5.45×18 MPTs 7N7

The 5.45×18 MPTs (Malokalibernyj Pistolentyj Tsentralnogo boya – small-bore pistol centerfire) cartridge was developed in 1971-72 in the State Technical Institute of Precision Machine Building (TSNII TochMash), for use in easily concealable pistols then in development at the request of the Russian Interna Affairs Ministry (MVD). The case is rimless and bottlenecked, and unlike most other Soviet military cartridges, is made of brass rather than steel. Bullets are pointed and jacketed. Initially, only one bullet was produced, with a combination mild steel / lead core; during the nineties, when the PSM pistols were exported to Europe for sale in commercial markets, another type of bullet was produced, with a soft lead core. This cartridge is known for serious penetration (considering its tiny size), but the stopping power is marginal to say the least.

Designation

Manufacturer

Bullet weight, g

Muzzle velocity, m/s

Muzzle energy, J

Comments

5.45х18 MPTs (7N7)

Tula Cartridge Works, Russia

2,5

315

124

Military issue

PSO 5.45×18.000-01

Tula Cartridge Works, Russia

2,68

320

137

Export version with lead core