In the category of “if it’s new to me, it must be new to somebody else”, I stumbled across the Pioneer line of “sporterized” VEPR rifles from Molot. I have to be honest, I’ve always liked the look of the VEPR rifles, and even more so now that I have seen the Pioneer models. They have that “AK for a more civilized time” feel. The two current models are chambered in .223 and 7.62×39.
Molot lists the MSRP as $1299 and K-Var retails the rifles at $799.
VEPR series semi-automatic rifles from the world famous Molot factory in Russia. Built on the same standard as the RPK rifle, these firearms are 50% more reinforced than a standard, stamped AK rifle. Each rifle has been manufactured using state of the art technology, effectively creating a heavier duty piece that will last through not just a lifetime but for many generations to come. The RPK-style barrels are hammer forged and chrome lined using techniques that makes them many times stronger than a standard AK or RPK barrel.
Each rifle comes with high quality, beautifully crafted walnut furniture as well as a rear sight with adjustable windage. They are shipped with magazines, a cleaning rod, and a cleaning kit.
Optional optic mount available:
VPRP-76239-01
SPECIFICATIONS
Caliber: 7.62x39mm
Total Length: 40.9 in / 1040 mm
Barrel Length: 21.6 in / 550 mm
Weight w/ Magazine: 9.5 lbs / 4.3 kg
Twist rate: 7.62×39 – 4 groove RH twist, 9.4’’ (240 mm)
VPRS-308-01
.223 REM
Wood furniture is also featured in the Super and Hunter models as well.
Also new to me is some of the above models are chambered in 6.5 Grendel and 30.06.
K-Var Corporation – https://www.k-var.com/
4235 W. POST RD.
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA 89118
Tel.: 1 702 364 8880
Fax: 1 702 307 2303
Molot USA – http://www.molot-usa.com/
MOLOT USA Firearms, Ltd.
PO Box 30664
Walnut Creek, CA 94598