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 It also retains some features that are considered outdated by today’s standards in 9 mm pistols.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. **
More like this from around the NRA
Latest
Weatherby Revs Up With Its 25 WBY RPM
The 25 Weatherby RPM might just be the best quarter-bore rifle cartridge yet.
Beretta Releases 500th Anniversary Medal
In honor of its quincentennial, Beretta is offering a keepsake medal with the purchase of certain firearms in 2026.
New for 2026: Mission First Tactical Ultra Low Ride Holster
Mission First Tactical now offers a deep-concealment version of its Boltaron staple.
New for 2026: Smith & Wesson Night Guard Revolvers
Smith & Wesson brings back the Night Guard series of revolvers in .44 Special and .357 Magnum.
Battle On The Border: Pancho Villa’s Raid On America
In March 1916, Americans living in the quiet town of Columbus, N.M., suddenly found themselves attacked by Mexican bandits, and many citizens sought to arm themselves and fight back, both during the raid and afterward.
The Armed Citizen® Feb. 9, 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.
Interests
SECTIONS
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
EXPLORE MORE NRA PUBLICATIONS
