Description
Mosin Nagant 91/30 Sniper Rifle
Overview
The Mosin Nagant 91/30 sniper rifle is a variant of the Soviet M1891/30 rifle, modified for sniper use. Introduced in the 1930s, it gained prominence during World War II for its accuracy and durability. The most common sniper variant was fitted with a PU 3.5× scope, although earlier versions used the PE or PEM scopes.
Specifications
- Caliber: 7.62×54mmR
- Action: Bolt-action
- Length: 1,232 mm (48.5 in)
- Barrel Length: 730 mm (28.7 in)
- Weight: 4.0 kg (8.8 lb) without scope
- Magazine: 5-round internal magazine
- Scope: PU 3.5× scope (most common), PE or PEM scopes (earlier models)
Conflicts Served In
The Mosin Nagant 91/30 sniper rifle has seen extensive service in numerous conflicts, including:
- World War II (1939-1945)
- Eastern Front: The rifle was extensively used by Soviet snipers, proving highly effective in urban and long-range engagements.
- Notable Snipers: Vasily Zaitsev, Lyudmila Pavlichenko, and Simo Häyhä (who used a Finnish variant, the M/28-30).
- Winter War (1939-1940)
- Soviet-Finnish Conflict: The rifle was used by Soviet forces against Finland. Finnish snipers also used captured Mosin Nagants, including their own variants.
- Korean War (1950-1953)
- North Korean and Chinese Forces: The rifle saw action with both North Korean and Chinese troops against United Nations forces.
- Vietnam War (1955-1975)
- Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army: Used by guerrilla fighters and regular army units, the rifle proved effective in jungle warfare.
- Soviet-Afghan War (1979-1989)
- Soviet Forces: Although newer sniper rifles were available, the Mosin Nagant 91/30 continued to be used due to its reliability and long-range capability.
- Other Conflicts:
- The Mosin Nagant 91/30 has been seen in various other conflicts throughout the Cold War and beyond, often used by irregular forces and insurgent groups due to its availability and rugged design.
Notable Use and Legacy
- Vasily Zaitsev: Famous Soviet sniper who achieved 225 confirmed kills during the Battle of Stalingrad, using the Mosin Nagant 91/30 with a PU scope.
- Lyudmila Pavlichenko: Renowned female sniper with 309 confirmed kills, also used this rifle.
- Simo Häyhä: Finnish sniper with over 500 confirmed kills during the Winter War, used a Finnish variant of the Mosin Nagant.
The Mosin Nagant 91/30 sniper rifle remains a symbol of Soviet sniper prowess and continues to be collected and admired by military history enthusiasts and firearm collectors worldwide.
