SVDK
Kalashnikov Concern · Sniper Rifle · In Production · 2006
Also known as: SVDK, Dragunov SVDK, 6V9
Overview
The SVDK (Snayperskaya Vintovka Dragunova Krupnokalibernaya, or Dragunov Large-Caliber Sniper Rifle) is a Russian semi-automatic designated marksman rifle chambered in the powerful 9.3x64mm Brenneke cartridge. Developed as a large-caliber variant of the SVD platform, the SVDK was designed to engage targets behind light cover, soft-skinned vehicles, and personnel wearing heavy body armor at ranges where standard 7.62x54mmR rounds prove insufficient. The rifle retains the SVD's proven gas-operated action while delivering significantly greater terminal energy.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 6500 g (229.3 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 6900 g (243.4 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1260 mm (49.61") |
| Barrel Length | 620 mm (24.41") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Short Stroke |
| Firing Mechanism | Rotating Bolt |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Trigger Pull | 27 N (6.1 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 770 m/s (2526 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 5190 J (3828 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 600 m (656 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 1200 m (1312 yd) |
| Rate of Fire | 30 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 254 mm (10.00") |
| Number of Grooves | 4 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Chrome Lined Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- 9.3x64mm Brenneke · primary — also known as 9.3x64 Brenneke
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Lever Safety, Disconnector
- Features: Pso Scope Compatible, Adjustable Cheek Piece, Chrome Lined Barrel, Flash Hider, Muzzle Brake, Bipod Compatible, Rotating Bolt, Machined Receiver
Base model
Service history
Operators
- Russian Armed Forces · adopted 2006
- Russian Special Forces (Spetsnaz)
Conflicts
- Russo-Ukrainian War (2014-present)
- Syrian Civil War (2015-present)
Production
Production years: 2006-present
Limited production by Kalashnikov Concern for Russian military. Exact numbers not publicly disclosed.
Origin
Country of origin: Russia
Notes
The SVDK uses a specialized Russian military loading of the 9.3x64mm Brenneke cartridge designated 7N33, optimized for armor penetration rather than the hunting applications the cartridge was originally designed for. The rifle is visually similar to the SVD but features a reinforced receiver and heavier barrel to handle the increased chamber pressure and recoil of the larger cartridge. The 9.3x64mm Brenneke was chosen partly because it was already a commercially available European cartridge, simplifying ammunition logistics. The SVDK fills a niche between standard DMR rifles and dedicated anti-materiel rifles.
Background
The SVDK represents Russia's creative solution to the body armor problem. Rather than developing an entirely new rifle system, engineers scaled up the proven SVD platform and paired it with a nearly century-old German hunting cartridge, repurposed with armor-piercing military loads to defeat modern body armor that could stop standard rifle rounds.