The sniper rifle called the Dragunov SVD is the weapon of choice by the very people who make the high-powered rifle. The semi-automatic weapon is the semi-automatic weapon of choice by the Soviet army. The gun is operated by gas and is significantly different than other semi-automatic guns which have been choice weapons in the past by many different militaries.

The AK and AKM guns did show some similarities to the Dragunov SVD such as the gas recovery components as well as the bolt arrangements. The 7.62 cartridges which this high-powered rifle uses is one that allows it to be in a stand alone category of semi-automatic guns because the gun cartridges are not used in other rifles such as the AK and AKM.

Dragunov SVD has some other features many gun-oriented individuals will search for now that the Dragunov SVD has spoiled them to the features. For example, this gun has an open butt stock and a cheek pad which is favored when used for sighting and it is now a common feature which is desired in many semi-automatic weapons.

There's a telescopic sight mounted over the receiver and other features which appeal to people who find the Dragunov SVD the SUV among all semi-automatic weapons.

The army of the Soviet Union would issue this high-powered rifle with four magazines for operational uses and they would also issue the gun with cleaning accessories and a battery as well as a light for enhanced telescopic sight.

The Dragunov SVD is quick as it well should be given the category for which it is considered. The gun fires 30 rounds each minute in use. The range of 1300 meters far exceeds some of its competition.

Gun limitations of the Dragunov SVD are that of ammunition restrictions. The gun can only fire light and heavy ball ammunition with complete gun to target precise hits. Close proximity to the target places the shooter at a disadvantage using this gun and best serves the shooter who is not in close combat situations.

Dragunov SVD is truly the Cadillac weapon of choice among many Soviet military soldiers and officers because of its reliability and accuracy when used with the appropriate ammunition. The weapon can be used in many combative situations, but again, close combat is discouraged for this weapon. The gun is a light weight which serves soldiers well who take this gun into combat.