The SVD Dragunov sniper rifle is a semi-automatic, gas-operated firearm designed by Yevgeny Dragunov in the Soviet Union during the 1950s. It was initially intended for use by Soviet military snipers, but its versatility and reliability have made it a popular choice among military units, law enforcement agencies, and civilian shooters worldwide. The SVD Dragunov is chambered in 7.62x54mmR, a cartridge that offers a balance between range, accuracy, and recoil management.
One of the key features of the SVD Dragunov is its semi-automatic operation, which allows for faster follow-up shots compared to traditional bolt-action sniper rifles. This is particularly useful in situations where multiple targets need to be engaged quickly, or when the shooter needs to rapidly reposition. The rifle's gas system is designed to cycle the action reliably, even in adverse environments, and its piston is chrome-lined to reduce wear and tear. The SVD Dragunov also features a 10-round detachable magazine, which can be quickly reloaded to minimize downtime.
Key Points
- The SVD Dragunov is a semi-automatic, gas-operated sniper rifle chambered in 7.62x54mmR.
- It features a 10-round detachable magazine and a chrome-lined piston for reliable operation.
- The rifle has a maximum effective range of approximately 800 meters, depending on the ammunition used.
- The SVD Dragunov is equipped with a PSO-1 optical sight, which provides 4x magnification and an illuminated reticle.
- The rifle's semi-automatic operation allows for faster follow-up shots, making it suitable for a variety of shooting applications.
Design and Features
The SVD Dragunov’s design is centered around its reliability, accuracy, and durability. The rifle features a sturdy, stamped steel receiver and a heavy, chrome-lined barrel that is designed to withstand the rigors of heavy use. The barrel is also equipped with a proprietary muzzle brake, which helps to reduce recoil and improve accuracy. The SVD Dragunov’s stock is made from wood or synthetic materials, depending on the variant, and features a ergonomic design with a rubber recoil pad to reduce the impact of recoil on the shooter.
Optical Sights and Accessories
The SVD Dragunov is typically equipped with a PSO-1 optical sight, which provides 4x magnification and an illuminated reticle. The PSO-1 is a rugged, reliable sight that is designed to withstand the rigors of military use, and it features a battery-powered illumination system that allows the shooter to engage targets in low-light environments. In addition to the PSO-1, the SVD Dragunov can be equipped with a variety of other optical sights, including night vision scopes and thermal imaging devices.
| Variant | Weight (kg) | Length (mm) | Barrel Length (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| SVD Dragunov | 4.3 | 1220 | 610 |
| SVDS Dragunov | 4.2 | 1130 | 565 |
| SVU Dragunov | 3.5 | 900 | 520 |
Performance and Ballistics
The SVD Dragunov’s performance is characterized by its accuracy, range, and recoil management. The rifle is capable of delivering 10-shot groups of less than 1 MOA at 100 meters, making it suitable for precision shooting applications. The SVD Dragunov’s maximum effective range is approximately 800 meters, depending on the ammunition used, and its muzzle velocity is around 830 m/s. The rifle’s recoil is manageable, thanks to its muzzle brake and ergonomic stock design, making it suitable for shooters of all skill levels.
Ammunition and Ballistics
The SVD Dragunov is chambered in 7.62x54mmR, a cartridge that offers a balance between range, accuracy, and recoil management. The 7.62x54mmR cartridge is a rimmed, bottlenecked design that is similar to the.303 British cartridge. It features a 148-grain bullet with a muzzle velocity of around 830 m/s, and its maximum effective range is approximately 800 meters. The 7.62x54mmR cartridge is widely available, and it is used in a variety of firearms, including the SVD Dragunov, the Mosin-Nagant rifle, and the PKM machine gun.
What is the maximum effective range of the SVD Dragunov?
+The maximum effective range of the SVD Dragunov is approximately 800 meters, depending on the ammunition used.
What type of optical sight is typically equipped on the SVD Dragunov?
+The SVD Dragunov is typically equipped with a PSO-1 optical sight, which provides 4x magnification and an illuminated reticle.
What is the weight and length of the SVD Dragunov?
+The SVD Dragunov weighs approximately 4.3 kg and has a length of 1220 mm.
