SKS or Vepr - which carbine is better: review and comparison of characteristics

—> The history of the development of the Vepr hunting carbine begins with the release of the first collection.

Then changes occurred on the territory of the Russian Federation, which affected the reduction in the production of army weapons.

The technical parameters of the Kalashnikov machine gun became the basis for the creation of Vepr carbines.

• Weapon "Vepr";
• Strengths and weaknesses of hunting rifles;
• Overview characteristics of "Vepr-Super";
• Carbine "Vepr-Super": expert assessment;
• Advantages of the Vepr-Super hunting rifle;
• Carbine "Vepr-Hunter": shooting technique;
• Advantages of the Vepr-Hunter model;
• Carbine "Vepr SOK-94": what is common with the AK-74;
• Overall assessment of "Vepr SOK-94";
• "Vepr-Pioneer": features of the carbine;
• Advantages and disadvantages of the Vepr-Pioneer carbine;
• The fundamental differences between the Pioneer carbine;
• Conclusion.

Carbines of the Vepr family: characteristics and review of models

The history of the appearance of the Vepr gun began with the fact that the Russian Ministry of Defense reduced government orders for the production of army types of weapons. Because of this, almost all domestic weapons manufacturers had to retrain their industrial capacities to create weapons for civilian use. One of these plants was the Molot machine-building plant, which began production of the Vepr hunting carbine. The Vepr self-loading hunting carbines were created on the basis of the popular Kalashnikov machine gun, and the caliber of ammunition for the weapon was 7.62x39 mm.

TTX

To understand which carbine is better - the SKS or the Vepr, you need to familiarize yourself with the technical characteristics of these rifle units. The weapons developed by S. G. Simonov have the following characteristics:

• Without ammunition, the SKS weighs no more than 3.75 kg. If we compare the SKS and Vepr carbine, the latter is somewhat heavier (4.2 kg).
• The 7.62 mm Simonov self-loading carbine has a total length (without bayonet) of 102 cm, and a barrel of 52 cm.
• From a 100-meter distance, the accuracy of the battle is 60 mm.
• The muzzle energy indicator reaches 2133 J.
• Ammunition is supplied from a non-removable double-row box-type magazine, which is designed for ten 7.62x39 mm ammunition.
• Within one minute, up to forty shots can be fired from the carbine.
• The maximum range that a fired bullet can cover does not exceed 3600 m. It moves towards the target with an initial speed of 735 m/s.
• For the enemy, Simonov's self-loading carbine poses a serious threat at a distance of up to 1000 m. It is at this distance that targeted shooting from the SKS carbine is possible.

Description

The release of this type of weapon is based on the caliber of ammunition that is used in the weapon. Each weapon model uses its own type of ammunition, which is why quite a lot of models of this type of weapon have appeared. However, all modifications of this type of weapon have some common characteristics.

Technical characteristics of "Vepr":

1. To increase service life, the chamber and bore are chrome plated.
2. Optics for the Vepr carbine can be used, or targeted shooting can be carried out with an open sight at a distance of up to 350 m.
3. Recharging of the "Vepr" occurs automatically due to the fact that the energy of the exhaust gases and the return force of the spring are used.
4. Almost all models are equipped with an orthopedic stock, which has a cutout for the thumb and a pistol grip.
5. To reduce flashes of flame, a non-removable flame arrester is located on the body.
6. To increase safety, the carbines have safety catches.
7. To soften recoil, a rubber shock absorber is located at the end of the butt.
8. The temperature at which you can fire ranges from -50 to +50 degrees Celsius.

Design

Carbines are available in several modifications, which depend on the type of cartridges used. If we talk about the automation of this type of weapon, it is built on the basis of Kalashnikov automatics, which provides enormous reliability and the ability to fire in the most extreme situations. The design features of weapon reloading, the presence of a flame arrester and the durability of the weapon were written above.

When using imported ammunition, inertial puncture of the primer is possible. In order to avoid such a problem, the carbine bolt striker is spring-loaded.

