Vepr-308 is a self-loading hunting carbine (SOK), developed at the Vyatsko-Polyansky Machine-Building Plant (VPMZ) “Molot”. The designers used elements of the handheld system (RPK) in its creation, which gave the gun high reliability and excellent combat characteristics.

Produced since 1995, “Vepr” enjoys well-deserved popularity among hunters who appreciate the high quality and low price.

general information

The history of these weapons began in the early 90s, when government orders for weapons factories began to decline and it was necessary to find other sources of livelihood.

At that time, many enterprises of this kind began to develop hunting weapons for the needs of the domestic market and for export. VPMZ “Molot” was no exception.

The design group of this plant, consisting of P. Mokrushin, V. Lyamin, A. Kabatchikov and other gunsmiths, presented their carbine. It was based on a simple and reliable RPK system, chambered for a 7.62 mm caliber cartridge, but was deprived of a number of components, in particular allowing automatic fire. The model was given the name SOK-94 “Vepr-308”.

This weapon was intended for hunting large animals (elk, roe deer, bear.).

The new product instantly gained popularity among hunters. Reliability, lethality, low price - all these qualities were combined in the Vepr-308 carbine. Seeing such a stir, work on improving the rifle continued.

They released a separate modification for the NATO .308 cartridge (7.62x51).

This model was called SOK-95.

Design and principle of operation

In the appearance of the SOK-94/95 carbine, its legendary machine gun, the AK-74, is slightly recognizable.

In particular, this applies to the gas exhaust system. For the rest, the engineers used their own developments. The weapon is equipped with a wooden butt with a special groove for the thumb. There is a rubber shock absorber on the back side and a pistol grip. At the end of the barrel there is a flash suppressor and a muzzle brake-compensator (DTC).

To increase service life, the chamber and rifled barrel are chrome-plated. The stock is made of wood.

Open-type sighting devices have a rear sight, allowing targeted fire at a distance of up to 300 meters. There is also a mount for optics; for this purpose, a dovetail mount is used, located on the left side of the receiver. Flag type fuse.

The magazine on the Vepr-308 self-loading carbine can be used with 5,7 and 10 rounds, but there are also homemade ones with 20 rounds. When the clip is unlocked, a mechanism is activated to facilitate its removal. If there is no magazine, then it is possible to load the rifle by retracting the bolt and inserting ammunition there.

The gun's automatic operation is based on the use of the energy of powder gases and a return mainspring. When fired, powder gases are diverted from the barrel bore into the gas chamber. After which the mechanism is pulled back, compressing the spring, the sleeve ejects. Straightening forward, the spring sends a new cartridge from the magazine into its place.

The rifle is often subject to various modifications by its owners. The butt, stock, and internal mechanisms are changed. Can be equipped with a muffler. It is possible to install optics, a high-capacity clip and other accessories for the carbine.

This is also facilitated by the availability of various elements of weapons for free sale and in particular in online stores in China.

Specifications

The Vepr-308 self-loading carbine has the following tactical and technical characteristics:

• Weight with loaded magazine and without optics: 4.1 kg;
• Caliber: 7.62 mm;
• Ammunition used, caliber: 7.62x39 - domestic cartridge, 7.62x51 - foreign equivalent;
• Length: total – 110.55 cm, trunk – 59 cm;
• Magazine capacity: from 5 to 10 rounds;
• Years of production: since 1995;
• Sighting range with open sights: 300 m.

This carbine uses a trigger mechanism like the AK-74, but the Molot plant engineers made a number of changes to it. The main one was the impossibility of firing in automatic mode.

In versions chambered for .308 Win, the firing pin was also changed. A spring mechanism was added to it to prevent the ammunition primer from being pinched.

Positive and negative sides

During its existence, “Vepr” has proven itself to be mostly good. People involved in commercial and recreational hunting highly value its unpretentiousness, the reliability of the system in extreme temperatures and high pollution, and most importantly, the cartridge retains its power over long distances.

This gun is used to hunt wild boars, deer and other large game.

Briefly about the advantages

1. High reliability. This factor is due to the legendary ancestor of the SOK-95 - the Kalashnikov assault rifle. A more reliable and at the same time cheaper system has not yet been invented. The carbine is able to continue to work in a temperature range from -50 to +50. The main thing is to care for it properly;
2. High lethal power and stopping ability of ammunition. If you hit the beast, it is guaranteed to be neutralized;
3. The weak recoil force makes it possible to accurately fire quickly;
4. Accuracy of fire allows you to conduct effective fire at a distance of up to 300 meters;
5. With the optics installed, you can use the original sighting mechanism;

Briefly about the cons

1. The carbine has impressive weight and considerable dimensions, which is inconvenient;
2. Not the best balancing;
3. Wooden parts are not of the highest quality;
4. Another drawback is the noise of the fuse when it is switched;
5. The process of disassembling and cleaning the gas box is long and complex;

Released modifications

Since the serial production of the “Vepr” in 1995 by the “Molot” plant, several more modifications of this weapon have been produced, each of them has its own characteristics.

Modification	Caliber, mm	Peculiarities
SOK-94 “Vepr-308”	7.62x39	The very first model. In service with the Ministry of Internal Affairs
SLK-95 “Vepr-308”	7.62x51	Conversion for foreign cartridge.308
SOK-94R “Vepr-Pioneer”	7.62x51	Changed receiver
SOK-98 “Vepr-5.45”	5.45x39	Export version
VPO-101 “Vepr-Hunter”	7.62x51
VPO-102 “Vepr-Hunter M”	7.62x63
“Vepr-1V”	5.45x45
VPO-133 “Vepr K”	7.62x39
VPO-136 “Vepr KM”	7.62x39	Civil conversion of AKM and AK-74
“Vepr-223”	5.45x45
KO-SOK-243	6.2x52	Uses .223 Win ammunition
VPO-205 “Vepr-12 Hammer”	18.5x76	12 gauge, smoothbore

The SOK-95M “Vepr-308 Super” deserves special mention; the main changes in it affected the stock. She became whole. For production, beech or walnut wood is used.

The entire product has acquired a softer and more streamlined shape. Such a sharp change in appearance contributed to the perception of this weapon as a hunting weapon, and not a conversion from the PKK. This also led to a weight reduction of 100 grams.

The changes also affected the carbine barrel. It became more powerful, which led to an increase in the accuracy and range of an effective shot. The increase in mass was avoided by longitudinal valleys. The MTC (muzzle brake-compensator) has also been improved. It was combined with a flame arrester.

This reduced recoil and avoided temporary blinding in poor visibility conditions after the shot. The mount for optical sights has been moved to the gas box, which is a drawback (the aiming line has decreased).

The fuse was also redesigned. It's now push-button. It has become more convenient to use and, unlike the old flag-type one, it is almost silent.

A new type of magazine has also appeared - for 3 rounds.

The Vepr-308 Super carbine also has its own separate model range:

• SOK-95M “Vepr-308 Super” – chambered for 7.62x51;
• SOK-95MS “Vepr-308 Super Sport” (Production discontinued.) – uses 7.62x51 stock;
• SOK-35 “Vepop-35 Sport” – uses .35 Remington ammunition. Also no longer produced.

Equipment

The carbines of the “Vepr” series are supplied by the manufacturer with a carrying strap and 2 magazines for the selected number of rounds. The belts are not of high quality and wear out quickly. In some types of rifles, the flash hider is removable.

Often, after purchasing a SOC, experienced hunters carry out tuning. They add body kits: bipods, optics (like the SVD or Vintorez), and larger capacity magazines.

Some change the stock and stock. Sometimes it is difficult to recognize in a converted “Vepr” the carbine that was there before the conversion.

Currently, hunters are happy to purchase the Vepr-308 self-loading hunting carbine. Which is an indicator of its quality and reliability.

Video

Chambered for 7.62x51 mm cartridges. The foreign analogue of this ammunition is considered to be .308 Winchester. The carbine has a simple but reliable design, high shooting efficiency and an acceptable price for the Russian market.

general information

The Vepr-308 carbine is in high demand due to its power. Many hunters preferred their old guns to him. The design features of the carbine allow you to hunt large animals - brown bear and moose - in low temperatures.

High strength and heat resistance are achieved due to the fact that the design of the carbine is based on the design of the famous Kalashnikov assault rifle. Thanks to this choice, the carbine has a number of advantages that many rifles of the same class lack.

The developers of the Vepr made changes to some technical components so that the new carbine qualified as a hunting carbine. For example, in the firing system, the possibility of firing in bursts was eliminated, the shape of the butt was changed, and the forend was made semi-open.

Vepr-308 design

The automatic rifle works flawlessly. The working resource reserve is large, no misfires were noted even after 500 shots. Experienced hunters recommend cleaning the gas piston immediately after shooting, since it will be more difficult to remove carbon deposits after a few hours.

The bore is made with high quality. The only downside is that the protective layer of chrome peels off after a couple of hundred shots. Long service life depends on the owner - without regular cleaning, the weapon will quickly fail. The factory cleaning rod is not suitable for maintenance. It is better to buy it separately; experienced hunters recommend a cleaning rod with a rotating handle.

To remove dirt and carbon deposits, cotton tape is used, which is also used to insulate electric motor windings. It can be cut into strips and wrapped around a cleaning rod. The white color of the material allows you to control the progress of cleansing. As soon as the tape remains clean after the next approach, the work can be considered complete.

It is not recommended to be overzealous with lubricant; this has a detrimental effect on the operation of the automation. Before cleaning, the rag must be moistened and wrung out thoroughly. This approach is acceptable for using the Vepr-308 hunting carbine in harsh climatic conditions - down to -40 degrees Celsius. If you are going to hunt at temperatures above +30 degrees, the amount of lubricant can be increased. Long-time gun owners recommend using oil for diesel engines.

