CZ 75

The CZ-75 is a semi-automatic handgun introduced in 1975 by Česká Zbrojovka in caliber 9mm Parabellum. It is one of the original wondernines, featuring high-capacity double-column magazine, sturdy all-steel construction, great accuracy, and superb reliability.

Design

CZ-75 is a short recoil operated, locked breech pistol. Most models have a double action trigger and frame-mounted manual safety. Some recent models have a decocking lever in place of the manual safety. Starting in the late 80s, all CZ-75s are now made with firing pin blocks, designated by the letter B (as in CZ-75B). The standard, full-size framed models are all steel, while those with compact frames have a steel slide on an aluminum frame.

Colonel Jeff Cooper, long-time advocate of the Colt 1911, hailed it as the best-designed double-action autoloader available. It has become one of the most popular pistols of its class. As Česká Zbrojovka is quick to point out, it is in service with "more Governments, Militaries, Police and Security agencies than any other pistol in the world."

Production

Originally designed for export, the CZ-75 was not widely available in the U.S. until 1993, when Action Arms began importing it.

Variants

CZ

Modern versions of the CZ-75 include:

• CZ-85 - a completely ambidextrous CZ-75 variant

• CZ-75 Compact - a standard CZ-75 with a slightly shortened grip and 3.9 inch barrel. There is now a version available chambered for the .40 S&W.

• The P-01 - a CZ-75 Compact variant intended for law enforcement use, with a decocker and under-barrel accessory rail. It is the new weapon of choice for the Czech National Police.

• CZ-75 Standard ISPC - A CZ-75 variant designed specifically for ISPC competition with extended grip, single-action trigger, heavy-duty free-falling magazines, and an enlarged magazine well.

Clones

• Dornhaus and Dixion Bren Ten
• IMI Jericho-941
• Tanfoglio TZ-75
• Norinco NZ-75
• Springfield P9

Trivia

• In Miami Vice, Don Johnson's character Sonny Crockett carried a Bren Ten, the first in a long line of CZ-75 clones.
• The CZ-75 is the weapon of choice of Irene "Rally" Vincent in Gunsmith Cats.

See also

• List of firearms
• CZ-97

External links

• Ceska Zbrojovka official website
• CZ-USA official website
• Modern Firearms & Ammunition Online Encyclopedia (CZ-75 entry)