DP-28 Machine Gun
The Degtyaryov infantry machine gun, introduced in the Soviet Union in 1928, became a cornerstone of Soviet infantry firepower throughout World War II and well into the Cold War. Designed by Vasily Alekseyevich Degtyaryov, one of the most influential Soviet firearms engineers of the 20th century, this weapon was intended to provide squad-level automatic fire in a lightweight, reliable, and mechanically simple form. It was the Soviet answer to other nations' light machine guns, such as the British Bren and the German MG 34, but reflected a distinctly Soviet philosophy of ruggedness and simplicity over technical refinement.
The weapon was manufactured at the Degtyaryov Plant in Kovrov, located in western Russia. This plant became the primary center for production throughout the 1930s and into the war years. Between the standard infantry version and its many variants, total production exceeded 800,000 units by the time it was eventually phased out of Soviet front-line service in favor of newer models.
At the heart of the design was the 7.62×54mmR cartridge—a powerful, rimmed rifle round that had been in use since the late 19th century. By using a standard cartridge shared with rifles like the Mosin-Nagant, Soviet logistics were simplified, allowing machine gunners to draw from the same ammunition pool as riflemen. This made supply and battlefield resupply far more practical during prolonged engagements.
The weapon operated on a gas system with a long-stroke piston and featured a flapper-locking bolt. This action, though mechanically less complex than some Western counterparts, proved exceptionally durable. The system was tolerant of dirt, snow, and fouling, which made it ideal for use in the harsh and unpredictable conditions of the Eastern Front. The mechanism functioned reliably in freezing temperatures, wet environments, and after prolonged firing—qualities that earned it the trust of Soviet troops even when other weapons faltered.
Weighing approximately 9 kilograms (about 20 pounds) unloaded, and with an overall length of 1,270 millimeters, the weapon was not especially light for a “light” machine gun by modern standards. However, its simplicity and balance made it manageable in combat, especially when fired from the prone position. Its barrel was 604 millimeters in length, and while it lacked quick-change functionality, a trained operator could replace a barrel in the field when necessary using basic tools.
One of the most iconic features of the design was its top-mounted pan magazine, which held 47 rounds. Shaped like a flat disc, this magazine sat horizontally above the receiver and used gravity to assist with feeding rounds into the chamber. While this eliminated the need for a spring-powered drum or belt system, it also had drawbacks. The magazines were slow to reload, awkward to carry in large numbers, and susceptible to dents or damage. Still, many Soviet soldiers adapted well to its peculiarities and appreciated the fact that it rarely jammed when used properly.
The cyclic rate of fire was approximately 550 rounds per minute, but operational doctrine encouraged short bursts to conserve ammunition and avoid overheating. Practical sustained fire was typically limited to around 80–100 rounds per minute. The fixed barrel, although robust, could become dangerously hot during extended firing, requiring discipline from the gunner. To aid in cooling, the weapon was air-cooled and featured radial fins around the barrel to dissipate heat more effectively.
In terms of accuracy, the machine gun was serviceable but not exceptional. It was fitted with adjustable iron sights protected by sturdy wings, and it was typically zeroed for distances between 100 and 1,500 meters. However, in combat, it was most effective at suppressing enemy infantry at ranges up to about 600–800 meters. It was intended more for volume of fire than precision shooting. The integrated bipod, mounted near the muzzle, provided a stable firing platform when prone or supported on debris or battlefield terrain.
Although optics were not a standard feature, the weapon could be adapted to accept simple optical or aperture sights for specialized roles. Vehicle-mounted or aircraft versions often had modified mounts and sighting equipment tailored to those platforms. In infantry use, however, most were issued with only basic iron sights, which proved sufficient for their intended purpose.
During the Second World War, feedback from the battlefield led to a redesign. In 1944, the Soviet military began issuing a modernized variant known as the DPM. This update relocated the recoil spring to the rear of the receiver, shielding it from barrel heat and reducing failures caused by overheating. It also introduced a more ergonomic pistol grip and moved the bipod to the barrel jacket, making it sturdier and more practical in rugged terrain. These changes extended the weapon's service life and usability, making it more adaptable to post-war tactics.
The Degtyaryov gun earned a reputation for extreme reliability. Soldiers often recounted stories of it continuing to function after being buried in mud or snow, dropped from vehicles, or exposed to torrential rain. Its resilience under fire contributed to its widespread use not only in Soviet forces but also among Soviet allies and client states. Captured examples were frequently reused by enemy forces, including the Finnish Army, which valued its performance despite the challenges of the pan magazine.
The weapon remained in service for decades after World War II, seeing use in conflicts such as the Chinese Civil War, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and various African and Middle Eastern engagements during the Cold War. It was eventually replaced in Soviet service by the RPD and later the RPK, which offered belt or box-fed ammunition systems and lighter overall weight. Nevertheless, Degtyaryov’s creation endured in the arsenals of guerrilla movements and irregular forces well into the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
