Vostok MTs 12
TsKIB SOO · Rifle · Out Of Production · 1952
Also known as: MTs-12, МЦ-12, MC 12, Vostok MTs-12
Overview
The Vostok MTs 12 (Russian: МЦ-12) is a Soviet .22 Long Rifle single-shot, bolt-action free (target) rifle developed at TsKIB SOO in Tula by designer I. I. Mikhalev in 1952. Built for precision smallbore competition, it has a heavy, high-precision barrel with six grooves and a recessed muzzle crown that protects the rifling, a longitudinally sliding bolt with a rotating handle, and a set (schneller) trigger whose pull weight and travel are adjustable. Rounds are loaded one at a time and the rifle is fitted with diopter (aperture) target sights. It was produced both in series and as individually fitted match pieces from the mid-1950s and was exported to the West under the 'Vostok' brand name.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 6250 g (220.5 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1250 mm (49.21") |
| Barrel Length | 750 mm (29.53") |
| Action Type | Bolt Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Striker Fired |
| Trigger Type | Set Trigger |
| Magazine Capacity | 1 rounds |
| Muzzle Velocity | 320 m/s (1050 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 133 J (98 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 50 m (55 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Wood |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- .22 Long Rifle · primary — also known as .22 LR, 22 LR, 5.6x15mmR, 5.6mm target
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Single Shot
- Features: Heavy Target Barrel, Recessed Muzzle Crown, Adjustable Set Trigger, Diopter Aperture Sights, Bolt Hold Open
Service history
Operators
- Soviet Union (sport shooters)
- United Kingdom (competitive smallbore shooters)
- Ukraine
Production
Production years: mid-1950s-1980s
Produced both serially and as individually hand-fitted match rifles; exact totals not published
Origin
Country of origin: Russia
Designer: I. I. Mikhalev
Notes
Made by the Central Design and Research Bureau of Sporting and Hunting Arms (TsKIB SOO). The bolt hold-open is located on the right side of the receiver. Later Soviet target rifles such as the MTs-112 and MTs-121 descend from this line.
Background
Vostok-branded MTs 12 target rifles were exported from the USSR to Britain, where they were prized by competitive smallbore shooters; the accurate little single-shot also saw use as a precision arm for marksmen in built-up areas where firing a military-caliber weapon was undesirable.