: Capable of firing modern smokeless "nitro" shells, though caution is advised with steel shot. Pop Culture & Gaming
This article explores the history, mechanics, variants, and enduring legacy of the TOZ-66, a firearm that truly embodies the phrase, "they don't make them like this anymore." toz-66
Perhaps the most beloved by Russian hunters. The 16 gauge was historically very popular in Russia because it offered a lighter, handier gun than the 12 gauge, but with significantly more stopping power and shot payload than the 20 gauge. The 16-gauge TOZ-66 is renowned for its balance and lack of recoil, making it a favorite for walking hunts. : Capable of firing modern smokeless "nitro" shells,
One of the defining features of the TOZ-66 is its robust locking system. It utilizes a "Greener crossbolt" style locking mechanism, often referred to in Russian terminology as a "Kurstov" lock. This involves a large, transverse bolt that slides into a slot in the barrel lump. This design is exceptionally strong, capable of withstanding high pressures. It ensures that the action remains tight even after decades of shooting corrosive Soviet ammunition. The 16-gauge TOZ-66 is renowned for its balance
A rare, scaled-down version exists in .410 bore. These are highly sought after by youth hunters and collectors of Soviet oddities, though they are mechanically identical to the 12ga version.
How does the TOZ-66 actually shoot?