Air rifle Baikal MP 555 KS (4.5 mm, RSR, IzhMekh)

Guns of the model in question regularly appear in photos in your hunting reports and, judging by the trophies obtained, shooting from them is more than effective.

So, the MP-155 self-loading rifle. Over the past two years, this model has undergone several monumental changes. As you probably already know, the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant has released a variation for 20 gauge and updated the design of previous models. But in 2020, dealers should already receive two hot new products MP-155 Lancaster and MP-155 Pro.

Let's look at them in more detail!

Prerequisites for development

The main prerequisite for the development of the MP-155 hunting rifle (the older name is IZH-155) is the fact that the previous model was rapidly losing its position in the market and it was fundamentally important to develop a new high-quality weapon that would surpass the MP-153 in technical characteristics. The prototype weighed about 3.5 kilograms when unloaded, which was prohibitive for a twelve-gauge gun. Meanwhile, competitors began to appear models equipped with inertial engines, while their weight did not exceed 3 kilograms.

Also, the MP-153 gun had too much “balance”. In firearms, this concept refers to a shift in the center of gravity to a distance of more than 70 millimeters from the trigger. Because of this, aiming from such a unit became extremely inconvenient, since the end of the barrel greatly outweighed its butt. In addition, the 2000 models featured a large number of additional options, which the MP-153 gun did not have. All these factors led to the fact that the Izhevsk plant began production of a new model.

Box and shutter

• There are now two types of boxes - different for 12x76 and 12x89 cartridges. The 12x76 box and its side window for cartridge ejection became shorter than the MP-153 box by 11mm.
• Most likely, the box for shotguns chambered for 12x89 will not be much different from the MP-153 box.
• Grooves for the collimator finally appeared on the top of the box, but the guilloche disappeared. The latter, in my opinion, slightly worsened the ease of aiming.
• The bolt and firing pin are also shortened by approximately the same 11mm, and the rear part of the bolt frame is shortened accordingly. That is, a firing pin from 155 to 153 will not work. At the same time, the stroke length of the shutter has remained virtually unchanged, approximately equal to 103-104 mm. The weight of the recoil parts is 0.5 kg for the MP-155, 0.56 kg for the MP-153. The coordinate of the gas outlet is 257 mm for 155 and 245 mm for 153.
• The bolt handle remains interchangeable, and it looks like the ejectors are as well.
• The barrel, bolt with frame and piston from 155 fit onto the box 153 normally, when moving the bolt by hand, the sleeve was sent through and thrown out.
• The shutter differs slightly in appearance from the MP-153 shutter; the main thing that is noticeable is the lightening selections. Whether they will affect survivability is still unknown. Until now, I have not encountered any cases of breakages of the MP-153 bolt body (but I have seen several cases of breakages of thin protrusions near the ejectors), but I have seen cracks on the lightweight bolts of some Turkish guns, and quite a few.

Creating a new sample

At the end of 2010, the official development of “Rusich” (MR-155), a photo of which can be found in this section, began, under the leadership of Alexander Usherovich Dorf.

However, before this it was necessary to carry out a set of preparatory work, which was aimed at studying various weapon designs and searching for possible options for improvement. For example, the first samples of the MP-155 were produced with different methods of locking the bolt. Several design options for engine impulse control units were also tried. To be frank, the development of the MP-155 began even before the MP-153 began to lose its position in the market, since engineers assumed that this day would come sooner or later. Such a pessimistic calculation allowed us to save a lot of the time that it took to develop a new type of weapon, so the Izhevsk plant did not lose its reputation.

Storage conditions for smoothbore weapons

According to the order of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia No. 288, which was received on April 12, 1999, a list of conditions was determined, as well as requirements according to which it is necessary to store hunting weapons, as well as ammunition for them. If we consider this act, we can see that weapons should be stored separately from:

1. Gunpowder.
2. Cartridges.

In this case, the latter must be sorted according to their properties, as well as the pyrotechnic compositions used. Since legislation imposes certain restrictions, it is advisable to allocate a fairly large space for storing guns and ammunition. You can also resort to installing a gun safe. These structures are quite tall, so they are attached to the wall to avoid tipping over when the door is opened. Some manufacturers offer embedded systems for greater reliability. They are great for installation in private homes.

