Molot Vepr-12 Defender 12 Gauge Semi-Auto Shotgun, Pre-Ban Russian RPK-Based, 3 in Chamber, Side-Folding Stock, FIME Import (VPR-12-81)
The Molot Vepr-12 Defender is a Russian-built, RPK-derived 12 gauge semi-automatic shotgun imported by FIME Group before 2017 sanctions halted Molot imports. This Defender variant combines a reinforced steel receiver and Kalashnikov long-stroke gas system with practical competition upgrades, including a permanently attached multi-port muzzle brake, flared magazine well, and factory last-round bolt hold-open. It is a collectible, pre-ban example with integral rail features and robust military lineage.
Condition
Overall Condition: Excellent condition, showing only faint signs of any prior use or handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Specific Condition Notes: This firearm is in great shape. There are some minor scratches and blemishes present. The bore is clean and shiny.
What’s Included
- Factory cardboard box with FIME Group end label (PN VPR-12-81)
- FIME Group Vepr-12 Defender (VPR-12-81) manual
- Molot "VEPR-12 MOLOT" 12x76 paperwork
- 1x 8-round factory Molot polymer magazine with steel feed lips
- 1x 5-round factory Molot polymer magazine with steel feed lips
Built by Molot-Oruzhie Ltd. in Russia, the Vepr-12 Defender uses a reinforced RPK-style receiver and trunnion with the Kalashnikov long-stroke piston and rotating bolt. This design delivers the durability and cycling characteristics associated with RPK lineage while maintaining the handling of a modern semi-automatic shotgun.
The Defender package includes a large, multi-port muzzle brake with a DLC finish that is permanently attached, paired with a chrome-lined barrel and a 3 in chamber. A flared, competition-style magazine well and a factory last-round bolt hold-open support fast reloads and clear status checks. The enlarged charging handle knob and manual safety provide straightforward controls.
Furniture and sighting features are purpose-built: a side-folding tubular metal skeleton stock with cheek piece and sling loop, ribbed polymer pistol grip, and two-piece ribbed polymer handguards. Sights consist of a protected front post and an RPK-style rear tangent. The hinged top cover integrates a Picatinny rail, and a short accessory rail sits under the gas block.
Dimensionally, this model measures 38.0 in overall length when extended and 27.75 in when folded, with a 13.5 in length of pull and a weight of 9.04 lb. Capacity is 8+1. Markings include FIME GROUP LAS VEGAS NV USA, MOLOT-ORUZHIE LTD. VYATSKIE POLYANY RUSSIA, VEPR-12 molot, and 12x76. U.S.
imports were handled by FIME Group and ceased in 2017, making this pre-ban Defender an attractive choice for collectors and enthusiasts.