An additional safety measure for this weapon was that since 1997, all modifications of the Vepr-308 export version, as well as some modifications for domestic sale, also received a spring-loaded firing pin. If you use domestically produced cartridges, there will be no problems.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantages include:

• the large caliber of the bullet allows hunters to hunt large animals;
• recoil is weak;
• quite a long firing range;
• high accuracy of fire;
• there is the ability to conduct long-term shooting without loss of accuracy;
• a longer sighting line improves the accuracy of the weapon;
• Optical sights for the Vepr-308 carbine can be installed;
• there is the possibility of firing from an open sight even with installed optics;
• even at low temperatures the weapon will be fully operational;
• the overall quality of the weapon is at a fairly high level;
• the best price among weapons with similar parameters.

The disadvantages include:

• heavy weight of the gun.
• weak weapon balance.
• The processing of the wooden parts of the weapon is poor.
• When the fuse is switched, a loud sound is produced.
• The open sight often becomes dislodged when crossing bushes or falling.
• difficulties in disassembling the gas chamber.
• difficulty in cleaning the gas chamber piston.

Weapon "Vepr"

The series includes a number of models depending on the cartridges used. Since the hunting carbine was produced at one enterprise, it was decided to endow the Vepr with basic characteristics, which are simply modified in different models.

Basic features:

1. chamber care rules: mandatory chrome plating to extend service life;
2. the maximum distance during aimed shooting is up to 350 meters. Special optics can serve as an addition;
3. due to the built-in powerful spring, recharging occurs automatically;
4. comfortable use during hunting due to the orthopedic butt;
5. equipped with flag fuses. This increases the level of security;
6. extended temperature range for using the rifle: ranges from -50 to +50, which makes it suitable for hunting in difficult conditions.

The lineup

"Vepr - 308" (SOK-95)

The Vepr-308 SOK 95 carbine is a self-loading hunting carbine, which has been modified to accept imported 7.62 .308 Winchester caliber ammunition.

"Vepr-308" has the following characteristics:

• bullet caliber 7.62 mm;
• cartridges used: 7.62x51; 308Win;
• barrel length 520 mm; 590 mm;
• projectile flight speed 830 m/s;
• firing range 300 m;
• Magazine capacity – 7 rounds.

The design of the Vepr-308 carbine is almost the same as that of the conventional Vepr with a caliber of 7.62x39 mm. However, improvements in bullet caliber increased the performance of the SOK-95.

"Super"

The Vepr-308 Super carbine is an even newer modification of the previous type of weapon. The main difference in the appearance of this variety is that it has a solid stock. The Vepr-super carbine has a structural assembly that is most closely similar to that of an AK. The cartridges for weapons in this series are .308 Winchester and .35 Remington.

The lineup

• Vepr-Super / SOK-95-M / k.308Win
• Vepr-Super / SOK-97M-01 / k.223Rem

"Super-Sport"

“Vepr -308 – super sport” is the most recent modification of this type of weapon.

Weapons of the “Vepr-super-sport” type have the following characteristics:

• bullet caliber 8.89 mm;
• a variety of .35 Remington ammunition;
• barrel length 550 mm;
• ammunition flight speed 830 m/s;
• clip capacity 3, 5 or 10 rounds;
• weapon weight with a full magazine is 4 kg.

"Pioneer"

The Vepr-Pioneer carbine is a modification designed for a smaller bullet caliber.

Strengths and weaknesses of hunting rifles

There are several advantages that apply to all representatives of the Vepr model range:

• the possibility of hunting large game: modifications of models have led to a wide selection of varieties of bullet calibers;
• high accuracy (maintained even during long-term shooting) and a relatively large firing range;
• the accuracy of hitting the target is determined by the length of the aiming line;
• uninterrupted operation in different climatic conditions and temperature conditions;
• high ratings from hunters and experts in this field;
• affordable pricing policy, taking into account all the technical features of the weapon.

Flaws:

• relatively heavy weight - from 3.5 kg;
• wooden finish of the weapon (depending on the hunter’s preferences);
• the shot is accompanied by a loud sound, which can scare away animals in the area;
• if dropped or hit, the open sight may become dislodged;
• difficulties with disassembling the gas chamber and cleaning the piston.

