Dragunov SVD and Tigr

DRAGUNOV SVD 7.62-mm Sniper Rifle
The Sniper Rifle Dragunov (SVD) is a gas-operated, semiautomatic weapon. It fires the 7.62 x 54R cartridge and uses a detachable 10 round box magazine. Its overall length is 1,225 millimeters, and its empty weight is 4.3 kilograms. (Its loaded weight with bayonet is 4.78 kilograms.) Its bolt mechanism and gas recovery system are similar to those of the AK and AKM; but, because of the difference in cartridges used, parts are not interchangeable with the assault rifles. The most distinguishing features of the SVD are the open buttstock, which has a cheek pad for ease in sighting, and the telescopic sight mounted over the receiver. It has a combination flash suppressor/compensator. It may mount the standard AKM bayonet. It is normally issued with four magazines, a cleaning kit, and an extra battery and lamp for the telescopic sight. The SVD fires approximately 30 rounds per minute in the semiautomatic mode. It has a maximum effective range of 1,300 meters with the 4-power telescope or 800 meters without it. The PSO-1 optical sight has a 6-degree field of view. It contains an integral, infrared detection aid and an illuminated rangefinder reticle. Thus, the SVD is effective in daylight against point targets or at night against active infrared emitters, such as night driving aids and weapon sights.

In the early 1990’s the SVD started to be produced using synthetic furniture. The furniture was found to be cheaper to produce and better wearing than the wood.
Also at this time the sporting variants of the SVD called ‘Tiger’ started to appear.

The SVD has been widely exported and can be found in all the major conflicts around the world, its popularity due to its rugged build and reliability.