According to the law, weapons and ammunition can be stored not only at the place of registration, but also at the place of actual residence of the owner. The main aspect is the presence of a special safe with an installed lock. If access to a gun is open to unauthorized persons, then this is a violation of the law. There are several types of safe locks that allow you to restrict access to third parties:

1. Mechanical. The simplest type of lock. It is unlocked by entering a specific code on the digital panel. They are a rather unreliable system, since over time the code buttons begin to differ due to constant use. To increase security, it is recommended to change passwords as often as possible.
2. Key. One of the simplest and most common types of locks. The downside is the fact that the key may have a duplicate, which could be used by unauthorized persons, and if the key is lost, you will have to open the safe using brute force.
3. Electronic. The most advanced type of locks, allowing the gates to be unlocked only when biometric data is read or when the required code is entered. There are also models that can be opened using contactless key cards.

But the best option for locks is a combination of several types. This will improve storage security. Apart from locks, there should be other security aspects. Thus, the walls of a weapons cabinet for storing MP-155 should be no thinner than 2 mm. The requirements also stipulate that the safe must be fireproof and burglar-resistant. Capacity parameters should be based on the size of the gun, taking into account the fact that a separate shelf is required for cartridges.

There are no requirements to purchase a cabinet from a specific manufacturer, so you can either buy a ready-made cabinet or ask for a custom-made model. And especially skilled people can independently perform all the necessary work, the main thing is that the resulting structure meets all the necessary requirements.

Differences from the old model

In the process of creating new hunting weapons, Russian engineers negotiated with their Italian colleagues. They had an important task: it was necessary to preserve all the best features that the MP-153 model incorporated and get rid of the shortcomings, so the help of specialists from Italy was very useful. As a result of its creation, the technical characteristics of the weapon were improved, and the build quality increased noticeably. The most common model today is a gun whose stock and receiver are made of plastic. MP-155, the photo of which is posted below, has distinctive features from the old model:

• Reduced recoil. This was achieved by lightening the sighting bar and using a new gas release mechanism.
• Modified receiver. She can now use more powerful ammunition by reducing the length.
• Ergonomics. Now the owner has the opportunity to change the position of the butt using special plastic inserts.

The design of the butt plate-shock absorber was also revised and changed. The trigger stroke has decreased, and the safety button has become larger. All these changes seem very insignificant, but it is precisely because of such “little things” that the weapon is so popular.

USM

The USM is now 40 g lighter than the 153, has a plastic body, the shape and arrangement of parts have changed significantly, although the kinematic diagram has practically remained the same. Parts from the 155th can no longer be used on the MP-153. The trigger pull on the MP-155 was 1.1 mm and 2 kg versus 2.2 mm and 1.7 kg for the MP-153, but here it is not possible to draw a global conclusion based on individual samples; many 153s had a stroke of about 5 mm or even more. It remains to note the magazine cutter, the presence of which will not hurt even those who never use it, and the new, very thick and complex combined (plastic-rubber) and not at all heavy butt plate. Moreover, on the very first guns, the end of the butt under the butt plate was cleverly cut out; later it became flat again, although the butt itself is shorter than on the MP-153.

Specifications

Technical characteristics of the MP-155 can be found in the weapon passport, which is issued with the gun upon purchase. When you open it, you will see the following indicators:

• caliber – 12;
• weight – from 3.15 to 3.25 kilograms;
• length – 1280 millimeters;
• barrel length - 750 millimeters;
• stock material – plastic, beech, walnut;
• magazine capacity – 4 rounds for 12/76 and 3 rounds for 12/89;
• magazine type - tubular, under-barrel;
• chamber - 76 or 89 millimeters;

Such technical characteristics allow the weapon to be used for hunting medium and large game. The relatively small spread of shot at a distance of 50 meters allows you to kill even a wild boar or a bear. The MP-155 can also use lead bullets.

Characteristics of the MP-155 shotgun

It is a smooth-bore semi-automatic shotgun produced by a mechanical plant located in Izhevsk. It is a modernized version of the previous model, which has improved ergonomics, increased functionality, and made it more reliable. Equipped with a gas inertial propulsion device located on the underbarrel tubular part.

Its main purpose is bird hunting . But many people manage to use it to catch medium-sized wild animals. Also used in sports activities due to its decent ballistic characteristics.

There are several possible variations to choose from:

1. Shotguns are produced in two versions - twelfth and twentieth gauge.
2. Buttstocks can be made of walnut, beech or durable plastic that is impact resistant.
3. Configuration option with a cartridge interception device, allowing single shots.

