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TOZ-34

The TOZ-34, designed by N. I. Korovyakov, is a double-barreled shotgun designed for professional and amateur , manufactured by the (Tulsky Oruzheiny Zavod) in . Introduced in , it features a simple, reliable, and lightweight design with perfect balance and high accuracy, making it suitable for expert hunters despite its powerful . Production of the TOZ-34 began at the historic , established in , which entered the civilian hunting rifle market in the following earlier mechanization efforts. Over one million units have been produced across various versions, including standard, ornamental, individual, and souvenir models, with manufacturing continuing into the . The shotgun is chambered in gauges such as 12, 20, 28, and 32, with barrel lengths of 711 mm for 12 and 20 gauge or 660 mm for 28 gauge, an overall length of 1,160 mm (or 1,110 mm for 28 gauge), and a weight of approximately 3.0–3.3 kg. Key design elements include a break-action , double triggers, automatic , and a and fore-end typically made of precious (with options in or ). A notable variant, the TOZ-34E, incorporates an ejector for improved functionality during reloading. Barrel chokes are available in options like (0.0), improved (0.25), modified (0.5), improved modified (0.75), and full (1.0), with chrome-lined bores for durability. The model's compact form and high-quality components contributed to its widespread use as one of the most common shotguns in the during the late 20th century.

Development and Production

Design Origins

The TOZ-34, a , was conceptualized in the early at the (TOZ) by designer N. I. Korovyakov, along with collaborators V. P. Ochnev, V. A. Paramonov, E. N. Sabinin, V. D. Robustov, and S. S. Ferapontov, to meet the demand for a reliable civilian hunting firearm in the . Korovyakov's design drew from traditional break-action mechanisms while integrating post-World War II manufacturing efficiencies, such as simplified components and integrated functions like cocking levers that also handled and operations, to improve balance, reduce part count, and enhance overall durability. Initial prototypes underwent rigorous testing for reliability in the harsh Soviet climates, including extreme cold and varied terrains, to ensure performance under demanding field conditions typical of Soviet environments. The emphasis on simplicity not only addressed wear issues in prior designs but also enabled efficient , culminating in the first certificate for the model registered in June 1965 by the . In 1965, the shotgun was awarded the golden medal of the . Central to the design goals was creating a lightweight under 3.5 kg—achieved at approximately 3.3 kg—to improve handling for extended hunts, while ensuring compatibility with common gauges including 12, 20, 28, and 32 for broad versatility. An optional ejector mechanism was incorporated to allow users to select between extraction and ejection based on preference, further enhancing adaptability without complicating the core system.

Manufacturing History

Serial production of the TOZ-34 commenced in 1964 at the Tulsky Oruzheiny Zavod (TOZ) in , marking a significant expansion in the plant's civilian firearms output. Designed by N. I. Korovyakov as a scalable over-under , it quickly became one of the most mass-produced double-barreled models in the , with over one million units manufactured by the late to meet domestic and export demands. The TOZ-34's enduring design facilitated high-volume production, supporting the Soviet emphasis on reliable hunting arms during the era. Initial pricing reflected the planned economy's controlled costs, with standard models retailing for 150–160 roubles in 1967, making them accessible to Soviet hunters and contributing to widespread adoption. By the 1990s, following the and amid severe in the Russian Federation, prices escalated dramatically to 430,000–1.4 million roubles per unit in September 1994, underscoring the economic turmoil's impact on consumer goods. This pricing shift highlighted the challenges of transitioning from state-subsidized production to market-driven economics while maintaining output for both local and international markets. The TOZ-84, introduced in the late as a proposed successor to the TOZ-34, faced production hurdles and was discontinued in the 1990s due to the post-Soviet economic crisis, ensuring the continued manufacture of the TOZ-34 into the . This decision preserved the TOZ-34's role as a staple in TOZ's lineup, with production adapting to new economic realities without major interruptions. Soviet policies during the prioritized civilian hunting firearms like the TOZ-34 to bolster rural economies and generate export revenue, allocating resources at the Tula plant alongside military contracts to balance industrial capacity. Key manufacturing processes emphasized durability and efficiency, including chrome-plating of the barrels to enhance resistance and longevity, paired with standardized wood stocks crafted from , , or for cost-effective, high-volume assembly. These techniques, refined through mechanized lines established earlier in the century, enabled TOZ to output thousands of units annually, supporting to foreign countries and reinforcing the plant's position in the global arms trade.

