Iranian army replaces G3 rifle with fully indigenous Masaf assault rifle

Commander of the Iranian Army's Ground Force Brigadier General Kioumars Heydari has confirmed that the Iranian military is gradually replacing its G3 rifles with the fully indigenous Masaf assault rifle.

Heydari made these remarks during a briefing on the progress of the Zulfiqar1403 military exercises conducted by the Iranian Armed Forces, Caliber.Az reports via Iranian media.

He emphasised that all the equipment and weaponry used during the exercises, including firearms, are developed by the Defence Ministry and the Iranian Army's Ground Forces. He further highlighted the significance of this shift, noting that the production and distribution of the new 7.62mm Masaf assault rifle are already underway. The rifle is currently being delivered to army units. 

The Masaf assault rifle is a lightweight, air-cooled firearm with several modern features. Its telescopic stock is adjustable in six positions, providing improved comfort and control for various users. Additionally, the rifle's modular design allows it to be swiftly and easily transformed into a sniper rifle or a carbine (a shortened version), all without the need for specialized tools. The Masaf rifle is designed to accommodate the powerful 7.62x51mm cartridge and includes a compact design with a 20-inch barrel and a retractable stock. 

The pistol grip has been optimized for better ergonomics compared to previous models, enhancing usability. The barrel also incorporates three components to reduce muzzle flash, while the 20-round magazine is constructed from a polymer similar to the widely used PMAG magazines in the US.

By Naila Huseynova