The Vepr's accuracy indicators are better than those of many competitors. The bullet spread is 8 centimeters when shooting at 100 m with the factory sighting mechanism. After a little modification, the accuracy can be improved to 7 cm. Naturally, with optics the result becomes even better. The rifle's loaded weight without an optical sight is 4 kg.

The standard belt is of poor quality. It makes a lot of noise when hunting, especially in cold weather. You can buy a canvas one with belt fasteners at a gun store.

When a carbine falls into snow, the flash suppressor collects a lot of snow into the barrel, which is considered a design flaw. It is recommended to avoid getting liquid and snow inside the flame arrester - this causes immediate spread of corrosion.

Advantages and disadvantages of the Vepr-308 carbine

• • The caliber and ammunition allow you to hunt medium and large animals;
  • The recoil is weak and has almost no effect on accuracy;
  • You can fire at a distance of up to 300 meters;
  • Accuracy of fire at a high level;
  • Accuracy does not decrease with 5-7 shots in a row;
  • Accuracy is improved due to the increased aiming line;
  • The basic sighting mechanism can be used with an optical sight installed;
  • High reserve of working life of implement parts;
  • Stable operation in harsh weather conditions;
  • Profitable price.

• High weight and impressive dimensions;
• Poor balancing;
• Average quality of processing of wooden parts;
• When switching the fuse, the flag clicks loudly;
• An open sight is easily damaged if dropped;
• The stock screw loosens quickly after the last tightening;
• The process of disassembling the gas chamber is inconvenient;
• Cleaning the gas chamber piston takes a long time.

The gun has more positive aspects, which is why it is in demand on the arms market. Some shortcomings can be eliminated by fine-tuning.

Development of Vepr-308

The overall quality of the gun is superior to other models, but will require some intervention to be near perfect.

The fastening of the stock to the receiver is of poor quality. The tail screw reduces accuracy. To solve the problem, you can make a through hole in the butt, make a screw with a cone washer and secure the butt to the receiver using this method.

Trigger parts are poorly machined, which reduces accuracy. Fine sandpaper can be used to sand the area of ​​the trigger hook and hammer. For optimal results, you can use a diamond needle file.

Differences between the standard model and Vepr Super 308

Changes affected the stock - it became solid, it is made from beech or walnut trees. The change in stock design made the carbine more like a hunting weapon than a combat weapon.

The Vepr 308 Super carbine has become lighter - its weight has dropped to 3,900 grams. The barrel became more powerful to increase the accuracy and efficiency of shooting, but due to the use of longitudinal valleys, its mass remained unchanged. The muzzle brake-compensator functions as a flame arrester. This design solution reduced recoil and glare from a shot in the dark.

There were some downsides too. Mounts for optics on the Vepr Super 308 were moved to the gas chamber, which shortened the aiming line. Despite this, the firing range of the 7 remained the same - up to 300 meters. The body is devoid of sharp and catchy elements that made hunting in the forest more difficult.

The safety became a push-button one and was placed above the trigger guard. The noise emitted from activating and deactivating the safety has been eliminated, and you no longer need to take your hand off the butt to press the button. A 3-round magazine was added to the 10 and 5-round magazines.

The consumer properties of any weapon consist of many characteristics, on which the popularity of each model depends. But one quality, which can perhaps be called the most important, is valued most of all. This is the reliability of the weapon. This characteristic is relevant in any field of application, including hunting.

Market Review

Without a doubt, accuracy and accuracy of combat are very important when hunting, and first of all this applies to carbines, which are designed for shooting at a distance of three hundred meters or more, especially at small and medium-sized animals. For example, today a sufficient number of types of self-loading rifled weapons, both domestic and imported, have been created for hunting wild boars and moose. Each of these models, as a rule, has its own advantages and disadvantages, which directly affect the effectiveness of shooting, depending on the conditions of its implementation.

Of course, self-loading weapons are indispensable primarily in wild boar hunts. They often require a second shot at rapidly moving prey. Therefore, a carbine for this hunt must have good controllability, and its caliber must allow for accurate repeated combat.

Self-loading rifled “imported” guns are more adapted for collective driven fishing. They are often made with an acceptable weight and have the ability to widely use different sighting devices. Calibers of foreign models, such as Browning BAR II, Merkel SR1, Winchester SXR, etc., fully meet all hunting requirements.

While some models of domestically produced carbines, judging by reviews, are overweight. And their stock, when compared with imported analogues, leaves much to be desired. And the point is not that domestic weapons are bad, rather, on the contrary, but for the most part they were not originally intended for hunting animals, but exclusively for certain military purposes. It was designed for combat use, not only for shooting at the enemy, but also for hand-to-hand warfare.

Comparison

But the domestic self-loading model range has many other advantages. As a rule, all of our guns are significantly cheaper than their imported counterparts, and their automation functions much more reliably, even in difficult conditions. The accuracy of domestic carbines is quite enough to defeat such prey as wild boar and elk.

In addition, chrome-plated barrels, which are much less capricious in operation, allow shooting even with the use of bullets in a bimetallic jacket, which is a very significant point for the average Russian hunter.

This is why self-loading weapons from Russian manufacturing plants are much more widely used by fishermen. And most often these are carbines “Vepr”, “Saiga”, “Berkut”, SKS, “Tiger”.

general information

The popularity of domestic self-loading weapons, according to professionals, is explained by such factors as reliability and simplicity of design. The availability of the cartridge and low price also play a significant role. Vepr hunting rifles are no exception.

Almost everyone who picks up a gun and goes after prey is familiar with the models produced by the Molot plant, located in Vyatskie Polyany. These are a variety of versions of the OP-SKS, the self-loading “Bekas” and, of course, the rifled and smooth-bore “Vepr” carbines. The latter were created on the basis of the RPK light machine gun.

The weapons of this engineering association have become quite recognizable today. Many models are very popular even among foreign hunters. And it all began with the firstborn of the “Hammer”, from which all the “Vepr” hunting carbines originate, the “Vepr-308”.

History of creation

In the early nineties of the last century, conversion production of civilian weapons was launched in Vyatskiye Polyany. This was due to difficult times, so this decision made it possible to preserve the personnel and technologies that had been used to produce the Kalashnikov machine gun until that time. As a result, Russian hunters, previously accustomed exclusively to traditional Tula and Izhevsk guns, were given an unexpected “gift.” Many of them began to gradually switch to Vepr carbines from Vyatskiye Polyany. In 1994, the very first copy, chambered for 7.62x39, appeared, and then the plant began to significantly expand the line. Today it produces Vepr carbines in numerous versions and for various bullets. They are intended primarily for commercial hunting of medium and large animals, but amateurs often prefer to buy this particular weapon.

Constructive decisions

Today, Vepr carbines fire 7.62×39, ×51, ×45, ×54, ×63 mm cartridges and have several different modifications and designs. The automation of this weapon is based on the Kalashnikov assault rifle. It has a fairly high degree of reliability and virtually fail-safe operation in a wide variety of operating conditions. Vepr carbines have automatic reloading, which is carried out thanks to the energies of the powder gas and the return spring, due to their removal from the barrel channel into the chamber when fired.

To increase service life, the rifle's chamber is chrome-plated, and to minimize flash, a non-removable flash suppressor is installed on the muzzle. To prevent inertial pinching of the primer on imported cartridges, the bolt striker is spring-loaded.

To increase their safety, Vepr carbines are equipped with a flag-type fuse. The stock is made of a combined stock, with a pistol grip, and has a rubber butt pad to reduce recoil. The receiver is equipped with a base for attaching “optics” brackets. Thanks to the design features of the sighting bar, effective shooting is ensured at a distance of up to three hundred meters. All these design features made Vepr carbines popular.

The lineup

Today, the Molot plant is considered a fairly well-known brand, under which not only hunting, but also sporting weapons are produced. His models are already known all over the world for their high quality and performance characteristics. The OJSC's partners are Americans, Germans, Greeks, Italians and distributors from many other countries.

The range of products is expanding every year. Some designs are made in cooperation with global manufacturers. Today, judging by reviews, the Vepr-12 smoothbore carbines are the most popular. They were developed by designers for shipping and export, including for maintaining law and order with its help.

Smoothbore hunting weapon

Vepr-12 Molot carbines, produced in several versions, can today be bought for thirty-five thousand rubles. They can have a removable or non-removable flash hider, a trigger locking mechanism and different barrel lengths. Vepr-12 carbines are used not only for hunting, but also for sports and self-defense. The sighting range of this model is up to one hundred meters. The magazine holds four or eight rounds. The weight with which these Vepr smoothbore carbines are produced is somewhat high - up to four and a half kilograms, but Russian fishermen consider this drawback not so significant, as evidenced by numerous reviews.

Classic rifled gun

These Vepr carbines have a solid stock. Their barrel is equipped with a slot-type muzzle flash suppressor. The trigger mechanism is trigger type. It is located on a detachable base. This series includes the Vepr Super carbines, which have good balance and a silent safety lock. The model is distinguished by practical reliability, “approachability” comparable to the RPK, and most importantly, comparative lightness (4.2 kg). Another version - the Vepr Super-308 carbines, produced in several versions, for example, SOK-95M or -97M chambered for 7.62x51 or 5.56x45 millimeters, have a number of advantages. The most important of them is the rapid cooling of the barrel due to the presence of longitudinal grooves. Another advantage of this model is the combination of a gas chamber and a block.

"Hunter"

This series has a solid walnut stock of the classic type and a semi-pistol grip, as well as a cheek piece and a rubber shock absorber. Vepr Hunter carbines are equipped with a new design of the trigger mechanism, which eliminates the adverse effect on the trigger of the moving system, since it is located on an easily dismantled base. The locking unit has also been strengthened due to a larger contact area between the lugs and the receiver.

