The M76 is a sniper rifle of Yugoslav origin. It was developed by Zastava in the mid-1970’s and was produced in large quantities. It fulfills the same role as the Soviet SVD and looks rather similar, although its design is different. The M76 is best classified as a designated marksman rifle rather than a sniper rifle.

The M76 is based on the M70 assault rifle which is the Yugoslav production version of the famous AK-47 assault rifle. As such the mechanism differs from the Soviet SVD since a long stroke gas piston is used. The M76 has a wooden furniture with fixed stock and is fitted with a ZRAK 4x scope and backup iron sights. A bayonet can also be fitted.

The M76 fires the 7.92x57mm round from a 10 round magazine. The newer M91 variant uses the more common Soviet 7.62x54mm round. As a semi-automatic weapon it allows for quick follow up shots. Accuracy is about 1.5 to 2 MOA. Theoretically the M76 can be used up to 1 km, but the practical range is 600 to 800 meters.

The M76 was a standard issue weapon in Yugoslav service. It has been used by all parties in the Yugoslav conflicts, in which it proved to be an effective and reliable weapon. Unlike the M70 assault rifle exports have been limited, possibly due to the use of an alternative caliber. The M76 is also manufactured in North Korea, possibly without license.