The top popular models in the series include: Vepr-308, Super, Pioneer, 1B, Hunter, SOK-94 and others. All modifications have their own characteristics and purpose.

Hunting use

Hunting with the Vepr is most often carried out for medium or large game. This became possible due to the fact that the bullet caliber, firing range and shot power are very large.

Due to the high performance, a weapon of this type is quite capable of piercing the thick skin of a boar or elk, and a hit, even if not fatal, most often leads to the fact that the animal cannot go far, since this weapon leaves very deep wounds.

Tuning the Vepr carbine can involve installing powerful optics with a high zoom ratio.

Features of the Vepr Hunter carbine that determine its high demand

Thanks to their excellent technical characteristics, which are determined by the manufacturer and determine the possibilities for use, modern self-loading carbines receive a lot of positive feedback from buyers and owners of this type of firearm. And among its analogues, we should specifically mention the Vepr Hunter model, which has excellent capabilities for use not only in professional hunting, but also for amateur shooting.

The simplicity of the design makes it easy to operate the carbine, while its compactness and relatively low weight guarantee ease of transportation. The ergonomic shape of the carbine body makes it possible to place it in the hand as comfortably as possible, regardless of the size of the shooter’s hand: the weapon will be equally comfortable in the hand of both men and women.

Carbine “Vepr-Super”: expert assessment

According to experts, this model has become more practical due to its reduced weight. Compact size, suitable for use and transportation, does not complicate the process of learning to shoot. For this reason, Super is popular for beginners who are learning basic practical skills. To understand the features of working with a carbine, experts highlight several pros and cons.

Advantages of the Vepr-Super hunting rifle:

• Reducing the sight line. Due to the optical guide, it was possible to improve shot accuracy;
• increased barrel power. This was reflected in the efficiency of shooting and the number of accurate hits on the target;
• universal form: adapted to different volumes of coverage. Therefore, a woman can also use such a weapon

These strengths of the weapon explain the market demand and popularity among amateurs and experienced hunters. One of the disadvantages is finishing using polymers. It is difficult to give an objective assessment here, since the appearance parameter is individual for everyone.

Review of the Vepr Hunter carbine

Possessing an attractive and stylish “appearance”, the Vepr Hunter model carbine at the same time is distinguished by such important features for firearms as accuracy of fire and range of destruction even of a moving target. This ensures effectiveness when using the carbine in hunting and sports shooting.

Using the Vepr Hunter carbine, you can train in accuracy, participate in sports shooting competitions, and also take part in professional hunting. The range of this model allows you to hit small and medium game, and the presence of an optical sight with excellent characteristics simplifies the process of hitting the target.

A review of the Vepr Hunter carbine is given in this video:

Purpose

In terms of its technical parameters, the carbine is most often used in professional hunting, because such results as range and accuracy of fire, the ability to hit even a moving target located at a considerable distance (up to 200 m) are at a high level.

The possibility of using the model in question by both men and women is due not only to the simplicity of the design, but also to the ergonomics of the carbine.

Photo of the Vepr Hunter carbine

Advantages and disadvantages

Since it is the comparison of the advantages of this model and its shortcomings with similar models from third-party manufacturers that allows us to get the most detailed picture, the list of main parameters makes it possible to study the model in question. For active use, the most popular, according to the majority of buyers and owners, are variants of modern carabiners with relatively low weight and compact dimensions, which greatly facilitates the process of transporting and using them.

Ergonomic shape, the ability to improve the weapon by installing additional equipment and the simplicity of the device, which allows you to quickly and without much difficulty disassemble the carbine. It is these characteristics that are considered one of the most important for any model that is used both in professional hunting and for accuracy training.

"Vepr-Pioneer": features of the carbine

This modification is in demand among buyers. Natural wood used in the manufacture of weapons looks aesthetically pleasing and is quite pleasant to the touch. The versatility of the “Pioneer” is that both men with large palms and teenagers can master shooting skills with it. Firearms are relevant in sports shooting, when accuracy and shot range are put first. An optical sight allows you to hunt medium and large animals, leaving them no chance to survive.