Technical Specifications

Overall Design

The TOZ-34 is characterized by its double-barreled configuration, featuring a and barrels arranged vertically for balanced handling in applications. This design, originating from N. I. Korovyakov's work in the aimed at providing reliable performance for civilian users, emphasizes simplicity and durability in its core assembly. The break-action mechanism enables efficient reloading by allowing the barrels to pivot downward from the receiver, supporting selective firing via double triggers while optional ejectors in variants like the TOZ-34E automatically expel spent shells upon opening. Barrel construction utilizes chrome-plated steel for corrosion resistance and longevity, with fixed chokes available in options such as (0.0), improved cylinder (0.25), modified (0.5), improved modified (0.75), and full (1.0)—offering versatility to adjust shot patterns for different game and ranges in scenarios. The and fore-end adopt ergonomic profiles crafted from high-quality woods including , , or , incorporating a for secure control and optional recoil pads to mitigate felt during prolonged field use. A simple iron front sight provides straightforward aiming suited to the close-range, spreading patterns typical of engagements. Safety features include a tang-mounted mechanism that doubles as a barrel selector, ensuring controlled by preventing accidental discharge and allowing the shooter to choose the firing sequence of the upper or lower barrel.

Performance Characteristics

The TOZ-34 features an overall length of 1160 mm for 12- and 20-gauge models, with a barrel length of 711 mm, while 28-gauge variants measure 1110 mm overall and 660 mm barrel length. Unloaded weight ranges from 3.0 to 3.3 kg, contributing to its lightweight and compact profile that enhances maneuverability during extended use. Compatible with 12-, 20-, 28-, and 32-gauge shells, the TOZ-34 is chambered for 70 mm (2¾ inches) shells in standard configuration. The barrel arrangement provides a firing capacity of two shots, delivering effective patterns for birdshot up to 40 , as evidenced by its tested density of at least 50-60% within a 750 mm circle at 35 . Its balanced design and low-profile vertical barrels reduce felt compared to side-by-side shotguns like the IZH series, with the geometry further aiding in distributing forces to minimize and shooter fatigue. The chrome-plated bores enhance longevity by resisting corrosion, supporting reliable operation across varied conditions. Rated for a guaranteed lifespan of over 10,000 rounds with proper , the TOZ-34 demonstrates in practical use exceeding 20,000 shots in many cases, while exhibiting resistance to extreme temperatures from -40°C to +50°C typical of Soviet-era firearms. Loading and unloading occur via manual break-action, where the barrels pivot open for insertion and extraction of shells, with options for double triggers (front for lower barrel, rear for upper) or selective single-trigger mechanisms in certain models to facilitate quick target transitions.

Variants

Primary Models

The TOZ-34 series began with the standard base model introduced in 1964 by the , featuring an double-barrel configuration available primarily in 12 and 20 , equipped with an extractor mechanism that requires manual removal of spent shells. This model emphasized simplicity in its break-action design, allowing for reliable field use in scenarios without complex automation. In 1968, the TOZ-34E variant was developed and entered production, incorporating an automatic ejector system that expels spent shells upon opening the action, while retaining the core layout and expanding availability to 12, 20, and 28 options for broader adaptability to different needs. Mass production of the TOZ-34E commenced in 1969, marking an evolution in user convenience for quicker reloads during extended hunts. During the , ergonomic enhancements led to the TOZ-34ER and TOZ-34R models, which added rubber recoil pads to the of the TOZ-34E and standard TOZ-34, respectively, to reduce felt and improve shooter comfort without altering the gauge selections or ejection features. The development of these primary models prioritized affordability through straightforward processes and durable construction, enabling for domestic distribution to Soviet hunters and sportsmen seeking accessible, reliable shotguns.

Specialized Versions

The TOZ-34 series includes several specialized derivatives designed to meet niche hunting needs, particularly for versatile small game pursuits in the late Soviet era. Among these, the combination guns TOZ-34-5,6/20 and TOZ-34-6/28 represent adaptations that pair a rifled barrel chambered in 5.6 mm (.22 LR equivalent) with a smoothbore shotgun barrel in 20 or 28 gauge, respectively, allowing users to switch between small-caliber rifle shots and shotgun loads for efficient varmint and bird hunting. The TOZ-34-5,6/20 features the rifled barrel above the smoothbore, while the TOZ-34-6/28 inverts this arrangement, both retaining the break-action mechanism of the base model for reliable field performance. These combination variants were introduced in the mid-to-late , with the TOZ-34-6/28 appearing around and the TOZ-34-5,6/20 following in 1979, reflecting efforts by the to expand the TOZ-34 platform amid growing demand for multi-purpose civilian firearms during the later Soviet period. Production remained limited compared to the primary double-barrel models, focusing on specialized markets rather than mass output. A further simplification came in the form of the TOZ-34-1, a single-trigger double-barreled that modifies the trigger mechanism to create a more basic configuration suitable for youth training or introductory in 20 or 28 gauge. This version emphasizes ease of handling for beginners while preserving core TOZ-34 . Additional modifications for export markets included custom engravings and extended barrels on select TOZ-34 , often with ornamental finishes using precious woods or metals to appeal to collectors, though these retained the mechanics of the original . These specialized versions evolved from earlier TOZ-34E ejector models dating to 1968, addressing Soviet-era niche demands with reduced production scales.

