Hunting with the Veprem: what the carbine and its modifications are capable of

Characteristics and principle of operation

The tactical and technical characteristics of the Vepr are one of the main features of the model, which attracts potential buyers not only from Russia, but also from all over the world. Given the high power, the weapon is more suitable for a professional hunter than an amateur. Anyone can get acquainted with the performance characteristics of the Vepr by looking at its passport or the following table:

The model has rather unusual characteristics for a smoothbore hunting weapon. The caliber of ammunition especially stands out against the general background. It is also impossible not to use a bulky weapon with large dimensions. But its operating principle is the most standard:

1. We place 10 ammunition in the magazine.
2. We send 1 cartridge into the chamber.
3. We take aim at the target.
4. We remove the weapon from the safety.
5. We fire a shot.

After this, the powder gas exhaust system will operate, which will open the bolt frame, release the used cartridge case, and also place new ammunition in the chamber. So the system is fully automatic and requires a minimum number of actions from the hunter. And considering that 10 rounds of ammunition in most cases is more than enough to kill almost any animal, you won’t have to worry about reloading your weapon in the forest.

Design

A buyer who decides to purchase a Vepr carbine for his collection must understand that the design of the model may change depending on which modification is preferred. There are even versions with a rifled barrel that use NATO ammunition for firing. However, almost every model has the following design features:

1. Chrome plating on the barrel and chamber is used to increase the service life of the weapon by increasing the strength of metal parts, as well as reducing their resistance to corrosion. Chrome is present even on rifled models.
2. Dovetail (11 mm) or Picatinny (22 mm) sighting rail - used for mounting optical, collimator, diopter and other sights. With an open front and rear sight, the sighting range of the carbine is no more than 300 meters.
3. A system for exhausting gases and locking the bolt frame - this principle of operation is present in every Vepr, which slightly reduces the possibility of choosing a modification to suit individual requirements. But the mechanism works almost flawlessly.
4. An orthopedic buttstock with a rubber butt pad significantly reduces recoil and also makes the shooting process comfortable. The pistol grip has a thumb cutout, which is very useful.

1. Fixed flash suppressor at the end of the muzzle - designed to reduce the flash of flame that occurs at the moment of firing. Unfortunately, it is precisely because of this that it is impossible to install additional choke constrictions on the Vepr.
2. A push-button fuse is a more preferable option for a hunter than the classic push-button version. This safety feature has red and green indicators that allow you to quickly determine whether the weapon is in fire mode.

The quality of the materials from which the “Vepr” is made also deserves special mention. Firstly, to create the barrel channel and chamber, weapon steel with a high carbon content was used, which went through the cold hardening method. This allows the carbine to be used in almost any weather conditions (from +50 to –50 degrees Celsius). Secondly, the wooden stock is made only from high-quality hazel wood. If it is replaced with a plastic version, then only with one that has a higher content of polymer fibers.

The trigger mechanism of the Veprey also has some interesting features. For example, almost every version uses a spring-loaded striker, which guarantees the owner that the weapon will successfully use both domestic and imported cartridges. The trigger is located not under the chamber, as is common to see in other carbines, but in a box specially designated for it - this technique increases the service life of the gun several times.

Advantages and disadvantages

Despite the fact that the description of the weapon sounds as if the Vepr has no flaws, it is important to note that the weapon has plenty of negative aspects. Here are just those that the vast majority of owners complain about:

1. Heavy weight of the weapon. It will be quite problematic to move through the forest with a model that weighs 5 kg or more when charged and with the body kit attached. Only hunters of large build will be able to aim accurately from such a carbine. So it’s best to take a “Vepr” with you for ambush shooting.

1. Weak weapon balance. In addition to the heavy weight, a hunter may also have trouble aiming because the weapon's center of gravity is not where it should be. The problem is solved by installing additional weights or a body kit in the right places, but this increases the weight even more.
2. Poor processing of wooden parts of weapons. Despite the fact that the quality of the wood is at the highest level, the execution of the butt and stock could be better. Especially often you come across an uneven connection of metal elements with the butt and stock - in these places there is a large gap.
3. The sound is too loud when switching the fuse to combat mode. This will scare away game from the hunter if he is at a sufficiently close distance to it. It is quite difficult to somehow modify the system, since the fuse is practically impossible to modernize.
4. Low quality open sight. The rear sight and front sight get knocked down every now and then if the weapon falls to the ground or gets caught on branches. Because of this, almost every hunter has to equip his “Vepr” with optics or a collimator - and this is a very expensive pleasure even for a professional.
5. Complex gas chamber system. It works properly, but a hunter who decides to completely disassemble the “Vepr” will have to face a number of difficulties. And the gas chamber needs cleaning and lubrication in the same way as the barrel channel - after each use of the carbine.
6. Difficulty cleaning the piston. Even if you manage to disassemble the gas chamber, you will only be able to get to the piston if you have a spare parts kit for delicate work. Otherwise, part of the carbon will remain on the moving element.

