SR-3 Vikhr (Whirlwind)

History of the SR-3 Vikhr (Whirlwind)

CNIITochMash created a new offensive weapon called the SR-3 "Vikhr" (meaning "Whirlwind"). It fires special subsonic bullets, designed for special forces. This cartridge can be used in various Soviet-Russian weapons like the AS "Val" and VSS "Vintorez" rifles. The SR-3 is compact and resembles a submachine gun, making it suitable for special forces and airborne troops. It was made at the Tula Arms Factory and an improved version called the Silent SR-3M was produced.

The SR-3 uses a rotating bolt breech system, has a rate of fire of about 900 rounds per minute, and a muzzle velocity of 970 feet per second. It's effective up to 400 yards, with two versions available: the standard SR-3 with a 20-round magazine and the improved SR-3M with a 30-round magazine. Iron sights are used for aiming, and the weapon has a foldable stock.

The SR-3M can be equipped with a silencer and has additional features like a vertical foregrip and optional optics. The SR-3 weighs 2kg, the SR-3M weighs 3.2kg, and both have specific dimensions with a 156mm long barrel.

Specification

BASIC

Years of Service: 1992

Origins: Russia

Categories: Assault Rifle/Suppressed Assault Rifle

Manufacturer: Tula Arms Factory - Russia

Operator: Russia

Roles

Auto function

Has mechanical features to automate the firing process.

Assault Rifle

A modern class of long guns with selected fire characteristics, automatic internals and magazine feeding.

Mute

This weapon is either inherently silent/suppressed, or can be made with special muzzle mounts, special subsonic ammo, or a combination of the two.

Dimensions and Weight

Overall Length: 640mm (25.20 inches)

Barrel length: 156mm (6.14 inches)

Cured weight: 4.41 lbs (2.00 kg)

Action

Pivot

This system uses an internal mechanism to lock the breech or rear barrel assembly prior to firing.

Gas Power

Proposes a pneumatic system that typically consists of a cylinder and a rear drive piston that directs power to the bolt assembly.

Cartridges and Paper Feeds

Caliber: 9x39mm Subsonic

Circle/Feed: 20 or 30 rounds detachable magazine

POWER

Maximum efficiency: 656 feet (200m | 219m)

Rate of fire: 900 Number of revolutions

Mile speed: 967 ft/s (295m/s)

VARIANTS

SR-3M - 970mm full length; 30-round magazine; detachable suppressor assembly; modified front end; foldable foregrip; offset iron sights; skeletal stock.