OSV-96
KBP Instrument Design Bureau · Sniper Rifle · In Production · 1996
Also known as: OSV-96, V-94
Overview
The OSV-96 (Odnozaryadnaya Snayperskaya Vintovka, later redesignated as a semi-automatic system) is a Russian anti-materiel rifle chambered in the powerful 12.7x108mm Soviet heavy machine gun cartridge. Designed at the KBP Instrument Design Bureau in Tula, the OSV-96 features a unique folding design that hinges at the receiver, reducing its transport length from 1746mm to approximately 1100mm. The rifle is designed to engage light armored vehicles, equipment, fortifications, and personnel at extreme ranges, providing Russian infantry with an organic anti-materiel capability.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 12900 g (455.0 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 13600 g (479.7 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1746 mm (68.74") |
| Folded Length | 1100 mm (43.31") |
| Barrel Length | 1000 mm (39.37") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Short Stroke |
| Firing Mechanism | Rotating Bolt |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Trigger Pull | 30 N (6.7 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 820 m/s (2690 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 16230 J (11971 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 1800 m (1968 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 6000 m (6562 yd) |
| Rate of Fire | 10 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 381 mm (15.00") |
| Number of Grooves | 8 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- 12.7x108mm · primary — also known as 12.7 Soviet, 12.7mm DShK
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: Folding Design, Muzzle Brake, Integral Bipod, Optical Sight Mount, Carry Handle, Recoil Buffer, Anti Materiel Capability
Service history
Operators
- Russian Armed Forces · adopted 1996
- Russian Special Forces (Spetsnaz)
- Bangladeshi Armed Forces
- Mexican Naval Infantry
Conflicts
- Second Chechen War (1999-2009)
- Syrian Civil War (2015-present)
- Russo-Ukrainian War (2022-present)
Production
Production years: 1996-present
Limited production by KBP Instrument Design Bureau. Used primarily by special operations and designated anti-materiel teams.
Origin
Country of origin: Russia
Notes
The OSV-96's most distinctive feature is its folding mechanism that hinges the barrel assembly forward relative to the receiver, dramatically reducing transport length. The rifle uses a gas-operated semi-automatic action with a large muzzle brake to manage the considerable recoil of the 12.7x108mm cartridge. Despite its semi-automatic capability, practical rate of fire is limited by the heavy recoil and need to reacquire targets. The rifle is typically employed with the 1P71 optical sight. The OSV-96 competes with the KSVK bolt-action rifle for the Russian military's anti-materiel role, with each having distinct advantages.
Background
The OSV-96's party trick is its folding barrel, which allows a nearly two-meter-long anti-materiel rifle to be carried in a package barely longer than a standard assault rifle. This makes it one of the most transportable heavy sniper rifles in the world, a critical advantage for airborne and special operations forces who cannot always bring vehicle-mounted heavy weapons.