Carabines of Hammer Armz company

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Modern domestic hunting weapon quite diverse both in the number of different models and in their quality, which makes the choice when buying is quite complicated. And even people with years of experience handling different types of firearms can miss something somewhere. We should also not forget about rifled hunting weapons, since they are mostly converted from the formerly combat one, which means that they retain a significant part of the quality of previous years. This does not mean that when buying, you can close your eyes and choose without looking, but at least some confidence is present. And everything would be fine if it were not for the word “redone”, instead of selling to people, by the way, people with experience in possession of weapons, a full-fledged combat model, they will first torment him, adjust them to the requirements for civilian weapons, and only after that it will fall on the counter. Let us try, using the example of the Hammer Armz products, to find out what exactly is what differs from the original in stores.

The first model considered will be the OP-SKS - Simonov hunting and field hunting self-loading karabiner. This is undoubtedly an excellent weapon in its combat version for a long time served the armies of various countries and, interestingly, it is especially valued in the USA, where a long-term culture of handling weapons is developed and what people can’t cram into people’s hands, it’s true that they value combat options without alterations . This sample uses 7,62x39 cartridges, which makes it effective for hunting medium and large animals. The main differences from the combat version of the weapon are that the barrel of the carbine has a pin, this is done in accordance with the law on weapons, in order to see the result of fulfilling this requirement, just look under the vapor pipe. The second difference is that the sights of the weapon are designed only for 300 meters, which, in principle, is enough for the purposes that are set before the weapon. In addition, the carbine lost attachment for a bayonet, which is also, I think, should not cry. The weight of the carbine is 3,8 kilograms, length - 1025 millimeters, with a barrel length 520 millimeters. It feeds weapons from the non-detachable magazine with a capacity of 10 cartridges, equipment using a clip or one cartridge each. Carabiner does not have the ability to conduct automatic fire, both in the original and in its civilian version, in which many are mistaken. Automatic weapons built on the scheme of removal of powder gases from the barrel, the barrel bore is locked when the bias of the shutter. The barrel can be either chrome or not, depending on the original year, subjectively, the latter option is more accurate.
The fact that this carbine is not made from scratch, but is converted from military weapons, is both a plus and a minus. A vivid example of this is the following. In the manual on rifle affairs, the barrel of a weapon is corrected, if necessary, by drilling a 9 millimeter drill into the barrel from the muzzle to a depth of 4 gauges. That is more than 3 centimeters. It is these three centimeters that are misleading many buyers. Many options have been found to correct this situation, right up to cutting the barrel to rifling, but, oddly enough, none of the options offers particular advantages and is rather a work on the aesthetics of the weapon. In general, there is no need to correct the barrel, especially since in the process of fixing it is very easy to kill. But when choosing a weapon, if you get an option with full-cut cuts for the entire length of the barrel, you can safely take it, even if the muzzle does not meet the norm, it is actually not difficult to “correct”, provided that you have direct hands and free time. By the way, you can come across an unfixed version of the weapon, with full-fledged aiming devices, but this is rare now.

The next version of the weapon is no less interesting, or rather two options. We are talking about two samples made on the basis of the Mosin rifle, the KO-91-30-550 and KO-91-30М-550 carbines. Both versions are carbines, since their trunks are shortened to 550 millimeters, which is reflected in the last two digits in the name of the weapon. However, the first version has a “native” trunk, while the second one is equipped with a new, heavier trunk. It is rather difficult to choose from two options, but if you plan to shoot a lot, then it is better to take a weapon with a new barrel, since its channel is chrome-plated. On the accuracy of the weapon it is difficult to say something definite, it depends in this case on each specific sample. The cartridge used in carbines - 7,62x54R.
We must not forget also that in most cases it will be necessary to work with the weapon long enough to fit it under you and squeeze the maximum out of the possibilities that were originally built into it. However, these samples are relatively good and without additional refinement, after all, people preparing them for sale do not just shift from one box to another, but at least minimally try to fit the weapon to more or less normal characteristics. Nevertheless, if the hands grow from the shoulders and there is a desire to make the weapon perfect, then there are many video reviews on the Internet that will tell you where to put these hands. In a pinch, there are instructions on the shooting case, which also has not been canceled. I want to talk about these samples, all the same, weapons of legend, and at the same time specifically about the civilian version and nothing to say. Is it necessary to clarify such a detail as the length of the barrel, since even the manufacturer on the site could not give accurate data on the length of the original, but we will focus on the name of the weapon. The length of rifles 1055 millimeters, weight about 3,9 kilogram. They are fed from non-detachable shops with a capacity of 5 cartridges, shops are equipped with the help of clips or one cartridge each.

