Join Paul Levy as he offers a look at the Russian RPD. This unique firearm was developed in the Soviet Union by Vasily Degtyaryov and was chambered in 7.62mm. Work on this weapon began in 1943, though delivery did not commence until 1953. The RPD became the standard light machine gun for the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. As featured on previous Degtyaryov designs the RPD uses a gas-operated piston system and fires from an open bolt. If you have a firearm you’d like to see featured in the From the Vault series, please let us know.
