Wooo-hooski.

Look what I got today.

Oh yes, an 1895 Nagant seven-shot Russian revolver... 1912 version. Yes yes. I'd been looking at this beauty at the local Army Surplus for some time. After receiving a tip as to its existence from a local man (and all-around procurer of such military oddities. we'll call "Dr. Zero") I stepped on down to the shop and gazed lovingly at it.

This little beauty is one serious piece of ordinance.

It fires 7.62x38R ammunition (fairly standard for lower caliber sidearms) but has one interesting feature: this ammunition is carried in a recessed shell casing. Meaning, the casing is probably a quarter inch longer than the actual slug. When the hammer is pulled back, the cylinder is moved up and forward to the barrel. A lip protrudes from the back of the barrel, aligned with the cylinder. When cocked, this action fits the casing snugly with the barrel -- eliminating gas expulsion when fired.

Oh yes, this feature is a thing of beauty. It cuts down on sound and recoil. This weapon, which I fired for the first time not an hour ago, is smooth and well balanced. A triumph of Russian production!

The history of the piece is most impressive however. Unlike in the picture above, my Nagant does not have a star emblazoned above the grip. That is because it is from 1912 -- produced and commissioned in the waning years of Tsarist Russia. That's right, Tsar Nicholas III was boss man when this puppy rolled off the assembly line.

It remained in use all through the early 20th Century, including the First World War, the Russian Revolution and World War Two. It is in prime condition, perfect action, no body damage. It even came with a World War Two-era holster and lanyard.

I enjoy it very much.

The best part: it was given to me as an engagement present.

[Gasp! Danielle is buying GUNS now?]

Well, today we went out ring shopping and she couldn't find anything she liked. When she asked me if I wanted a ring, I told her it wasn't really traditional for men to wear engagement rings; but, if she really wanted to buy me something, I knew of a 1912 model Nagant revolver at the Army Surplus. I was merely joking. Nonetheless she marched me right down there and we bought it on the spot. No waiting period! In a little under 15 minutes, I was the proud owner of this historical gem.

Hot damn.

[It should be noted that Danielle did in fact locate a ring she like this evening (after the gun purchase) and it is very lovely -- Idaho garnet on a silver band. And yes, I did buy it.]