Adoption and Use

Civilian Applications

The TOZ-34 gained widespread adoption among Soviet civilian hunters for waterfowl and upland bird pursuits, owing to its reliable shot patterning from fixed chokes—typically a full choke in the upper barrel and modified in the lower—and the break-action design enabling quick reloading in dynamic field conditions. In the Soviet civilian arms distribution system, the TOZ-34 was issued to licensed hunters through state-managed quotas, with production ramping up in 1969 to meet growing demand; by the late 1970s, it ranked among the most prevalent hunting shotguns, solidifying its status as a staple for rural sportsmen across the Union. The played a key training role in Soviet shooting clubs and youth programs, where its lightweight break-action mechanism introduced novices to safe handling and marksmanship fundamentals, fostering generations of participants in organized sporting activities. practices emphasized field stripping for routine cleaning, with chrome-lined barrels wiped down using non-abrasive solvents to preserve corrosion resistance after exposure to wet environments, while wooden stocks—often birch or walnut—were oiled periodically and checked for cracks requiring reinforcement to ensure longevity in rugged and conditions. As a symbol of accessible Soviet , the TOZ-34 enabled broad civilian participation in traditional pursuits, with over 1 million units produced since 1964, embodying reliable, mass-market design that democratized outdoor sports for ordinary citizens.

and International Users

The TOZ-34 began to be exported from the in the 1960s to various countries, such as , often designated as the TOZ-34E variant featuring metric chamber markings and other adaptations for international markets.[](В. Парамонов. Ещё раз о ТОЗ-34 // журнал «Охота и охотничье хозяйство», № 9, 1975. стр.30-31)[](Ружьё двуствольное ТОЗ-34 // Охотничье и спортивное оружие. М., Внешторгиздат. 1989.) These exports targeted primarily civilian hunters in . Limited adoption occurred in like for civilian purposes.[](В. Парамонов. Ещё раз о ТОЗ-34 // журнал «Охота и охотничье хозяйство», № 9, 1975. стр.30-31)[](Ружьё двуствольное ТОЗ-34 // Охотничье и спортивное оружие. М., Внешторгиздат. 1989.) As of 2025, surplus TOZ-34 models remain available in the United States and through specialized importers such as InterSurplus, typically priced between $400 and $500 USD depending on condition and specific variant like the TOZ-34E or TOZ-34P.

Legacy

Awards and Recognition

The TOZ-34 earned early international acclaim for its pioneering barrel design and superior craftsmanship. In 1965, it received a and at the International , recognizing its innovative construction as a breakthrough in Soviet civilian firearms. Building on this success, the TOZ-34 was honored again in 1972 with a at the World Exhibition of Sport-Hunting Arms in , where it was praised for exceptional export quality, reliability, and performance under rigorous testing. Domestically, the garnered Soviet state honors that underscored its role in elevating civilian firearm production standards. In 1970, both the TOZ-34 and its ejector variant TOZ-34E were awarded the State Quality Mark of the USSR, a prestigious for products meeting the highest national benchmarks. The TOZ-34's accolades bolstered the Plant's standing in global arms trade fairs and influenced later models, including combination-gun variants derived from its platform. Post-1970s industry reports noted its status as a , linking the awards to cumulative production exceeding one million units by the late .

Preservation and Collectibility

The of Weapons maintains a significant collection of 33 TOZ-34 shotguns, transferred from the Tula Arms Factory, encompassing modifications from the through the , with the earliest dated samples from , such as factory numbers 0019, 0032, and 0042 featuring ejector mechanisms. Award-winning models, recognized with a golden medal at the , highlight the shotgun's early design excellence and are preserved among these exhibits. Collectibility of the TOZ-34 is driven by the rarity of pre-1970 units, particularly those with original engravings on higher-grade variants, which command premium values due to their historical craftsmanship. Value appreciation stems from the discontinuation of transitional variants like the TOZ-84, intended as a replacement in the 1980s but halted due to production costs, prompting a return to the TOZ-34 design. According to recent auction data, mint-condition examples from the 1960s in excellent condition fetch approximately $400–$600 USD, representing roughly 3–4 times the original 1967 retail price of 150–160 Soviet roubles (equivalent to about $135–$145 USD at the time). Modern preservation efforts focus on maintaining the shotgun's wooden stocks and chrome finishes through specialized refinishing, with enthusiast communities dedicated to restoring and testing functionality during historical shooting events. models, such as the TOZ-34E, contribute to collectible variety by introducing ejector features tailored for foreign markets. The TOZ-34 holds cultural as a staple in Soviet history, with occasional appearances in like the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. series, where it is depicted as a reliable . Current status includes limited ongoing production at the , with new units resuming in 2019 to meet collector demand. As of 2025, the TOZ-34 remains in limited production at the to meet domestic and collector demand.

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