SCS (Simonov self-loading carbine)
The Simonov self—loading carbine (SKS) - Soviet weapon, developed by Sergey Simonov and adopted in 1949. It became one of the first mass-produced weapons using an intermediate cartridge of 7.62×39 mm, which was also used in the Kalashnikov assault rifle. The SCS has a self-charging mechanism with exhaust automation, which ensures high reliability and ease of maintenance. The carbine is equipped with an integral magazine for 10 rounds, which is loaded with clips through an open bolt. It features high shooting accuracy and an effective range of up to 400 meters, making it suitable for close and medium combat. The SCS has a wooden bed and metal parts, which gives it durability and aesthetic appearance. The carbine was actively used in the Soviet Army, and was also supplied to the Warsaw Pact countries and Soviet allies around the world. SCS has been used in numerous conflicts, including the Korean and Vietnam Wars, as well as in local wars in Africa and Asia. After decommissioning, the SCS remains popular among collectors, hunters, and athletes due to its reliability and historical value.
Photo of the constructor:
Main Features:
Caliber: 7.62×39 mm (intermediate cartridge).
Barrel length: 520 mm.
Total length: 1020 mm (with reclined bayonet — 1260 mm).
Weight: 3.85 kg (without cartridges).
Magazine capacity: 10 rounds (non-removable box magazine, clip-loaded).
Rate of fire: 35-40 rounds per minute (practical rate of fire).
Aiming range: Effective range: up to 400 meters. Maximum range: up to 1000 meters (using a scope).
Type of automation: operation based on the discharge of powder gases.
Type of shooting: self-loading (single shots).
Other features:
Intermediate cartridge: The SCS became one of the first Soviet weapons designed for the new 7.62×39 mm cartridge, which provided a balance between power and recoil.
Simplicity and reliability: The design of the carbine is simple and reliable, which makes it convenient for mass production and operation in various conditions.
Non-removable magazine: The 10-round magazine is loaded using a clip, which simplifies the reloading process.
Bayonet-knife: The SCS was equipped with a folding fixed bayonet that could be used in close combat.
Wooden box: The carbine has a wooden box and a handguard, which gives it a classic look and provides convenience when shooting.
Widespread: The SCS was used not only in the USSR, but was also supplied to the allies, and was also produced under license in other countries (for example, the Chinese Type 56).
Produced: about 15-20 million copies (in the USSR and other countries)
Advantages:
High reliability and easy maintenance.
Good accuracy and accuracy of shooting at medium ranges.
User-friendliness due to its light weight and balanced design.
Powerful intermediate cartridge 7.62×39 mm, providing good penetration ability.
Durability: many copies of the SCS are still in operation.
Disadvantages:
Limited magazine capacity (10 rounds) compared to more modern models.
The lack of the ability to conduct automatic fire.
An outdated design compared to later submachine guns such as AK.
Interesting facts:
The SKS and AK-47 were developed in parallel, but Simonov relied on accuracy and efficiency, while Kalashnikov relied on reliability and automatic fire. As a result, the AK ousted the SCS from the regular forces.
The SCS uses an original locking system – the shutter is tilted in the vertical plane, like the German Gewehr 43, which increases accuracy.
After decommissioning in the 1960s, millions of SCS were sold on the civilian market as hunting carbines (Saiga-MK and other modifications).
Despite its decommissioning, the SCS was used by the Dushmans in Afghanistan and even by Russian troops in the First Chechen War as a sniper weapon.
The SCS is appreciated for its classic shape, wooden bed and balance – many consider it the standard of ergonomics among military carbines.
Photo:
Vietnamese guerrilla with SCS (wax figure in the museum of the guerrilla movement in Vietnam).
A Soviet soldier with the SCS in Hungary, 1956
Changing of the guard, armed with SCS in the GDR, 1990