Gunsmith Day is a professional holiday celebrating workers in the defense industry, weapons creators, and specialists in Russian arms traditions. It was established in 2010, thanks to Mikhail Kalashnikov (pictured above), the famous designer of the AK-47. The holiday’s origins date back to May 25, 2010, when Vladimir Putin, then Prime Minister, visited the “Izhmash” defense plant in Izhevsk. During this visit, Kalashnikov asked Putin to create a day for Russia’s gunsmiths, where they could gather annually to reflect on their achievements. Putin agreed, and September 19 was chosen to align with the Orthodox feast of Archangel Michael, the patron saint of warriors. On December 3, 2011, President Dmitry Medvedev […]
19 September 2026, 8:01