There are also two types of front sight placement: in the middle part of the barrel and next to the muzzle. The first option has an increased length of the aiming line, while the second has less cantilevering and radial vibrations when fired.

Peculiarities

Optical devices mounted on carbines from the Hunter series on the side walls allow for targeted shooting. To increase wear, corrosion and erosion resistance, the channel with the chamber, as well as the gas chamber and piston rod are chrome-plated.

Ammo

The rifled hunting carbines of the Molot plant are made for different cartridges. For example, “Vepr-308 Super” shoots under .308Win caliber. Its analogue - "Hunter" - has a shot accuracy with cartridges 7.62x54R, 7.62x51 millimeters. This elegant hunting carbine, equipped with a long stock and a very comfortable, judging by reviews, semi-pistol grip, is simply irreplaceable when shooting offhand. The massive barrel and caliber allow for excellent accuracy.

Prices

On the import market, for example in the UK, the cost of a new Vepr carbine in its basic configuration is about two and a half thousand dollars. But in our country the price market develops somewhat differently. For example, “Vepr-12 Hammer” will cost a Russian hunter thirty-five thousand rubles. Rifled “Hunters” - a more modern line - are somewhat more expensive: they can be purchased in the store for forty-one and a half thousand. And for the self-loading carbine “Vepr - 308 Win” the price starts at twenty-nine thousand rubles. The cheapest models are “-K VPO-133”. Their cost ranges between fourteen and fifteen thousand.

User opinions

As reviews indicate, Vepr carbines have both their advantages and, of course, disadvantages. Let's start with the disadvantages: due to their “reactive” DTK, they emit quite a strong muffling noise when firing. But this drawback is almost unnoticeable during hunting, unlike shooting on a stand. Its second drawback is the non-removable DTK, but we can also solve this: you can order a dismantled modification at the factory.

Some users complain that the Vepr carbines have insufficient accuracy. But their opponents object that shooting from two hundred meters from this weapon always makes it possible to accurately hit an elk, wild boar or roe deer in the killing area.

But “Vepr” has a pretty good balance. It is especially relevant in dense thickets and fits the shoulder much better than other domestic analogues. And the noiselessness of the fuse of such models as the Vepr Super 308 or Hunter is beyond any criticism. The only thing this weapon doesn’t “like” is bullets that have a rounded nose, but such cartridges practically do not exist in domestic production.

The conclusion drawn based on user reviews is the following: Vepr carbines are powerful, trouble-free in any, even the most extreme, situation. They are, of course, a little heavy, but this is not critical, and in some cases it is even a plus: according to many, when shooting standing hand-held, it “shakes” less. In general, many people really like “Vepr”. And they use it with pleasure.

A real gift for fans of shooting from hunting carbines was the Vepr Super model from the manufacturer “Molot”, which has already pleased its fans with many successful models with excellent technical characteristics. The use of modern technologies, while maintaining the usual laconic style and wide possibilities for application, made the Vepr Super model the most successful and in demand.

Made, like other varieties of the Vepr model, on the basis of a Kalashnikov manual assault rifle, the Vepr Super carbine is used for professional hunting of medium and large animals. Depending on the caliber of the cartridges used, there are several varieties of this model, each of which copes well with its intended purpose - hitting a target at a long distance (up to 300 m).

Manufactured on the basis of such a well-known weapon as the Kalashnikov machine gun, the Vepr Super carbine stands out among its analogues with a high degree of reliability; it will not let you down under any external conditions: its power and firing efficiency are not affected by temperature, humidity changes, or mechanical loads.

The modern design and laconic style immediately attract the attention of buyers, and the affordability increases the level of demand, leaving the rifle in question in first place in terms of the number of purchases and interest in it. Made of high-strength steel, the body is decorated with natural wood, which has undergone special treatment, which allows the weapon to be used even under high humidity and temperature changes without losing the attractiveness of its appearance.

This video contains a review of the Vepr Super 308 carbines:

Advantages and disadvantages

The reduced weight of the carbine is ensured by the compactness of the model, which is especially important when transporting the carbine. Also, these parameters add convenience when operating the carbine and acquiring initial skills when learning to shoot.

Analysis of the existing advantages allows you to get the most detailed picture of the carbine model, taking into account its shortcomings and shortcomings.

The advantages of the Vepr Super model include its following characteristics:

• reducing the aiming line by moving the base of the front sight to the surface of the gas chamber, which made it possible to increase the accuracy of each shot due to the installation of an optical sight;
• increased shot accuracy due to a more powerful barrel, which is important to ensure maximum shooting efficiency;
• the ergonomic shape ensures ease of use of the carabiner, regardless of who is using it: a man with a large hand or a woman with a small palm;
• reduced recoil is ensured by its most optimal distribution, without reducing the power of the shots.

The listed advantages of the model under consideration allow us to understand the reason for its popularity and demand.

According to the majority of owners of the carbine in question, no shortcomings have been identified. Some consider the design of the carbine using polymer materials to be a disadvantage; however, external design can be called a matter of taste for each consumer.

Also, as a negative parameter, some users note the location of the rifling further from the beginning of the barrel, which significantly reduces the accuracy rate when shooting.

Vepr Super 308 (photo)

Purpose

• Due to its technical capabilities, the Vepr Super carbine is ideal for hunting, both amateur and professional. The range and accuracy of shots is ensured by the design of the carbine.
• Use in field conditions is determined not only by the technical characteristics laid down by the manufacturer, but also by the excellent quality of the materials from which the carbine body of the model in question is made: resistance to mechanical stress, temperature changes and high humidity makes it possible not to fear for deterioration in the external qualities of the model and its capabilities .
• This model is also successfully used in accuracy training and shooting sports.

Varieties

Today there are three main types of the Vepr Super model on sale, and each of them has its own design and use features.

• Variety Vepr 308 Super has a more pronounced sound when fired, which becomes noticeable during training shooting on a bench. In field conditions, when hunting, this sound does not “hurt” the ear too much, since then there is less opportunity to fire more than four shots in a row. Shooting from this type of model has a high degree of accuracy when shooting at a distance of 150-200 m.
• Variety Vepr Super Sport has several bipods, which provide maximum accuracy and accuracy of fire, thereby increasing its effectiveness. The adjustable butt pad provides the most comfortable position for the cheek and back of the head, which is important for enjoying the process of shooting from this carbine. The solid stock in this variety is made of natural wood - beech or walnut, treated with a special composition that ensures the longest possible preservation of the external qualities of the weapon.
• Vepr 35 Super uses cartridges of the 5.56x45 mm variant (.223 Remington), the qualities of this type of carbine are characterized by the ability to hit a moving target even at a distance of 300 m.

The listed modifications have gained significant popularity due to their excellent technical characteristics, which were laid down by the manufacturer.

Specifications

Modern and maximally balanced, the Vepr Super carbine has a lot of positive reviews from owners and buyers. Thanks to the ability to analyze the technical parameters of the Vepr Super model and similar carbines from third-party manufacturers, it becomes possible to obtain the most complete picture of both the capabilities of the carbine in question and the area of ​​its likely use.

Specifications	Carbine Vepr Super
Manufacturer country	Russia, Izhevsk
Purpose
	Semi-automatic carbine
Ammo capacity
Overall body length
Barrel length
Model height
Type of trunk	Cold forged, oxide coated

The barrel, made of high quality steel by cold forging, has a higher power rating, thereby increasing the effectiveness of each shot fired.

Design

Today, this model is considered one of the most successful for professional hunters, as well as for those who seek to improve their own shooting skills with firearms due to its simple design and ease of operation.

The thoughtful and balanced design of any model of a modern carbine makes it possible to obtain the most accurate shots and maximum accuracy of fire. The relative simplicity of the design makes it possible not to experience any difficulties with the process of operating the carbine, which is especially important for novice shooters. Its main structural part can be considered the butt, as well as the barrel.

The presence of additional devices makes the operation process easier and adds convenience to it. For this purpose, the butt plate is made of rubber and has a high shock absorption rate. There are two stops for complete locking of the barrel, which guarantees increased safety when using the carbine.

Vepr Super disassembled

Options and packaging

The model is sold in a cardboard package, with the necessary information about the manufacturing company printed on it. All variants of hunting rifles and carbines are sold in specialized hunting stores; a quality certificate and passport are attached to the model. There are also detailed instructions to help you understand the technology of using the carbine.

Operating principle

The principle of operation of the Vepr Super model carbine is simple, which largely ensures ease of manipulation with it. The magazine holds 9 rounds, which, when the trigger is pulled, move along a threaded barrel.

The front sight is used to select the target, and the optical sight allows you to increase the effectiveness of each shot. The otic sight can be used either that which is offered in the basic configuration or from a third-party manufacturer.

This video shows shooting from the Vepr Super carbine:

Disassembly

The barrel is secured to the body using a screw, which can be unscrewed if disassembly is necessary. Disassembly is usually required when tuning a carbine and its improvement, as well as to carry out the necessary repairs, while the optical sight is simply removed from its intended fixation location on the receiver.

The history of the appearance of the Vepr gun began with the fact that the Russian Ministry of Defense reduced government orders for the production of army types of weapons. Because of this, almost all domestic weapons manufacturers had to retrain their industrial capacities to create weapons for civilian use. One of these plants was the Molot machine-building plant, which began production of the Vepr hunting carbine. The Vepr self-loading hunting carbines were created on the basis of the popular Kalashnikov machine gun, and the caliber of ammunition for the weapon was 7.62x39 mm.

Description

The production of this type of weapon is based on the caliber of ammunition that is used in the weapon. Each weapon model uses its own type of ammunition, which is why quite a lot of models of this type of weapon have appeared. However, all modifications of this type of weapon have some common characteristics.

