Dragunov

Dragunov refers to a family of sniper rifles developed in the Soviet Union. The most well-known is the SVD, or Dragunov Sniper Rifle. It was designed by Yevgeny Dragunov in the 1950s and adopted by the Soviet Army in 1963.

The SVD is a semi-automatic sniper rifle chambered in 7.62x54mmR. It features a long-stroke gas piston system and a rotating bolt for reliable operation. The rifle is typically equipped with a 4x scope, the PSO-1, though other optics can be fitted. Its design prioritizes robustness and ease of maintenance, making it suitable for a wide range of conditions.

While often referred to as a sniper rifle, its intended role was that of a squad designated marksman rifle, providing accurate fire at longer ranges than standard assault rifles. It has seen widespread use by numerous countries and military forces around the world since its introduction.

Over time, various adaptations and derivatives of the Dragunov design have emerged, including civilian hunting versions and modernized variants with improved furniture and optics. The SVD's distinctive silhouette and operational history have made it an iconic firearm.