The Russian TsKIB SOO MTs-566 Precision Rifle

This article examines the history of the MTs-566 precision rifle, reviewing its unique and potent design that makes it stand out amongst other Russian military f irearms. To provide context for the origins of the rifle, a brief, general history of Russian sniper weapon systems is provided. The history of the MTs-566 is then presented, with an examination of the weapon’s general design, key features, and important variants. The research underpinning this article is based in large part on interviews with the design and manufacturing team, documentation for the rifle, and personal familiarity of the author with the platform. The relevance of the MTs-566 in modern warfare is briefly examined as well, with a description of its combat use based on interviews with servicemen who have recently used the rifle. The article is illustrated with photographs of multiple examples of the MTs566 taken by the author, as well as further photographs provided by servicemen interviewed by the author.