Technical characteristics of "Vepr":

1. To increase service life, the chamber and bore are chrome plated.
2. Optics for the Vepr carbine can be used, or targeted shooting can be carried out with an open sight at a distance of up to 350 m.
3. Recharging of the "Vepr" occurs automatically due to the fact that the energy of the exhaust gases and the return force of the spring are used.
4. Almost all models are equipped with an orthopedic stock, which has a cutout for the thumb and a pistol grip.
5. To reduce flashes of flame, a non-removable flame arrester is located on the body.
6. To increase safety, the carbines have safety catches.
7. To soften recoil, a rubber shock absorber is located at the end of the butt.
8. The temperature at which you can fire ranges from -50 to +50 degrees Celsius.

Design

Carbines are available in several modifications, which depend on the type of cartridges used. If we talk about the automation of this type of weapon, it is built on the basis of Kalashnikov automatics, which provides enormous reliability and the ability to fire in the most extreme situations. The design features of weapon reloading, the presence of a flame arrester and the durability of the weapon were written above.

When using imported ammunition, inertial puncture of the primer is possible. In order to avoid such a problem, the carbine bolt striker is spring-loaded.

An additional safety measure for this weapon was that since 1997, all modifications of the Vepr-308 export version, as well as some modifications for domestic sale, also received a spring-loaded firing pin. If you use domestically produced cartridges, there will be no problems.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantages include:

• the large caliber of the bullet allows hunters to hunt large animals;
• recoil is weak;
• quite a long firing range;
• high accuracy of fire;
• there is the ability to conduct long-term shooting without loss of accuracy;
• a longer sighting line improves the accuracy of the weapon;
• Optical sights for the Vepr-308 carbine can be installed;
• there is the possibility of firing from an open sight even with installed optics;
• even at low temperatures the weapon will be fully operational;
• the overall quality of the weapon is at a fairly high level;
• the best price among weapons with similar parameters.

The disadvantages include:

• heavy weight of the gun.
• weak weapon balance.
• The processing of the wooden parts of the weapon is poor.
• When the fuse is switched, a loud sound is produced.
• The open sight often becomes dislodged when crossing bushes or falling.
• difficulties in disassembling the gas chamber.
• difficulty in cleaning the gas chamber piston.

The lineup

The Vepr-308 SOK 95 carbine is a self-loading hunting carbine that has been modified to accept imported 7.62 .308 Winchester caliber ammunition.

"Vepr-308" has the following characteristics:

• bullet caliber 7.62 mm;
• cartridges used: 7.62x51; 308Win;
• barrel length 520 mm; 590 mm;
• projectile flight speed 830 m/s;
• firing range 300 m;
• Magazine capacity - 7 rounds.

The design of the Vepr-308 carbine is almost the same as that of the conventional Vepr with a caliber of 7.62x39 mm. However, improvements in bullet caliber increased the performance of the SOK-95.

"Super"

The Vepr-308 Super carbine is an even newer modification of the previous type of weapon. The main difference in the appearance of this variety is that it has a solid stock. The Vepr-super carbine has a structural assembly that is most closely similar to that of an AK. The cartridges for weapons in this series are .308 Winchester and .35 Remington.

"Super-Sport"

"Vepr -308 -super-sport" is the most recent modification of this type of weapon.

Weapons of the “Vepr-super-sport” type have the following characteristics:

• bullet caliber 8.89 mm;
• type of ammunition. 35 Remington;
• barrel length 550 mm;
• ammunition flight speed 830 m/s;
• clip capacity 3, 5 or 10 rounds;
• weapon weight with a full magazine is 4 kg.

"Pioneer"

The Vepr-Pioneer carbine is a modification designed for a smaller bullet caliber.

"Vepr-Pioneer" has the following characteristics:

• bullet caliber 5.56 mm;
• ammunition used in weapons 5.56x43 (.222Rem); 5.56x45(.223Rem);
• barrel length 550 mm;
• sighting firing range 300 m;
• clip capacity 5 or 10 rounds;
• weapon weight with an empty clip is 3.6 kg.

Smoothbore carbine

Smooth-bore weapons include the carbine " Vepr 12 - Hammer" The Vepr smoothbore carbine has two types of flame arrester - removable or non-removable. In addition, models of this type may also have different barrel lengths. The use of this type of carbines is not limited to hunting. They can be used for self-defense or in sports.

The clip capacity is either 4 or 8 rounds. The weight of the gun is 4.5 kg, which is considered heavy, but many reviews indicate that this drawback is hardly noticeable.

Vepr 1B rifled carbine

The Vepr 1B is designed in a military style with a plastic machine-gun fore-end, a folding metal butt with a rubber shock absorber. The carbine has different barrel lengths from 360 mm to 590 and is available in the most popular calibers:

• VPO-125 / k.223Rem
• VPO-126/k.7.62x39
• VPO-127 / k.308Win
• VPO-129/k.7.62x54R
• VPO-147 / k.308Win
• VPO-148/k.5.45x39

Among the advantages can be noted:

• Menacing military look
• Reinforced machine gun box
• Thick barrel, allowing for more accurate shots
• It’s easy to upgrade the carbine to suit your needs

Of the minuses:

• Heavy weight

"Hunter"

The Vepr-Hunter carbine has a one-piece stock, which strongly resembles a classic one, and also has a semi-pistol grip. "Vepr-Hunter-308" has two types of front sight placement, either in the middle of the barrel, or nearby near the muzzle.

If the front sight is located on the middle part of the barrel, then the length of aimed fire increases. If the front sight is installed near the muzzle, the cantilever and radial vibrations are reduced.

"SOK-94"

"Vepr SOK-94" is one of the first models of weapons of this type, which has 7.62x39 caliber cartridges. Such weapons are used by military and guard units.

"Vepr-5.45" / SOK-98

"Vepr-5.45" or as it is also called SOK-98 is a rifle intended for export. The bullet caliber of this type of weapon is 5.45x39 mm.

Hunting use

Hunting with the Vepr is most often carried out for medium or large game. This became possible due to the fact that the bullet caliber, firing range and shot power are very large.

Due to the high performance, a weapon of this type is quite capable of piercing the thick skin of a boar or elk, and a hit, even if not fatal, most often leads to the fact that the animal cannot go far, since this weapon leaves very deep wounds.

Tuning the Vepr carbine can involve installing powerful optics with a high zoom ratio.

Video

Watch our video for a review of the carbine and the features of its zeroing.

Many Russian hunters have long been using the products of a machine-building plant called “Molot”. Three-line and self-loading guns from the “Bekas” series, Simonov hunting carbines, smooth-bore, as well as semi-automatic rifled models from the “Vepr” line - all these are the brainchild of the plant located in Vyatskie Polyany. One of the first samples he released was the Vepr-308 carbine, the price of which depends on the design.

History of creation

2010 marked seven decades since the founding of the Molot machine-building plant. It was created during the Great Patriotic War for the mass production of Shpagin submachine guns - PPSh. In peacetime, in parallel with weapons, other products came out of the machines, from washing machines to skates.

With the onset of the nineties of the last century, Soviet industry began to decline. The defense industry did not escape this fate. Therefore, in order to survive, “Molot” switched to large-scale production of weapons for hunting. The Ministry of Defense has reduced its orders for rifle models. And therefore, arms factories had to adapt their production lines, which produced military products, to civilian products. Izhmash was the first to decide on this, followed by Molot, located in the Kirov region, which did the same. Taking the famous AK as a basis, the designers created their own model - a self-loading carbine that fires a cartridge of the same size. The model was named “Vepr”.

Already in 1994, Russian hunters had a chance to get acquainted with a new gun, manufactured initially for the 7.62x39 cartridge, and a little later - for the .308Win cartridge. Over time, it began to be produced in various calibers and designs.

general information

The first Vepr-308 was as similar as possible to the RPK. Only the trigger mechanism was changed, in which the self-timer was eliminated, and new forms of the trigger, sear and retention elements were designed. The Vepr-308 carbine has a long fore-end without a top pad and an orthopedic butt.

Its barrel bore is chrome plated. It is produced by cold forging. The Vepr-308 carbines have a strengthened locking unit and a slightly modified gas exhaust unit. Thanks to its long barrel, as well as a receiver made of one and a half millimeter thick, and reliable locking, the Vepr-308 is as close as possible to its main competitor, the Izhevsk Tiger.

Specifications

Fans most often choose the Vepr-308 carbine, the price of which starts at twenty-three thousand rubles. It is usually used in driven hunting, which takes place from a number or from an ambush. The reason is that the dimensions and weight of the Vepr-308 carbine make running shooting somewhat difficult. He has no problems with accuracy. Experienced hunters shoot well with it even at a distance of about three hundred meters.

The magazine of this carbine is box-shaped, removable, designed for seven or ten rounds. Vepr-308 weighs about 4.1 kilograms with a length of one thousand two hundred millimeters. When compared with analogues, the Tiger, for example, is a little shorter - ten centimeters.

The initial speed of the bullet is 830 m/sec. The discrepancy when firing domestically produced cartridges from one hundred meters is no more than seven centimeters.

Advantages

Like many domestic shotguns, the entire line of this carbine, including one of the best models - “Vepr-308 Super” - is reliable and unpretentious both in maintenance and operation. It is perfect for both fishermen and hobbyists. It has a lot of advantages, including the fact that the Vepr-308, the price of which is somewhat high compared to analogues from other manufacturers, is as similar in components and parts to a light machine gun as possible. From his prototype, he inherited a powerful box and the barrel itself, which is quite heavy, and a rear sight with an insertion mechanism for lateral corrections.

The butt of the Vepr-308 Super carbine is of the orthopedic “Dragunov” type with a rubber butt pad. Thanks to the height of the comb, it is possible to use both mechanical and optical types of sights equally well.

