The rifles were assembled in 1984–1985 by Finnish Defence Forces (FDF) Asevarikko 1 ("Arsenal 1") in Kuopio, Finland.

The 7.62 TKIV 85 sniper rifle has been extensively modified, while retaining the use of Mosin-Nagant style bolt-action.

[citation needed] No other currently used military firearm is chambered for this unique Finnish cartridge.

The PKM machine guns and other Russian firearms in Finnish service are chambered for the 7.62×54mmR cartridge.

The standard operating procedure calls for the use of 7.62×54mmR cartridges in 7.62 TKIV 85 rifles only in emergency situations when 7.62×53mmR ammunition is not available.