Russian Tula SVT-40 Semi-Auto Rifle 7.62x54r WWII Soviet Union 1942 C&R
SOLD FOR: $2,402.00
LSB#: WY240806TF001
Make: Izhevsk, Russia
Model: SVT-40
Serial Number: IV4529
Year of Manufacture: 1942
Caliber: 7.62x54r
Action Type: Semi-Auto, Short stroke Tilting Bolt
Markings: The top of the receiver is marked with a Tula star and “1948”. The left side of the receiver is marked, “IV4529”. The bolt is marked, “DK3262” on the underside, and “YoG5412” There are various proof marks throughout.
Barrel Length: 24” before muzzle brake, 26.75” after muzzle brake
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a hooded post. The rear sight is a “U” notched sliding sight escalator marked from “1-15”.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a two piece wood set with a vented top handguard, barrel band with sling loop, finger grooves, semi-pistol grip, straight comb, sling loop, and steel buttplate. There are scratches, pressure dents, and small chips throughout. There are no cracks. Overall this stock is in Very Good Condition as refurbished.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 10rd Magazines in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Factory Refurbished
Bore Condition: The bore is gray and the rifling is mostly sharp. There is moderate erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates at a 6/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 40% of its metal finish. There is heavy thinning and patina throughout. There are scratches and wear marks throughout. There is surface rust throughout. The screw heads are sharp and pins are unmarred. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fair condition as a C&R.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Total of 1 magazine.
Our Assessment: The SVT-40 was one of the russian breadwinners of World War II. With over a million made, it was the Soviet Union’s first major foray into repeating rifle armaments after the long and storied career of the mosin line of rifles, and would serve as an extra level of firepower for many soviet rifleman squads. This particular rifle was made at the Tula Arsenal in 1941, while the Soviet Union was still reeling from Operation Barbarossa. Working round the clock under the slogan “Everything for the front, Everything For Victory”, the Tula plant would produce this rifle, amongst others, before it was evacuated eastward to avoid the advance of the German 2nd Panzer Division. The SVT-40 would equip Soviet troops throughout World War II before being superseded by newer rifles like the SKS and AK-47. It would also serve in Finnish hands, and was dispersed in limited numbers to other Warsaw Pact countries. The other major conflict to see usage of the SVT-40 was the Korean War, where SVTs were sent to help equip the North Korean army. Grab yourself a legendary piece of World War II memorabilia today and get bidding! -R.E.
