Pre-Ban Izhevsk IJ70-17A .380 ACP Two-Tone Compact Pistol – Collectible Russian Makarov Variant
Built at Russia’s Izhevsk Mechanical Plant in the early 1990s, this IJ70-17A is a rare .380 ACP version of the Makarov-pattern pistol that was imported to the United States before the Clinton-era Russian handgun ban. The pistol wears its original two-tone commercial finish—polished blued slide over a matte phosphate frame—and retains the fixed barrel that helps these blowback pistols achieve excellent accuracy. With its pre-ban status, uncommon caliber, and factory-installed adjustable target sight, this compact sidearm stands out to both shooters and collectors.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Rifling Condition: Excellent - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: This pistol displays a few faint handling marks on the frame and slide. The bore remains bright, with no pitting or discoloration.
What’s Included
- Izhevsk IJ70-17A .380 ACP pistol
- 2 factory 8-round steel single-stack magazines
The IJ70-17A was produced specifically for export, and the .380 ACP chambering is far less common than the 9×18 mm versions typically encountered. This example carries the “arrow-in-triangle” Izhevsk proof plus Russian commercial cartouches, along with the discreet B-West Tucson AZ import mark.
A fixed 3.68-inch barrel is press-fit to the frame, giving the pistol a solid, non-tilting lock-up that promotes consistent accuracy. The blowback, double-action/single-action system is simple, reliable, and easy to maintain.
The polished blued slide features vertical grasp serrations and a slide-mounted safety/decocker that instantly renders the gun safe while lowering the hammer. A screw-pinned micro-adjustable rear sight was added at the factory to satisfy U.S. import requirements, offering precise windage and elevation control.
The matte phosphate carbon-steel frame is fitted with a black polymer grip that includes a palm-swell and molded checkering for a secure hold. A heel-type magazine release keeps the pistol’s original Russian configuration intact, and two 8-round magazines are included to complete this collectible, pre-ban package.