Performances

These carabiners are available in several versions. The first was the SOK-94 model, produced under 7.62×39 cartridges. It is still used today in the paramilitary and guard units of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

The second model SOK-95 “Vepr-308”, the price of which on sale starts from twenty-seven thousand rubles depending on the configuration, was produced under the 7.62×51 cartridge. It is still quite popular among hunters today.

Many models were discontinued, for example, SOK-95 MS "Vepr-Super-Sport". Today, only one version from this line is produced. This is SOK-95 M “Vepr-308 Super”, the price of which starts from thirty-one and a half thousand rubles.

Judging by the reviews, this hunting rifle has good balance and a silent safety. It is trouble-free, but most importantly, it is lighter than its predecessors. Apparently, this is why today many hunters choose this particular carbine.

"Vepr-308 Super"

Unlike the previous ones, this version has a number of significant features. For the first time, instead of a forearm and butt, it features a solid stock made of beech or walnut. This greatly changed the carbine, which turned out to be more aesthetically pleasing and streamlined, combining good ergonomic characteristics.

The new model has become more convenient both in handling and transportation. At the same time, it has increased rigidity in the barrel-box system. This is an important factor, since even a one and a half millimeter magazine box chambered for the 7.62x51 cartridge does not provide the desired performance. At the same time, a partial increase in the mass of the butt is compensated by a decrease in the weight of some parts.

In addition, the Vepr-308 Super, the price of which starts at thirty-three thousand rubles, is made with a more powerful barrel, which made it possible to reduce vibrations when shooting and improve accuracy.

Equipment

The practice of hunting with this weapon has shown that the overwhelming majority of hunters use it. Based on this circumstance, the designers made some changes. They reduced the aiming line and moved the front sight block to the gas chamber. This was enough for shooting at a distance of three hundred meters and increasing the viewing angle.

"Vepr-308 Super", the price of which depends on the configuration, can be equipped with an optical sight straight from the factory. Usually it is equipped with four-fold optics. Those hunters who want to install another sight on their carbine buy weapons without add-ons. It's much cheaper. The optics are mounted on the side, the same as on the AK, on ​​the basis of which, in fact, the Vepr-308 was produced, the price of which depends on the configuration.

How much can you buy it for?

The cost of models produced by the Molot plant has a fairly wide range. For example, the Vepr-308 carbine VPO-127 version 03 with a folding stock can be purchased for 29,869 rubles. The cheapest model is SOK-95L. It can be purchased for 25,200 rubles.

Nevertheless, the most popular among hunters today is the Vepr Super-308 carbine. The price for it depends on the configuration. Basic models cost a little less than thirty thousand rubles. In any case, the cost depends on the configuration, stock material, the presence of an optical sight and other add-ons that can be installed on the Vepr-308.

Commando with "Vepr-12 Molot"

The situation with civilian weapons in the Russian Federation is relatively far from ideal. On the one hand, citizens are free to purchase weapons of limited destruction, long-barreled smooth-bore, pneumatic, gas and even long-barreled rifled weapons. A traumatic weapon or a weapon of limited destruction is used only for self-defense, and it can not only be stored at home, but also carried with you, well, with the exception of some events, for example, mass events. With some pneumatics and other sporting weapons, you can appear at sports venues, as well as shoot at a shooting range during leisure hours. With long-barreled weapons you can go hunting or protect your home and loved ones from illegal attacks. But, alas, it is impossible to buy a revolver or pistol in order to effectively repel an armed criminal. Our legislator, who often travels with armed guards and in armored cars, does not yet allow citizens of their country to protect themselves from criminals with real effective weapons in their hands. But let’s leave such prohibitions on the conscience of those who invent laws and restrictions, and leave the task of combating them to specialized associations. But it’s better for us to focus on what an ordinary citizen can buy for himself, as they say, for his home, for his family. So that it would be useful on the farm and you could show off in front of your relatives. We will further discuss such a very interesting smooth-bore gun as the “Vepr-12” produced by the arms factory in the city of Vyatskie Polyany.

The plant where Vepr-12 Hammer is produced in the city of Vyatskie-Polyany. By the way, the mud on the roads there in the fall is really knee-deep! Collective farmers and other farmers are trying.

Of course, my opponents may argue that now, completely legally, you can purchase a Degtyarev machine gun, a Dragunov sniper rifle, and the Kalashnikov assault rifle itself is accessible and, in principle, not at all expensive. And in general, quite recently, Maxim machine guns, written off from warehouses for obsolescence, were sold openly and legally. But, all of the weapons listed above, although they are rifled and combat weapons, are deprived of the ability to fire in bursts. In fact, they are all equal to ordinary hunting. Yes, and you can purchase rifled weapons only five years after receiving a license for smooth-bore weapons. And there are noticeably more hassles with a rifled barrel than with a smoothbore one. It is necessary to carry out shooting periodically and hand over what was shot to the “file cabinet” of the security forces.

Vepr-12 Molot

"Vepr-12 Hammer" exists in several varieties. They differ mainly in the length of the barrel. There is a version with an extended barrel, it proudly bears the modification index VPO-205-01, there is a version with a medium-long barrel, VPO-205-00, and there is a version with a short barrel, called VPO-205-03. It is precisely the latter who is the hero of our story today. But let's start from afar.

The manufacturer, the Vyatsko-Polyaninsky Machine-Building Plant "Molot", persistently calls a series of smoothbore shotguns carbines. If we approach the issue of the name from a scientific point of view, then a carbine is a self-loading rifled rifle, which, in principle, differs from a self-loading smoothbore gun precisely in that it is rifled and is intended not for hunting or home defense, but for combat operations. But it just so happens that, wanting to distance themselves from the obsolete old-fashioned “breakthroughs”, manufacturers and sellers call self-loading smoothbore shotguns carbines.

"Vepr-12 Molot" with a shortened barrel. The only non-standard one is a tactical pen.

The Molot plant is one of a cohort of factories scattered across the vast territory of Russia, which belongs to our glorious military-industrial complex. And they produce not only Vepr guns, but also a lot of other strategically important weapons. Including Kalashnikov machine guns. The legendary Kalashnikov assault rifle is a very formidable weapon; if equipped with appropriate ammunition, then even the highest class of passenger car armor will not be able to withstand its shot. A cartridge with an increased charge of gunpowder and an armor-piercing incendiary bullet is capable of penetrating not only armor-glass of the highest protection class, but also armor-steel. It is clear that there is no reason to go against a tank with a machine gun; the tank is designed to withstand slightly different shock loads than from small arms, but any civilian “armored car” will not be suitable against such a shot. The main thing is to mark more accurately. And, what can we say about the Kalashnikov machine gun... Well, it was on the basis of this very Kalashnikov machine gun that the “Vepr-12” carbine was made.

Origins of Vepr-12 Molot

All the features of a machine gun were transferred to the design of the carbine, with the exception of two parts. The carbine cannot fire in bursts and instead of 7.62 caliber cartridges, 12-gauge ammunition is used. The machine gun gave the gun increased reliability, especially with regard to the barrel, and as a result increased weight. The machine gun is designed to conduct long-term fire at the enemy, so all its mechanisms are made with a certain reserve. But this also increases the weight excessively, even if you compare it with a banal Kalashnikov assault rifle. And the most massive and heaviest part of the Vepr-12 is precisely the thick and durable machine gun barrel. If in the version with a shortened barrel (VPO-205-00) the barrel does not hang forward and the gun is generally held very harmoniously, then even in the version with a medium barrel one feels an excessive load on the hand holding the fore-end. And what can we say about the long-barreled version? It is not only inconvenient to shoot handheld, it is generally inconvenient to walk with it, especially over rough terrain and over long distances. I remember how sellers, praising their products, said that when hunting, a gun with a long barrel always catches the ground when you throw it on a belt from your back to your hands.

What does it shoot with?

Now about the caliber. There is confusion in determining caliber, and not a little. Fact. In modern usage, there are at least two main options for determining the caliber with which small arms can operate. The caliber of shotguns is defined as the number of bullets that can be cast from one pound of lead. The pound is taken from the English pound, not the American one. So, for the 12th gauge, which is suitable for the Vepr-12, 12 bullets can be cast from one English pound of lead (not to be confused with a pound sterling). The interpretation is very ambiguous, so tables were also thought out that determine the diameter of the barrel based on the caliber of the smoothbore gun. So for the 12th gauge, the internal diameter is 18.5 mm, for the 20th it is already 15.6 mm, and for the 32nd the diameter will be 13.4 mm. Those. The larger the caliber number, the smaller the bullet itself and the diameter of the barrel.

For rifled weapons, such a medieval approach is unacceptable and the normal measurement of the internal diameter of the barrel in millimeters is used. But there was also a clash of civilizations. In some countries the minimum diameter of the trunk is measured, and in others the maximum (by the grooves). And in backward countries like the USA or Great Britain, they still cling to their own outdated inches. A mess in one word, and that’s all!

In addition to the diameter of the bullet, an important characteristic that determines the ammunition is the overall length of the entire cartridge. It is usually indicated after the caliber designation. And this value means the maximum length of the cartridge that can be used in a weapon (for rifled weapons, only the length of the cartridge case is indicated). So “Vepr-12” is powered by 12x76 cartridges, i.e. The gun is suitable for cartridges no longer than 76 mm (usually shooters equip their guns with the more common 12x70 cartridges). And its progenitor, the Kalashnikov machine gun, consumes 7.62x54 R cartridges. And if you compare 12x76 and 7.62x54 cartridges, the latter will look like a very slender ancestor, a hamburger-fed descendant.

