POTD: A Blind Man’s Target Gun – The Soviet Margolin Pistol

Welcome to today’s Photo of the Day! The Margolin pistol emerged from darkness into international fame. Designed by war veteran Mikhail Margolin after losing his sight in battle in 1924, the economical .22LR was initially produced in 1948. Despite Margolin’s blindness, the pistol’s elevated sight plane aided rapid-fire accuracy by lowering the bore axis to align with the shooter’s shoulder. The design shared visual DNA with Kalashnikov’s AK-47, also featuring high sights for stability. While the lightweight barrel benefited from an attachable underweight, the Margolin’s simple yet reliable build needed few improvements. After debuting internationally in 1954, the accurate six-shooter became a staple of Soviet competitive shooting for decades. Though not as prominent as domestic brands like Baikal or Izhmech, fans affectionately nicknamed their trusty, deceptively precise Margolins “Margo.” Whether in standard, concealed “Margo,” or non-lethal form, Margolin’s masterpiece spawned variants for formal target events and self-defense. Despite starting literally in the dark, the steadfast Margolin remains a bright shining star of Soviet firearms ingenuity.

“Manufacturer: Margolin

Model: Olympic

Type: Pistol

Gauge: 22 S

Barrel: 6 inch round

Finish: blue

Grip: hardwood”

Sam.S

Writer | TheFirearmBlog Writer | AllOutdoor.com Instagram | sfsgunsmith Old soul, certified gunsmith, published author, avid firearm history learner, and appreciator of old and unique guns.