Molot Vepr VPR-243-02 .243 Win Semi-Auto Rifle, 20.5 Inch Barrel, Walnut Thumbhole Stock, Made in Russia, Low-Volume FIME Import
This Russian-made Molot Vepr VPR-243-02 stands out as a scarce .243 Win semi-auto built on a reinforced AK/RPK-pattern receiver with a 20.5 inch barrel and select walnut furniture. U.S. imports by FIME Group ended after June 2017, and American Rifleman reported fewer than 200 units of this SKU were brought in, adding notable desirability for collectors. It comes in excellent condition with two factory steel 7-round magazines, the original box, and manual.
Built for strength and smooth cycling, this Vepr uses a semi-automatic, gas-operated, rotating-bolt action with a right-side charging handle and a manual safety lever. The unthreaded barrel features a recessed crown, and capacity is 7+1 with the included .243 Win factory magazines. Selector markings are "S / F" and the top cover is the classic ribbed RPK-style.
The rifle wears walnut furniture throughout: a thumbhole stock with cheek panel, fine checkering, ventilated rubber buttpad, and fixed sling swivels/loops, paired with a walnut sporter forend with machine checkering; the gas tube remains exposed above the forend (no upper handguard). A decorative circular "B" logo is engraved on the forend, and a small round factory cartouche appears on the stock panel. Length of pull measures 14.0 inches.
Sighting is via AK/RPK-style iron sights, with a protected front post and a tangent rear sight featuring an elevation ladder and windage drum. A matching partial serial "520" is observed on the sight base. The reinforced stamped receiver and ribbed top cover contribute to the sturdy build that Vepr rifles are known for.
Markings include "MOLOT-ORUZHIE LTD. VYATSKIE POLYANY RUSSIA" and "FIME GROUP LAS VEGAS NV USA." The packaging label is present and notes "Semi-Auto Hunting Shotgun," while the rifle itself is clearly marked as the VPR-243-02 in .243 Win. Made in Russia, this example represents a low-volume FIME import with features that appeal to both shooters and collectors.
Condition
Overall Condition: Excellent condition, showing only faint signs of any prior use or handling.
Bore Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: This rifle shows little signs of prior use.
What’s Included
- FIME Group factory cardboard box with VPR-243-02 label
- Original manual
- 2x 7rd mags