The question of whether Russian soldiers use 9mm or .45 ACP ammunition is not straightforward. It's crucial to understand that the Russian military's small arms inventory is diverse and has evolved significantly over time, depending on the era, branch of service, and specific unit. While the .45 ACP cartridge enjoys a prominent place in popular culture, its use within the Russian military is largely limited to historical contexts. The modern Russian military primarily relies on 9x18mm Makarov and 9x19mm Parabellum ammunition.
The Prevalence of 9mm in the Modern Russian Military
The 9x18mm Makarov pistol cartridge has been a mainstay of the Russian military for decades. The PM (Makarov Pistol) and its variants are widely issued to officers, support personnel, and other roles where a smaller, more easily concealable sidearm is preferred. The 9x18mm Makarov round offers a balance of stopping power and manageable recoil, suitable for close-quarters combat situations.
More recently, the Russian military has been increasingly adopting the 9x19mm Parabellum cartridge. This is largely due to the adoption of the new generation of service pistols, including the Yarygin pistol (PYa), designed to use this more internationally standard caliber. This shift reflects a move towards greater interoperability with NATO standards and access to a wider range of ammunition types. The 9x19mm offers greater penetration and range compared to the 9x18mm.
Comparing 9mm and .45 ACP Ballistics:
| Cartridge | Caliber | Muzzle Velocity (m/s) | Muzzle Energy (J) | Penetration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9x18mm Makarov | 9mm | ≈315 | ≈290 | Moderate |
| 9x19mm Parabellum | 9mm | ≈360-400 | ≈500-600 | High |
| .45 ACP | .45 inch (11.43mm) | ≈250-280 | ≈500-600 | High |
Note: These values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific ammunition and firearm used.
The table highlights that while the .45 ACP and 9x19mm Parabellum cartridges have comparable muzzle energy, the 9x19mm generally provides superior penetration due to its smaller, more streamlined projectile. The 9x18mm Makarov, however, presents a different profile with lower energy and penetration.
The Limited Role of .45 ACP in Russian Military History
The .45 ACP cartridge has seen very limited use within the Russian military. During periods of collaboration with the United States (such as during WWII under Lend-Lease), some .45 ACP pistols and ammunition might have been supplied, but this was not a significant or long-term adoption. The vast majority of Russian military sidearms have always utilized cartridges in the 9mm range or other smaller calibers.
Conclusion: 9mm Dominates the Modern Russian Arsenal
In summary, while historical contexts might show some limited instances of .45 ACP use, the current standard-issue sidearms of the Russian military overwhelmingly rely on 9mm cartridges, specifically the 9x18mm Makarov and the increasingly prevalent 9x19mm Parabellum. This reflects the prioritization of ease of handling, logistical efficiency, and compatibility with international standards in modern military operations. The .45 ACP, while powerful, hasn't found a significant place in the Russian military's small arms arsenal.