Chinese Type 54 & Yugoslavian M57 TT Tokarev Pistol Unboxing

Published on October 14, 2025
Duration: 11:31

This video from Classic Firearms provides an unboxing and overview of several Tokarev pistol variants, including Chinese Type 54, Romanian TTC, and Yugoslavian M57 and M70 models. The presenters discuss the historical context of the Tokarev design, its origins with Fedor Tokarev in Russia, and its adoption by various countries. They highlight key features such as the 7.62x25mm Tokarev caliber, the linked barrel short recoil operation, and the original lack of a manual safety, noting that import regulations often necessitate added safeties on US market examples. The video also touches on variations in grip, finish, and magazine capacity across different national productions.

Quick Summary

The Tokarev pistol design originated in Russia with Fedor Tokarev, adopted in 1930 as the TT-30 and later simplified to the TT-33. Chambered in 7.62x25mm Tokarev, these pistols are known for their linked barrel short recoil operation and originally lacked a manual safety, with users relying on an empty chamber or half-cock hammer. Imported models often feature added safeties due to US regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the history of the Tokarev pistol?

The Tokarev pistol design originated in Russia with Fedor Tokarev and was adopted by the Soviet military in 1930 as the TT-30, later evolving into the more common TT-33 model. Its design was influenced by John Moses Browning's work and was adopted by various countries.

What caliber are the Chinese Type 54 and Yugoslavian M57 Tokarev pistols?

The Chinese Type 54 and the standard Yugoslavian M57 Tokarev pistols are chambered in 7.62x25mm Tokarev. This is a necked-down pistol cartridge, distinct from common straight-walled rounds.

Did original Tokarev pistols have a manual safety?

No, original Tokarev pistol designs, including the TT-30 and TT-33, did not come with a manual safety. Users typically carried them with an empty chamber or utilized a half-cock hammer position for a degree of safety.

Why do many Tokarev pistols in the US have added safeties?

Many Tokarev pistols found on the US market have had manual safeties added due to import regulations. These safeties can be implemented in various ways, such as trigger blade safeties or frame-mounted levers, to comply with US laws.

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