VSK-94
KBP Instrument Design Bureau · Sniper Rifle · In Production · 1994
Also known as: 9A-91 Sniper, VSK
Overview
The VSK-94 is a Russian suppressed sniper carbine chambered in 9x39mm subsonic ammunition, developed in the early 1990s by the KBP Instrument Design Bureau in Tula as a cost-effective alternative to the more expensive VSS Vintorez. Based on the compact 9A-91 assault rifle platform, the VSK-94 was designed to provide Russian law enforcement and military units with a capable suppressed marksman rifle at a fraction of the cost of purpose-built special operations weapons. The rifle features a detachable suppressor rather than the integrated design of the VSS, allowing for easier maintenance and non-suppressed operation when stealth is not required.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 2800 g (98.8 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 3400 g (119.9 oz) |
| Overall Length | 933 mm (36.73") |
| Barrel Length | 200 mm (7.87") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Long Stroke |
| Firing Mechanism | Rotating Bolt |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 20 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 270 m/s (886 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 613 J (452 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 300 m (328 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 500 m (547 yd) |
| Rate of Fire | 700 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Stamped Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Black Phosphate |
Calibers
- 9x39mm · primary — also known as 9x39mm SP-5, 9x39mm SP-6
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic, Full Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Lever Safety, Disconnector
- Features: Detachable Suppressor, Subsonic Ammunition, Pso 1 Scope Compatible, Skeletonized Stock, Select Fire, Budget Alternative To Vss
Service history
Operators
- Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVD) · adopted 1995
- Russian Federal Security Service (FSB)
- Syrian Armed Forces
Conflicts
- Second Chechen War (1999-2009)
- Syrian Civil War (2011-present)
Production
Production years: 1994-present
Production numbers unknown. Manufactured primarily for Russian law enforcement.
Origin
Country of origin: Russia
Notes
Unlike the VSS Vintorez which uses an integral suppressor, the VSK-94 features a detachable suppressor that threads onto the barrel, making it easier to clean and maintain. The rifle shares magazines and ammunition with the 9A-91 compact assault rifle. The stamped steel receiver keeps manufacturing costs low compared to the machined receiver of the VSS. The PSO-1 optical sight is optimized for the subsonic ballistics of the 9x39mm cartridge, with a reticle calibrated for bullet drop at subsonic velocities. Effective engagement range is typically 200-300 meters, extending to 400 meters with skilled marksmanship.
Background
The VSK-94 was born from practical necessity rather than elite requirements. While the VSS Vintorez was reserved for Russia's most elite Spetsnaz units, the VSK-94 offered a 'good enough' suppressed capability for the much larger pool of MVD and police tactical units who needed a quiet rifle but could not justify the cost of the VSS system.