Russian Izhevsk TT33 Tokarev 4.4” Barrel 7.62x25mm Semi Auto Pistol, 1949
SOLD FOR: $1,551.00
LSB#: WY240925JT068
Make: Izhevsk Arsenal, Russia
Model: TT33
Serial Number: 1883
Year of Manufacture: 1949
Caliber: 7.62x25mm
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Single Action, Tilting Lock, Magazine Fed
Barrel Length: 4.4”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade dovetailed to the slide. The rear sight is a u-notch dovetailed to the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two piece serrated polymer panels marked with “CCCP”. There are moderate handling marks. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate in Good condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 8rd magazine in Very Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is gray and the rifling is deep. There is light erosion and small spots of pitting in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 7/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. There are light handling marks throughout, typical of this type of handgun. The markings are clear. All serialized parts are matching with the exception of the magazine. The pins are mostly sharp. Overall, this handgun rates in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with a total of one magazine.
Our Assessment: The Izhevsk TT-33 Tokarev is a semi-automatic pistol chambered in 7.62x25mm Tokarev, originally designed by Fedor Tokarev in the early 1930s. It was adopted by the Soviet Union in 1933 as their standard military sidearm, replacing the Nagant M1895 revolver. Manufactured at the Izhevsk Arsenal, this pistol is a direct evolution of the Browning 1903 design, incorporating a short-recoil system with a simplified locking mechanism. Its rugged and utilitarian design made it well-suited for mass production, with a robust single-stack magazine holding eight rounds. The TT-33’s distinctive features include a slim profile, an external hammer, and a lack of a manual safety in its original military configuration. Soviet models were often marked with factory symbols, and Izhevsk examples feature the iconic arrow-in-triangle arsenal stamp.
The TT-33 saw extensive use during World War II and beyond, equipping Soviet troops and their allies throughout the Eastern Bloc. Known for its high velocity and excellent penetration, the 7.62x25mm round was capable of defeating early body armor and light cover, making it a formidable sidearm on the battlefield. Despite being replaced by the Makarov PM in the 1950s, the Tokarev remained in service for decades in various capacities. Today, it is a sought-after collector’s piece, especially when featuring original Soviet markings and matching serial numbers (the latter with the exception of the magazine). Its historical significance, simple mechanics, and powerful cartridge ensure its place as one of the most iconic Soviet pistols of the 20th century. Please see our photos!