Optical sight on the Vepr-308 carbine
And these are just the most well-known shortcomings that almost every Vepr owner complains about. But the weapon has no less positive aspects. So let's take a quick look at each of them:

• large caliber - allows you to hunt animals of almost any size;
• low recoil is the absolute merit of a high-quality shock-absorbing stock;
• high sighting range - especially if you install optics on the weapon;
• excellent accuracy of combat - at a distance of 100 meters the spread is no more than 10 cm;
• the ability to fire for a long time - no effort is required to reload;
• large length of the aiming line - simplifies the aiming process;
• wide opportunity for modernization - the presence of an aiming bar is especially pleasing;
• unpretentiousness to weather conditions - the carbine can be used even in severe frost;
• high quality metal parts - the warranty period is 10 thousand shots;
• the best price among models with similar parameters.

Do the positives outweigh the negatives? Perhaps each person should answer this question for himself. Don't forget about just one thing: the Vepr - this is a rather unusual weapon that is most suitable for professionals. An amateur is unlikely to be able to get much benefit from it.

Interesting Facts

The first fact worthy of attention is the countries that exploit the Vepr-12 rifle. Such states include not only Russia, where it is certified as a weapon for civilian and official use, but also Greece, and is also recommended for use by NATO countries.

In Greece they are used by the special forces of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. The model features a telescopic butt, a tactical flashlight and an EOTech red dot sight are installed on it.

The carbine is highly suitable for individual modification. The scope for tuning is simply unimaginable. With proper dexterity and the availability of financial resources, the following can be replaced: butt, fore-end, handle, magazine, sights.

In addition, it is worth noting the need to partially refine the internal mechanisms of the gun.

When purchasing a new product in a store, you may encounter a number of defects. Not critical, but detrimental to the operation of the automation.

In general, Vepr-12 turned out to be successful. It is popular among hunters and athletes, and the Vyatsko-Polyansky plant “Molot” regularly receives orders not only from the law enforcement agencies of the Russian Federation, but also from the authorities of the countries of the Western coalition. In particular, purchases are being made to equip American police special forces.

Options and modifications

Another positive side of the weapon is that it has a wide range of models. If desired, the buyer can choose exactly the version or modification of the “Vepr” that suits him. Here are just the most common of them.

SOK-94 "Vepr"

The first modification from , sharpened for firing with 7.62x39 mm cartridges. It differs from the original in the quality of finishing of metal and wooden parts and in a simpler design. The carbine is actively used not only by hunters, but also by paramilitary units. For example, it can often be seen in the hands of employees of the Russian Guard. The flight speed of the ballistic projectile is 830 m/s, which makes this model an excellent weapon for snipers . The magazine capacity, by the way, for some reason was reduced from 10 rounds to 7.

SOK-95 "Vepr-308"

A variant of a combat carbine, modified for 308 Win hunting cartridges. The design of the weapon is almost no different from the original version, however, due to the fact that the weapon has changed the caliber, its ballistic characteristics have also increased.

"Vepr-Super"

An even newer version of the Vepr-308 carbine. Its main difference from the previous modification is the presence of a solid stock made of beech or walnut. Because of this, the weapon became more like a hunting weapon than a combat weapon. The ammunition used for shooting is .308 Winchester or .35 Remington caliber cartridges.

SOK-94R "Vepr-Pioneer"

It has two smoothbore modifications:

• VPO-212 chambered for .366 TKM;
• VPO-221 and VPO-222 chambered for 9.6/53 Lancaster.

Both versions have a smooth barrel and are positioned as an alternative to rifled weapons. Designed for hunting and sport shooting. The weapon is assembled on the basis of the SOK-94R carbine, which in turn is created on the basis of the RPK light machine gun, which allows the use of magazines from a Kalashnikov assault rifle and RPK 7.62 caliber. Carbines have a classic form factor in a solid wooden stock.

SOK-94R carbine

"Vepr-12 Hammer"

This weapon fires classic 12 gauge ammunition. The model features a removable flash suppressor, which also allows you to install additional choke constrictions on it. The use of the carbine is not limited to hunting - it is often purchased by athletes for target shooting.

"Vepr 1B"

The first modification with a rifled barrel, produced for a wide variety of cartridges: 223 Rem, 7.62x54R, 308Win and so on. A distinctive feature of the model is a reinforced machine gun box and a longer barrel - up to 590 millimeters, allowing for more accurate shots. The carbine is also easy to upgrade, making it a desirable acquisition for any hunter.

"Vepr-Hunter"

Another version with a solid, but this time wooden stock, which most closely resembles that used in 12-gauge smoothbore shotguns. "Hunter-308" is distinguished by a unique location of the front sight, which can be located at the end of the barrel or in the middle - it increases the distance of aimed fire, but increases cantilevering and radial vibrations. The weapon also boasts a comfortable semi-pistol grip, which will appeal to both hunters and athletes. The weight of the carbine is only 4 kg, which is not much for a rifled hunting weapon. Depending on the model range, the carbine can be “powered” by the following cartridges: 7.62x54R, 308Win and 30-06Spr.

