Dragunov V-70, The Automatic SVD

By Lynndon Schooler

V-70 automatic SVD (middle): Note the rare 5-round magazine and unique bipod location and stock. Photo by Lynndon Schooler.

The V-70 (В-70) variant of the SVD Dragunov sniper rifle was developed in the Soviet Union. Unlike the standard SVD, a semi-automatic designated marksman rifle, the V-70 was designed to provide automatic fire capabilities, setting it apart from its predecessor. However, the overall weapon concept was not revolutionary for the Soviet Union, as it involved using what now is commonly referred to as a battle rifle, marking a reemergence of this class of firearms for the Soviets AVT and AVS of the 1930s and 1940s. The V-70 may be better classified as an automatic rifle, like the U.S. .30-06 BAR automatic rifle.

Standard adopted SVD semiautomatic sniper rifle. Photo by Lynndon Schooler

In the late 1960s, the Soviets requested that design bureaus develop new small arms and ammunition concepts to increase fire efficiency and improve maneuverability. The work was carried

Source: The Firearm Blog