Firearms from Czech Republic

The CZ 75 is a seminal semi-automatic pistol designed and manufactured by Česká Zbrojovka (CZ) of the Czech Republic. Conceived during the early 1970s, the CZ 75 blends a traditional Browning-style tilting-barrel locked-breech action with an innovative high-capacity magazine (15 rounds in 9mm) and an ergonomic frame that integrates the slide rails internally for a lower bore axis and improved recoil control. Its all-steel construction contributes to durability and shootability, while the double-action/single-action (DA/SA) trigger with an ambidextrous safety lever set a new standard for service pistols. Often hailed as one of the most ergonomic and reliable combat handguns ever produced, the CZ 75 gained a legendary reputation among military, law enforcement, and civilian shooters for its accuracy, balance, and longevity. The design has been widely copied or influenced numerous clones, including the Tanfoglio, the IWI Jericho, and the Sphinx, cementing its status as a benchmark in pistol engineering. Distinctive features include its frame-mounted slide rails, which allow the slide to ride inside the frame rather than outside, and the ability to chamber a round by retracting the slide without locking the safety—common on early models. The CZ 75 remains in production today and continues to be a favorite in competition, self-defense, and service roles.

The CZ 75 SP-01 is a modern evolution of the classic CZ 75 series, designed by Česká Zbrojovka as a competition‑grade, high‑precision semi‑automatic pistol for sport shooters, law‑enforcement marksmen, and civilian enthusiasts. Building on the original 1975 design, the SP-01 incorporates a fully ambidextrous slide stop, a low‑profile, match‑grade barrel with polygonal rifling, and an improved trigger system featuring a short, crisp pull and a crisp reset. Its double‑action/single‑action (DA/SA) operation, steel frame, and slide‑in‑frame construction give it a low bore axis and reduced muzzle flip, enhancing controllability. The pistol is renowned for its exceptional accuracy, smooth slide action, and ergonomic grip panels, making it a favorite in IPSC and USPSA competition. Unique features include a modular trigger group, interchangeable backstraps, and a proprietary slide stop lever that can be fitted on either side, distinguishing it from other 9 mm pistols in the market.

The CZ Shadow 2 is a full-size, semi-automatic pistol designed for competitive shooting, particularly in IPSC and USPSA divisions. Its design philosophy centers on maximizing accuracy, recoil control, and ergonomics for rapid target engagement. Primarily a civilian competition firearm, it has also gained popularity among law enforcement and military special forces for its superior handling. Key innovations include a low-profile, extended beavertail for a high grip, a redesigned slide with reduced mass and serrations for easier manipulation, and an undercut trigger guard. The Shadow 2 features a cold-hammer-forged barrel, a frame with a longer dust cover for added weight, and a tuned trigger with a short reset. Its reputation for exceptional out-of-the-box performance and reliability has made it a dominant choice in practical shooting sports, often considered the gold standard for production-class pistols. Notable design characteristics include its all-steel construction, a 1911-style grip angle, and a non-ambidextrous safety, though a safety model is available.

The CZ 83 is a compact, blowback-operated semi-automatic pistol chambered in .380 ACP (9mm Browning Short), introduced in 1983 by Česká zbrojovka. It features a 15-round magazine capacity, which is exceptionally high for a .380 ACP pistol. The CZ 83 has a steel frame with a double-action trigger, ambidextrous safety, and a slide-mounted firing pin block. Its ergonomic grip and high capacity made it popular with military and police forces. The CZ 83 was designed as a modernization of the earlier CZ 70 and CZ 50 series.

The CZ P-10 C is a Czech polymer-framed, striker-fired 9mm semi-automatic pistol manufactured by Česká Zbrojovka. Introduced in 2017 as CZ's first striker-fired pistol, it has rapidly become one of the most popular duty and concealed carry pistols worldwide.

The CZ 85 is a semi-automatic pistol manufactured by Ceská Zbrojovka in the Czech Republic. It is an upgraded ambidextrous variant of the renowned CZ 75, featuring mirror-image controls for left and right handed shooters. The pistol retains the CZ 75s steel frame, Browning-style locking system, and 9mm chambering. The CZ 85 Combat model adds an adjustable rear sight and trigger overtravel adjustment. It remains in limited production alongside the newer CZ 75 SP-01 series.

The CZ P-07 is a polymer-framed, hammer-fired compact semi-automatic pistol introduced in 2009 as a replacement for the CZ 75D Compact. It is chambered in 9x19mm and .40 S&W with a 15-round magazine capacity. The P-07 features a modular Omega trigger system that allows the user to switch between DA/SA and SAO modes without a gunsmith. Its suppressor-ready version with a threaded barrel and elevated sights has made it popular for tactical applications. The P-07 combines the proven CZ 75 action with modern polymer ergonomics, making it a versatile choice for duty carry, concealed carry, and competition.