The guns are supplied in cardboard boxes with the barrel removed. Depending on the client's preferences, an auxiliary receiver unit can be added. The kit includes a set of choke tubes that can be changed - cylinder, bell. Also included is a wrench to install them and adjust the piston spring tension. In addition, the package contains spacers that allow you to change the angle of the butt. Also included are instructions and a passport.

The action of the gun is based on the way gas engines operate . After it fires, part of the powder gas is taken away, and its energy is used to move the bolt frame and reload. A wrench is used to increase or decrease the tension on the piston. It has an arched shape, with a tooth at the end.

Weapon Features

Each gun has its own unique features, which are also listed in the gun passport. Based on this information, you can judge how high-quality and reliable this unit is and whether it suits your individual requirements.

Here are the features of the MP-155:

• left-handed version – available;
• butt plate - rubber;
• interchangeable choke constrictions – XF, F, IM, M, IC, C;
• sight - ventilated sighting bar;
• receiver - aluminum alloy;
• mechanism - removal of powder gases is carried out using an automatic engine regulator;
• fuse - blocking trigger, non-automatic fuse, protection system against an incompletely closed bolt.

This weapon forgives most of the mistakes beginners make while learning to shoot, so the MP-155 is suitable for both professionals and amateurs. In addition, not every gun can boast of having models designed for left-handers.

Advantages

It's time to talk about the merits of this weapon. All information was compiled based on technical characteristics, as well as reviews from hunters taken from thematic forums.

1. A good gun for commercial hunting.
2. Quite unpretentious in maintenance and reliable in all weather conditions.
3. It looks extremely attractive and solid, sits confidently in the hand.
4. There is an option to change the choke constrictions.
5. Possibility of installing a magazine extension.
6. Good balance and mass.

Unfortunately, the choice of caliber is limited to only 12 and 20 options. This cannot be called a definite minus, but it is not a plus either.

Flaws

The MP-155 also has a small number of shortcomings that may seem insignificant to some, but critical to others.

Despite the presence of a flavoring mechanism, the weapon still has quite a strong recoil. You will say that this is natural for a twelve-gauge model, but competitors of the MP-155 do not think so.

Unfortunately, quite often when purchasing, you come across damaged or defective models. In this regard, it is recommended to purchase weapons only in specialized stores and only with a warranty from the manufacturer. In this case, replacing a defective sample will not be difficult.

Date of issue

The first digits of the number indicate that the gun was put into production in 2011, and went on sale as part of the very first batch only in mid-April 2012. Consequently, the design and technology have not yet been fully tested, the choice of options has not yet been completed and is very possible improvements and changes. This is certainly not news, it happened with the first Snipes, and with the first serial semi-automatic Izhmekh - MP-151, and in the West, it seems, it happens quite often - Browning Gold quickly turned into Gold Hunter and then into Gold Fusion, having lost a fair amount of weight road. (Records of weighing randomly taken specific guns showed - Gold weighed 3.62 kg, Hunter 3.47 kg, Fusion already 3.14 kg.)

Varieties

MP-155 is available in various versions. The handle can be made of shockproof plastic or high-quality wood. It is worth noting that for hunting in frosty conditions it is best to use wood, since cold plastic can cause frostbite on the cheek. However, the model with a wooden stock costs several thousand more.

Some models have the ability to intercept cartridges. There are also options with different types of handles: from classic to pistol. There are several types of barrels equipped with a front sight. The equipment of the weapon will depend on the individual desires of the hunter and his financial capabilities.

Tuning

The MP-155, a photo of which is presented in the article, operates on the principle of a gas engine. This means that during a shot, the energy from the burned gunpowder goes into the bore and bolt, pushing the bullet and ejecting the used cartridge. This certainly makes the operation process easier.

This design implies all sorts of modification options, which not only improve technical characteristics, but also give the gun a beautiful appearance. To avoid tragic consequences, do not forget to completely discharge the IZH-155 before work and put it on the fuse.

The weapon implies the ability to fire single shots. To do this, you need to enable the cartridge interceptor mode. Various choke constrictions help regulate the spread of shot during a shot.

The dovetail sighting bar allows you to install an optical or collimator sight on the gun. With the help of such devices you can shoot at a distance, while walking and aim faster.

