How a sport shooting rifle became a precision instrument of Russian warfare
In short: Born from a lineage of full-bore target rifles, the SV-98 is more than just a bolt-action weapon. Designed by Vladimir Stronskiy, this Russian system combines heavy-duty engineering with specialized ammunition to engage targets at ranges reaching 1,000 meters.
The SV-98 (Snaiperskaya Vintovka Model 1998) is rooted in the Record 300 m sport shooting series produced by Izhmash. This foundation in precision target shooting informs its core mechanics: a cold-hammer forged receiver and a heavy, free-floating barrel. The rifle utilizes a manual bolt action with three symmetrically spaced frontal lugs and a 320 mm twist rate to stabilize rounds like the 7N14 enhanced penetration cartridge. The system is often paired with the 7N14 sniper enhanced penetration round. It also features a threaded muzzle that can accommodate a conical birdcage-pattern brake or a specialized 23db (A) suppressor.
Precision is further refined through adjustable components. The rifle's stock, available in laminated plywood or fiberglass-reinforced polymer, features an adjustable butt plate and cheek comb to optimize the shooter's position. For optical accuracy, the manufacturer specifies the 1P69 3–10×42 variable magnification sight as the standard daylight optic, while the 1PN113 3.7× fixed magnification sight serves for low-light conditions. The trigger mechanism provides an adjustable pull between 1.0 and 1.5 kgf. Additionally, a 10-round detachable box magazine made of glass fiber reinforced nylon is used to feed the rifle.
The weapon's evolution continued with an upgraded variant developed in 2013, featuring an aluminum alloy receiver and a skeleton-type stock designed for better maintainability and lower production costs. By 2017, production transitioned to the Kalashnikov Concern. This modern iteration maintains a combat weight of 7.8 kg and a length of 1,200 mm, continuing the lineage of a weapon used in significant conflicts, including operations in Chechnya and Ukraine. The Kalashnikov-produced version includes a 650 mm barrel and was officially introduced into service in May 2020. This variant also incorporates an integrated bipod and a folding stock.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: SV-98
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/culture-sv-98.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in Peoples & civilisations · More in Cultures · Latest · A–Z · All topics
