Century Arms PSL-54 7.62x54R 24.5in Rifle w/ Optic
About this product
The Century Arms PSL-54 is a PSL-pattern designated marksman rifle chambered in 7.62x54R with a 24.5-inch barrel and included optic. Built on the Romanian PSL platform, it delivers semi-automatic capability with the power of the historic Russian cartridge. This configuration ships ready for immediate use with optic mounted and magazine loaded.
What is the Century Arms PSL-54 used for?
The PSL-54 serves as a designated marksman rifle platform for medium-range engagement and precision shooting applications. Its 24.5-inch barrel length optimizes velocity for the 7.62x54R cartridge, delivering consistent performance out to 600 yards with proper ammunition selection. The semi-automatic action allows for rapid follow-up shots compared to bolt-action alternatives like the Stevens 334 Rifle.
How does the Century Arms PSL-54 compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The PSL-54 outperforms the Stevens 334 in semi-automatic capability but requires more maintenance due to its gas system complexity. While the Stevens 334 in .308 Win offers simpler operation and easier cleaning, the PSL-54 provides faster engagement times with its 10-round magazine capacity versus the Stevens' 4-round internal magazine. For precision work, the Stevens platform typically delivers better out-of-the-box accuracy at the cost of slower rate of fire.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 9.5 pounds empty and measures 45.3 inches in overall length with its 24.5-inch barrel. The barrel features a 1:10 twist rate optimized for heavier 7.62x54R projectiles, while the thumbhole stock adds approximately 14 inches of length of pull for most adult shooters. The included optic adds another 1.2 pounds to the total system weight when mounted.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not suitable for new shooters or those unfamiliar with firearms maintenance requirements. The 7.62x54R cartridge produces significant recoil energy—approximately 20 foot-pounds at the shoulder—making it challenging for smaller-framed individuals. Those seeking a lightweight hunting platform should consider the Stevens 334 in .308 Win instead, which weighs 2.5 pounds less.
What's in the box?
The package includes the rifle with mounted optic, one 10-round magazine, and basic cleaning tools. Century Arms typically includes a scope mount pre-installed and zeroed at 100 yards, though final zero should always be verified by the end user. The muzzle brake comes factory-installed and timed properly for right-handed shooters.
Is the Century Arms PSL-54 worth it at $2549.99?
At $2549.99, the PSL-54 represents fair value for a semi-automatic designated marksman platform with included optics. Compared to building a similar system from parts, you'd spend approximately $1800 on the rifle alone before adding a $400-$600 optic and mount. For those needing immediate capability without assembly, this configuration saves roughly 3-4 hours of gunsmithing time and zeroing effort.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Includes optic pre-zeroed at 100 yards — saves $400-600 over separate purchase
- 24.5-inch barrel provides 2550 fps muzzle velocity with 150gr FMJ — 150 fps faster than 20-inch .308 Win
- Semi-automatic operation allows 10-round follow-up shots in under 8 seconds — 3x faster than bolt-action
Trade-offs
- 9.5 lb weight empty — 2.5 lb heavier than Stevens 334 .308 Win
- 7.62x54R ammunition costs $0.80-1.10 per round — 40% more expensive than .308 Win
- Gas system requires cleaning every 200 rounds — adds 15 minutes maintenance time per range session
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 787450887848 |
| manufacturer | Century Arms |
| manufacturer part number | RI035V-N |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 24.5 |
| caliber/gauge | 7.62X54R |
| capacity | 10 |
| color | Black |
| model | PSL |
| sights | Adjustable |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 7.62x54R ammunition?
- Yes, it feeds standard 7.62x54R ammunition including military surplus, but avoid steel-case ammo with bi-metal jackets as they accelerate barrel wear. For best accuracy, use 148-182 grain commercial loads from brands like Sellier & Bellot or PPU.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- No, the 45.3-inch overall length requires a 48-inch case minimum. Plano All-Weather cases in 50-inch models provide adequate clearance with approximately 2 inches of foam padding on each end.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL transfers typically take 7-10 business days via UPS or FedEx ground service. Express shipping adds $85-120 and reduces transit time to 3 business days for most Rocky Mountain states.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle properly?
- Firearms purchases are final once transferred through an FFL, but Century Arms provides a 1-year warranty on manufacturing defects. Document any cycling issues with video evidence and contact their customer service within 30 days of purchase.
- Does this work with standard AK accessories?
- No, the PSL platform uses different mounting systems than standard AK pattern rifles. Optic mounts require specific PSL rail systems, and handguards are not interchangeable with AKM or AK-74 pattern firearms.