barrels for accuracy), the Tabuk, like the SVD and the PSL, has a relatively light barrel. The Tabuk differs from the M72 in some other ways. It has provision for mounting optics, though this is not an unusual accessory on Eastern Bloc weapons, and it has a skeletonized buttstock with a cheek piece. A third difference, and perhaps the most important (though not definitive) visual cue when identifying the Tabuk, is the conspicuous lack of a bipod. The M72's bipod, which is not detachable from the M72 (though sometimes removed by undisciplined troops), is quite obvious from afar when attached. It was likely removed from the Tabuk design to enhance mechanical accuracy and reduce weight, though appropriately designed precision bipods can add useful stability (practical accuracy) for long range shooting. Since it is essentially an accurized and scoped M72, the Tabuk is chambered for 7.62×39mm. This is advantageous as it allows the Tabuk to use the same magazines as the AKM, and AKM Magazines are well made, plentiful, and easy to replace if lost. Because the Tabuk is chambered for the Soviet M43 or 7.62×39mm cartridge, it cannot technically function as a sniper rifle (by western standards). With a maximum effective range of only 600 meters (based on ammunition trajectory), the Tabuk should instead be considered a designated marksman's rifle. The Tabuk is, within its given range, similarly effective as the Dragunov or PSL. At the far end of its effective range, however, it is decidedly less lethal than its higher velocity counterparts due to the round's combination of stability and low velocity, giving it less reach than the 7.62×54mmR caliber SVD. It visually resembles an RPK, which may make identifying enemy snipers more difficult. Likewise, its acoustic signature is similar to an AKM. Users : Main producer and user since 1978. See also Zastava M76 Azb sniper rifle CAR 817 DMR References External links Tabuk sniper rifle at Dragunov.net 7.62×39mm semi-automatic rifles Designated marksman rifles Kalashnikov derivatives Military equipment introduced in the 1970s Sniper rifles of Iraq