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Baikal Model IJ-70
Scale To:
Gun Dimensions		Width:	No Data
Length:	6.25-in	Height:	No Data
Barrel:	4-in	Weight:	25-oz
Variant 2 of 2

Gun Rankings
Power Factor (95 grain bullet)96330 Recoil Factor (95 grain bullet)2.76 ft-lb Total Capacity13 rounds ConcealabilityGood Defense Factor67%

Gun Specifications
Type:	Pistol
Caliber:	9x18 Makarov
Action:	recoil operated semi-automatic
Trigger:	double-action (DA/SA)
Safety:	slide mounted decock/safety lever
Magazine:	12-round
Frame:	blued steel
Grip:	black checkered plastic
Sights:	fixed blade front, adj. target rear
Notes:	hi-cap double-stack variant

Manufacturer
	Baikal More Info

About the Gun

Makarov-style pistol with adjustable target sights. This model was also imported under the model name Baikal 442.

Production

Production of this firearm began in 1994 and continued through the early 2000s. It was manufactured in Russia, primarily during a period of transition for military and civilian markets, with production ceasing as newer models emerged.

Market value

Last updated: 7/3/2025

The MSRP for a new unit was approximately $300. Current market value for a used one in 95% condition is around $250-$350, depending on local demand and availability.

Cartridge Specifications
Cartridge:	9x18mm Makarov
Alias:	N/A
More Info

Ballistics for This Gun
Selected Bullet Mass:		95 grains
MV:	1014 ft/sec	ME:	217 ft-lbs

Analysis

This 9x18 Makarov caliber pistol offers a solid option for shooters seeking a compact, utilitarian firearm. Its accuracy is commendable for a handgun of this design, performing well at typical self-defense ranges. The ergonomics are functional, with a grip that suits a wide range of hand sizes, though some may find it slightly blocky during extended use. Reliability is a key asset, as it operates consistently even under less-than-ideal conditions, making it a dependable choice for everyday carry. However, maintenance can be cumbersome due to a somewhat dated design, requiring more effort to disassemble and clean. Availability of replacement parts may also pose challenges, particularly for those outside major markets. The trigger pull is on the heavier side, which could affect precision for newer shooters, while the felt recoil is moderate, manageable for most users with proper technique.

User Rating

1	User Ratings
1	User Comments

User Comments

The comrade’s choice.
By The5thColumnRed on 05 Apr 2025
Circa early 90s, these were about the best option you had for a budget pistol. Cheap surplus ammo with lots of available parts, a reliable and simple to maintain blowback design, double action with a safety/decocker lever for flexible carry. Combine that with a design with few sharp or square external edges to snag or scrape, and you’ve got a comfortable and effective concealed carry solution that punches above its price range. Nowadays not so much. Russian ammo and parts are banned from import and the examples that made it into the US prior to the bans are either beat to death or at an asking price that has several objectively better new options. Upside, domestic production of ammo has begun with high quality offerings from Hornady in caliber 9mm Makarov. The caliber itself is the most powerful practical round that can be used in a compact and lightweight blowback design; with ballistic performance superior to .38 Special and .380 while not falling too short of 9 Parabellum.