Advantages and disadvantages of Vepr-Pioneer

There are several basic parameters in which weapons are superior to analogues in the model range:

• modern appearance with attractive design;
• For natural wood finishing, beech or walnut are used. It is also treated with a special protective solution, due to which the weapon is resistant to low or high temperatures, field conditions, and areas with high humidity;
• simple design that makes it easy to assemble or disassemble the system.

One of the disadvantages that hunters report is the combination of the gas chamber and the front sight block. Despite the negative feedback about this nuance, this modification allows you to maintain optimal firing range.

Fundamental differences between the Pioneer carbine

The type of weapon was developed on the principle of the absence of complex mechanisms. The firing pattern is as follows: cartridges fly out as a result of pressing the trigger. To protect hunters from unplanned shots, the design provides for a push-button safety.

Upon purchase, the hunter receives a certificate and passport indicating all the technical characteristics of the product. This confirms its authenticity and legitimacy. The instructions indicate the rules for carbine care, operating features, and application technology.

It is also worth checking whether the name and manufacturer are indicated on the packaging. The basic kit assumes the presence of an optical system provided by the manufacturer. In the future, it is possible to replace it with a more advanced one, if there is a need to improve the accuracy of the shot.

Specifications

Stylish design, the use of natural material when finishing the handle of the Vepr Hunter hunting rifled carbine and many positive characteristics from the owners of the model are the most characteristic features of the model in question, which made it popular. And the technical capabilities incorporated into it by the manufacturer add positive qualities to it.

Below are the main technical parameters that are most important when choosing a carbine model and allow you to get the most detailed picture of the capabilities of the Vepr Hunter.

"Vepr-Hunter" - a self-loading Russian carbine chambered for American cartridges

Until recently, commercial hunters used either the famous 7.62x39 mm cartridges or 7.62x54R three-line projectiles to hunt large animals (elk, wild boar, bear). However, neither one nor the other could boast of good adaptation to self-loading hunting weapons (of course - after all, the shells were originally used for military purposes). Therefore, more and more rifles began to appear on the market, sharpened for firing with American .30-06 Springfield or .308 Winchester cartridges. One of the first companies to start producing weapons for such ammunition is Vyatsko-Polyanskaya. Its famous self-loading carbine “Vepr” is almost as popular as the “Saiga”. We’ll talk about the “Vepr-Hunter” modification, sharpened for firing with American cartridges, further.

History of creation

appeared among hunters relatively recently - since the mid-90s. It was at this time that the company began developing the Vepr self-loading hunting carbine based on the Kalashnikov light machine gun. Initially, the model was produced in the same caliber as the RPK - 7.62x39 mm. However, the company quickly realized that such ammunition was no longer as relevant as modern hunting cartridges, such as the .223 Remington, .308 Winchester or .30-06 Springfield.

The release of the first modifications for the Vepr carbine began in stages. First, the company began developing small-caliber versions, thereby satisfying the needs of athletes, as well as hunters who prefer to hunt small-sized animals. In addition to replacing the barrel and chamber with calibers more suitable for hunting, improvements were also introduced to other structural systems of the weapon.

“Vepr-Hunter” began not only to use .308 Win or .30-06 Sprg cartridges for hunting, but also acquired a long walnut stock made of the “Monte Carlo” type. This means that the weapon began to weigh much less than the RPK, and also received good ergonomic characteristics. The carbine now has an aiming bar for installing a sniper or collimator sight. So the rifle began to fully meet the needs of professional hunters.

Vepr, golden eagle and sks

Photo by Anton Zhuravkov

Carbine "Vepr"

This carbine is produced by Vyatsko-Polyansky based on the units and components of the Kalashnikov light machine gun. Has a heavy forged barrel. For hunting elk and wild boar, the most suitable models are chambered for .308Win, .30-06 and 7.62x54R. A fairly convenient fuse (on the latest versions). The carbine is heavy, in the “Super” version with caliber .308Win it weighs 4.6 kg. Not a very good side bracket for optics. The Vepr-Hunter carbine chambered for 7.62x54R is the most optimal for shooting elk and wild boar in terms of the cost of the cartridge and its prevalence in Russia. In general, the carbine is heavy, poorly balanced and very uncomfortable to wear.

