PSO-1 Scope Review for AK and SVD Rifles

The PSO-1 is one of the most recognizable optical sights ever produced in the Soviet Union. Introduced in the early 1960s alongside the SVD Dragunov sniper rifle, it became the standard optic for designated marksmen across the Warsaw Pact and beyond. Known for its distinctive illuminated reticle and integrated rangefinder scale, the PSO-1 was designed to extend the effective range of infantry weapons in Soviet doctrine. Over time, variants were also adapted for certain AK-series rifles, particularly in the designated marksman role.

PSO-1 Scope

1. Development History

The PSO-1 was developed by the Novosibirsk Instrument-Making Plant (NPZ) under the guidance of designer V. G. Dayun. Its introduction in 1963 coincided with the adoption of the SVD Dragunov, which required a rugged and easy-to-use scope for semi-automatic precision fire.

The goal was not to create a Western-style sniper system for extreme accuracy, but a battlefield optic that could be mass-produced and issued to marksmen embedded within infantry squads.

2. Optical Specifications

• Magnification: 4×

• Objective lens diameter: 24 mm

• Field of view: 6 degrees (approx. 10.5 m at 100 m)

• Eye relief: ~68 mm

• Exit pupil: 6 mm

• Weight: ~620 g with mount

• Length: 375 mm

The fixed 4× magnification was chosen as a compromise between long-range observation and the ability to track moving targets.

PSO-1 scope with its canvas cover

3. Unique Reticle Design

The PSO-1’s reticle is one of its most distinctive features. It includes:

• Chevron aiming point for primary zero at 1,000 meters.

• Bullet drop compensation marks down to 1,300 meters for 7.62×54mmR ammunition.

• Stadiametric rangefinder scale on the right, calibrated to estimate distance to a man-sized target (1.7 meters tall).

• Windage reference marks for lateral hold.

The reticle was originally illuminated by a small tritium source for low-light shooting. Modern versions use LED illumination powered by a small battery.

PSO scopes reticle

4. Mounting System

The PSO-1 was designed to fit the side rail mounting system on the SVD. This side rail, known as the Warsaw Pact dovetail, allowed quick attachment and removal without losing zero.Later adaptations allowed the scope to be mounted on:

• AKM and AK-74 rifles fitted with side rails for designated marksman roles.

• RPK light machine guns in certain units.

While functional, mounting a PSO-1 on an AK introduces limitations due to the AK’s inherently lower accuracy compared to the SVD.

5. Use on the SVD Dragunov

On the SVD, the PSO-1 was perfectly matched to the rifle’s role:

• The 4× magnification complemented the rifle’s effective range of 600–800 meters.

• The rangefinder scale and bullet drop compensation were calibrated for the 7N1 sniper cartridge.

• The clear optics and robust housing made it reliable under battlefield conditions.

For decades, the SVD + PSO-1 combination was a symbol of Soviet and later Russian designated marksman capability.

SVD with PSO

6. Use on AK-Series Rifles

While designed for the SVD, the PSO-1 has also been used on:

• AKM (7.62×39) rifles in limited marksman roles.

• AK-74 (5.45×39) rifles in modernized forces.

• Certain civilian AK-pattern rifles for sporting and hunting.

However:

• The ballistic reticle is not calibrated for AK ammunition, requiring manual adjustment or holdover estimation.

• The lower inherent accuracy of AK rifles means that the scope’s full potential is not realized.

• Nonetheless, for a squad marksman, the PSO-1 offers improved target identification and engagement capability at medium ranges.
  

  

  AKS-74 with PSO

7. Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths:

• Rugged and combat-proven design.

• Integrated rangefinding capability.

• Easy to mount and remove without losing zero.

• Long service history with minimal changes needed.

Weaknesses:

• Fixed magnification limits versatility.

• Original tritium illumination faded over time (requiring upgrades).

• Not optimized for non-SVD rifles without ballistic recalibration.

• Optical clarity is good, but not on par with modern Western scopes.
  

8. Modern Variants and Legacy

Today, several updated PSO-1 variants exist:

• PSO-1M2 with LED illumination and improved coatings.

• Versions calibrated for 5.45×39 and 7.62×39 ammunition.

• Civilian and export models compatible with Western mounts.

Despite newer optics entering service, the PSO-1 remains widely used in Russia, Eastern Europe, and many former Soviet-aligned countries due to its simplicity, durability, and historical success.

PSO-1M2

Conclusion

The PSO-1 is more than just a rifle scope — it is a symbol of the Soviet approach to battlefield marksmanship: functional, cost-effective, and built for the realities of war. While modern optics offer more magnification and advanced features, the PSO-1’s rugged reliability and integrated rangefinding have kept it relevant for over half a century. On the SVD, it remains an effective tool for the designated marksman; on AK rifles, it offers a unique blend of Soviet heritage and practical capability.