"Vepr-KM"

The modification is a modified Kalashnikov assault rifle converted to a civilian version. Of course, the weapon does not have the ability to fire automatically. Just like the AKM, the Vepr-KM fires 7.62x39 mm bullets. The model is in demand not only among hunters, but also among collectors and ordinary connoisseurs of the legendary Russian machine gun.

SOK-97 "Vepr-223"

A unique carbine that uses 5.56×45 millimeter ammunition (“NATO” cartridges) for firing. The weapon is characterized by a lower mass, as well as the ability to fire accurately even at moving targets. Just like most previous versions, it has the ability to install a body kit, including an under-barrel one. It will especially appeal to those hunters who, for some reason, prefer to use foreign cartridges rather than domestic ones.

SOK-98 "Vepr-5.45"

An imported version of the “Vepr”, chambered for 5.45×39 mm cartridges. It has many similarities with the SOK-94, but almost always comes with an optical sight. Also, the carbine does not have blackening of the metal - instead, the receiver and magazine are coated with nickel, which increases corrosion resistance. In general, the weapon has better build quality and technical characteristics, however, its price tag is in the appropriate range.

SOK-98 - version of the "Vepr" chambered for 5.45 cartridges

SOK-243 "Vepr-243"

A modification that uses .243 Win ammunition (6.2 x 52 mm) for shooting is a popular American sporting and hunting cartridge. The power of the ammunition is suitable for hunting medium-sized ungulates: wild boar, roe deer, deer. Not recommended for hunting animals weighing more than 150-200 kg and at distances greater than 200-250 meters.

VPO-155

A recently released new modification of the Vepr-1V carbine in .223Rem caliber. This is a semi-automatic carbine for target practice and competitions with customization from the factory.

History of creation

The modern economy is based on a dynamic market and everything that happens in it is dictated by consumer demand. This situation does not bypass arms manufacturers either.

Therefore, the management of the Vyatsko-Polyansky plant, seeing the growing popularity of IZHMash products (Saiga carbine) on the domestic firearms market, in the field of hunting smoothbore rifles, came to the decision to create its own products. The development of VPO-205 or “Vepr”-12 “Hammer” has begun.

The design was based on the RPK-74, produced there, the design of which has proven itself in numerous conflicts and difficult operating conditions.

Another reason for choosing the Kalashnikov machine gun as a basis was the specifics of the Vyatsko-Polyansky plant. The machine gun was produced there in large quantities, the technology was perfected. For mass production of VPO-205, minimal modifications to the conveyor line were required.

The designers of the Vepr initially designed it to perform certain tasks. In particular, use in practical shooting competitions, for self-defense and the needs of various law enforcement units.

Because of such priorities, another area of ​​application of a gun - hunting - suffered a little. The product turned out to be heavy, which is inconvenient for long walks.

Hunting use

The Vepr carbine is most often used for hunting large animals: wild boars, elk and even bears. The weapon will also be extremely effective for shooting predators, such as wolves, since it allows accurate fire from a distance of up to 300 meters. At the same time, the rifle’s power is enough not to leave wounded animals behind, which is very important for any hunter pursuing the principles of humanism.

Due to the fact that the Vepr has the ability to install various body kits, it is quite often purchased as a base for modification. Almost every professional hunter equips his rifle with optics or night vision to increase his chances of hitting his target from a long distance. Such a weapon will be equally effective both when hunting from ambush and from the approach.

The Vepr has an automatic reload system, so if the shot is missed, the hunter will still have the opportunity to hit the target while it is confused. This is especially true in cases where shooting is carried out from a long distance - until the sound of an unsuccessful shot reaches the animal, the hunter will be able to make another, more accurate one.

The Vepr is a unique and quite powerful weapon that will especially appeal to those who like to hunt large animals. Thanks to the wide range of models and the ability to carry out modifications, each owner will be able to become the owner of a carbine that meets his personal requirements. And despite the fact that the rifle has quite a few shortcomings, it still continues to receive more and more laudatory reviews from hunters on the Internet.

Tuning

When the carbine is finalized, it’s time to modernize it by installing an additional body kit. Here are just a few ideas you can use:

• installing an optical sight on the main mounting rail - the magnification of the optics should not exceed 8x, since at a distance of more than 300 meters the .223 Rem caliber is useless;
• attaching a collimator sight to an additional (side rail) - such a device will be very useful for shooting at a distance of 20 to 60 meters;
• installation of a tactical handle - such an accessory is extremely light in weight, so it is worth installing it on a weapon, especially if the forend has not been notched;
• installation of a bipod - this device will not only ensure that the barrel is fixed at the time of shooting, but will also allow accurate shooting from an ambush;
• mounting an under-barrel flashlight - useful for lovers of night hunting for deer, wild boar, beaver or wolf.

“Vepr-223” is an excellent choice for those who want to acquire a universal rifled weapon that “feeds” on inexpensive cartridges. The warranty period for service is at least 5 years (or 5000 shots), although in fact the rifle will last for several decades subject to regular cleaning and lubrication. In addition, the Vepr is also available in other calibers (.308 Win, 7.62×39, .366 TKM, 9.5×38 Lancaster, and so on), and various modifications and options will allow the buyer to acquire that weapon , which satisfies exactly his requirements.