Naturally, there was no way around the theme of the Kalashnikov assault rifle in the hunting context. Naturally, there is no way to meet the possibility of automatic firing, but, nevertheless, the basis of the AK served as quite good. The first in a fairly large list of these weapons is the Vepr carbine VPO-123-01 (590). As indicated in parentheses, this weapon has a barrel length of 590 millimeters. The cartridges used by this sample are 7,62x54R, so the weapon turned out to be quite powerful and relatively long-range. On the left side of the weapon there is a mounting point for an optical sight bracket, open aiming devices can be used for firing at distances up to 300 meters, while the installed optical sight in most cases does not interfere with their use. The weight of the weapon without ammunition and optical sight is equal to 4,3 kilogram, so the weapon is not designed for long transitions, which, however, depends on the physical development of the shooter.

The next sample is “Vepr”, also made on the basis of a Kalashnikov assault rifle with the name SOK-95 (590). As the name implies, this carbine also has a barrel of 590 millimeters long, but it is already designed for the .308 Win, 7,62x51 cartridges metrically. In general, many people argue, but whether the AK became the basis for such samples or, nevertheless, the PKK. The most reasonable answer, in a whim of opinion, is that it is a mixture of a bulldog with a rhinoceros. That is, something was taken from the AK, something from the PKK, and as a result, what happened was. And it turned out, by the way, quite well for such weapons. The weight of this particular sample is 4,3 kilograms, the length of 1165 millimeters. As in the previous sample, the open sights are designed for distances up to 300 meters, which does not exclude the possibility of installing and using an optical sight. It feeds weapons from magazines with a capacity of 2,3,5 and 10 cartridges. In addition to this version of the weapon chambered for 7,62x51, there is also a SOC-95 (700), with a barrel length of 700 millimeters, the weapon length increases to 1275 millimeters, but at the same time the speed of the bullet increases, as well as the accuracy of the weapon, although slightly. Also, this option has a little more weight, but the difference is not so big to draw attention.

For those who are closer to the cartridge 7,62x39 there is a version of the carbine SOK-94 (520), with a barrel length of 520 millimeters. The version of this weapon is less accurate in comparison with the previous one, but here the price is lower and the ammunition is slightly cheaper. But the weight of the carbine lower was not much, because, despite the shorter length of the weapon, not everyone can take it into a long transition. The total sample length is 1035 millimeters, 75 millimeters width, 200 millimeters height. In addition to this sample, there is also a similar model with a longer barrel - 590 millimeters, which increases the total length of the weapon to 1105 millimeters. Both samples are powered from detachable magazines with a capacity of 2,3,5 and 10 cartridges. A similar model with a barrel of a long 590 millimeter is the SOK-97 (509) carbine, though it already uses 5,56x45 cartridges.

For those who did not like the exterior of the Kalashnikov, there is also an analogue of the AR-15 rifle, naturally without the possibility of automatic fire. It is designated as Vepr-15 or VPO-140. This weapon chambered for .223Rem has a total length of 800 millimeters and a weight of 3,2 kilograms, which is more acceptable for situations where you plan to walk a lot. It feeds weapons from detachable stores with a capacity of 10 cartridges. The advantages of this sample, I would refer a convenient angle of the pistol grip, allowing you to conveniently hold it during the transition, leaving the weapon ready for firing. In addition, a carrying handle will also be helpful. In addition, the rifle is equipped with an adjustable butt length, which is useful when using weapons at different times of the year, although the adjustment is carried out in steps, which does not allow the weapon to fit as precisely as possible.

With the same butt, but already on the basis of the Kalashnikov assault rifle, the following models are made: “Vepr-308” with a barrel of 420 millimeters chambered for .308Win; the same version of the weapon, but with a barrel of 520 millimeters; as well as the variant SOC-94 with a millimeter 420 barrel. Subjectively, the weapon does not like it, but it does not like it only externally, but for ease of use, it is quite comfortable. However, the taste and color of all the markers are different, personally these hybrids are not very personal to me, well, and some people think that it is quite acceptable.