Carbine "Berkut"

Self-loading hunting carbines of the "Berkut" series are designed for commercial and amateur hunting of medium and large animals. The carbines have detachable box magazines that allow you to quickly load or unload the weapon; they are easily disassembled into two parts that fit into a compact case or case, which makes it easy to use, store and transport. The sighting range is 200 m. All models have the ability to install an optical sight. Manufactured by the Tula Instrument Engineering Design Bureau. The base model is the VKS-94 sniper rifle. Produced in calibers 7.62x54R, .308Win, 7.62x39 and 9.3X54R.

Weapon automation operates on the removal of powder gases. The bolt is locked by turning three lugs. The trigger mechanism is unregulated.

The receiver has a standard side rail for attaching an optical sight bracket. Mechanical sights consist of a bar with marks up to 300 m in increments of 100 m and a front sight. The bore is chrome plated.

The magazine is detachable, box-shaped for 5 and 10 rounds.

The fuse is a flag safety, located on the right side of the receiver. There is a bolt stop that stops the bolt in the rear position when the magazine is empty. There is a flash suppressor on the barrel.

The butt has a rubber butt pad. In caliber .308Win and 7.62x54R, it is possible to replace the standard box magazine with a magazine from the Tiger carbine.

"Berkut" is a simple, accurate, well-balanced carbine. Allows you to confidently shoot and hit the target up to 200 m. It can be easily disassembled for normal cleaning of the barrel and gas vent.

The carbine has a not entirely successful mounting of the optical sight bracket, which does not allow shooting with an open sight. The weight of the carbine is about 4 kg, without cartridges and optics. Hunters have mixed opinions about the Berkut carbine.

SCS

To shoot a medium-sized wild boar (100–120 kg), hunters often use SKS. Although the new rules prohibit the use of this weapon for hunting ungulates, for shooting wild boars of the above sizes in terms of price-quality, this is the best self-loading carbine.

Its popularity can be explained by many factors: simplicity and reliability of the design, availability of the cartridge, and low cost. SCS has few equals in terms of price-quality ratio. For only a “non-capitalist” victorious country could afford the mass production of such expensive weapons. The receiver and all main parts are milled from forged steel. What makes it reliable and durable.

The SKS-45 was converted into a civilian version by several factories at once. Therefore, you can find several of its names: OP-SKS (Tula Arms Factory), KO SKS (TsKIB COO), T03-97 “Arhar” (Tula Arms Factory). The latter version differs significantly from the basic one; a new “hunting” stock and a mount for an optical sight are installed here. In a word, the system is fundamental.

Despite the fact that the OP-SKS is, in fact, an army weapon, nevertheless, it fits well in the hands “like a hunter” and is very versatile.

One of the biggest problems that the owner of an OP SCS will have to face is the installation of optics. But for driven wild boar hunts it is not needed. It is worth saying that any fine-tuning of the OP-SKS can result in amounts that sometimes exceed the cost of the weapon itself.

For shooting in wild boar hunting conditions, two types of cartridges are used from the 7.62 mm Simonov self-loading carbine (SKS): the first - 7.62 X 39 = 9.7 SP (9.7 - bullet weight in grams), with a semi-jacketed bullet (hunting); the second - 7.62 X 39 = 8.0 HP (8.0 is the weight of the bullet in grams).

The semi-jacketed bullet of a hunting cartridge 7.62 X 39 = 9.7SP is deformed when it hits an animal, providing the required killing effect at a distance of up to 100 m and slightly more. At distances exceeding those indicated, the lethal effect of the bullet and the likelihood of shock in the animal drop sharply. Aimed shooting with this cartridge from the SKS carbine is possible at a distance of up to 200 m. If it is necessary to shoot at long distances, the carbine must be pre-zeroed to determine the aiming correction.

