounts of pockets, pouches, and other stow-away features to keep a significant amount and variety of gear organized, protected, and easy to access. 

For precisely this purpose, a tactical backpack is rarely seen without a MOLLE system somewhere on the frame. MOLLE (pronounced like the name “Molly”) is an acronym for Modular Lightweight Load-Carrying Equipment, and describes gear layered with rows and columns of webbing. 

![Tactical Backpack graphic 1](//images.contentful.com/57wxgy8frvdv/VZqWqpZnmMznCQtJ0JP2i/595de21c3b9d231b1f2d83460771dc80/Tactical_Backpack_graphic_1.jpg)

This webbing system--known as Pouch Attachment Ladder System (PALS)--allows MOLLE-compatible gear to be easily adapted to specific purposes. From looping a carabiner to attaching an entirely separate gear pouch, the MOLLE system adds infinite versatility to any tactical backpack kit. 

Law enforcement officers, emergency personnel, active and ex-military, sport and leisure shooters, or simply anyone who likes to be well-prepared for survival scenarios can benefit from the multi-purpose applications of a tactical backpack. 

## Which Tactical Backpack Is Best Suited For Gun Enthusiasts? 

While there are plenty of MOLLE-equipped packs that can offer on-the-go storage for range-day, the [GPS Tactical Range Backpack](https://www.ammoplanet.com/products/g-outdrs-gps-tac-rng-backpack-b-out-rplgogps-t1612bppmb) by GSM Outdoors is clearly tailored to fit the specific needs of shooters everywhere. 

### General Features: 

First, the general functionalities of this tactical backpack already put it alongside other top-performing products. The extensive triple-stitched MOLLE webbing across the front, as well as the straps of this pack, allow for endless customization possibilities. 

Maintain easy access to essentials such as pens, utility knives, hiking poles, gloves, or first aid kits securely attached to the exterior. You can even attach a MOLLE-compatible buttstock pouch to effortlessly carry a rifle in a quick-retrieval position. 

As we’ve discussed, any backpack bearing the name “[tactical](https://www.ammoplanet.com/blog/who-needs-a-tactical-pistol),” needs to be able to hold up under some severe treatment. Ideally, the fabric should be very difficult to tear, abrasion resistant, and water-repellent. 

![Tactical Backpack graphic 2](//images.contentful.com/57wxgy8frvdv/5t7kLgp41tTbJdKbN1YHov/598baf4d04759418ca5c839ce58b533c/Tactical_Backpack_graphic_2.jpg)

The GPS Tactical Range Backpack is made of 1000 denier polyester fabric, which is the "go to" for rugged outdoor gear--even for demanding applications like crash mats and landing pads.

A great tactical backpack should help you be prepared for the unexpected. Caught in a surprise rainstorm on range-day? Just deploy the waterproof rain cover that’s standard-issue on every pack. 

Need to be ready for any overnight indoors or out at a moment's notice? The main top compartments can remain split in two or remove the divider for plenty of open space for things like freeze-dried meals and a change of clothes. 

Or for a stint in the woods, any of the external pockets provide plenty of space for items like a water purification kit, battery bank, compass, signal kit, and fire starter.

Additional feature specs for this tactical backpack include:

- Velcro patch zones
- Padded hip & shoulder straps
- Sternum strap
- Dupont Teflon coating 
- YKK zippers
- Key lanyard

### Shooting-Specific Features: 

Now this is where the GPS Tactical Range Backpack sets itself apart from the average tactical backpack: the range-readiness set-up. 

No range? No problem. This tactical backpack is outfitted with everything you need to bring your own target practice setup anywhere. Built-in range stowage includes:

- Elastic velcro bungees for rolled-up [targets](https://www.ammoplanet.com/blog/shooting-range-targets-for-home-and-away)
- Labeled Visual ID storage system with clearly marked spots for ear plugs, safety glasses, a flashlight and a rigid “small parts box”
- Even a designated pouch for a stapler and tape!

Finally, and perhaps the most important aspect of this tactical backpack is the three separate removable pistol storage cases located in the lower half of the main compartment. Each padded pouch holds one pistol plus four magazines with a partition divider to keep everything separate and secure. 

![Tactical Backpack graphic 3](//images.contentful.com/57wxgy8frvdv/1Aq9n4GrsdtOSjXJXpgEBS/aebbb228cd523e3064649977ab2628bc/Tactical_Backpack_graphic_3.jpg)

This section of the pack is surrounded by a honeycomb hard frame for structural integrity that prevents compression from top cargo on the pistol-holding pouches. As an added safety feature, this compartment sports lockable zippers, so you can prevent unwanted access. 

Whether you’re heading to the [range](https://www.ammoplanet.com/blog/are-outdoor-shooting-ranges-better-than-indoor), or just want the peace of mind that you have a durable, agile way to bring your firearms with you while travelling, hiking, camping, backpacking, or cycling--or for for an emergency go-bag--a tactical backpack like the one by GPS is sure to thrill shooters of all types. 

And, of course, when you need to refill all those nifty magazine pouches, we’ve got your ammo covered. 

Tactical Backpack hero

Whether for a road trip or range day, you deserve a pack that helps you be ready for anything. We'll examine what makes a backpack "tactical" and which one might be the best one designed for dedicated shooters. 

The Best Tactical Backpack for Shooters

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.308 Win
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