Vektor CR-21
| Vektor CR-21 | |
|---|---|
|
The Vektor CR-21 | |
| Type | Bullpup assault rifle |
| Place of origin | South Africa |
| Service history | |
| In service | Prototype |
| Production history | |
| Designed | 1997 |
| Manufacturer | Denel |
| Produced | Prototype |
| Number built | Prototype |
| Variants | CR-21 carbine |
| Specifications | |
| Weight | 3.72 kg (8.2 lb) |
| Length | 760 mm (29.9 in) |
| Barrel length | 460 mm (18.1 in) |
|
| |
| Cartridge | 5.56×45mm NATO |
| Caliber | 5.56mm |
| Action | Gas-operated, rotating bolt |
| Rate of fire | 700 round/min (full auto) |
| Muzzle velocity | 980 m/s |
| Feed system | 20 or 35-round detachable R4 magazines[1] |
| Sights | Fiber optic illuminated reflex sight |
The Vektor CR-21 is a prototype South African assault rifle ("CR-21" being an abbreviation of Combat Rifle 21st Century)[2] chambered for 5.56×45mm NATO ammunition. It was designed by Denel Land Systems as a possible replacement for the South African National Defence Force's current R4 assault rifle,[3] however Denel Land Systems has since shifted focus to offering an upgraded R4 assault rifle to the SANDF instead.[4]
The rifle is being marketed for export customers, but no sales have been achieved.[2]
History
First unveiled in 1997, the rifle uses the bullpup layout. This enables the rifle to be as short as a typical carbine, whilst still retaining the muzzle velocity of longer assault rifles. However, this makes the CR-21 only capable of being fired from the right hand.[3]
Design
Internally, the CR-21 uses a slightly modified version of the Kalashnikov action found in the R4 assault rifle, which is known for its reliability and relatively low weight.[3] The rifle also makes significant use of high-impact polymer,[2] with the only exposed metal part on the rifle being the front of the barrel with its integral flash suppressor. Both of these result in the rifle having a low loaded weight, of 3.72 kg (8.2 lbs).[2] The CR-21 comes standard with a 1X magnification optical sight with an illuminated reticle that does not require batteries.[3][5] This sight is mounted on a sight rail, allowing easy removal and attachment, as well as the use of a range of different sight options. The forward handgrip has been specially designed to be easily removed and replaced with a grenade launcher similar to the M203 grenade launcher.[3] Finally, the stock has a built-in compartment which stores a cleaning kit for the rifle,[2] removing the usual need for the soldier to carry this separately.
A CR-21 carbine was said to have been developed by Vektor.[1] Both of their 35-round magazines are based from the R4/Galil rifles.[1]
See also
References
- Notes
- 1 2 3 "Vektor CR-21". Military Factory. Retrieved 2010-07-05.
- 1 2 3 4 5 "Vektor CR-21". Military Today. Retrieved 2010-07-05.
- 1 2 3 4 5 Max Popenker. "Vektor CR-21 assault rifle (South Africa)". Retrieved 2010-07-05.
- ↑ Leon Engelbrecht. "Denel showcases a 21st Century R4 assault rifle at AAD". Retrieved 2012-03-13.
- ↑ Omutumua Oshili. "Vektor CR-21 Assault Rifle". Retrieved 2010-07-05.
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