Image source: topwar.ru
The latest Russian light machine gun with a 7.62 mm RPL-7 belt-powered machine gun is being sent to the troops for testing. This is reported by the press service of the Kalashnikov concern.
Military tests of the new 7.62 mm RPL-7 light machine gun, developed as soon as possible by order of the military based on the 5.45 mm RPL-20 light machine gun, which has proven its effectiveness in combat, begin in the SVO zone. Both machine guns are designed for assault units of the Russian Armed Forces.
As emphasized in the concern, the new machine gun is compact, has a low weight, and the ability to install various aiming devices using a Picatinny rail. The 7.62 x 39 mm cartridge used has a high stopping and low ricocheting effect of the bullet.
Image source: topwar.ru
The RPL-7 provides intense firing from the rear sear, the barrel is non-removable, and allows you to fire up to 400 rounds without critical overheating. The weight is 5.5 kg, the barrel length is 415 mm in the assault version and 590 mm in the infantry version. The total length is 1100 mm, the stock is telescopic with a lifting cheek and a shoulder rest. The firing range is 800 meters, the power supply is tape, the tape for 80 rounds is placed in a soft cartridge box.
The design of the machine gun allows you to use it both from the right shoulder and from the left. It is equipped with a low-noise firing device, removable bipods, and a front fire transfer handle.
There is no information yet on how long the tests will last, and there are plans to adopt this machine gun into service with the Russian Armed Forces, too. The RPL-7 has only recently been officially presented by the concern.