Currently, a cartridge nomenclature has been developed for hunting from the SKS carbine - a hunting cartridge 7.62 X 39 = 8 HP. The bullet of the new cartridge has three components: a shell made of bimetal (low-carbon cold-rolled steel, clad with tompak - an alloy of copper and zinc), a lead jacket, a steel core, that is, in terms of elements and materials, this bullet is unified with the bullet of the 1943 model cartridge indicated above .

A distinctive external feature of the bullet is that the tip has a cut of the shell, through which the front part of the lead jacket, located below the level of the cut of the shell, is visible.

The flight trajectories of a bullet from an HP hunting cartridge and a bullet from a 7.62-mm combat cartridge of the 1943 model are matched at almost all distances when firing from an SKS carbine, which ensures a high probability of hitting, including small-sized hunting targets.

When a bullet from a 7.62 X 39 = 8 HP cartridge hits the soft tissues of an animal, it is deformed and partially destroyed at all firing distances up to 300 m, causing a state of shock in the animal and fully demonstrating the damaging factors. If the steel core hits the bone, the latter is crushed into fragments, which increase the damaging effect.

Vladimir Sintsov April 4, 2014 at 00:00

Modifications

Today it produces several modifications of the Vepr-Hunter carbine. They differ from each other not only in the caliber of the cartridges used, but also in some other design features.

VPO-101 / 101M / 101V

VPO-101 is a classic version of the “Vepr”, sharpened for firing with 7.62x51mm (.308 Win) cartridges. This variety has two versions of the VPO-101M - a modified version with a barrel length of 550 millimeters and the VPO-101V (varmint) - a short weapon sharpened for firing cartridges with a reduced weight of gunpowder and bullet weight.

VPO-102 / 102M / 102V

The VPO-102 carbine uses 7.62×63 mm (.30-8 Sprg) cartridges for firing. By analogy with the previous model, this weapon also has two versions. The VPO-102V is powered by lightweight .30-06 Accelerator cartridges, which are suitable for hunting fur-bearing animals. The VPO-102M is distinguished by some design changes, for example, a front sight.

VPO-124/124M

This modification of the “Vepr” was developed specifically for those who prefer the classics, since it uses classic 7.62x54R three-line ammunition for firing. Its modification VPO-124M is distinguished by an increased barrel length (660 mm), as well as improved firing accuracy. An excellent example of how to make modern carbines for old cartridges.

Specifications

Now let's take a closer look at what technical characteristics the Veprya-Hunter carbine can boast of. All necessary information relevant for the three modified versions (VPO-101M, VPO-102M and VPO-124M) is presented in the table below:

Thus, we can conclude that the VPO-101 carbine has the greatest penetrating power and the most capacious magazine, so it is better than others for hunting the largest animals and predators. VPO-102 is much better used for hunting wild boar, elk and deer, since its sharpness of combat is not so great, and 5 rounds may not be enough to shoot a predator. Well, the VPO-124 carbine will appeal to those who are accustomed to using cartridges from the times of the Russian Empire, as well as hunting animals whose mass does not exceed 200 kg.

About the Simonov self-loading carbine

New models of small arms were developed especially intensively during the Great Patriotic War. Many rifle units created at that time are still in use today. One of them was the creation of the Soviet gunsmith Sergei Gavrilovich Simonov. In the technical documentation, this weapon is listed as SKS. Despite its half-century history, this rifle unit has quite acceptable technical characteristics and combat qualities for hunting. Judging by the reviews from hunters, the SKS carbine is ideal for hunting any animal whose weight does not exceed 100 kg. In general, this shooting unit is used by both amateurs and professional hunters.

Principle of operation

A few words about the principle on which the Vepr-Hunter carbine works, since not all novice hunters understand what a self-loading weapon with a gas chamber is. Here is an algorithm in which everything is outlined in as much detail as possible:

1. First, we fire a shot - we press the trigger, after which the firing pin hits the cartridge primer, as a result, the gunpowder in the cartridge case ignites.
2. Part of the powder gases enters the gas chamber, a special compartment that branches off from the chamber.
3. The energy from the powder gases acts on the piston, which opens the bolt frame, after which the extractor ejects the spent cartridge case.
4. As soon as the chamber is empty, new ammunition is released from the magazine, since all projectiles are under the influence of a spring.
5. The trigger is cocked into the firing position, as a result of which the shooter can fire again.