Maintenance Vepr-12 Molot

By the way, the barrel of the Vepr-12 is chrome-plated on the inside. This was done in order to increase the life of the barrel and reduce the need for cleaning it. In the days of black powder, which was invented in China in ancient times, after each shot, a certain amount of both burnt and unburnt particles of gunpowder remained in the barrel. More precisely, even a very large number of them. And these substances, gradually combining with water (and there is always water in the air), turned into acid, which slowly but surely corroded the trunk. And after some time, the trunk degrades so much that it is simply dangerous to use it any longer; at any moment it can break into pieces. But scientific thought does not stand still, especially if it is financed from the generous pocket of the Ministry of Defense. And already in the 19th century the so-called smokeless powder, which does not leave such an aggressive coating on the barrel. And only thanks to smokeless powder can automatic weapons built on the principles of removing gases from the barrel (all Kalashnikovs and their descendants) work.

Some sources state that even when using smokeless powder cartridges, the barrels need to be cleaned. They say that during a shot, the barrel expands by a small fraction of a percent under the influence of the pressure of the powder gases, and fumes from the burnt gunpowder penetrate into the expanded pores. And the barrel must be cleaned after each use. The experts are, of course, a little disingenuous. Firstly, the barrel is chrome-plated precisely so that there are absolutely no pores left in the barrel, especially with the tiny expansion that occurs during a shot. And, secondly, the barrel can still be cleaned, but what to do with the branch of the gas outlet pipe? The piston and cylinder itself can be removed and washed from carbon deposits, but a small and very curved channel, the beginning of which is in the barrel, is completely impossible to mechanically clean from carbon deposits. But it is not required. No corrosion threatens your barrel, pistons and automation channels. Smokeless gunpowder was invented precisely for this purpose, to save servicemen from this tedious procedure. Well, and thirdly, trying to clean off the carbon deposits that got into the pores of the barrel during its expansion with a cloth or a soft roller is a completely unpromising idea. And using a hard wire brush will only ruin the chrome plating.

But you need to clean your gun and you should do it periodically if you want it to work properly. After all, even though the soot from modern gunpowder is insignificant and not so dangerous, it still exists even with very large deposits, it will interfere with the operation of the automation. With a large shot, especially using lead bullets or shot without plastic containers, the so-called. “Leading” of the barrel, when the thinnest layers of lead can stick to it from the inside. Theoretically, such marks could interfere with the passage of, for example, a bullet with a diameter the width of the barrel, but this is still unlikely for a smoothbore gun. In addition, when using plastic containers for shot, plastic wads and other pleasures made of plastic, pieces of plastic can also stick to the inside of the barrel. But I repeat, for a smoothbore gun, such growths are within reason and do not affect shooting in any way. But lead coating is generally typical mainly for rifled weapons and it is the rifling of the barrel along which the bullet moves that becomes clogged, while in a smoothbore gun there is simply nothing for lead to catch on. But, again, do not forget about lubricating all moving parts and cleaning from dirt and too much carbon deposits in places where there are moving elements, for example, in a gas chamber. And, of course, it is worth using high-quality lubricants specially designed for this type of weapon.

Caliber

As I mentioned above, the gun perfectly accepts cartridges of 12x76 and 12x70 calibers (a shorter and more common cartridge). Such cartridges can be loaded with lead shot of various sizes, buckshot and, of course, bullets. In my opinion, the 12th gauge at the current stage of development of science and technology is too large. Even with an increased weight of gunpowder, a fair amount of air remains in the cartridge between the warhead (shot or bullet) and the gunpowder itself. This eloquently suggests that this caliber, developed during the reign of less effective black powder, is already outdated. Modern gunpowders have a much greater gas generation capacity. Moreover, dozens if not hundreds of powder mixtures have been developed that have diverse characteristics. Some burn instantly, almost explode, while others, on the contrary, burn slowly, producing a lot of gas, but with less impulse. And even an experienced shooter can get confused in such diversity, especially taking into account the fact that the same manufacturer can produce many types of cartridges at once, for different purposes, and sometimes change the recipe of the gunpowder used.

Fetter ammunition. Blue caliber is 12x70, and blue is 12x76.

The warheads of cartridges can similarly vary, both in total weight and in shape and material. The main ammunition used in the smoothbore is, of course, shot. It varies in size and is numbered from size 12 for shot with a diameter of 1.25 mm and ending with size 0 for shot with a diameter of each shot of 4.25 mm. There is a larger fraction, it is numbered with additional zeros, where each individual zero adds 0.25 mm to the previous size. From size 5.25 to 10 mm, shot is called buckshot. The shot is usually cast from lead, with the addition of various other metals, but any other material can be used. Lead, as you know, is not the most environmentally friendly metal, so manufacturers are trying to replace it with something more environmentally friendly. This trend is most noticeable in Europe, where the environment is being taken care of everywhere and copper-based alloys are increasingly being used instead of lead.

Lead soft shot or buckshot is good for hunting where you don't need to aim very accurately or when shooting in areas where there is a risk of ricochet. The shot scatters to the sides and somehow hits the target. But soft metal is flattened against obstacles and does not fly back to the shooter. But in addition to “crumbly” materials, bullets can also be used as destructive elements. Here the choice of factory offers is incredibly wide. There are bullets with feathers that stabilize during flight. There are specially shaped bullets with an expansive effect, when, once in the body, the bullet expands and causes injuries incompatible with life. There are bullets made not from soft lead, but from stronger metals and looking like a simple piece of reinforcement rolled into a cartridge. Moreover, every gun owner is free to independently equip, essentially manufacture, cartridges for himself. Gunpowder, cartridges, etc. are bought in specialized stores, completely legally, and the warhead can be made independently by picking out balls from bearings or cutting scrap into pieces.

In general, 12-gauge ammunition is quite formidable equipment and its potential significantly exceeds the needs of hunters or self-defense purposes. So, according to the Russian classifier of bullet resistance, protection from a shot from a lead bullet from a 12-gauge gun requires more protection than from a shot from a Kalashnikov assault rifle with a conventional cartridge. Yes, yes, a powerful charge of gunpowder and the enormous kinetic energy of a heavy bullet do their dirty work. What if you equip the cartridge with an increased amount of more impulsive powder and use a carbide bullet, or even better, a lead bullet with a carbide core installed in a plastic container with a stabilizing tail? Such an armor-piercing vehicle will be able to penetrate armored civilian targets, for example, an armored car of the highest protection class. And cash-in-transit vehicles will be completely defenseless against such weapons, since, according to the requirements of the Central Bank, they are protected by reservation classes that are obviously lower than even protection from a conventional 12-gauge cartridge with a lead bullet. Just remember the anti-tank rifles that were used to fight tanks. The caliber of Degtyarev's PTR was only 14.5 mm, and this was against 18.5 mm for the 12th caliber. But such a gun penetrated up to 30 mm of armored steel with one shot. And this is near the tank!

But the high armor-piercing potential also has a downside, namely, it suffers from excess weight and takes up too much volume. It is difficult for people who have never held real cartridges in their hands to imagine how much a package of at least 15 12-gauge cartridges weighs. And if you need not 15, but say 50 rounds of ammunition, you are going on a multi-day hunt, and you need to carry all of them with you? Then, in this case, the weight of the ammunition carried will be equal to or even greater than the weight of the gun itself. It’s not a pleasant pleasure to carry a heavy gun and equally heavy ammunition with you, through the forest, climbing over fallen trees and jumping over flooded ditches.

From this point of view, smaller calibers, such as 20-gauge, seem to me more suitable for hunting or self-defense practice. The 20th caliber, although smaller than the 12th, is noticeably lighter, takes up noticeably less space, and in terms of destructive power, if you do not need to knock out enemy armored vehicles, then it is quite sufficient. Moreover, given modern gunpowder and a wide selection of damaging elements. And a 20-gauge gun is lighter, if only because of the smaller diameter and, accordingly, lighter barrel. From this point, any Vepr-12 loses to its more modest competitors, for example, the 20-caliber Saiga-20 hunting carbine, created on the basis of a Kalashnikov assault rifle, and which is a cousin of the Vepr-12.

Body kit, additional equipment and capabilities

The Vepr-12 shotgun with a short barrel comes from the factory already in a black tactical body kit. The forend was replaced, various strips for installing attachments were attached. The resulting gun no longer looks like some alien from the past, but in a completely modern way successfully sets off the onion of a fashionable pepper. Of course, if someone wants to get a traditional wood-and-steel look for a gun, making it more like an army weapon from the late 70s of the last century, then nothing is impossible. Everything is removed and replaced. By the way, the equipment rails themselves seem to be universal and you can install accessories designed for both Picatinny and Weaver rails on them. And there are a great many accessories that can be attached to a gun. Starting from tactical flashlights, laser sights and ending with collimators.

The collimator, an extremely useful thing on a gun, especially if it is sighted, works reliably and has small diopters. Aiming with a collimator is much easier and more convenient. From the Vepr-12 with a short barrel, I confidently hit sectors 4-5 of the belt model from 50 meters. Of course, with a bullet. But the catch is that from such a distance the entire waist target is narrower than the open sighting device, and the front sight almost completely covers it. Putting a serious optical sight on a smoothbore gun is probably not worth it at all, because accuracy at long distances, where good optics are effective, can be said to be non-existent. But the collimator will not only allow you to hit more confidently even from 50 meters, but also increase the targeted shooting range by another twenty meters.

Commando at the ready with Vepr-12

In addition to the external body kit, the gun also has a built-in feature that can be very useful in practice. I mean the shutter lag. What it is? Since the Vepr-12 is a self-loading gun, the rate of fire from it can be very, very high. But due to the size of the caliber, the capacity of the magazine with cartridges is very limited and there is a possibility that the shooter, being carried away, may miss the very moment when he runs out of cartridges. With a bolt delay, after the last cartridge is fired, the bolt remains in its extreme position, pulled towards the shooter, signaling that it is necessary to replace the magazine, since all the cartridges have been successfully fired. You insert a new maganizi and that’s it, you can continue shooting. Precious seconds are saved on shutter release.

