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
1980's - present (CZ 83)
Czech Republic - CZ
Over 300.00 CZ 83
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
Details
Media
CZ 82
Forward view of CZ 82 pistol.
Source: double_action @ www.gunboards.com
Copyright: copyright lies with original owner
CZ 82
Two CZ 82 side by side with different style grip plates.
Source: travinh @ www.gunboards.com
Copyright: copyright lies with original owner
CZ 83
Artist impression of CZ 83 showing internal mechanism.
Source: CZ
Copyright: copyright lies with original owner
CZ 83
A disassembled CZ 83 in 7.65mm Browning.
Source: Jan Hrdonka
Copyright: public domain
CZ 82
Line diagram of disassembled CZ 82. Note the fixed barrel.
Source: Unknown author
Copyright: copyright lies with original owner
Related articles
CZ 52
The CZ 82 was developed to replace the 3 decades old CZ 52 pistol.
The CZ 52 had a poor reputation and the CZ 82 is a significant upgrade in reliability, ergonomics and magazine capacity.
Makarov PM
The CZ 82 was developed as a domestic alternative to the Soviet Makarov PM.
The CZ 82 is a superior design with its larger magazine, while remaining a compact design.