Dragunov SVDK sniper rifle (Russia)

SVDK rifle with night sight

Caliber(s): 9,3x64
Operation: gas operated, semi-automatic
Length: 1250 mm
Barrel: 620 mm
Weight: 6,5 kg less telescope sight
Feed Mechanism: 10 rounds detachable box magazine

The Dragunov SVDK large caliber sniper rifle (any rifle in caliber above 9mm is considered a "large caliber" in Russia) is a somewhat controversial weapon, recently adopted by Russian army. It was developed through "Vzlomshik" (Breaker) research and development program, along with 7,62mm SV-98 sniper and 12,7mm ASVK anti-materiel rifles. The purpose of SVDK is to deal with targets which are too "hard" for standard 7,62x54R sniper rifles like SV-98 or SVD, such as assault troops in heavy body armor or enemy snipers behind covers. There also were rumors that SVDK will serve as a long-range anti-personnel weapon, but the real-life long range ballistics of 9,3x64 7N33 ammunition is well behind the world's famous .338 Lapua Magnum, usually used for such applications. The effective range of SVDK is cited as "about 600 meters"; the 16,5-gram bullet has a hardened steel core and is launched at about 770 m/s, generating about 4900 Joules of muzzle energy. At 200 meters the 7N33 bullet has 80% chances to penetrate 10 mm (0,4") armor plate. It is interesting to note that 9,3x64 7N33 sniping cartridge is actually based on 9,3x64 Brenneke hunting round, designed in early 20th century for large game hunting, and the SVDK started its life as a 9,3x64 "Tigr-9" hunting rifle, based on SVD design.

Basic mechanisms of SVDK are similar to that of Dragunov SVD rifle, although receiver and other working parts were redesigned to accept larger and more powerful cartridge. It has same short-stroke gas piston action with 2-position gas regulator and a rotary bolt with three radial lugs. Receiver is also a machined part. The rear part of the barrel is enclosed into tubular steel jacket, which in turn is concealed within polymer handguards. This relieves the barrel from the stress, imposed by handguards and bipod, making it "almost free-floating". The trigger and safety are similar to that of SVD, and pistol grip and folding butt are copies of SVDS parts, although SVDK has a larger rubber buttplate to provide better dissipation of recoil forces. Unlike original SVD, the SVDK rifle has no provisions for a bayonet mounting. Like SVD, SVDK is fitted with afjustable open sights; telescope or night sights are installed using SVD_style side rail on the left side of receiver, using quick-detachable mounts. Standard optical sight is 3-10X variable power 1P70 "Giperion" telescope.