The CZ P-09 is a full-size polymer-framed hammer-fired semi-automatic pistol introduced in 2012 as the larger companion to the P-07. It features a 19-round magazine capacity in 9x19mm and a 150mm (5.9 inch) barrel for increased sight radius and accuracy. The P-09 uses the same Omega trigger system as the P-07, convertible between DA/SA and SAO configurations. Its polymer frame includes interchangeable backstraps and an accessory rail for lights and lasers. The P-09 offers high capacity and excellent ergonomics at an affordable price point.

The Laugo Arms Alien is a revolutionary semi-automatic pistol designed by Laugo Arms of the Czech Republic. Its groundbreaking low-bore-axis design places the barrel nearly at the shooter's hand level, virtually eliminating muzzle rise for unprecedented recoil control.

The CZ 52 is a semi-automatic pistol developed in Czechoslovakia and adopted by the Czechoslovak military in 1952. It is chambered in 7.62x25mm Tokarev, a high-velocity cartridge that gives the pistol exceptional penetration and flat trajectory. The CZ 52 uses a unique roller-locked short-recoil action that is unusual for a pistol. It features an 8-round magazine, a 12.6-inch (320mm) overall length, and an ambidextrous safety. The CZ 52 was the standard sidearm of the Czechoslovak military from 1952 until the 1980s.

The CZ P-01 is a compact, aluminum-framed semi-automatic pistol in 9mm Parabellum, produced by CZ of the Czech Republic. Based on the CZ 75 design but with a lighter aluminum alloy frame and a NATO-qualified service life of 15,000 rounds. Adopted by the Czech Armed Forces and popular with concealed carriers and sport shooters.

The CZ 50 is a compact semi-automatic pistol designed by the Brothers Cermak and manufactured by Česká zbrojovka. It was chambered in .32 ACP and used by Czechoslovak military and police forces during the Cold War. The pistol features a double-action trigger mechanism with a slide-mounted decocker. Its external hammer can be manually cocked or safely lowered using the decocking lever. The CZ 50 is known for its reliable functioning and high quality fit and finish.

The CZ 97 B is a full-size semi-automatic pistol chambered in .45 ACP, produced by Ceská Zbrojovka. It follows the same basic design as the CZ 75 but scaled up for the larger .45 ACP cartridge. The pistol features a steel frame, a 10-round magazine capacity, and the typical CZ slide-in-frame design. The 97 B is known for its excellent ergonomics, low bore axis, and outstanding accuracy. It is widely regarded as one of the finest production .45 ACP pistols available. The 97 BD variant adds a decocking lever instead of a manual safety.

The CZ 2075 RAMI is a subcompact semi-automatic pistol that brings CZ's renowned ergonomics into a highly concealable package. It features a steel frame with a shortened slide and a barrel length of only 76 mm. The RAMI uses a rotating barrel locking system derived from the CZ 75 design but adapted for its smaller size. It is chambered in 9x19mm and comes with both 10-round and 14-round magazine options. The pistol offers the same comfortable grip angle and natural pointability of the larger CZ 75 models.

The CZ P-10 F is the full-size variant of CZ's striker-fired polymer pistol series. It is chambered in 9x19mm with a 19-round magazine capacity. The P-10 F features an aggressive grip texture and a crisp trigger pull. It was designed to compete directly with the Glock 17 and SIG Sauer P320. The pistol has earned a reputation for outstanding accuracy and reliability.

The CZ P-10 S is a subcompact striker-fired pistol chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum. It is the smallest member of CZ's P-10 family, following the P-10 F and P-10 C. The P-10 S features a shortened grip and barrel for concealed carry. It uses the same steel-reinforced polymer frame and cold hammer-forged barrel as its larger siblings. The pistol offers a crisp trigger with a short reset, rivaling other popular striker-fired pistols. It has an ambidextrous slide stop and reversible magazine catch for left-handed users.

The CZ 75 D PCR Compact is an aluminum-framed compact version of the legendary CZ 75. It is chambered in 9x19mm and features a decocking lever instead of a manual safety. The PCR designation stands for Police Czech Republic, reflecting its intended market. The pistol has a lightweight alloy frame that makes it easier to carry than the steel-framed CZ 75 Compact. It retains the full accuracy and ergonomics of the standard CZ 75.

The CZ Bren 2 is a modular, lightweight rifle chambered in 5.56 NATO and 7.62×39mm, intended for military and civilian markets.

The CZ 457 is a modern bolt-action rimfire rifle designed for precision and training, known for its modularity and accuracy.

