The Tariq Iraqi pistol was first manufactured from 1949 until 1980 by Beretta as the M1951. After Beretta ceased production, the pistol found new life in 1981 as the Tariq, a licensed Iraqi-produced standard-issue handgun for the Iraqi armed forces and the Republican Guard. Production stopped in 2003 but resumed in 2009. The pistol is well-known for its ability to withstand heavy use in the extreme desert conditions of the Middle East. Internally the pistol is identical to the Beretta M1951, but notable external differences include a grip adorned with a medieval warrior emblem of Tariq ibn Ziyad, who invaded Spain in 711 A.D., and Arabic stamping on the side. It also retains some features that are considered outdated by today’s standards in 9 mm pistols. Learn what they are in this “I Have This Old Gun” segment from a recent episode of American Rifleman TV. For more videos like this, please visit AmericanRifleman.org/artv.
Video—I Have This Old Gun: Iraqi Tariq Pistol
by
Support NRA American Rifleman
DONATE
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Latest
New for 2026: Armasight Pro Series Thermal Platform
Armasight launches a professional-grade thermal-imaging platform designed to perform.
KelTec Launches KelTec Direct
KelTec begins its 35th anniversary celebration by launching KelTec Direct.
New for 2026: CVA Scout XP and XP-SB Rifles and XP Pistol
CVA expands its Scout line to include two single-shot rifles and a single-shot pistol.
Preview: Winchester After Hunt Dog Bed
Named after John Olin’s famed hunting dog, the King Buck product line exists within the larger Winchester Pet brand to showcase the company’s most deluxe offerings, and the After Hunt Dog Bed is a prime example of the line’s quality.
Review: CZ USA P10 Ported
CZ expanded its popular line of P10 handguns with a specially configured model that features integral barrel ports just behind the muzzle to aid in recoil management.
Keeping The Wilderness Quiet: Bergara's BTi30 Suppressor
Bergara joined the growing crowd of suppressor manufacturers in 2026 with its BTi30 design.
Interests
SECTIONS
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
EXPLORE MORE NRA PUBLICATIONS
