Pioneer Arms PPS-43C
The Pioneer Arms PPS-43C is a semi-automatic pistol reproduction of the PPS-43 — the compact, stamped-steel submachine gun the Soviet Union fielded by the millions during World War II and later license-produced in Poland starting in 1946. Pioneer builds the PPS-43C at the historic Radom Plant using the same stamped-steel receiver and barrel shroud construction as the original, redesigned to fire semi-automatically from a closed bolt as an ATF-approved pistol. It’s one of the most distinctive-looking historical firearm reproductions on the market.
Read our full PPS-43C Buying Guide ↓
From PPS-43 Submachine Gun to PPS-43C Pistol
The original PPS-43 was designed by Alexei Sudaev as a shorter, easier-to-handle alternative to the PPSh-41 for tank crews, reconnaissance troops, and paratroopers. Nearly 2 million were produced between 1943 and 1946, and it was widely exported and copied by pro-Soviet regimes after the war — including license production in Poland starting in 1946. Pioneer Arms’ PPS-43C brings that design back as a semi-automatic pistol built at the same Radom facility.
Stamped-Steel Construction — Built Like the Original
The PPS-43C’s receiver and barrel shroud are made from stamped steel, matching the original wartime manufacturing method that let the Soviets mass-produce the PPS-43 quickly and cheaply. All parts and components are Polish-made.
Closed-Bolt Semi-Auto Operation and ATF Pistol Status
Pioneer redesigned the action to fire from a closed bolt rather than the original open-bolt submachine gun operation, and the PPS-43C is classified and sold as an ATF-approved pistol — not a machine gun or NFA item.
Sights, Muzzle Brake, and the Non-Functional Folding Stock
The PPS-43C carries an L-shaped flip rear sight marked for 100 and 200 meters, a fixed blade front sight, and a simple muzzle brake. The historical folding stock is present but non-functional — it’s permanently fixed in its folded, closed position to keep the firearm classified as a pistol.
9mm vs. 7.62x25mm Tokarev
Pioneer offers the PPS-43C in both 9x19mm and the original 7.62x25mm Tokarev chambering the PPS-43 was designed around. Tokarev ammunition is less common at most retailers, so 9mm buyers will generally find it easier to keep the PPS-43C fed.
Curved Box Magazines
The PPS-43C uses the distinctive curved box magazine associated with the original design; two magazines ship with the pistol.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PPS-43C?
A semi-automatic pistol reproduction of the WWII Soviet PPS-43 submachine gun, built by Pioneer Arms in Poland.
Is the PPS-43C legal to own?
Yes — it’s sold and classified as an ATF-approved pistol, with the original folding stock permanently fixed in its closed position.
What calibers does the PPS-43C come in?
9x19mm and 7.62x25mm Tokarev.
Does the folding stock work?
No — it’s non-functional and permanently fixed closed, which is part of what keeps the firearm classified as a pistol rather than an NFA item.
What magazines does the PPS-43C use?
The original curved box magazine design; two ship with the pistol.
See Also: Pioneer Arms • 9mm Pistols • Collector Guns • Pioneer Arms Hellpup