RPD

V.A. Degtyarev Plant · Machine-Gun · Out Of Production · 1944

Weight (empty)7400 g (261.0 oz)
Overall Length1037 mm (40.83")
Barrel Length521 mm (20.51")
Height190 mm (7.48")
Width45 mm (1.77")
Magazine Capacity100 rounds
Action TypeGas Operated Long Stroke
Firing MechanismOpen Bolt
Muzzle Velocity735 m/s (2411 fps)
Muzzle Energy2133 J (1573 ft·lbf)
Effective Range800 m (875 yd)
Frame MaterialSteel

Primary Caliber: 7.62x39mm

The RPD (Ruchnoy Pulemyot Degtyaryova, or Degtyaryov Hand-held Machine Gun) is a Soviet 7.62x39mm light machine gun designed by Vasily Degtyaryov. Designated as the model of 1944, it was adopted by the Soviet Army in 1948, with large-scale deliveries beginning in 1953. The RPD was designed alongside the AK-47 to fire the new 7.62x39mm M43 intermediate cartridge, serving as the squad automatic weapon component of the Soviet infantry weapon family. The weapon operates via a gas-operated, long-stro...

Country of Origin: SU

Designer: Vasily Degtyaryov