Swiss ZfK-55 Sniper Rifle

Published on November 26, 2015
Duration: 9:28

The Swiss ZfK-55 sniper rifle, adopted in 1955, was a purpose-built precision rifle based on the K31 action. It features significant mechanical upgrades including a heavy barrel, muzzle brake, semi-pistol grip, and an integrated bipod. A unique 15-degree clockwise rotation of the action allows for stripper clip use with a center-mounted scope, a 3.5x Kern optic being standard. Despite its quality, the rifle's 13.5 lb weight and non-locking bipod present some drawbacks.

Quick Summary

The Swiss ZfK-55 sniper rifle features a unique 15-degree clockwise rotated action, allowing stripper clip use with its center-mounted 3.5x Kern scope. Adopted in 1955, it was a purpose-built rifle with a heavy barrel, muzzle brake, and bipod, distinct from modified service rifles.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Swiss ZfK-55 Sniper Rifle
  2. 00:43Early Swiss Scoped Rifles (K31/42, K31/43)
  3. 01:35Adoption and Production of the ZfK-55
  4. 02:30Mechanical Upgrades: Barrel, Brake, Stock, Bipod
  5. 03:20Unique Feature: The Rotated Action
  6. 03:58Kern 3.5x Quick-Detach Scope
  7. 05:35Trigger Quality and Muzzle Brake Design
  8. 07:01Weight and Bipod Design Analysis

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Swiss ZfK-55 sniper rifle unique?

The ZfK-55's most unique feature is its action, which is rotated 15 degrees clockwise. This allows the use of standard stripper clips for reloading, even with a center-mounted scope, a design rarely seen on other firearms.

What were the early Swiss attempts at scoped rifles before the ZfK-55?

Before the ZfK-55, Switzerland experimented with scoped versions of the K31 rifle in the 1940s, specifically the K31/42 and K31/43. These used periscope-style optics but were unsuccessful due to low magnification and fragility.

What are the key mechanical upgrades on the ZfK-55 compared to a standard K31?

The ZfK-55 features a heavy barrel, a significant muzzle brake, a semi-pistol grip stock, and an integrated bipod. These upgrades mean most parts are not interchangeable with the standard K31 service rifle.

What magnification scope did the Swiss ZfK-55 sniper rifle typically use?

The ZfK-55 was equipped with a 3.5x Kern scope featuring a quick-detach system. This magnification level became a common standard for designated marksman rifles during that era.

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