The CZ 527 American is a bolt-action hunting and varmint rifle that exemplifies classic European craftsmanship adapted for the North American market. Its design philosophy centers on providing a lightweight, accurate, and reliable firearm built around a scaled-down version of the legendary Mauser 98 action, often called the 'micro-Mauser'. The primary purpose is civilian sporting use, targeting small to medium game, varmints, and precision target shooting. Key innovations include a single-set trigger that allows a crisp, light pull when set, and a controlled-round-feed mechanism ensuring positive cartridge extraction even under adverse conditions. The American variant features a hand-checkered American walnut stock with a high comb, a satin blue finish, and no iron sights—it is drilled and tapped for scope mounting. With its short 22-inch cold-hammer-forged barrel and compact overall length, it handles superbly in the field. In the firearms community, the CZ 527 American is renowned for its outstanding out-of-the-box accuracy, smooth action, and exceptional build quality at a competitive price point. It stands out for retaining the controlled-feed integrity of a full-size Mauser in a lighter, more maneuverable package, making it a favorite among purists and modern hunters alike.

The CZ 557 is a traditional bolt-action rifle manufactured by Ceská zbrojovka for hunting and sporting use. It features a controlled-round feed action with a Mauser-style claw extractor. The rifle has a hammer-forged barrel, a single-set trigger, and a checkered walnut stock. It is available in popular hunting calibers including .308 Winchester and .30-06 Springfield. The CZ 557 uses a detachable box magazine with a unique double-row design.

The CZ 527 Carbine is a compact bolt-action rifle manufactured by Ceska Zbrojovka in the Czech Republic. It is a short-action version of the larger CZ 550 rifle and is chambered in intermediate cartridges including 7.62x39mm Soviet, .223 Remington, and .300 Blackout. The CZ 527 Carbine features a 18.5-inch barrel, a Mannlicher-style stock, and a detachable box magazine. The carbine is designed for hunting in dense brush and forest where a compact, handy rifle is advantageous. It uses a Mauser-style controlled-round feed action scaled down for intermediate cartridges. The CZ 527 Carbine is known for its excellent build quality and accuracy.

The CZ 455 is a rimfire bolt-action rifle manufactured by Ceska Zbrojovka in the Czech Republic. It was introduced as the successor to the highly successful CZ 452 series. The rifle features a steel receiver with a dovetail mounting system for scope rings. The 455 model uses interchangeable barrel assemblies allowing caliber changes between .22 LR, .22 WMR, and .17 HMR. It is available in several configurations including the American, Varmint, FS, and Training Rifle variants. The CZ 455 is known for its excellent accuracy and traditional wood stock styling.

The BRNO ZG-47 is a bolt-action sporting rifle manufactured by Zbrojovka Brno in Czechoslovakia. It was introduced in 1947 as a high-quality hunting rifle built on the famous Mauser 98 action. The ZG-47 was available in both standard and deluxe grades with premium European walnut stocks. The rifle was hand-fitted and known for its excellent fit, finish, and accuracy. It was chambered in standard European and American calibers. The ZG-47 was exported to the United States through the 1950s and became a favorite among American hunters who appreciated its old-world craftsmanship. The BRNO ZG-47 is considered one of the finest production Mauser-type sporting rifles ever made.

The vz. 58 (vzor 58, 'Model 58') is a Czechoslovak-designed semi-automatic and selective-fire rifle that was adopted as the standard service rifle of the Czechoslovak People's Army and later the armed forces of the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Despite its superficial resemblance to the AK-47, the vz. 58 is a completely different design internally, featuring a short-stroke gas piston, a tilting bolt locking system, and a milled receiver. It was developed at the Konstrukta Brno facility and entered service in 1958. Over 900,000 were produced, and it saw extensive service in conflicts across the developing world.

The CZ 600 is a modular bolt-action rifle from CZ, introduced in 2022 as the successor to the CZ 557. Features user-swappable barrels and bolts for caliber changes, a three-lug bolt with 60° lift, and an adjustable trigger.

The CZ 805 Bren is a modular assault rifle manufactured by Ceska Zbrojovka in the Czech Republic. It was adopted by the Czech Armed Forces in 2009 as a replacement for the vz. 58 rifle. The Bren uses a short-stroke gas piston system with a rotating bolt for reliable operation. The S1 variant is the standard carbine model with a 360mm barrel. The rifle features a fully ambidextrous design including reciprocating charging handles on both sides. It replaced the vz. 58 after decades of service and brought the Czech military into the modern NATO rifle era.

A traditional Mauser-pattern bolt-action rifle manufactured in the Czech Republic. It features a controlled-round feed action and hammer-forged barrel.

The CZ 457 American is a bolt-action rimfire rifle chambered in .22 Long Rifle. It features a classic walnut stock with a traditional American styling. The 457 American has a 24.8 inch cold hammer-forged barrel. It uses a push-to-fire safety and a fully adjustable trigger. The rifle is designed for small game hunting, target shooting, and plinking.