Another feature of the Vepr-Hunter carbine is that after each shot the carbine automatically engages the safety. However, this is not such a big omission for fans of automatic fire, since the security system is turned off using a button, and not a flag, as on the same Saiga. So you can turn off the fuse in literally half a second.

Sights

The standard sighting device on Vepr-Hunter carbines uses a classic non-adjustable front sight, as well as a rear sight. Considering that the last element is located in the front of the receiver, it will in no way interfere with the installation of an optical or red dot sight. This body kit, by the way, is installed on a Picatinny sighting rail, which is mounted on a special 22 mm bracket. Such a mount is ideally suited for installing a modern body kit. If desired, the weapon can even be equipped with a thermal imager or night vision device, and fiber optics can easily be applied to the standard rear sight and front sight. However, it would still be wasteful to use a scope with a magnification higher than 9x, because the cartridge begins to lose its accuracy when shooting at a distance of more than 300 meters.

About the design of Simonov's rifle unit

Before wondering which is better - the SKS or the Vepr, you need to know about the design of this weapon. According to experts, the SKS is a smaller copy of an anti-tank self-loading rifle made in 1941, developed by S. G. Simonov. The fact is that the SKS, like the PTRS, uses the same operating principle. However, the bolt frame is under the influence of the piston through a pusher, which differs from the 47th model of the Kalashnikov assault rifle. The Simonov self-loading carbine structurally consists of the following elements:

• Rifled barrel. The receiver is integral.
• Equipped with a gas tube cover.
• Return mechanism.
• Receiver covers.
• Pushrod and spring.
• Trigger mechanism.
• Bolt, stock and clip.
• Front sights and sighting devices. They are represented by a bar, a block and a clamp.

Design features

A balanced and well-thought-out design is what Vepr-Hunter can boast of over its competitors. Despite the fact that the Kalashnikov light machine gun was used as a prototype, the engineers did not mindlessly copy all existing developments, but took only the best, after which they added several of their own design innovations. Here are the features that we advise you to pay attention to:

1. Fully automatic reloading system. Some people may like to shoot bolt guns, but let's be honest - self-loading carbines are much more convenient. At the same time, the design of the gas chamber was copied from the RPK, so that the system is simple and reliable, and is also not picky about the quality of ammunition and gunpowder. Although such a mechanism will still have to be cleaned.
2. Possibility of installing an additional sighting device without removing the already configured standard sight. An extremely useful feature for those who use optics only occasionally. This will save a significant amount of ammunition, because you will not have to constantly zero your weapon. In addition, if the optics become damaged during hunting, you can always remove it and continue hunting.
3. Enhanced security system. Thanks to the presence of two stops at once in the barrel locking system, the probability of an accidental shot is reduced to almost zero. In addition, after each shot the weapon is set to safety, so that a forgetful hunter will definitely not harm himself. Well, due to the fact that the trigger is located in a special block, a shot is impossible without a cocked hammer, even if the weapon falls from a great height.
4. Modern ergonomics. The carbine uses a long Monte Carlo stock, which is highly comfortable, but weighs much less than a standard sniper or machine gun stock. In addition, on the back of the butt there is a rubber shock absorber that absorbs well the recoil from the shot, as a result of which it becomes equal to no more than 28 J.
5. Reliable and high quality barrel. During the manufacture of the barrel channel and chamber, the cold forging method was used, as a result of which the weapon gained additional strength. The metal parts received an oxide coating, which ensures that the carbine can be used even in rain (corrosion is not a problem for it), and also gives the barrel an attractive appearance.

Judging by online reviews, the Vepr-Hunter is one of the most popular Russian carbines of the 21st century. Despite the rather large weight, as well as not the best accuracy indicators, many hunters prefer this particular model. The reason is simple - the low cost of weapons (especially in comparison with imported analogues), simplicity and reliability of the design. After all, in essence, the model took the best qualities from the legendary machine gun, but at the same time was perfectly adapted to the needs of modern hunters.

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.