The machine gun "Cliff" was replaced at a combat post DShKM. It was adopted in the mid-70s. This is one of the most powerful types of large-caliber small arms. The machine gun "Cliff" is characterized by a relatively small weight and dimensions, ease of use, maneuverability. The design of the machine and the weapon itself allows for hefty and accurate shooting. It is intended to destroy group living targets, lightly armored vehicles, low-altitude aircraft and firing points.
The heavy machine gun "Utes" works by removing powder gases from the barrel channel. The gas vent is located under the barrel. The gas chamber was equipped with a regulator with two fixed positions. The barrel of the machine gun is interchangeable. Using a wedge, it is fixed in the receiver. The gas piston has a rod pivotally connected to the shutter frame. On the trunk there is a special handle for its separation and transfer. Locking the barrel channel is achieved by skewing the shutter to the left.
The machine gun "Utes" for better smooth operation was equipped with a slide frame with guide rollers. The return spring is placed in its channel. In the back part, the percussion mechanism has a buffer spring, which softens the impact of the shutter frame during reverse movement.
The machine gun "Cliff" can only work in automatic fire mode. The trigger mechanism is located in the rear of the barrel in a separate housing. When fired, the earring that connects the bolt to the frame acts on the hammer, which pierces the capsule. The reload handle is located on the right. When shooting, it is motionless.
The supply of ammunition is carried out from a metal strip using a feed mechanism. Its design allows for left and right feeds. The machine gun "Cliff" is equipped with an optical sight with a six-fold increase, which is fixed in the back of the receiver.
For firing the following types of ammunition are used: B-32 (armor-piercing incendiary), MDZ (incendiary instant action), BZT-44 (incendiary tracer). This large-caliber weapon became the basis for the development of the Utes-M naval turret turret installation and the NSVT tank machine gun.
The machine for this weapon was developed by K.A. Baryshev and L.A. Stepanov. It is equipped with a spring-loaded butt with a special opening for the palm, as well as a pistol grip. The easel trigger interacts with the pusher of the machine gun trigger. The machine can be folded in a marching manner, which makes it very compact. It can be carried behind the back of a fighter calculating on belts.
In 1976, two types of installations were adopted for fixing weapons on embrasures. The devices were developed under the guidance of L.V. Stepanova. Each of them consists of a spring-loaded small-sized knurled box with a retractable pin for fastening and an infantry machine. The unit is equipped with armored protection. Its design allows, instead of specifically developing time-consuming stationary devices, to use standard machines. The machine gun "Cliff" is easily disconnected from them and can be used outside the structure.