Their team of Said Karimulla Khalili, Vasilii Tomshin, Viacheslav Maleev and Igor Malinovski put in a dominant performance as they led the 4x7.5 kilometre event from start to finish.

Karimulla Khalili was the pick of the Russian team, as he shot clean to give them the ideal start to the event.

By the time Malinovski took over on the anchor leg, Russia enjoyed a lead of more than a minute on their rivals.

Despite two missed shots, Malinovski ensured his team remained well clear as they stormed to victory in a time of 1 hour, 25min and 21.2sec.

Norway claimed the silver medal, despite three penalties and 13 spares, as they ended 57 seconds off Russia's pace.

The podium was completed by France, who finished 2:45 down.

"When your team-mates have more than a minute advantage, for sure you want to show your best and do not let them down," said Malinovski.

"I tried to shoot clean but it did not work out at the standing because my hand froze.

"But in general, I am glad about my result and that team has won gold."

France emerged as the winners of the women's 3x6km event, with Camille Bened, Myrtille Begue and Lou Jeanmonnot Laurent achieving a time of 1:02:52.1.

They were followed by Norway, who took their second silver medal of the day by finishing 17.5 seconds behind the winners.

Russia ended 40 seconds adrift of France to secure the bronze medal.

Competition will continue tomorrow with youth relay events over the same distances.