I have had the opportunity to handle a Drugonov many years ago, from a fellow veteran that ‘brought one back’. Once you’ve seen one, you can always pick it out from any photographs.
The classic Moisin-Nagant was chambered in 7.62x54R.
The replacement of the Drugonov, being chambered in 7.62x51NATO, also known as the .308Win., shows that once again, the Russians are forward thinking.
The new design looks impressive.
Actually, there is a difference between the two. I have two .308win rifles with target chambers that won't even begin to chamber a 7.62x51 round. I also have a HK91 that will blow primers out of their pockets and create an unsafe condition if you try to shoot .308win ammo in it. However, I have two m14/M1a rifles that seem to be comfortable shooting either ammo.
But yes, the Russians are playing catch-up. There are many American rifles (even .308/7.62 caliber) that will still outshoot their newest offering.