In addition to the bolt stop, the gun has one more, very important feature. There is a thread at the end of the barrel and by default a standard flash suppressor is screwed onto it. The role of the flash suppressor is to divert some of the powder gases in all directions from the tip of the barrel, so as not to accidentally set fire to vegetation in the immediate area of ​​the shot. Powder gases are very hot and if you direct them all at once to one point, then dry grass or moss can catch fire. And with the help of a flame arrester, the hot gases are partially removed to the side and the risk of fire is reduced. The standard flame arrester is made according to the “cylinder” scheme, i.e. it neither narrows nor widens the trunk. But if desired, you can also screw special attachments onto the barrel, which slightly narrow the barrel or, on the contrary, expand it. Such attachments, for example, are needed to make the beam of flying shot concentrated and hit the target with high accuracy. To achieve this, there are constricting choke tubes called choke And pay. However, such constriction nozzles may be incompatible with specific types of bullets and therefore, in order to avoid damage to the weapon, you must always remember which nozzle is installed and whether it has restrictions on the use of striking elements. Expanding nozzles are designed, on the contrary, to expand the spread of the shot and hit as large an area as possible. Such attachments are mainly used when you need to hit a closely located target or many small targets, and at the same time do not require careful aiming.

Barrel threads and zero choke flash suppressor

But that's not all. To improve the shooter's accuracy during high-speed shooting, various muzzle compensators can be screwed onto the barrel, which compensate for the barrel moving immediately after the shot. The fact is that during a shot, recoil can shift the aiming line. As a rule, it shifts almost all the time in one direction. Therefore, the task of the compensator is to compensate for the recoil in this way by diverting part of the powder gases in the desired direction, so that in general there is no serious drift of the barrel. The problem of barrel drift during high-speed shooting was encountered immediately after the invention of automatic small arms. Even such a popular machine gun as the Thompson machine gun is not without this problem; moreover, due to the high rate of fire, its slip is much higher than that of other machine guns. And in the tactical plan of hitting targets, the Thompson assault rifle is automatically inferior to guns and by a lot.

This is the backpack the gun is carried in. Magazines, cartridges, spare parts, etc. fit in.

The presence of threads on the barrel for installing additional attachments allows you to install not only various types of compensators and chokes, but also an extension can be screwed onto the barrel. And instead of a short barrel, get an elongated barrel. In nature, there are even extensions that turn a smoothbore gun into a rifled one. Those. The extension itself contains an internal thread and twists the bullet, disproportionately increasing shooting accuracy at long distances. The most famous of these extension cords is the “Paradox”, but if you look hard enough, you can find a lot of other, both factory and homemade devices.

Butt

The short-barreled Vepr-12 has a stock made in the spirit of minimalism of its longer-barreled counterparts. It's just a metal frame with a plastic pad to distribute the load over the shoulder and a special rotating cheekpiece that protects the shooter's jaw from crushing. But the butt folds. And thus the gun turns into a very compact weapon that easily fits in a backpack. However, you cannot shoot with the butt folded; this is required by legislation that limits the minimum length for smooth-bore weapons permitted for citizens. Therefore, such a gun is convenient for transportation, but for shooting the butt will have to be unfolded. If the gun is new or unlubricated, then this is not as easy as it might seem; you need to put serious effort into special metal levers.

The shotgun with its stock folded fits comfortably into a specially designed backpack.

Problems

"Vepr-12" is an extremely reliable weapon, a time-tested design, a strong ancestor. And the firepower of a 12-gauge automatic shotgun is truly outstanding, especially with specially selected ammunition. But this is precisely where the problems lie that can irritate the consumer, and sometimes can even be dangerous.

"Vepr-12" is a gun in which the replacement of a spent cartridge with a new one is carried out using the energy of the powder gases of the completed shot. And this means that the pressure of these gases should be sufficient to accomplish such a recharge. But the short barrel of a gun, so conveniently used in cramped spaces, cannot provide sufficient pressure of powder gases; they simply fly away from the barrel before some of the same gases reach the gas piston with a rod through the gas outlet tube. As a result, the bolt does not move back enough and it cannot properly eject the spent cartridge and force a new cartridge into the barrel. The cartridge case is simply caught by the bolt. The problem is further aggravated by the categorically rigid return bolt spring, inherited from the Kalashnikov machine gun.

How can you fight something like this? There are several ways. The simplest is to use cartridges with increased pressure of powder gases, the so-called. Magnum cartridges. The automation works just fine on them. But an increased weight of gunpowder has a very negative effect on the recoil and the volume of the shot. The recoil on Magnum cartridges is so great that it can knock down even a grown man shooter. And after the shot, bruises remain on the shoulder. Yes, you can install a special spring shock absorber on the butt, but this already falls into the category of tuning and does not solve the original problem.

You can also install a muzzle constriction, which will prevent the rapid exit of gases from the barrel, thereby creating increased pressure. But the use of chokes is not the best solution, especially when shooting alternately with different ammunition. Some shooters try to select cartridges with which their particular gun works well, here both the bullets and the type of gunpowder with its quantity play a role, but there are no options with shot, it is too crumbly and cannot block the barrel to the required extent.

Or you can put up with this trouble and wait for the moment when the return spring weakens from constant work and is no longer so rigid. But the manufacturer should think about its consumers and modify the gun so that it can shoot not only magnums, but also semi-magnums and, in general, ordinary cartridges. Another reason for jamming can be not very standard cartridges, with swollen cartridges or non-standard flaring, as well as defects in the gun itself.

In general, the manufacturing quality of the Vepr-12 shotguns suffers; it is very inconsistent. And often users themselves modify their guns, eliminating production flaws. They cut down unremoved tides, protect under-cleaned surfaces and engage in other folk art. Therefore, it is worth purchasing weapons in trusted places and it is advisable to check them before purchasing, look at the overall quality of manufacture, alignment and other parameters. It would be ideal to shoot a gun, but we still have very few shooting ranges at gun stores, if not none at all.

Why and for whom is Vepr-12 Molot needed?

A short automatic smoothbore, heavy, reliably shooting only magnums, the gun is definitely not suitable for hunting. Although you can, of course, hunt with it, you should take the gun more for the surroundings. Is this gun suitable for self-defense? Now, for self-defense and general action in cramped conditions, such firearms are quite suitable. All that remains is to fill the magazine with magnums and cover your ears with noise-absorbing headphones. And then there is only scorched earth and holes in the walls. Therefore, the guns of the Vepr-12 series are more likely to be weapons for active self-defense at home, or for enthusiasts who like to shoot at targets at a shooting range. And to make it more powerful and boom louder!

Instead of an epilogue

It would seem that a good military weapon can be converted into a high-quality civilian conversion. But as can be seen from the example of Vepr-12, this is not always possible. The gun turned out to be unsightly and can be successfully used only in a very limited range. For hunting, it is better to take a gun that is lighter, shoots quieter and has weaker recoil. If you need to shoot at a fast pace, then it’s worth considering pump-action shotguns; here you can shoot with any high-quality cartridge, and not have to select “your” manufacturer. And if you really want an automatic rifle, then you should take a closer look at the 20-gauge, since the 12-gauge is already redundant, except perhaps for hunting hippos, elephants and German tanks of the beginning of the Second World War.

Update 1. We were able to learn more about the barrel chrome plating technology. It turns out that it is used not only by Molot, but also by other Russian gunsmiths. Internal chrome plating of a barrel is not what most of us imagine when we draw pictures of parts of luxury cars and VAZ 2106 bumpers shining in the sun. In the case of internal chrome plating of a barrel, the so-called hard chrome plating technology is used. Hard chrome plating is used all over the world to provide increased wear resistance of surfaces, in particular for processing tools (saws, drills, etc.). Well, in Russian conditions, an even more advanced technology of cluster hard chrome plating is used, where nanodiamond powder is used as a cluster. The technology is quite complex in engineering and expensive, but for gunsmiths it is a real godsend, since it can significantly increase the wear resistance of barrels at high temperatures, which are produced by domestic gunpowder.

Update 2. I recently came across a version explaining the former need to clean the barrel with gun oil after each use. The version claims that burnt gunpowder combines with atmospheric moisture and forms nitric acid. And gun oil, having some alkaline component, neutralizes the effect of acid. Again, I agree with the authors of the version regarding black powders, where the “powder” coating must be removed as it appears, but with smokeless powders, where the chemical composition can be anything, the use of alkaline oil is not justified. After all, alkalis are no worse than acids at destroying metal. For this reason, if you use alkaline oil, which manufacturers recommend even for pneumatics (where there are no powder gases), then after treating with such oil, you must remove it and repeat the treatment with neutral oil.

With a smooth barrel, which are in great demand. In the first years, everyone bought the products of the Saiga complex, but after a couple of years negative reviews began to appear - the design of the gun produced many misfires.

The Molot plant, seeing the high interest in smooth-bore weapons, began creating its own model in this category. The design did not take much time; the main advantages were taken from the competitor and the disadvantages were eliminated.

general information

The basis for the first saiga was the Kalashnikov assault rifle. In those years, the main production was located in IZHMASH. The military weapon was adapted to civilian ammunition.

The main reason for the low quality of smoothbore rifles was the workload of the enterprise's production capacity. In addition to the AK-74, the Kalashnikov light machine gun was also produced here. The state ordered huge quantities of which they required high strength.

Vepr 12 Hammer 205 is not suitable for hunting animals of any size. During the creation process, it was given other tasks - civil self-defense, sports shooting and use by law enforcement agencies of various types.

Design and principle of operation

The internal structure and operating principle are similar to IZHMASH products - Saiga-12S and Saiga-12K. Their combat and technical characteristics do not differ significantly. The practice of shooters shows the greatest similarity with “Tactics”, so experts do not recommend performing automatic work according to the same principle.