The vz. 52 is a semi-automatic rifle designed and manufactured in Czechoslovakia. It was chambered in 7.62x45mm, a unique Czechoslovak cartridge, with later models converted to 7.62x39mm. The rifle features a side-mounted gas piston system and a tilting bolt locking mechanism. It was the standard service rifle of the Czechoslovak military during the early Cold War period. The vz. 52 is known for its distinctive design and robust construction.

The CZ 527 Varmint is a bolt-action rifle with a heavy barrel designed for varmint and predator hunting. It is built on the CZ 527 action, which is a scaled-down Mauser 98 design. The Varmint features a heavy-contour cold hammer-forged barrel. It uses a set trigger system that allows a light trigger pull for precision shooting. The rifle is chambered in .223 Remington and .204 Ruger. It comes with a Turkish walnut or synthetic stock with a checkered grip.

The CZ Scorpion EVO 3 is a modern Czech 9×19mm blowback-operated submachine gun/PDW manufactured by Česká Zbrojovka. Known for its ergonomic design, ambidextrous controls, and extensive modularity, it has been widely adopted by law enforcement and military units worldwide.

The ZK-383 is a submachine gun designed by the Koucky brothers at Zbrojovka Brno in Czechoslovakia. It was chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum and featured a unique quick-change barrel system. The weapon was equipped with a bipod and could be used in a light machine gun role. It was one of the few submachine guns that allowed the operator to change the rate of fire by swapping bolt weights. The ZK-383 served both Czechoslovak forces and various European nations.

The Škorpion vz. 61 is a Czechoslovak machine pistol designed by Miroslav Rybář. Originally developed for security and special forces use, it features a unique rate-of-fire reducer mechanism and fires the .32 ACP cartridge from a vertical box magazine.

The Sa vz. 25 is a variant of the Czechoslovak vz. 23 submachine gun featuring a folding metal stock instead of the fixed wooden stock on the vz. 23. It was designed for use by paratroopers, vehicle crews, and special forces who needed a more compact weapon. The vz. 25 shares the same telescoping bolt action and receiver as the vz. 23. Its folding stock folds to the side, reducing overall length for storage and transport. The weapon is chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum and feeds from a magazine inserted in the pistol grip.

The Sa vz. 23 is a Czechoslovak submachine gun developed shortly after World War II. It was one of the first submachine guns to feature a telescoping bolt design that wraps around the barrel, allowing for a compact weapon with a longer barrel. The vz. 23 was designed by Vaclav Holek and shares its basic operating system with the later Sa vz. 25 and vz. 26. It features a stamped steel receiver, a folding stock, and a distinctive pistol grip with an integrated magazine housing. The weapon is chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum.

The CZ 750 Sniper is a bolt-action precision rifle manufactured by Česká zbrojovka. It was developed for military and law enforcement marksmen. The rifle features a heavy stainless steel barrel and a hammer-forged action. It is fed from a detachable box magazine and uses an adjustable trigger. The CZ 750 is chambered in .308 Winchester and 7.62x51mm NATO.

The Falcon (designated OP 96) is a Czech bullpup bolt-action anti-materiel rifle chambered in .50 BMG, manufactured by Zbrojovka Vsetin. Its bullpup configuration provides a compact overall length despite a long barrel, making it more portable than traditional anti-materiel rifles. The Falcon can be disassembled into two main components for transport.

The CZ 457 Precision Trainer is a bolt-action .22 Long Rifle precision rifle built on the CZ 457 action, designed specifically for long-range rimfire competition and military/law enforcement sniper training. It features a match-grade cold hammer-forged heavy barrel, an adjustable trigger, and a Manners composite stock with a Mini-Chassis bedding system that provides a rigid, stress-free action-to-stock interface. The rifle includes a 5-round detachable magazine and a 60-degree bolt throw, with the action engineered for smooth cycling and reliable extraction. As a precision rimfire trainer, it allows marksmen to practice long-range shooting fundamentals at a fraction of the cost of centerfire ammunition.

The CZ Redhead Premier is an over-and-under break-action shotgun manufactured by Česká zbrojovka (CZ) in the Czech Republic. Designed for upland hunting and sporting clays, it features a single selective trigger, automatic ejectors, and a hand-checkered Turkish walnut stock. It offers premium fit and finish at a mid-range price, making it a popular choice among hunters and competitive shooters.

The ZB vz. 26 was a Czechoslovak light machine gun chambered in 7.92x57mm Mauser, widely regarded as one of the finest LMG designs of the interwar period. It used a gas-operated tilting bolt action and top-mounted box magazine. The vz. 26 directly inspired the British Bren Gun.