Military Model Scene

One of the best references for a modeller has to be an example of the real thing.  In this case it is a de-activated example. The SVT-40 was a development of the SVT-38, a Tokarev design from the early 1930's, a semi-automatic rifle intended to replace the bolt-action Moisin-Nagent infantry rifle. The SVT-40 entered service in 1940 and around 1.6 million were made during WW2, before production ceased in 1945.  It never did replace the older bolt-action rifle, as the demands for weapons in WW2 meant they needed everything they could muster. There was a specialised snipe variant as well.  This example is the standard variant. It worked reasonably well though was rather long, and needed a bit more care than the older Moisin-Nagant. I always think it just 'looks' an interesting design.

A calibre of 7.62, holding 10 rounds in a box magazine, and this could be reloaded with an open receiver, using two of the same standard stripping clips used with the Moisin-Nagent.  SVT stands for Samozaryadnaya Vintovka Tokareva, Obrazets 1940, simply Tokarev semi-automatic rifle.

 

I found mine through Real-Gun.com here in the UK.

 

Owning Deactivated Firearms

Here in the UK there are ever stricter rules about owning a deactivated firearm, though they do not require a firearms licence. As a note on de-activated weapons, they are quite readily available and do not require a Firearms license.  The current specification for a de-activated weapon means that as well as the barrel being fixed so you cannot change it and it is welded blocked, and the bolt is welded in place as well so it is impossible to return it to firing condition.  You must not carry them openly in public, they must be wrapped or carried in a gun bag.  To do otherwise invites being reported to the police, clearly disturbing members of the public and hence may find yourself the target for a police firearms unit.  You do get, and need to keep, the proof-house de-activation certificate for the weapon and they can only be purchased by persons over the age of 18.  It is good advice to keep them secure in your home, and personally I use a proper gun cabinet.  There are a number of dealers who sell these all perfectly legally.  Prices vary enormously depending on the type of weapon you are interested in but it is worth shopping around to find the best price.  Do note that these are sold within the UK and cannot be shipped overseas.

In the most recent changes to the rules, unfortunately bolt action weapons such as this must have the bolt welded in place, so the 'action' cannot work.  That was not the case with the earlier de-activation specifications so that's rather sad.

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Robin