Century Arms RI035N PSL: The Iconic Romanian DMR for Discerning Shooters and Collectors

Are you searching for a rifle that combines historical significance with formidable long-range performance? Do you want a semi-automatic platform chambered in a powerful, widely available cartridge, perfect for hitting distant targets or adding a legendary piece to your collection? Look no further than the Century Arms RI035N PSL chambered in 7.62x54mmR. This Romanian-built designated marksman rifle (DMR) is a true head-turner, renowned for its distinctive appearance and robust capabilities. Manufactured exclusively in Romania and imported by Century Arms, the PSL offers a unique blend of heritage, reliability, and precision for enthusiasts, target shooters, and collectors alike. Available at DEGuns, this rifle stands as a testament to practical military design, adapted for civilian ownership without compromising its authentic character.

Understanding the Legacy: What Makes the PSL Special?

The PSL, often colloquially known as the "Romanian Dragunov" due to its visual similarities to the famous Russian SVD, carved its own niche as a highly effective designated marksman rifle within the Romanian military. While sharing a similar operational concept and aesthetic to the SVD, the PSL operates on a distinct platform, specifically leveraging an enlarged AK-style action for its semi-automatic function. This design choice contributes to its legendary reliability and ease of maintenance, traits highly valued by both military operators and civilian users. The 7.62x54mmR cartridge it fires is a powerful and time-tested round, effective over extended distances, making the PSL an excellent choice for those who appreciate potent ballistics and a rifle with a storied past.

For decades, the PSL has been sought after by collectors and shooters fascinated by Cold War-era firearms. Its distinctive skeletonized thumbhole stock, long barrel, and robust construction speak volumes about its origins as a military-grade precision instrument. The Century Arms RI035N variant brings this experience to the modern shooter, offering an authentic Romanian-built rifle that retains the essence of its military design while being optimized for the civilian market. This rifle is not just a firearm; it's a piece of history you can take to the range, offering a tangible connection to a significant era of military arms development.

Key Features and Engineering Excellence of the RI035N PSL

The Century Arms RI035N PSL is packed with features designed for performance and durability. From its carefully crafted components to its ergonomic design, every aspect contributes to its effectiveness as a long-range semi-automatic rifle. Let's delve into the specifics:

Power and Precision: The 7.62x54mmR Cartridge

At the heart of the PSL's capability is its chambering in 7.62x54mmR. This historic rimmed cartridge, first adopted by the Russian Empire in 1891, has seen over a century of service and remains a formidable round. It offers excellent ballistic properties for long-range engagements, making it suitable for a variety of applications from precision target shooting to recreational plinking. The widespread availability of 7.62x54mmR ammunition, often at a more economical price point than many modern precision rifle cartridges, makes the PSL a practical choice for high-volume shooting. Its power ensures substantial impact on target, whether for competitive shooting or ethical hunting in jurisdictions where legal and appropriate.

Barrel Design: Chrome-Lined Steel for Longevity and Accuracy

The RI035N PSL features a substantial 24.50-inch chrome-lined steel barrel with a 1:10 twist rate. This barrel design is a critical component for both accuracy and durability:

• Chrome Lining: The chrome-lined bore significantly enhances the barrel's lifespan, providing superior resistance to corrosion, erosion, and wear. This is especially beneficial when firing corrosive surplus ammunition, though regular cleaning is always recommended. For the shooter, this translates to consistent performance over thousands of rounds and easier maintenance.
• Optimal Length: The 24.50-inch length is ideal for the 7.62x54mmR cartridge, allowing for a more complete powder burn and maximizing muzzle velocity, which is crucial for maintaining trajectory and energy at extended ranges.
• 1:10 Twist Rate: This 4-groove rifling twist rate is well-suited for stabilizing a wide range of projectile weights commonly found in 7.62x54mmR ammunition, ensuring excellent accuracy and consistent bullet flight.

Robust Construction: Stamped Receiver and Durability

The PSL utilizes a black stamped steel receiver, a design choice that contributes to the rifle's overall durability and manufacturing efficiency. Stamped receivers are known for their resilience in harsh conditions, making the PSL a truly robust firearm. The receiver's black finish not only provides a sleek aesthetic but also offers an additional layer of protection against the elements. This sturdy construction ensures the rifle can withstand the rigors of extensive use, maintaining its reliability shot after shot.

Ergonomics and Handling: Fixed Thumbhole Stock

One of the most recognizable features of the PSL is its distinctive brown fixed thumbhole stock. This design provides several ergonomic benefits:

• Comfortable Grip: The thumbhole design allows for a natural, comfortable pistol-grip style hold, enhancing control and reducing shooter fatigue during prolonged shooting sessions.
• Stable Shooting Platform: The stock's fixed nature provides a solid and consistent shoulder weld, crucial for achieving precision. The sleek skeleton stock design contributes to the rifle's overall balance and aesthetic appeal.
• Durable Material: Crafted from laminate material, the stock is robust and resistant to environmental changes, ensuring long-term reliability and appearance.

Effective Muzzle Device: Muzzle Brake

The PSL comes equipped with a highly effective muzzle brake at the tip of its barrel. This device is engineered to redirect propellant gasses, significantly reducing felt recoil and minimizing muzzle rise. For the shooter, this means quicker follow-up shots, improved accuracy, and a more comfortable shooting experience, especially with a potent cartridge like the 7.62x54mmR.

Reliable Feeding: 10+1 Capacity

The Century Arms RI035N PSL operates with a 10+1 capacity, meaning it can hold 10 rounds in its magazine plus one in the chamber. It comes standard with one 10-round magazine, providing ample capacity for target shooting, hunting, or recreational use without frequent reloads. The magazines are designed for reliable feeding, a hallmark of the AK-style system from which the PSL draws its operational lineage.

