Vektor R1

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Vektor R1
Weapon: Vektor R1
Type: Infantry Rifle
Country of Origin: South Africa
Year Adopted: 1960
Caliber: 7.62x51mm NATO
Action: Select Fire
Overall Length (mm): 1090.0
Weight (kg): 4.00
Effective Range (m): 600

The Vektor R1 is a South African adaptation of the Belgian FN FAL battle rifle. It was developed in the 1960s when South Africa needed to adopt a reliable infantry rifle amidst its increasing isolation due to apartheid. Produced by Lyttelton Engineering Works (now Denel Land Systems), the R1 is chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO and follows the design of the metric FAL. The rifle was adopted by the South African Defence Force (SADF) and was used extensively in conflicts such as the South African Border War. The R1 gained a reputation for its ruggedness and durability in harsh environments, making it suitable for African combat conditions. Production numbers for the R1 reached over 200,000, with both standard and paratrooper variants being manufactured. Though phased out in favor of more modern designs like the Vektor R4, the R1 remains iconic in South African military history.


Related Weapons: FN MAG 58 FN MINIMI FN FAL L1A1 FNC FN SCAR-L FN P90 FN PS90 FN F2000

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