7.62mm SVD SNIPER RIFLE and SVDS DRAGUNOV SNIPER RIFLE Russian Armed Forces

The SVD self-loading Dragunov sniper rifle is the main weapon of snipers in the Russian Armed Forces. The rifle features ergonomic design. In terms of operating convenience it is comparable with sporting weapons. Special sniper rounds were developed for this rifle. Besides, all types of 7.62x54mm rounds can be used if necessary.

The rifle is gas-operated. Part of the exhaust gases is led from the bore to a gas-operated piston, which applies a light-weight pusher to the breechblock. There is a regulator in the gas chamber to ensure reliable operation of the weapon in adverse operating conditions (dust and mud). The barrel is blocked by rotation of
the breech to three combat stops. A trigger mechanism is of a cock type. A safety catch blocks the sear and trigger when in firing position. Besides, the flag of the safety catch covers the cut in barrel chamber, preventing any dirt from getting inside, and blocking motion of the breechblock. The SVD rifle features high survivability and reliability.

SVD is equipped with the 4x PSO-1M2 optical sight, with an illuminated sighting mark and a screen for detecting IR sources. The sight is provided with a target range scale, as well as a range and a lateral adjustment input device. For firing at night, the optical sight can be replaced with a night one. A standard attachment point can mount various day and night sights. A mechanical sight comprises an adjustable foresight and a selector-type backsight.

The rifle is fed from a 10-round two-row box-type magazine. To make firing convenient when optical or optronic sights are used, the butt is equipped with a cheek piece on a spring catch. A complete set of the rifle can include a removable bipod. The SVDS sniper rifle specially developed for airborne troops features a folding butt, a shorter barrel, and a new flash supressor. The total length of the rifle in transportation position
is reduced to 875 mm, while its ballistic characteristics are practically the same.