The sighting mechanism is classic (front and rear sight). The mount is located at the end of the gas outlet tube. The rear sight is adjustable. There are several positions defined by the designers that set different firing distances and the cartridges used. Vepr 12 Molot 205 has a short sighting line. The best results are achieved when using bullets; buckshot shows less effective results. It is better to use an aiming bar for it.

The skeleton type stock can be folded. It is based on a metal frame of increased strength. The coating consists of plastic and a butt plate made of rubber. The butt tube connection is made next to the receiver. Jumpers are used as fastening material. The engineers have provided for changing the height of the butt for comfortable shooting from an open sight or an additional one. The rotating cheek is responsible for changing the height.

The Vepr-12 carbine is equipped with a magazine receiver. It protects the magazine and the window in the receiver from damage in case of falls. The design of the handle, forend and gas outlet lining are copied from the Kalashnikov light machine gun. The surface is finished with black polymer. The handle has an orthopedic function.

The shutter lag allows shooters to save several seconds on reloading. With the fast firing speed of the Vepr 12 and a small magazine, you can get carried away and miss the moment when the ammunition is empty. The bolt delay signals the end of the ammunition, after which you can quickly reload and continue shooting.

All versions of the weapon are equipped with multiple Picatinny rails. They are located on the receiver cover, on the lower edge of the Vepr 12 forend and on the barrel. Each bar has its own practical application. The receiver is used for mounting optical or other additional sighting mechanisms. An additional handle can be installed on the forend. A laser sight or flashlight can be placed on the barrel.

The Vepr 12 Molot 205 is fed with 12 gauge ammunition and has a chamber length of 76 millimeters. You can use both regular charges and high-power Magnum charges for shooting.

Weapon maintenance

The bore is chrome plated. This was done to increase the working resource reserve and reduce the need for cleaning of the implement. Some experts report that with a chrome-plated channel there is no need for cleaning at all, but this is the wrong approach.

Even with smokeless powder charges, carbon deposits will remain. To prevent it from accumulating, regular cleaning is required. It doesn't take much time or effort. All you need to do is use a brush and a soft cloth. Several approaches will suffice for cleansing. Abrasive materials cannot be used; they will damage the chrome layer. Without it, the barrel will quickly deteriorate due to corrosion. Also, we must not forget about the piston and cylinder of the gas chamber. It is recommended to wash your weapon after each shooting, especially if it was intense.

Carbine maintenance ensures its stable operation. When using lead ammunition, you may encounter the problem of “lead plating.” Particles of material are deposited on the walls of the canal. In the future, this may affect the passage of a cartridge whose diameter is similar to the bore.

In addition to cleaning the barrel, we must not forget that sometimes it is necessary to disassemble the gun to check the serviceability of all parts. If they are covered with dirt or other contaminants, they must be cleaned and lubricated. This approach will ensure long-term operation of any weapon.

Using additional equipment

Short-barreled versions are “dressed” at the factory in a black body kit made of plastic. The appearance resembles a modern weapon, and not something from the last century. The body kit can be removed for washing and cleaning or just to admire the classic design. The presence of numerous strips and the ability to add new ones allows you to install additional equipment on the Vepr 12 Molot 205.

If you don't want to use an optical sight, you can use a collimator. If you know how to work with it, you can hit the target from a distance of 50-70 meters. Optical sights provide a much greater range, but the effectiveness of the gun itself at such distances is low.

The end of the barrel is equipped with a thread onto which a flash suppressor is attached at the factory. To narrow or expand the spread of shot, you can install special attachments: a choke or a half-shot. When using them, you need to remember that there are restrictions on the ammunition used. In this matter, it is better to consult with a specialist in a gun store if you are a beginner.

Accuracy can be improved by installing a compensator. Any automatic weapon, due to the force of the powder gases, is moved to the side after firing, which causes the aiming line to shift. The compensator directs part of the powder gases in the desired direction, which eliminates the possibility of a serious shift in the aiming line and a decrease in the accuracy of shots.

An extension with internal thread can be installed on the barrel thread of the Vepr 12 Molot 205. Weapons will be reclassified from smooth-bore to rifled. Accuracy due to the twist of the charge increases when shooting at long distances.

Solving the overcharging problem

The carbine is reloaded after firing due to powder gases. A short barrel does not always create the required level of force, as a result of which the bolt does not retract completely and the cartridge does not change. The situation is aggravated by a rigid return spring, which requires a lot of effort to move the bolt.

The first solution to the problem is to use powerful Magnum cartridges, which provide sufficient pressure from the powder gases. The downside is the strong recoil after the shot, which can knock down an inexperienced shooter. This drawback can be eliminated by installing a spring shock absorber on the butt. It also makes a lot of noise.

You can increase the pressure level of the Vepr-12 gun by using the muzzle constriction. It reduces the rate of gas release. The downside of this method is that you have to choose ammunition based on the choke or choke, and not on your own preferences and goals. If both options do not suit you, wait until the return spring weakens; working with it will become more comfortable.

Advantages and disadvantages

The main advantage of the gun is its impressive firepower, which was achieved thanks to the 12-gauge and high rate of fire. The rate of fire is possible thanks to the spacious magazine and the ability to quickly replace it with a new one. According to reviews from shooters around the world, the Vepr-12 is one of the most durable semi-automatic shotguns in the world.

A noticeable drawback during operation is the Picatinny rail located on the lower part of the forend. It creates a feeling of discomfort while holding the carabiner because of it. The downside that not everyone takes into account is the mass. In a discharged state without additional equipment, it is 4.3 kilograms. Some people benefit from this - massive guns have better control when shooting.

Modifications Vepr-12

Based on the standard model, several versions have been developed:

• Vepr-12-00 - model with a 430 mm barrel. The buttstock folds, and a safety mechanism ensures that it does not allow shooting with the mechanism folded. The kit includes a compensator that can be removed if desired;
• 12-01 - barrel length is 53 centimeters. The stock folding mechanism is present, but there is no trigger locking system when folded. The compensator is rigid and cannot be removed;
• 12-02 - 680 mm barrel. The kit does not include a compensator, but there are choke tubes. The thread allows you to install an extension to increase shooting accuracy;
• Vepr-12 VPO-250-03 - has the shortest barrel length (305 millimeters). There is a built-in fire limiter when folded. The kit includes a compensator. The weight of the unloaded weapon is 4,200 grams;
  12-04 - a version similar to the previous ones with a barrel length of 483 millimeters;
• Vepr-12 IPSC is a sports modification of the carbine, which was created in accordance with the wishes of professional shooters. Elements have been added to make operation more comfortable: there is a safety button on both sides, the magazine can be removed using a button, the bolt is raised with a lever, the standard sighting mechanism has been removed;
• Vepr-12 VPO-205S - a special version for law enforcement agencies and security companies.

You can purchase various versions of the complex in weapons stores.

What can be concluded?

The Twelfth Vepr is an excellent, compact weapon that can be used for training, recreational shooting, as well as for self-defense. Its chrome coating increases its service life, and for stable operation the owner needs to regularly clean all parts and technical components.

	Vepr 12	Vepr 12 isp.01	Vepr 12 isp.02
Type	gas-operated semi-automatic
Caliber	12 gauge, 76 mm chamber
Length	1057 / 725 mm	1147 / 815 mm	1307 / 975 mm
Barrel length	430 mm	520 mm	680 mm
Weight without magazine	3.9 kg	4.0 kg	4.2 kg
Shop	8 rounds detachable box type

The smoothbore shotgun (carbine) Vepr-12 is a relatively new development of the Molot plant (Vyatskie Polyany) and was created as a direct competitor to the Saiga 12C / Saiga 12K series shotguns, which are very popular in Russia. The main purpose of the new shotguns is sports (practical shooting IPSC rules), as well as home defense and security activities. In addition, Vepr-12 is a good support weapon for the police and other law enforcement agencies.
The Vepr-12 gun is based on the time-tested design of the Kalashnikov RPK light machine gun (also produced at the Molot plant), however, during its creation, the wishes of sports shooters were taken into account, and additional elements were introduced into the design of the gun, making handling more convenient - a double-sided safety, magazine shaft, bolt stop, etc. Currently, shotguns of the Vepr-12 series are produced in three versions, differing in the length of the barrel - in the basic version the barrel is the shortest, in versions version 01 and version 02 the barrels are longer.

The Vepr-12 smoothbore rifles inherited the general layout and design of the Kalashnikov assault rifle (light machine gun), with a gas release mechanism and locking by turning the bolt. Naturally, the bolt group and receiver were redesigned taking into account the use of hunting cartridges, the trigger mechanism lost its self-timer, the gas release mechanism is self-adjusting and allows you to fire cartridges with both 70mm and 76mm (Magnum) sleeves without additional adjustments. Sights are similar to a Kalashnikov assault rifle, with an adjustable rear sight and a front sight mounted on a gas chamber. The receiver cover is not detachable, but tilts up and forward, similar to the AKS-74U assault rifle. Additionally, a Picatinny rail type guide is made on the receiver cover, allowing for quick and convenient installation of various additional sights on the appropriate brackets. The cartridges are fed from plastic single-row magazines with a capacity of 8 cartridges; a bolt stop has been introduced into the design of the weapon, which locks the bolt in the open position after all the cartridges in the magazine have been used up (to speed up reloading). The stock is metal, skeletal design, folding to the side. The outside of the butt is covered with plastic to improve shooting comfort in cold or hot weather. On the forend and under the gas chamber there are additional Picatinny rail type guides for installing laser designators, tactical flashlights or other accessories.
The safety mechanism is generally similar in design to that of Kalashnikov assault rifles, but has additional levers on the right and left, making handling the weapon safer and more convenient. For the basic version with a shortened barrel, produced for the Russian market, an additional safety mechanism was introduced that blocks firing when the butt is folded (in accordance with the requirements of the Law on Weapons of the Russian Federation).