Vasily Zaytsev’s Mosin-Nangant Rifle

Origin
Awarded the Hero of the Soviet Union, Vasily Zaytsev rightly deserved the honor for his valiant defense of the Soviet home front during World War II. He started the war by claiming 32 Axis soldiers with a standard rifle, coordinating efforts with partner snipers and spotters to ensure success. Afterwards, the Soviets began fighting the bloody and often close quartered Battle of Stalingrad, literally fighting to reclaim apartment rooms and city districts alike.

Zaytsev killed approximately 225 soldiers during the battle, including 11 enemy snipers. Enemy soldiers and officers were afraid to peek their heads over the rubble, as Zaytsev or one of his many students could be waiting for the desired line of sight. Stalingrad, considered the single deadliest battle in human history, witnessed the turning point of the Eastern Front. Zaystev’s contributions ensured the Soviet Union’s survival, allowing them to reclaim the war.

Effects
Allows user to see from and control the direction of enemy scopes, including firearms and visual equipment. Causes vision to slowly degrade like the eyes were exposed to an explosive blast, like the one that temporarily blinded Zaytsev.