Russian Dragunov SVD

Caliber:	Russian 7.62x54mm Rimmed
Operation:	gas, semi-automatic
Capacity:	10 round detachable box magazine
Weight:	9.5lb (4.31kg) empty with telescope
Length:	48.2 in (122.5 cm)
Barrel Length:	24 in (62 cm)
Rifling:	4 grooves, 1:10 right hand twist
Max Rate of Fire:	30 RPM
Aimed Rate of Fire:	3-5 RPM
Scope Type:	PSO-1 with IR detection capability
Scope Data:	24mm objective lens, 4x, 6 degree field of view
Exit Pupil Measurement:	6mm
Compatible Passive Night Scopes:	NSP-3: 2.7x, 7 degree field of view range of approx 300 yds PGN-1: 3.4x, 5.7 degree field of view range of 400-500 yds

The SVD (Snayperskaya Vintovka Dragunova)-Dragunov Sniping Rifle was the first rifle designed from scratch as a sniper rifle, and was introduced in the 1950's. It has very limited similarities to the Kalashnikov series of rifles. The SVD can be expected to shoot 2 MOA with quality ammo.

I have some personal experience with an original SVD (circa late 1970's). While the weapon was a bit crude when it comes to workmanship, it still functioned flawlessly. We shot extensively out to 900 meters. The rifle is extremely deadly, even with cheap surplus ammo, out to about 600 meters. After that, your pressed to hit consistantly. We easily were maintaining sub 2 MOA. The SVD is not a true sniper rifle in todays terms, but it performs exceptionally well for what it was designed for, a weapon to extend the range of the average rifle squad.

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