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The lesser-known cousin of the famous PPSh 41, the stamped-steel, 7.62x25 mm-chambered PPSh 43 submachine gun was the real hero of World War II for many Soviet troops. With a slower cyclic rate, and a half-pound lighter thanks to the exchange of a wood stock for a metal one, the PPSh 43 was more portable, controllable and easier produced than its better recognized predecessor. For more on this historic firearm, check out this recent segment of "I Have This Old Gun", from a recent episode of American Rifleman TV.
For all new episodes of American Rifleman TV, tune into Outdoor Channel on Wednesday nights.
Despite it being the primary rifle of the enemy for most of its existence, American shooters have nonetheless warmed to the AK platform, creating an unlikely love story.
October gun sales increased according to the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) estimate, but the quarterly reports from major manufacturers reflect purchases significantly higher.