SV-338
Kalashnikov Concern · Sniper Rifle · In Production · 2013
Also known as: VSV-338, Vintovka Snayperskaya Vysokotochnaya
Overview
The SV-338, also designated VSV-338, is a Russian long-range bolt-action sniper rifle developed by Kalashnikov Concern (formerly Izhmash) for military and law enforcement special applications. Chambered for the powerful .338 Lapua Magnum cartridge, the rifle is designed to engage individual targets at ranges up to 1,500 meters, filling the capability gap between standard 7.62mm sniper rifles and large-caliber anti-materiel systems. The SV-338 features a manually operated rotary bolt action with three frontal radial lugs locking directly into the barrel extension, a modular aluminum alloy stock with a side-folding adjustable shoulder stock, and a Key-MOD forend for accessories. The barrel is removable and can be replaced by an operator or unit armorer with minimal tools.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 7200 g (254.0 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 7600 g (268.1 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1100 mm (43.31") |
| Folded Length | 870 mm (34.25") |
| Barrel Length | 680 mm (26.77") |
| Action Type | Bolt Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Striker Fired |
| Trigger Type | Two Stage |
| Trigger Pull | 15 N (3.4 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 860 m/s (2822 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 5985 J (4414 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 1500 m (1640 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 3500 m (3828 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 254 mm (10.00") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Aluminum Chassis Polymer Furniture |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- .338 Lapua Magnum · primary — also known as 8.6x70mm, 8.58x70mm, .338 Lapua Mag
Features
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Firing Pin Safety
- Features: Free Floating Barrel, Removable Barrel, Muzzle Brake, Folding Stock, Adjustable Cheek Piece, Key Mod Forend, Picatinny Rail, Adjustable Bipod, Sub Moa Accuracy
Service history
Operators
- Russian Armed Forces · as VSV-338
- Russian Federal Security Service (FSB)
- Russian Special Forces (Spetsnaz)
Conflicts
- Russo-Ukrainian War (2022-present)
Production
Production years: 2013-present
Produced by Kalashnikov Concern for Russian military and law enforcement. Production numbers not publicly disclosed.
Origin
Country of origin: Russia
Notes
The VSV-338 was first publicly unveiled at the Army-2016 military forum in Russia. The rifle was developed as Kalashnikov Concern's entry into the long-range precision sniper rifle market, competing with Western designs like the Accuracy International AWM and domestic rivals such as the ORSIS T-5000. The removable barrel design allows for field replacement without specialized tools, extending the rifle's service life and simplifying logistics. With match or sniper-grade ammunition, the rifle delivers accuracy of 1 MOA or better. The designation 'VSV' stands for Vintovka Snayperskaya Vysokotochnaya (High-Precision Sniper Rifle).
Background
The SV-338 represents Kalashnikov Concern's bid to compete in the modern precision sniper rifle market, a significant departure from the company's traditional focus on mass-produced automatic weapons. Its development signals Russia's recognition that the .338 Lapua Magnum cartridge, originally a Western development, has become the global standard for long-range military sniping.