Do you mean the SVT 40? the The SVD wasn't issued until the early 1960's.
In any case as the current SVT stands its a close range weapon,
Cons should have a long range option like a DP.
Non doct PPSH on Shtrafbat fits their "Suicide squad" type design.
I disagree that they should be long range infantry,
That's what cons are supposed to be with their 91/30's.
Yes, SVTs my bad.
The more I think about it the more sense it makes. Why the clamor to make penals long range infantry? The have satchels and flames, and are referred to as a "suicide squad". They should be close range fighters.
Replacing their SVTs just makes too much sense.
It would also remove the dependency on shocks, which would still easily have a place for people who skip T1 in favor of T2.
It would open up the viability of many commanders IMO.