‘Made in India’ revolver for women

The Defence Ordnance Factory, Kanpur has developed and manufactured a lightweight revolver, especially designed for women. Named ‘Nirbheek’ (fearless), to deter recurrence of crimes against women, the revolver has sold around 2,500 pieces, mainly in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana.

"Nirbheek was launched as a robust and handy self-defence weapon, which could easily be carried by women in their purses," said a representative of Ordnance Factory Board. "And the revolver has seen good results. Within the first five years of its launch, it has witnessed sales of over 2,500 units. The current batch in the factory is under 2700 series," said a representative.

Weighing about 500 gm against a regular revolver that weighs over 700 gm, the officials credit the light weight and low maintenance of the revolver for its success.

The sales number are incredible despite the weapon being a bit expensive. Against a normal revolver that costs Rs 1 lakh, Nirbheek was launched with Rs 1.20 lakh price tag that went up to Rs 1.40 lakh after inclusion of Goods and Services Tax.

Nirbheek can easily aim a target at 10 meters, but the Ordnance Factory claims the revolver comes with an effective range of 15 meters and a 0.32 (7.65mm) bore calibre.

Nirbheek is manufactured with titanium alloy metal, which is rust-proof and easy to maintain.