The SVD is the last designated marksman rifle (DMR) unlocked in-game. Damage is high, although average for its class, sporting a three-shot kill up close or two where one is a headshot. Range is excellent, its three-shot kill range extending out to 780 meters. Muzzle velocity is also quite good at 950 meters per second. Rate-of-fire (RoF) is slow but is the fastest of all DMRs, at 440 RPM. Altogether the SVD posses a relatively quick time-to-kill at most distances.
Reload times are slowest in-class, at 4.21 seconds for a normal tactical reload. Magazine capacity is poor by automatic weapon standards but average for its class at 14 rounds. Recoil is moderate for a DMR. A decent amount of vertical kick and first shot recoil, occasionally exacerbated by the higher firerate. Most handling traits are on par with the MK14 EBR.
Usage and Tips
The SVD is an effective DMR at medium range. Its strength lies in its higher firerate than any of its peers, albeit still semi-automatic. With good shot placement, the SVD can achieve the theoretically fastest time-to-kill in its category. This of course requires a user with sufficient accuracy and trigger finger to maximize the SVD's potential. Users should still refrain from entering close-quarters-combat (CQC) or using extremely aggressive playstyles with the SVD—it is outclassed by automatic rifles up close with their faster firerates, larger magazine capacities and much faster reload times. Instead, users should take up good positions watching key chokepoints or objectives and keep enemies at an arm's reach.
Reducing recoil greatly improves the SVD's overall performance. As such, grip and barrel attachments that help mitigate vertical recoil and first shot kick are often useful options. However, the higher firerate also allows for less conventional options, such as the suppressor. Optics are very beneficial for precision—a key requirement with DMRs. The SVD's medium range role makes optics such as the M125, Prisma or similar attachments ideal. For smaller maps the holographic sights are also worth considering.
Conclusion
The SVD is a high-risk, high-reward option. It boasts the best potential time-to-kill of any DMR albeit this requires a higher degree of skill from the user than with other DMRs.
