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 It also retains some features that are considered outdated by today’s standards in 9 mm pistols.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
Return Of The Red Label: Ruger's New Red Label III Shotgun
Ruger's Red Label III marks the third generation of Ruger's classic over-under shotgun, which is finally making a reappearance after it was discontinued more than a decade ago.
Preview: GPS Bags Shotgun Shell Tote
Range visits are often more enjoyable with well-organized equipment, which is where GPS Bags comes into play with its Shotgun Shell Tote.
Gun Of The Week: Wilson Combat NULA Model 20
In our latest "Gun Of The Week" segment, we’re taking a closer look at Wilson Combat’s NULA Model 20, a lightweight, bolt-action hunting rifle that incorporates innovations first pioneered by the “rifle wizard of West Virginia."
The Armed Citizen® Jan. 2, 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: DoubleTap Ammunition SnakeShot Defense
Combining a payload of shot with a light-for-caliber bullet, DoubleTap Ammunition's new SnakeShot Defense load provides a do-it-all cartridge designed to function reliably in semi-automatic actions.
ERGO Grips Walks To Help End Alzheimer's
ERGO Grips joined thousands of walkers nationwide this fall for the annual Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer's. Team ERGO walked in loving memory of company founder Stephen Hines and his wife, Barbara, both of whom battled dementia in their later years.
Interests
SECTIONS
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
EXPLORE MORE NRA PUBLICATIONS
