VKS / VSSK (BKC / Vykhlop)

History of VKS / VSSK (BKC / Vykhlop)

The Russian CKIB SOO (Central Design Bureau for Sports and Hunting Weapons) developed the VKS (Vykhlop) heavy sniper rifle to meet the requirements of the Federal Security Service (FSB) of the Russian Federation. The FSB is a special military-grade tactical internal police/security force operating at the level of the Russian government, established in 1995 after the collapse of the Soviet Union (1947-1991), taking over the role of the KGB.

With an increase in production in 2002, the VKS sniper weapon has been in service since 2004.

The VKS comes in a bull puppy configuration, with the action and feed system behind the trigger group and pistol grip. This allows the use of a full-length barrel while being more compact in overall length compared to conventional long guns.

The rifle fires the large 12.7x55mm STs-130 round and is ideal against "soft" targets (such as enemy infantry, even in body armor) and lightly armored vehicles. Additionally, the rifle is capable of destroying a single exposed system on more lethal combat vehicles such as main battle tanks (MBTs).

The STs-130 cartridge also appeared in 2002, derived from the . 338 Lapua Magnum rifle cartridge in place. The case is 2.1" long and when combined with 0.50" bullets, makes a 3.7" long cartridge. The same cartridge is used in another Russian weapon - the ASh-12.7 Bullpup "Battle Rifle".

Since its introduction, several variants of the basic cartridge design have emerged.

The VKS is manually operated via a locking lever system. Each cartridge is fed by a detachable 5-round magazine located under the shoulder rest, loaded individually by motion, and all used magazines are ejected by the operator in a single, fluid motion.

The weapon has a sleek frame and black exterior without many obstacles and protrusions. The pistol grip and trigger assembly is located near the middle of the rifle, above which is the bolt handle. The optics can be mounted above the receiver along a Picatinny rail system. Folding sun visors are also available. The shoulder rest is padded and the magazine is located behind the grip and slopes forward.

In front of the trigger unit was a slotted front end, in which the barrel was accommodated. The front end of the barrel is completely encased in a large silencer, an integral part of the design - allowing special forces to work stealthily over long distances - somewhat unique for such a large caliber weapon.

From the looks of it, the VKS is a formidable addition to the FSB unit's arsenal, providing much-needed long-range firepower and long-range penetration.

Specification

Roles

Dimensions

Performance

Changes