The SVT must deal with a way more powerfull cartridge so its mecanically harder on the action. When the SVT 38 showed first,the rifle suffered from part breakage and the 2 piece stock was weak. With somes improvements,the new model called SVT 40 proved to be a better rifle even if not all the issues have been resolved. When the AVt 40(svt 40 semi and full auto) was introduced, the experience reveal that beside ammo consumption, the rifle action was beat up by the full auto mode. The gas regulator on the SVT, while an innovation, proved difficult to manufacture and clean. If the rifle would had a more simple gas system and better stock, like heavier or laminate,would have been an even better rifle. The SVT action handle the 7.62x54r pretty well in semi auto. The russians needed rifles badly so they didnt have the time to refine even more the Tokarev,wich was a pretty good design and is accurate. As for the SKS, cartridge is less powerful so easier on the action,accurate but at shorter range. The rifle is over built,very very sturdy rifle. both the SVT and the SKS have somewhat similar action but the Tokarev must handle a bigger caliber. To be fair, the Tokarev should be compare to rifle like Garand or german G43,firing both full power cartridge. So yes comparing SVT to SKS is apples and oranges but even if not perfect, i love the SVT for the longer range accuracy and power.
Really? I knew about their semi, but I didn't know that the Sturmgewehr also used the SVT's action. I guess you learn something every day.
