Vektor CR-21 South Africa

The Vektor CR-21 is a modern South African assault rifle (CR-21 meaning Combat Rifle 21st Century) chambered for 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition. It has been designed by Denel Land Systems as a possible replacement for the South African National Defence Force's current R4 assault rifle.

The Vektor CR-21 is being marketed for export customers, but no sales have been achieved.

Internally, the CR-21 uses a slightly modified version of the action found in the R4 assault rifle, which is known for its reliability and relatively low weight. The rifle also makes significant use of high-impact polymer, with the only exposed metal part on the rifle being the front of the barrel with its integral flash suppressor. Both of these result in the rifle having a low loaded weight, of 3.72 kg (8.2 lbs). The CR-21 comes standard with a 1X magnification optical sight with an illuminated reticle that does not require batteries. This sight is mounted on a sight rail, allowing easy removal and attachment, as well as the use of a range of different sight options. The forward handgrip has been specially designed to be easily removed and replaced with a grenade launcher similar to the M203 grenade launcher. Finally, the stock has a built-in compartment which stores a cleaning kit for the rifle, removing the usual need for the soldier to carry this separately.

A CR-21 carbine was said to have been developed by Vektor. Both of their 35-round magazines are based from the R4/Galil rifles.

Vector CR-21
Type	Assault Rifle
Place of origin	South Africa
Service history
In service	prototype
Used by	none
Wars	none
Production history
Designed	1997
Produced	prototype
Number built	prototype
Variants	CR-21 carbine
Specifications
Weight	3.72 kg (8.2 lb)
Length	760 mm (29.9 in)
Barrel length	460 mm (18.1 in)
Cartridge	5.56x45mm NATO
Action	Gas-Operated, rotating bolt
Rate of fire	700 round/min (full auto)
Muzzle velocity	980 m/s
Feed system	35 round R4 magazines