Why is the Century Arms RI035N PSL a Top Choice?

When considering a rifle for long-range performance, historical appreciation, or general shooting enjoyment, the Century Arms RI035N PSL offers compelling advantages:

• Historical Authenticity: Own a piece of Cold War history, a true Romanian military DMR.
• Potent Caliber: The 7.62x54mmR cartridge provides excellent ballistic performance for extended ranges.
• Exceptional Durability: Chrome-lined barrel, stamped steel receiver, and robust construction ensure a long service life.
• User-Friendly Design: Semi-automatic action, comfortable thumbhole stock, and effective muzzle brake make it enjoyable to shoot.
• Reliability: Built on a proven AK-style operating system, the PSL is known for its legendary reliability in diverse conditions.
• Collector's Item: Beyond its functionality, the PSL is a highly sought-after rifle by collectors due to its unique design and military heritage.

Ideal Applications for the Century Arms PSL

The Century Arms RI035N PSL is a versatile rifle suitable for various applications, appealing to a wide range of firearms enthusiasts:

1. Long-Range Target Shooting: With its substantial barrel length, potent cartridge, and semi-automatic action, the PSL excels at hitting targets at considerable distances. Its intrinsic accuracy, coupled with the proper optics (not included but easily mountable on the side rail), makes it a fantastic platform for challenging yourself on the range.
2. Recreational Shooting: For those who enjoy the thrill of shooting a powerful and unique rifle, the PSL offers an engaging experience. Its semi-automatic nature allows for rapid follow-up shots, while the muzzle brake helps manage recoil.
3. Firearms Collection: As an iconic military surplus-style rifle, the PSL is a must-have for collectors interested in Cold War-era firearms, specifically Eastern Bloc designs. Owning a Romanian-built PSL adds a distinctive piece to any serious collection.
4. Hunting (where legal and appropriate): In regions where 7.62x54mmR is a permitted caliber for hunting, the PSL's power and accuracy can make it a viable option for medium to large game, always adhering to local hunting regulations and ethical practices.
5. Historical Reenactments: Its authentic military design makes it an ideal prop or display piece for historical reenactments or educational purposes related to military history.

Maintenance and Care for Your PSL

Maintaining your Century Arms RI035N PSL is straightforward, especially with its chrome-lined barrel. Regular cleaning after each use, particularly of the bore and chamber, will ensure its longevity and continued accuracy. The chrome lining significantly eases the cleaning process, as fouling and corrosive residue are less likely to adhere to the smooth, hard surface. A basic cleaning kit with a bore snake or cleaning rod, brushes, and appropriate solvent will keep your PSL in top operational condition for years to come. Always ensure the rifle is unloaded and actions are clear before performing any maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Century Arms RI035N PSL

Here are some common questions prospective owners might have about the Century Arms RI035N PSL:

• Is the PSL truly a "Dragunov"? No, while visually similar and sharing the DMR role, the PSL is a distinct rifle. It utilizes an enlarged AK-style operating system, whereas the SVD Dragunov uses a short-stroke gas piston.
• What kind of accuracy can I expect from the PSL? With quality ammunition and a skilled shooter, the PSL is generally capable of 2-4 MOA accuracy, which is excellent for a military-style semi-automatic rifle chambered in 7.62x54mmR.
• Are spare magazines available for the PSL? Yes, 10-round magazines for the PSL are available through various retailers, including DEGuns, ensuring you can stock up for extended shooting sessions.
• Can I mount an optic on the Century Arms PSL? Absolutely. The PSL features a standard side-mounted optics rail on the receiver, compatible with various Eastern Bloc-style optics mounts. This allows for easy attachment of scopes, providing enhanced precision for long-range shooting.
• What is the typical weight of the PSL? The Century Arms RI035N PSL weighs approximately 9.50 lbs, providing a stable platform for shooting while remaining manageable.
• Is the 7.62x54mmR cartridge expensive? Historically, 7.62x54mmR surplus ammunition has been widely available and relatively inexpensive, making it a cost-effective cartridge for frequent shooting. New manufactured ammunition is also available.
• How does the chrome-lined barrel benefit me? The chrome lining provides exceptional durability, corrosion resistance, and makes cleaning significantly easier, extending the barrel's lifespan and maintaining consistent performance.

Experience the Century Arms RI035N PSL for Yourself

The Century Arms RI035N PSL is more than just a rifle; it's an experience. It offers a unique combination of historical significance, robust construction, and practical long-range performance. Whether you're a dedicated collector looking to add a genuine Romanian DMR to your arsenal, a precision shooter seeking a powerful semi-automatic platform, or simply an enthusiast who appreciates well-engineered firearms, the PSL stands ready to impress. Its distinctive design, reliable operation, and the potent 7.62x54mmR cartridge ensure that it will be a valued addition to any collection or a formidable companion at the range. Discover the legacy and performance of the Century Arms RI035N PSL today at DEGuns.

Century Arms RI035N PSL Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	Century Arms
Model	PSL
Caliber	7.62x54mmR
Capacity	10+1
Action	Semi-Automatic
Barrel Length	24.50"
Barrel Finish	Black
Barrel Material	Chrome Lined Steel
Twist Rate	1:10"
Muzzle Device	Muzzle Brake
Receiver	Stamped Metal, Black Finish
Stock	Brown Laminate Thumbhole
Overall Length	45.30"
Weight	9.50 lbs
Sights	Hooded Front / Adjustable Rear
Hand	Right Hand
Platform	SKS-Style (Enlarged AK-Type)
Operating System	Direct Impingement
Application	Tactical, Target, Collector
SKU	153726
MPN	RI035N
UPC	787450001404