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Molot Vepr-12

2003 MODERN

History

The semi-automatic shotgun has been around for over a hundred years, but it never really entered the world's armies. Today, interest in the melee weapon type is growing, and some global players have stepped up to meet the demand for clunky burst firing systems that are beyond the capabilities of traditional pump-and-slide action designs. The Vepr-12 is a Russian-made semi-automatic shotgun by Molot Oruzhie Limited, based on the proven Kalashnokov model, while heavily influenced by the successful RPK series machine guns (detailed elsewhere on this site).

Introduced in 2003, the Vepr-12 is in service with Russia and is available in several variants to meet military and civilian market needs. The Greek SWAT also adopted this type.

Externally, the Vepr-12 clearly shows its Kalashnikov-based roots, with its rectangular receiver design, cylinder holder above the barrel and support for the curved detachable magazine. Sections of the Picatinny rail can be seen above the receiver and on the cylinders, allowing various tactical accessories to be attached. The barrel assembly extends slightly in front of the cylinder and is locked by a unique multi-slot detent. The shoulder rest can be adjusted to the operator's needs and can be folded for a more compact footprint. The pistol grip and trigger assembly are traditionally located at the bottom of the receiver, with the magazine in front of it.

The control is within the bounds of the trigger area.

Internally, the Vepr-12 follows the Kalashnikov pattern of a gas powertrain with a rotating bolt function. This provides reliable service even in the most extreme battlefield abuse situations. The weapon is loaded with 18.5x70mm (12 gauge) shells and also supports 12 gauge magnum rounds. It is loaded from a detachable 2-, 4-, 5-, 8-, 10- or 12-round magazine or a detachable 20/25-round drum and has a specified range of up to 100 meters.

Aiming is done with a tangent-based arrangement. The total weight is 4.5 kg. Measurements include an overall length of 1,227mm (867mm folded).

The Vepr-12 comes in two main forms, representing several variants within these brands: the VPO-205, with a side-folding skeleton stock, and the VPO-206, a model series with an M4-style collapsible slide Set of stocks.

Variants of the VPO-205 series include the base model VPO-205-00, which has a 16.92" barrel length and optional muzzle brake. The VPO-205-01 is a sport model with a 20.4" barrel and fixed muzzle brake. The VPO-205-02 is a competition model with a 26.77" barrel and variable choke. The VPO-205-03 is a special military designation with automatic fire and a shortened 12" barrel (muzzle brake option).

It also has a fixed folding stock and a sports Picatinny rail section above the receiver, along the sides of the front end and under the barrel. The VPO-205-00-CN is another sporty version.

The VPO-206 series includes the base version VPO-206-00 with a 16.92" barrel and optional muzzle brake, the sport VPO-206-01 with a 20.4" barrel and fixed muzzle brake, and the VPO -206-02 matches competition model, 26.77" long barrel and variable choke.

Specification

Basics

Year of Service

2003

Origins

Russia

Categories

Semi-Auto Shotgun

Manufacturer

Molot Oruzhie Limited / Izhmash - Russia

Carrier

Greece; Russia

Role

Close support

Use at very close range; ditch cleaning; door breaker; safety.

Dimensions and Weight

Overall Length

1,227 mm

48. 31 inches

Cured weight

10.03 lbs

4.55 kg

Attractions

Iron (tangent)

Action

Semi-automatic

One shot per trigger; self-loading or self-loading action supported by internal mechanisms; stroke management (and initial cocking) typically required by operators; subsequent shots assisted by unlocking/moving bolts.

(Material presented above is for historical and entertainment value and should not be construed as usable for hardware restoration, maintenance, or general operation - always consult official manufacturer sources for such information)