OTs-21 Malysh

The OTs-21 Malysh (Russian: ОЦ-21 «Малыш», meaning "kid") is a 9 mm semi-automatic pistol designed by the KBP Instrument Design Bureau for special applications where concealment is a key priority.

OTs-21 Malysh
ОЦ-21 pistol
Type	Semi-automatic pistol
Place of origin	Russia
Service history
In service	2006
Used by	Russia
Production history
Designer	Y. I. Berezin[1] = KBP Instrument Design Bureau
Designed	1994[1]
Manufacturer	Izhmash
Variants	OTs-21S
Specifications
Mass	565 g (19.9 oz) (OTs-21) 550 g (19 oz) (OTs-21S)
Length	126 mm (5.0 in)
Width	20 mm (0.8 in)
Height	100 mm (3.9 in)
Cartridge	9×18mm Makarov (OTs-21) .380 ACP (9x17mm Short) (OTs-21S)
Action	Straight blowback
Effective firing range	10 m (10.9 yd)
Maximum firing range	25 m (27.3 yd)
Feed system	5-round detachable box magazine
Sights	Single groove on the slide

The Malysh operates on the simple blowback principle; it is a double action only design with the ammunition capacity limited to five 9×18mm Makarov rounds (can use only 57-N-181S cartridges) in a box magazine with a base extension for more comfortable holding and firing. It features an internal hammer and there are no protrusions to hinder rapid withdrawal from a pocket or holster. The pistol has no safety other than the need for a definite pressure on the trigger. There are also no sights other than a groove along the top of the slide, emphasizing the intention that the OTs-21 Malysh is limited to very short-range engagements.