Spy EyeTools of the Trade
single-shot pistol
Image from "The Ultimate Spy Book" by H.Keith Melton. © 1996 DK Publishing. Used by permission.

Single-shot pistol

This 4.5mm single-shot pistol, designed by the KGB, is surrounded by a rubber case. This allows it to be hidden in bodily orifices, making it easy to smuggle past all but the most dedicated search.

The device would be fired by twisting the knurled ring at the muzzle end a quarter turn. The small size of the weapon limited its range.

Similar KGB guns found by Western intelligence were disguised as lipstick or a pocket flashlight.