VKS Vykhlop
TsKIB SOO · Sniper Rifle · In Production · 2004
Also known as: VSSK, Vykhlop, Exhaust, VKS
Overview
The VKS Vykhlop (Vintovka Krupnokalibernaya Snayperskaya, or Large-Caliber Sniper Rifle) is a Russian integrally suppressed large-bore sniper rifle chambered in the unique subsonic 12.7x55mm STs-130 cartridge. Developed by TsKIB SOO, a subsidiary of KBP Instrument Design Bureau in Tula, the VKS was designed on request from the FSB for special operations requiring silent elimination of targets with penetration far superior to that provided by the 9x39mm VSS Vintorez. The bullpup-configured straight-pull bolt-action rifle features an integral suppressor that, combined with heavy subsonic projectiles weighing up to 76 grams, delivers devastating terminal effects while maintaining a sound signature dramatically lower than conventional large-caliber rifles. The weapon was adopted for service in 2004 and has seen limited deployment with Russian special operations forces.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 5000 g (176.4 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 7000 g (246.9 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1125 mm (44.29") |
| Barrel Length | 450 mm (17.72") |
| Action Type | Bolt Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Striker Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Trigger Pull | 25 N (5.6 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 290 m/s (951 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 2480 J (1829 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 600 m (656 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 800 m (875 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 410 mm (16.14") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- 12.7x55mm STs-130 · primary — also known as 12.7x55mm, STs-130, SC-130
Features
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Firing Pin Safety
- Features: Integral Suppressor, Bullpup Layout, Subsonic Ammunition, Folding Bipod, Adjustable Cheek Piece, Adjustable Shoulder Pad, Straight Pull Bolt, Picatinny Rail, Armor Piercing Capability
Variants
- VSSK Vykhlop — Original Designation
Service history
Operators
- Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) · adopted 2004 · as VKS
- Russian Special Forces (Spetsnaz)
- Russian Federal Protective Service (FSO)
Conflicts
- Second Chechen War (1999-2009)
- Russo-Ukrainian War (2022-present)
- Syrian Civil War (2015-present)
Production
Production years: 2004-present
Extremely limited production exclusively for Russian special forces and security services. One captured example was seized by Ukrainian forces during the Russo-Ukrainian conflict.
Origin
Country of origin: Russia
Notes
The VKS uses the 12.7x55mm STs-130 cartridge family, which includes multiple projectile types: a standard lead-core subsonic round (59g), an armor-piercing variant with a hardened steel core (STs-130VPS), and a heavy subsonic round (76g) for maximum terminal effect. Despite using 12.7mm caliber projectiles, the subsonic velocity of approximately 290 m/s keeps the sound signature to approximately 130 dB with the integral suppressor. The earlier designation VSSK stands for Vintovka Snayperskaya Spetsialnaya Krupnokalibernaya (Special Large-Caliber Sniper Rifle). The rifle achieves 1 MOA accuracy at 100 meters with precision ammunition. The bullpup layout keeps the overall length to 1,125mm despite the integral suppressor.
Background
The VKS Vykhlop, whose name translates to 'Exhaust,' was designed as the ultimate covert elimination tool for Russia's FSB counter-terrorism units. Its 12.7mm subsonic projectiles can penetrate body armor and light vehicle armor that the 9x39mm VSS Vintorez cannot defeat, while maintaining near-silent operation. A captured example in Ukraine in 2022 marked one of the first times this highly classified weapon was publicly documented outside Russian control.