Dragonov (7.62 x 54)

[RogueExec]

Is anyone still using this and, if so, is it still a viable weapon for sniping?

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"We're surrounded. That simplifies the problem!"

[josepy]

You can correct me anyone but I am pretty sure the soldiers who use the Dragonov are more of a designated marksman than a sniper.

As far as a true sniper rifle is the sense of a M-24/M-40 no.

[JY]

Yup, the SVD is still around and will be for awhile yet. The latest has a folding stock and improved flash suppressor. The POS 1 is still used and getting a little old but is still a good but under powered scope(4X). josepy has it nailed to actual use, you'll find one per BMP or what ever IFV in use by ex-evil empire and allies.

In actuallity for a semi auto it's not a bad system when used with in it's limits. The 7.62X54R is a round very similar to the .30-06 in performance, when using the sniper grade round, and they are made contrary to to some stories I've heard, the rifle's good to 600-800 meters for a center mass hit. Anyone interested in the SVD would do well in picking up a copy of "The Official SVD Manual" translation by Maj. James F. Gebhardt, US Army(Retired) it's a pretty good translation of the issue manual and saves you struggling through the Russian original,always comes out to late for me http://www.specialoperations.com/ubboard/frown.gif Paladin Press prints it and avail from their web site at http://www.paladin-press.com

Take care...Jim

[Linus]

IMHO, it sucks!

Kicks like a bitch and the issued scope has a tendency to get to close to your eyes, banging into your eye socket with each shot! I takes an eternity to realign the crosshairs with the target! And because it's so light it looses it's stability, even with a hand rest it's hard to cut any tighter groups. But hey, you could haul it around forever! So I 'd agree with josepy about it being more of a DM rifle than a wepon for a sniper.

Or maybe it's just that I'm grumpy 'cause I'm a lousy shot with it... http://www.specialoperations.com/ubboard/wink.gif

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Honestas supra omnis

[This message has been edited by Linus (edited 12-13-2000).]

[RogueExec]

Thanks, guys. I knew the Ivans had used it pretty extensively, but didn't know what practical use it had for NATO. Sounds like very little. Thanks again.

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"We're surrounded. That simplifies the problem!"

[Sharky]

I just hope they keep it for a long time.

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F.I.D.O.

[HmtPD2]

Has anyone ever noticed that the Dragonov has a bayonet stud....Hmmmmmmmmm......says a lot for their confidence!

[Linus]

In every relevant aspect it's just another version of the AKM/AK-47. They're built to last, not to shoot with...

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Honestas supra omnis

[JY]

Ever notice, that the rifle is just about right for use as a crutch...hmmmmmmm...says a lot for the outcome of the fight http://www.stopstart.fsnet.co.uk/smilie/lol.gif Maybe the bayonet is used as a non-skid tip........

take care...Jim

[Tuukka]

The Finnish Army accuired a shit load of them in the early 90s and they are in use. Its a good weapon for DM jobs but i agree with that its not the ultimate sniper. The Finnish Paras also use it extensively.

[RogueExec]

What about the FN/FAL? Is that weapon still utilized heavily, or has its popularity waned in recent years???

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"I'd like some wine for my men, some hay for my horses, and some mud for my turtle."

[JY]

Hehehe! May not be the best SWS in the world but...........I still want one for my collection http://www.specialoperations.com/ubboard/biggrin.gif Been on the recieving end of the durn things enough, they do work and do it well.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all...Jim