The Groza: A Deep Dive into its Ammunition and History
The OTs-14 “Groza” is a fascinating weapon, known for its bullpup design and unique attributes. But what truly sets it apart is its ammunition. The Groza, in its most common configuration, primarily uses 9x39mm SP-6 subsonic ammunition. This specialized round is central to the weapon’s design and intended purpose, making it a truly unique weapon.
Understanding the 9x39mm SP-6 Cartridge
The 9x39mm SP-6 cartridge is a Russian subsonic round designed for suppressed firearms, specifically for special operations forces. It’s a heavy, slow-moving round, which helps to reduce its report when fired, making it ideal for stealth operations. The cartridge is designed to be effective against body armor at short to medium ranges, adding to its appeal in close-quarters combat situations. The combination of subsonic velocity and a relatively heavy projectile creates a cartridge that delivers significant energy on impact, despite its reduced noise signature.
The 9x39mm SP-6 is not a common cartridge, unlike the ubiquitous 9mm or 7.62x39mm. Its specialized nature makes it less widely available but highly valued in specific applications where stealth and armor penetration are critical.
Groza Variants and Their Ammunition
While the 9x39mm SP-6 is the most well-known ammunition for the Groza, it’s important to note that variants exist. The OTs-14-1A “Groza-1”, for example, is chambered for the more common 7.62x39mm cartridge. This variant was likely developed to provide a more logistically feasible option, utilizing a readily available and widely distributed ammunition type. However, the 9x39mm version remains the defining configuration of the Groza.
Historical Context and Usage
The Groza was developed in the 1990s in Russia, intended for special operations forces requiring a compact, powerful, and relatively quiet weapon. While it saw limited use in conflicts like the Second Chechen War, it ultimately fell out of favor and is no longer in production. Its design, incorporating elements of the AKS-74U in a bullpup configuration, reflected a desire for a weapon that was both compact and controllable, especially when used with a suppressor.
The Groza in Video Games
The Groza has found a second life in various video games, most notably in battle royale titles like PUBG Mobile. In these games, it is often depicted as a rare and powerful weapon, typically found in airdrops. Its high rate of fire and significant damage output make it a formidable choice in close to mid-range engagements, despite its potentially challenging recoil.
Why the Groza Matters
The Groza is not just another firearm; it’s a symbol of innovative weapon design and specialized ammunition development. The 9x39mm SP-6 cartridge, though not widely known, represents a significant effort to create a subsonic round that could deliver both stealth and stopping power. The Groza, as a platform for this cartridge, highlights the importance of matching ammunition to specific tactical needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Groza
What is the primary ammunition used by the OTs-14 Groza?
The primary ammunition is the 9x39mm SP-6 subsonic cartridge.
Is there a Groza variant that uses a different ammunition type?
Yes, the OTs-14-1A “Groza-1” is chambered for the 7.62x39mm cartridge.
What makes the 9x39mm SP-6 ammunition special?
It’s a subsonic round designed for suppressed firearms, offering a balance of stealth and armor penetration capabilities at close to mid range.
Was the Groza widely used in military conflicts?
No, its use was relatively limited, with some deployment in the Second Chechen War.
Why is the Groza often featured in video games?
Its unique design and high damage output make it a desirable and interesting weapon for game developers to include.
What type of firearm is the Groza?
It’s a bullpup, select-fire assault rifle.
Where was the Groza developed?
It was developed in Russia at the TsKIB SOO (Central Design and Research Bureau of Sporting and Hunting Arms) in Tula.
Is the Groza still in production?
No, the Groza is no longer produced.
What are the key advantages of a bullpup design like the Groza’s?
Bullpup designs offer a more compact overall length without sacrificing barrel length, enhancing maneuverability.
How does the Groza compare to the AKM in terms of performance?
The Groza generally has a higher rate of fire and slightly better range than the AKM, but it is much rarer to find in video games.
What is the magazine capacity of the Groza when using 9x39mm ammunition?
It typically uses 20-round magazines, although some sources mention the ability to use 40-round magazines.
What are some of the drawbacks of the Groza?
One significant drawback is its difficulty in firing from the opposite shoulder in close-quarters situations due to the bullpup design and the violent action.
How does the 9x39mm SP-6 ammunition affect the Groza’s sound signature?
The subsonic nature of the round significantly reduces the weapon’s report, making it quieter, especially when used with a suppressor.
Is the Groza considered a meta-shattering weapon in video games?
No, while it’s a good weapon, it’s not typically considered a meta-defining choice, often being overshadowed by other assault rifles like the AK-47.
What is the base damage of the Groza in video games like PUBG Mobile?
The base damage is often around 49 HP per shot, although this can vary depending on the specific game.
In conclusion, the Groza is a fascinating and unique firearm. Its use of the 9x39mm SP-6 cartridge makes it a specialized weapon designed for specific tactical needs. While it is no longer in production, the Groza has found a new life in video games, where its unique design and powerful performance continue to captivate players. The study of these types of games and their impact on learning are researched by the Games Learning Society, whose aim is to better understand the intersection of the two. You can learn more about them at GamesLearningSociety.org.