CR-21
Summary
| Country | 🇿🇦 South Africa |
| Category | Bullpup assault rifle |
| Manufacturer | Vektor Division |
Technical specifications
| CR-21 | |
|---|---|
| Fire Rate | 750 rounds/min. |
| Caliber | 5.56 x 45 mm OTAN |
| Magazine | 35 rounds |
| Length | 760 mm (29.9 in) |
| Weight | 3.8 kg (8.4 lb) |
| Range | 450 m (1476 ft) |
Description
The Vektor CR-21 is a South African 5.56×45mm NATO bullpup assault rifle. The designation "CR-21" is an abbreviation for Combat Rifle 21st Century. Developed by Denel Land Systems, it was initially intended as a potential successor to the Vektor R4 in service with the South African National Defence Force. However, Denel Land Systems subsequently redirected its focus towards offering an upgraded version of the R4 rifle to the SANDF. A total of 200 CR-21 units were manufactured, with parts available to assemble an additional 200 rifles.
First introduced in 1997, the CR-21 features a bullpup configuration, allowing it to maintain the barrel length of a standard assault rifle while having an overall length comparable to a carbine. The design includes a non-reversible ejection port located on the rear right side of the receiver, limiting its use to right-handed operators. Internally, the rifle employs a slightly modified mechanism derived from the Kalashnikov action utilized in the R4 assault rifle. Construction incorporates significant use of high-impact polymer, with the forward section of the barrel and its integrated flash suppressor being the primary exposed metal component, contributing to a low loaded weight of 3.72 kg. Standard equipment includes a 1× magnification optical sight featuring an illuminated reticle that operates without requiring batteries. This sight is fitted to a rail system, permitting easy detachment and compatibility with various alternative sight options. The forward handgrip is designed for facile removal and replacement with an underbarrel grenade launcher, such as the M203. The rifle accepts R4-pattern magazines with capacities of 20 and 35 rounds.
A carbine variant of the CR-21 was reportedly developed by Vektor.
The Vektor CR-21 has seen service with specialized units.
Users include:
- Peru (Parachute Commandos, Special Forces Brigade units)
- Venezuela (Guardia Nacional Bolivariana, Comandos Rurales).