You can also give the gun a more vintage look by replacing all the plastic parts with wooden ones. Or you can use military paint to camouflage your gun while hunting. A photo of the MP-155 in camouflage is shown just above.

Are you interested in what disassembling the MP-155 is like (step by step), a photo of which can be found in our article? This video will tell you about this in detail.

Characteristics of the air rifle Baikal MP 555 KS (IzhMash 4.5 mm)

Air rifle Baikal MP 555 KS (4.5 mm, RSR, IzhMekh) buy in the Popadiv10 online store. Air rifle Baikal MP 555 KS (4.5 mm, RSR, IzhMekh) at a low price of 14,990 rubles. You can pay for your order by mail upon receipt in any part of the Russian Federation. Before placing an order, be sure to check the price and contents of the product by phone (during business hours) or by e-mail and feedback system (at any time convenient for you).

Notable competitors

To understand how effective Rusich can be, it is worth comparing it with its main competitors. For example, Italian guns have the highest level of external finishing, good technical and combat characteristics, as well as excellent ergonomics. In terms of finishing, the samples from the Izhevsk plant are significantly inferior to the Italians. As for the technical characteristics, the IZH-155 holds up very confidently even among its imported analogues. However, Italian guns can cost from 50 to 100 thousand rubles, 5 or even 10 times more expensive than the domestic MP-155.

Things are more complicated for Izhevsk rifles in comparison with Turkish units. The price between imported and Russian goods is quite comparable. However, Turkish models are famous for the quality of their exterior finishing, which is constantly growing every year. But the Russian MP-155 boasts higher reliability and durability. It may look too simple, but time will judge everyone.

The Izhevsk Arms Factory has always been famous for its high-quality and modern weapons. It is unlikely that any imported model will have a chance to achieve the same popularity among Russian hunters as the MP-155. Now it’s worth paying attention to what experienced owners write about this weapon.

What you need to know before buying

When purchasing a gun, beginners should know several nuances that allow them to legally purchase small arms and store them at home. First of all, you need to have a license, which requires constant renewal. In order for a person to purchase smooth-bore weapons, he needs to collect the following documents:

1. Medical certificate in form 146-1.
2. Photo 3x4 in duplicate.
3. A completed application form for the purchase of smooth-bore weapons.

1. A report from a local police officer, which states that the future owner has an iron safe.
2. Receipt confirming payment of the state duty.
3. Photocopy of passport.
4. Information about your place of work and position, as well as your work phone number.
5. Have a hunting license in hand.
6. Registered taxpayer identification number.

After collecting all the required documents, you must contact the LRO, indicating the make and model of the desired gun. After this, the application will be considered within 10 days and a verdict will be rendered. If the answer is positive, the person who submitted the application is given a license with which he can go to a gun store and buy the necessary weapons there.

As you can see, according to one of the documents provided, the future owner is required to have a special safe, of which the authorities must be aware. This is due to the fact that there is a list of laws that regulate the storage conditions of certain weapons. The same applies to the smoothbore type, which includes the Izhevsk MP-155.

Reviews

In general, the MP-155 weapon has earned its positive reviews. The gun really has improved functionality compared to its predecessor. Accuracy and accuracy of fire are combined with a simple level of finishing and reliability. Add to this durability and low price and you get the ideal weapon for hunting medium and large game. Complaints most often arise from the difficulty of fitting parts in some copies of the MP-155. However, replacing a defective model will not be difficult if the weapon was legally purchased in a specialized store.

Also, some reviews from owners say that hunters did not like the rubber butt pad, which constantly slides over clothing and gives away the shooter’s location. Some may also be confused by the fact that the sighting bar is soldered only at the beginning and end. Even a small blow during careless handling can cause it to break off. In all other respects, the weapon is rightfully recognized as one of the best smoothbore shotguns for commercial hunting.

Some additional features

In addition to the main technical innovations, this gun also has a mousse of less significant, but quite interesting properties for some consumers that its predecessor did not have. Thus, separate copies have appeared that are designed specifically for left-handed owners. Due to the additionally installed Dovetail strap, it became possible to install additional sighting equipment, which will be very useful for athletes.

The unique design allows you to install an additional barrel without metal work. This allows you to perform these operations without going to specialized workshops. Also, the design of the mechanism allows you to temporarily disable the automatic supply of cartridges from the magazine. As a result of this, even with a full magazine, you can fire shots with other types of cartridges.