Zastava M91

Zastava Arms · Sniper Rifle · In Production · 1992

Overview

The Zastava M91 is a semi-automatic designated marksman rifle chambered in 7.62x54mmR and 7.62x51mm NATO. Based on the Kalashnikov gas-operated action with a 620mm cold hammer-forged chrome-lined barrel, the M91 replaced the older M76 (7.92x57mm) as Serbia's standard squad-level precision rifle. The rifle feeds from a 10-round polymer magazine and achieves 1.5-2 MOA accuracy with match ammunition. Iron sights are graduated to 1,000 meters, with a side rail for the POSP 4x24 optical sight. The M91 has been combat-proven in the Yugoslav Wars, and has appeared in the Syrian Civil War and Yemeni Civil War.

Specifications

Weight (empty)5490 g (193.7 oz)
Overall Length1200 mm (47.24")
Barrel Length620 mm (24.41")
Action TypeGas Operated Long Stroke
Firing MechanismHammer Fired
Trigger TypeSingle Stage
Magazine Capacity10 rounds
Magazine TypeDetachable Box
Muzzle Velocity790 m/s (2592 fps)
Muzzle Energy3623 J (2672 ft·lbf)
Effective Range800 m (875 yd)
Maximum Range1000 m (1094 yd)
Barrel RiflingRight Hand
Rifling Twist240 mm (9.45")
Number of Grooves4
Frame MaterialSteel
Barrel MaterialSteel
Stock MaterialPolymer
FinishMatte Black

Calibers

Features

Service history

Operators

Conflicts

Origin

Country of origin: Serbia

Notes

Exported to the US civilian market since 2019 by Zastava Arms USA. The 7.62x51mm NATO chambering is the primary variant offered for export.

Background

The M91 was developed as Yugoslavia was dissolving, entering service just as the wars began. It proved itself in the intense urban combat of Sarajevo and Vukovar, where its semi-automatic action and 10-round capacity gave designated marksmen a significant advantage over bolt-action alternatives.