Vepr

Vepr is the name used for a family of semi-automatic rifles and shotguns manufactured in Russia. The word vepr translates to wild boar in Russian, and the designation is applied to a line of Kalashnikov-pattern firearms produced by the Izhmash/Molot arms complex and marketed abroad by various importers. The line began appearing in the international market in the late 1990s and has continued in different configurations since then.

Development and design overview: Vepr firearms are built on a robust, AK-family action with roots in the RPK-style receiver. They are designed for durability and reliability under demanding conditions, featuring a heavier build and reinforced components compared with some other AK variants. Most Vepr models use a fixed stock and feed from detachable magazines that are compatible with standard AK magazines, though configurations and finishes vary by model and market.

Variants and calibers: The Vepr line has been produced in several calibers, including 7.62×39mm, 5.45×39mm, and 7.62×54R. A .308 Winchester/7.62×51mm variant has also appeared in some markets, and a VEPR-12 is produced as a 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun. Variants differ in barrel length, furniture, and receiver type (stamped versus milled) depending on the model and production run.

Usage and status: Vepr rifles are popular among civilian shooters, collectors, and some professional users for their rugged construction. Internationally, Vepr firearms have been imported by multiple companies, and legal availability varies by country, with some jurisdictions imposing restrictions on semi-automatic rifles and large-capacity magazines.