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Type 68

1968 COLD WAR

History

During the Cold War, North Korea, like other Soviet-aligned nations, adopted the TT-33 semi-automatic pistol, a famous World War II-era weapon. In response to their specific needs, North Korea began producing their own version of this pistol, known as the Type 68. This adaptation retained the original 7.62x25mm Tokarev Soviet pistol cartridge and semi-automatic action. Key modifications included a more compact design, improved slide serrations for grip, and adjustments to the internal mechanism to resemble the Browning-style cam layout. The Type 68 also had a reinforced sliding stop pins and an adapted magazine catch on the heel of the stock.

Notably, the North Korean Type 68 could use magazines from the original TT-33 pistols, but its magazines were not compatible with the original Tokarev series due to the lack of magazine cutouts. The resulting Type 68 was slightly larger, providing a comfortable grip with an overall length of 185mm, a 108mm barrel, and a weight of 1 lb 12 oz. It boasted a muzzle velocity of 1,300 feet per second. This adaptation allowed North Korea to produce a reliable and locally manufactured sidearm tailored to their military requirements.

Specification

Basic

Year of Operation: 1968

Origins: North Korea

Categories: Semi-automatic military pistols

Manufacturer: State Factory - North Korea

Operator: North Korea

Roles

Pistol/Pistol

Compact design for close work or general self-defense.

Special Forces

The quality of this weapon has proven its value to Special Forces who need a versatile and reliable solution to the rigors of special operations.

Dimensions and Weight

Overall Length: 185mm (7.28 inches)

Barrel length: 108mm (4.25 inches)

Cured weight: 1. 75 lbs (0.80 kg)

Action

Semi-automatic

One shot per trigger; self-loading or self-loading action supported by internal mechanisms; stroke management (and initial cocking) typically required by operators; subsequent shots assisted by unlocking/moving bolts.