Molot VEPR-1V .223 Rem 23.3" Heavy-Barrel Russian Semi-Auto Rifle
Built by Molot-Oruzhie on the robust RPK machine-gun receiver, this VEPR-1V marries Kalashnikov reliability with a heavy 23.3-inch chrome-lined barrel for enhanced accuracy and service life. U.S. importation ended in 2017, making authentic Russian-made VEPR rifles increasingly hard to find and prized by shooters and collectors alike. Chambered in .223 Rem, this full-size variant offers modern cartridge flexibility while retaining classic AK ergonomics.
Condition
Overall Condition: Excellent condition, showing only faint signs of any prior use or handling.
Bore Condition: Excellent — Clean, mirror finish, sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Only a few minor, superficial scratches and small blemishes are visible on the metal surfaces; the bore remains bright and shiny.
What’s Included
- Molot VEPR-1V rifle
- One 30-round factory Molot polymer 5.56×45 magazine with molded witness scale markings
The VEPR-1V uses a 1.5 mm RPK-pattern stamped receiver reinforced with double-row rivets and a bulged front trunnion—features that add strength without excessive weight.
Its cold-hammer-forged, chrome-lined barrel is heavy-profile for heat resistance during extended fire and is threaded 14×1 LH for muzzle devices. An integrated RPK bipod lug sits just forward of the handguard.
Iron sights include a hooded front post and an RPK rear leaf with a left-side windage drum, allowing finer zeroing than standard AK sights. The long-stroke gas-piston action delivers the familiar reliability that defines the Kalashnikov system.
A black enamel over phosphate finish protects the stamped-steel receiver and barrel. The rifle ships with a thumbhole polymer stock featuring an integral sling loop and a standard AK-pattern pistol grip for familiar handling.