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CZ 82


Vz. 82


Overview


CZ 83

Left side view of CZ 83 in 7.65mm Browning.
Source: CZ (www.cz-usa.com) - © copyright lies with original owner

Origin
Czechoslovakia
Type
Pistol
Entered service
1982
Status
In service
Development
1979 - 1981
Developer
Augustin Necas for CZ
Production
1982 - 1992 (CZ 82)
1980's - present (CZ 83)
Producer
Czechoslovakia - CZ
Czech Republic - CZ
Unit cost
$ 450 for CZ 83 in 2011
Number produced
Over 110.000 Vz. 82
Over 300.00 CZ 83
Designations
Vz. 82
CZ 82 in Czechoslovak service

Description


Introduction

The CZ 82 is a compact pistol of Czechoslovak origin. It was developed in the early 1980's for the new 9x18mm Makarov round that was standardized among Warsaw Pact nations. Instead of adopting the Makarov PM Czechoslovakia decided on developing their own pistol, which is considered a better weapon overall. The CZ 83 was developed for civilian and export sales and differs only in minor details.

Design

The CZ 82 is a simple blowback double action pistol with a fixed barrel. As such it is simpler, smaller and cheaper than the CZ 75 pistol. Several design features have been inspired by the German Walther PP. Unlike the Makarov PM it features a double stack magazine, has ambidextrous controls and plastic grip plates. The CZ 83 is very similar but has a differently shaped trigger guard and is available in three calibers. To lower production costs only the latter model was retained.

Firepower

The CZ 82 is a semi-automatic weapon that is chambered for the 9x18mm Makarov round. The double stack magazine holds 12 rounds, 50% more than the Makarov PM. The CZ 83 is also available in .380 ACP and 7.65x17mm. In the latter caliber it has a magazine capacity of 15 rounds. Accuracy and reliability are reported to be good. The maximum effective range is about 25 meters.

Users

The CZ 82 was the standard sidearm of Czechoslovakia, replacing the older Tokarev pistol. As such it is in use with the Czech Republic and Slovakia. It has been exported to several nations and is also in law enforcement use. The CZ 82 and 83 are not as common as the CZ 75 and other CZ pistols.

Variants


CZ 82

Right side view of CZ 82 pistol.
Source: travinh @ www.gunboards.com - © copyright lies with original owner

Variants of the CZ 82

CZ 82
Original military service model with round trigger guard. Only available in 9x18mm Makarov with polygonal rifling. Known in Czechoslovakia as the Vz. 82.
CZ 83
Slightly modified CZ 82 with square trigger guard for commercial export sales. Also available in .380 ACP and 7.65x17mm, both with lands and grooves rifling.

Details


Facts CZ 82 CZ 83 (.380) CZ 83 (7.65mm)
General
Origin
Czechoslovakia
Type
Pistol
Caliber
Caliber
9x18mm Makarov
Magazine
12 round detachable box
Barrel length
96 mm
Rifling
Polygonal rifling, 250 mm right hand twist
Muzzle velocity
305 m/s
Operation
Action
Blowback, double action
Fire selector
0 - 1
Rate of fire
Semi-automatic
Dimensions
Length
172 mm
Width
36 mm
Height
127 mm
Weight
0.70 kg empty
0.92 kg loaded
Sights
Type
Iron sights, blade front and square notch rear
Sight radius
130 mm

Media


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The CZ 82 is a superior design with its larger magazine, while remaining a compact design.