PSL Rifle

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	Weapon: PSL Rifle Type: Sniper Rifle Country of Origin: Romania Year Adopted: 1974 Overall Length (mm): 1150.0 Overall Length (in): 45.28 Weight (kg): 4.00 Weight (pounds): 8.82

The Romanian PSL (Pusca Semiautomata cu Luneta) rifle is a designated marksman rifle developed in Romania in the 1970s as a response to the Soviet Union's SVD Dragunov. Chambered in 7.62x54mmR, the PSL was designed with a similar purpose but differs in its construction, as it is based on the RPK light machine gun rather than the SVD. Featuring a long-stroke gas piston system and semi-automatic action, the PSL uses a stamped receiver and is often equipped with a 4x LPS scope, allowing for accurate fire up to 800 meters.

The PSL has been widely produced by Romania's Cugir Arms Factory, with thousands manufactured for both domestic use and export to various countries. Its rugged design and compatibility with widely available 7.62x54mmR ammunition have made it popular not only within the Romanian military but also with several Eastern Bloc and Middle Eastern forces. Civilian variants have also been produced for the international market, contributing to the rifle's availability and popularity among firearms enthusiasts around the world.

Known for its durability and affordability, the PSL has earned a reputation as a reliable and accessible designated marksman rifle. Though it lacks the precision of more specialized sniper rifles, the PSL's ease of use and versatility have allowed it to remain in service in various conflicts and military forces globally. Its iconic profile, similar to the Dragunov, has given it some notoriety, making the PSL a recognizable and valued rifle for both military and civilian marksmen.