For those who give the classics, there is a model made entirely in the image and likeness of AKM - Vepr-K or VPO-133. The weapon is powered by 7,62x39 cartridges, has a mass of about a kilogram of 4, completely outwardly repeats the well-known weapons, the only difference is the absence of the possibility of automatic fire. In addition, for complete similarity, you can purchase stores, which in their dimensions completely repeat the stores with a capacity of 30 cartridges, but of course with a capacity of 10 cartridges. From a practical point of view, of course it is inexpedient, but for external resemblance and for the joy of the eyes amiss, especially since the price is not so transcendental. In my opinion, this is the best option of all AK-like samples.

No less interesting are the samples of the Vepr-Super family of self-loading carbines. They are presented so far by only four models, which differ from each other only in the used cartridges and barrel length. So there are two options for 5,56x45 cartridges with 550 and 650 barrel lengths of millimeters, as well as 7,62x51 cartridges with similar barrel lengths. The weapon is fairly neat, accurate and relatively light, that is, such that in most cases the hunter needs. Maintenance of these rifles is simple and intuitive, even without instructions, although it depends on the person. It is noteworthy that these samples do not immediately need fine-tuning, although aesthetes can argue about the need to polish the details of the firing mechanism and so on. In most cases, this is not necessary, it is enough to simply disassemble, wipe, remove the factory grease and lubricate again. To be honest, these are the samples I liked most of all from the “replica”, they would have more ammunition.

Also of interest is the genuine interest and the Vepr-Pioneer family of self-loading carbines. This weapon is made in the classic style with a nut of the type "Monte Carlo" walnut. The external quality of the finish of the weapon makes it even doubt the domestic it, but if you look under the metal you understand - domestic) Presents a family of only two samples with 550 and 650 barrel lengths of millimeters. 5,56x45 cartridges are used for carbines, which is why the more powerful ammunition in this family is especially noticeably lacking. In addition, the narrow store in the weapon seems superfluous and even somewhat awkward, but, conversely, the taste and color ... The weapon is fairly accurate, but not easy, and the length is not the smallest, so not everyone will have a long sock on the shoulder.

Compensates for the lack of samples for more powerful cartridges of the Vepr-Pioneer family and the next family of weapons - the Vepr-Hunter. It is represented by four samples that can be divided in pairs, according to the type of execution of sighting devices and even individual parts. All 4 samples have a barrel length of 550 millimeters, using 7,62x51 or 7,62x63 ammunition. The pairs differ primarily in the front sight, which in one of the variants is made on a high stand directly on the trunk. In addition, each sample can be equipped with an optical sight. In other words, this is the “adult” version of Pioneer.

But let’s return to what has proven itself over the years of service in the army’s armament, namely to another hunting variant of the Mosin rifle, back in the form of a carbine, namely to the KO-44 model. This carbine, like the previous ones, differs from the original only in barrel length, which in this case is even shorter, its length is only 517 millimeters. Perhaps many will consider this a significant minus, but from a practical point of view, reducing the barrel length is only a plus in this case, since the weapon has reduced dimensions (length is 1050 millimeters) and weight (3,5 kilograms), while maintaining a relatively high effective firing range. On the other hand, if historical the value of the weapon is higher than the practical, then yes, reducing the barrel length is a minus. But if the hunt includes quite long transitions on foot, then I would choose this particular model from all other versions of the converted Mosin rifles.

The next option also represents a fairly high historical value, although it cannot boast the same respectable age as the Mosin rifle. We are talking about CBT, or rather ABT-40. Naturally, civilian weapons lack the ability to fire automatically. In addition, there is a pin in the barrel, leaving a mark on the bullet, as well as a recess in the mirror of the bolt, due to which an imprint is left on the sleeve during the shot. The most remarkable thing is that they deprived the possibility of firing a burst of weapons in a rather strange way, namely by installing a pin that prevents the trigger from moving. The carabiner has a barrel length of 625 millimeters, while the length of the weapon itself is 1226 millimeters. The device is powered by 7,62x54 cartridges. The weight of the 3,85 carbine kilogram.

And finally, the latest version of the weapon is the civilian version of the SVD. So far, unfortunately, it is difficult to say anything about this weapon, since it appeared relatively recently and has not yet become widely spread. However, on the basis of those samples that were presented earlier, you can be sure that this version of the rifle will certainly be quite successful. Naturally, the SVD option will be with adaptations to the civilian market, without this, unfortunately, in any way, but if they are minimal, then I think that these weapons will soon be in great demand.

These are the options for hunting rifles Hammer Armz company can offer. If you need more detailed data, then write, feel free to do this for each of the samples for the most detailed article, the question is only in the interest of the readers of the resource.