MOSCOW, November 9. /TASS/. Russia’s Kalashnikov Group has developed compact versions of the Chukavin sniper rifle (SVCh), chambered for both the traditional 7.62x54mm cartridge and the NATO-standard .308 Win (7.62x51mm), the company’s press service told TASS.
"On its own initiative, the Kalashnikov Group has developed new compact semi-automatic rifles based on the 7.62x54mm Chukavin sniper rifle (SVCh): the SVCh-1, chambered for the 7.62x54mm cartridge, and the SVCh-2, chambered for the NATO-standard .308 Win (7.62x51mm) caliber. The primary difference between these unique models and the standard SVCh currently produced by Kalashnikov lies in their shorter barrels and several other design improvements, which were implemented based on feedback from the rifle’s use by military units," the company said.
Kalashnikov has successfully completed preliminary testing of the SVCh-1 and SVCh-2 under the supervision of a potential customer and is now prepared to move on to state trials, as well as to establish production of the rifles for both Russian and international users.
The press service added that the rifles have drawn interest from domestic security and defense agencies, which are considering them for use by rapid-response teams and assault units--specifically for operations in dense urban environments and close-quarters combat. In developing these rifles, the company designers took into account both the changed conditions of combat and feedback from customers based on their experience with the Chukavin sniper rifle use. They shortened the barrel by 170 mm without compromising accuracy at ranges of up to 800 meters.
For the first time, the group’s specialists used in the new rifle versions a flow-through suppressor that reduces the backflow of propellant gases into the receiver – and consequently toward the shooter’s face – while significantly diminishing both the muzzle flash and the sound of the shot. Additionally, an anti-corrosion coating has been applied to the bores and other components exposed to the harsh, corrosive effects of gunpowder residue.