Feb 02 2006
Czech VZ.58S (CZH 2003 Sport)
The Vz.58 is a magazine fed, gas operated, selective fire rifle chambered for the 7.62x39mm (“Soviet Intermediate” or M43) cartridge.
Designed by Josef Cermak, who based his work on a design submitted by Emanuel Holek for Czech government trials in 1953, the rifle was redesigned to make use the of M43 cartridge and entered production in 1958. It remains in service today and semi-automatic versions have been manufactured for export.
Two versions of this rifle are readily available in Canada. The first is the “CZH 2003 Sport” which is classified as “restricted” due to the short barrel length (rifle is approximately 33″ overall length), the second is the “Cz858 Tactical 2” which is classified as “unrestricted” due to the non-standard (lengthened) barrels that were installed on these prior to their importation.
As with any new firearm joining my meagre collection, I hit the internet in an effort to locate a manual or detailed instructions on disassembly. Much googling found nothing useful, and it was a day or two before I found some instructions (naturally I had already figured it out myself by that point, and had even managed to avoid any spring loaded parts that go “ching” then disappear).
Vz.58 Disassembly Instructions:
After removing the magazine and ensuring the chamber to be empty, close the bolt and dry-fire the rifle. Then push out the retaining pin at the rear of the receiver from left to right until it stops on its detente.Now lift up and remove the receiver cover along with its captive recoil and striker springs. Then pull back the bolt carrier and lift it out from the receiver along with the bolt. Pull back the linear hammer and rotate it counter clockwise to remove it from the rear of the carrier. The bolt and locking block will then drop out the bottom of the carrier. Push out the retaining pin in the rear sight base from left to right. Now, pull back and lift off the handguard. Then pull, back the piston until it clears the gas cylinder. Then lift it up and remove it and its spring forward from the rear sight base. No further disassembly is necessary.
[Quoted from this article]
I am particularly impressed with this rifle. It seems light, sturdy and the disassembly was accomplished with no tools what so ever. I am tentatively planning to refinish the furniture on the rifle, but we’ll see how I feel about that after I’ve had a chance to drag it to the range.
Stay tuned for a range report some time next week.
Very Nice!
I’m tempted to get one!
Damn, “less but better”
My C7 would get too jealous…
That’s a pretty hot little number you got their
Looking forward to seeing the range report
Derek: They’re sweet little rifles, I’m VERY impressed. We’ll see how she does at the range, a perty rifle she may be, but if she delivers Minute of barn it’s gonna end the honeymoon.
“less but better” – Since you mentioned that I’ve been looking over my own collection with a more critical eye. The cabinet is full, and additions to the collection now require subtractions. Some soul searching required here as I hate to part with any of them.
Mahg: Thanks man! As close as I can come to an AK47 north of the line, but after taking it down a few times and going through the usual “Damn I wish I could go to the range NOW” stuff, I’m impressed. Clever logical design, and easy to take down.
Fingers crossed on her performance on the range.
Damn you!
I was eyeing one of those puppies as well but my wallet isn’t what it used to be now that I’m a student.
Looking forward for your review.
Interesting blog. I am a firearms enthusiast myself and am looking forward to the range report on the VZ 58s. I have been thinking about purchasing one from Marstar but I am leaning towards the Norinco M305 (M 14 clone) since I already own a Yugo SKS 59/66 of the same caliber. The Czech rifle looks like a winner though.
P.S. The Yugo SKS (also from Marstar) is a fine robust rifle and a great plinker.
Again good blog.
No the SKS cannot compair to this rifle as the Vz58 (CZH2003) cleans in 5 minutes and is more accurate. It is a sinch to take down and clean. It is WELL worth the $595 you will ever spend.
Mugwug : The closest thing to an AK-47 you can get in Canada that is not prohib is a Valmet M78
You’re right, of course, the Valmet is the closest non-prohib up here. Mind you at the prices I’ve seen them selling for I’m not likely to have one anytime soon.
-GRIN-
the vz58 is more lighter than AK47 i love it very nice weapon
Does anybody know where i CAN BUY THE non restricted VZ58S. IN cANADA
mARSTAR DOES NOT HAVE ANY IN STOCK
tHANKS
bILL
Reply sent by email:
Hi Bill,
Saw your comment on my website, try;
http://www.wolverinesupplies.com/default.asp?Pg=8&do=3&mcid=1&scid=12&pid=43
Wolverine stocks the non-restricted and they appear to have some.
Good luck!
Erik
today i recieved a box of ak47s. i was looking through it to see what i can snatch off of one them for my ak back at home.(im in iraq) … so im going through the box and i come accross a czech and im looking at it like ?? this isnt an ak??? so i put it up to my shoulder and it feels great! if only there was a way to take it back home to the states with me! i love it. its light, compact, durable, accurate, and just look at it need i say more?