The SVD (Russian: Снайперская винтовка Драгунова, СВД) is a Soviet 7.62×54mmR semi-automatic sniper rifle, designed in 1963 by Yevgeny Dragunov. Having a reliable short-stroke gas piston system, the SVD is not based on the AK despite similar appearance. It is issued with a standard PSO-1 telescopic sight and standard 10-round magazine.
The original SVD is identifiable by its pistol grip integrated with the buttstock, and two-piece front handguards with long rectangular perforations, while their length leaves the gas tube exposed. This tag also applies to the modernized SVDM, which has all-black furniture and triangular folding stock.
