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 It also retains some features that are considered outdated by today’s standards in 9 mm pistols.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
More like this from around the NRA
Latest
Review: Taurus RPC
Taurus’s RPC brings a large-format pistol to the company’s lineup of revolvers and affordable semi-automatic pistols.
Old Meets New: The Springfield Armory Kuna Tri-Lug and .40 S&W Models
The iconic tri-lug muzzle of the H&K MP5 is now available on the Springfield Armory Kuna, allowing it to more closely match the original HS Produkt design while also allowing for easy mounting of suppressors.
The Armed Citizen® Sept. 7, 2026
Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.
Review: High Desert Cartridge Company Ammunition
Ammunition brands like High Desert Cartridge may not be as well-known as larger makers, but they can still offer excellent bang for your buck.
Beretta Introduces Shotgun-Based Turret System for Drone Defense
Beretta Defense Technologies has introduced the LIVET Remote Controlled Weapon Station, an AI-driven turret system that can bring eight Benelli M4 Drone Guardian shotguns accurately to bear on incoming unfriendly drones.
Competition Ready: Winchester's New Super Match Ammunition
Winchester Ammunition has answered the call of competitive shooters with its new Super Match lineup, comprised of cartridges tailored to perform in a variety of events.
Interests
SECTIONS
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
EXPLORE MORE NRA PUBLICATIONS
