Russian Tula SVT-40 Semi-Auto Rifle 7.62x54r WWII Soviet Union 1941 C&R
SOLD FOR: $2725
WOA#: WY230327DC003
Make: Tula, Russia
Model: SVT-40
Serial Number: rK6348
Year of Manufacture: 1941
Caliber: 7.62x54r
Action Type: Semi-Auto
Markings: Left side of the receiver at the barrel chamber is marked “ rK6348” with a proofmark. Top of the receiver at the chamber is marked with “1941” and several proof marks including the Tula factory star, the Soviet Arsenal refurbishment marker, and other proof marks. See pictures for full proofing. The right side of the receiver at the barrel chamber is adorned with 3 proof marks. There are two proof marks on the magazine release, including possibly a Tula factory star on the safety. There is a proof mark on the left side of the trigger guard and one on the rear of the trigger guard that is an arrow within an oval indicating Podolsk as well as the Tula Star. Please see our photos for a better understanding of the proofs. The left side of the buttstock is marked, “6548” with several proofs all around including on the right, top, bottom, heel, and around the traditional grip. The bottom of the receiver and charging handle are marked “6548” in electric pencil.
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”. Equipped with a Taiwanese scope mount and a SVT-40 replica Scope that is serialized with “EA2279”. The sight picture is clear.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is solid wood throughout, with some scratches on the buttstock, and some dings in other locations. Considering this firearm’s age and provenance, the stock is in Very Good Condition as Factory Refurbished.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 10rd Magazine in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Black Parkerized, Blued
Finish Originality: Factory Refurbished
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is mostly sharp. There is minimal erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows minimal wear along the handguard and buttstock, and there is generalized patina buildup. The blued finish is fading in certain places but especially on the barrel shroud. The metal is thinning with light pitting but common with a rifle of its age and type. The screw heads are sharp and pins are unmarred. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition.
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 one magazine and its attached scope.
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!