OSV-96

The OSV-96 traces back to KBP's work on large-caliber rifles intended to attack light vehicles, equipment, radar, aircraft on the ground and protected firing points at long range. It followed earlier B-94 development and entered the Russian heavy sniper/anti-materiel category alongside other 12.7 mm systems. The design uses the 12.7x108 mm cartridge, giving it much greater energy and range than standard sniper rifles. Its role reflects a specific requirement: not every target needs a missile or cannon, but some targets are too hard or too distant for ordinary rifle cartridges.

Technically, OSV-96 is unusual because it combines 12.7 mm anti-materiel power with semiautomatic operation. The rifle uses gas operation, a detachable box magazine and a prominent muzzle brake to manage recoil. Its long barrel gives useful velocity, while the folding mechanism reduces transport length. Optical sights are essential because the rifle's value comes from long-range precision against vehicles, sensors and hard targets. Weight and blast are major constraints: this is not a patrol carbine, and the shooter needs position preparation, support and careful backblast or muzzle-signature awareness.

Operationally, OSV-96 sits between standard sniper rifles and heavier crew-served weapons. It can disable vehicles, damage communications equipment, penetrate light cover, and engage personnel behind protection at ranges where smaller rifles lose effectiveness. The semiautomatic action allows quicker follow-up shots than a bolt-action anti-materiel rifle, but the system remains heavy and conspicuous. It is therefore best used from prepared or supported positions by trained teams. In modern conflicts, such rifles remain useful for harassment, countersniper work and equipment destruction, especially where bringing heavier weapons would be impractical or politically sensitive.