A Soviet Era "Non-AK": The Cz858 (vz58) Overview

Published on January 19, 2020
Duration: 19:04

This video provides a comprehensive overview of the VZ 58 rifle, often referred to as a 'non-AK' due to its distinct internal mechanisms despite some aesthetic similarities to the AK platform. The presenter details its history, production, and technical specifications, highlighting its short-stroke gas system, falling breech block action, and unique linear hammer firing system. It also covers variations, magazine differences, and aftermarket support.

Quick Summary

The VZ 58, often called a 'non-AK,' features a distinct short-stroke gas system, falling breech block action, and linear hammer, setting it apart internally from AK-pattern rifles. It is chambered in 7.62x39mm and includes a last-round bolt hold-open, with lighter aluminum alloy magazines that are not interchangeable with AKs.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the VZ 58 Series
  2. 00:54VZ 58 vs. AK: Key Differences
  3. 01:12Falling Breech Block Action Explained
  4. 02:21History and Production of the VZ 58
  5. 03:12Modern VZ 58 Manufacturers (CSA, Brownells)
  6. 03:40Canadian Gun Laws and VZ 58 Availability
  7. 04:21Barrel Lengths and Military Design
  8. 04:44Czechoslovakia's Small Arms History
  9. 05:06Standardization of 7.62x39mm Ammunition
  10. 05:16VZ 52 and VZ 57 Predecessors
  11. 06:13VZ 58 Model Variations (P, V, PI)
  12. 07:14Stock Types: Full Stock vs. Side Folder
  13. 07:40Receiver and Weight Specifications
  14. 08:03Magazine Differences: VZ 58 vs. AK
  15. 08:27Bolt Hold Open Feature
  16. 09:41Stock Materials: Beechwood vs. Beaver Barf
  17. 10:37Magazine Release and Bolt Catch
  18. 11:02Sights and Muzzle Device
  19. 11:21Bipod and Bayonet Lug
  20. 11:40Grenade Launcher Mount
  21. 11:56Safety Selector Operation
  22. 12:08Trigger Pull Analysis
  23. 12:45Charging Handle Design
  24. 13:06Optics Mounting and Modern Charging Handles
  25. 13:47Aftermarket Support for VZ 58
  26. 14:24VZ 58 Drum Magazine
  27. 14:58Magazine Carrier
  28. 15:32Bonus Gun: M+M M10X
  29. 17:25The CZ 958 Project
  30. 18:47Conclusion and Future Content

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key internal differences between a VZ 58 and an AK-47?

The VZ 58 operates on a short-stroke gas system and features a falling breech block action with a linear hammer. This contrasts with the AK-47's long-stroke gas system and rotating bolt carrier.

Does the VZ 58 have a last-round bolt hold-open feature?

Yes, the VZ 58 is equipped with a last-round bolt hold-open mechanism. When the last round is fired, the bolt will lock to the rear, a feature not typically found on standard AK-pattern rifles.

What caliber is the VZ 58 chambered in, and are its magazines compatible with AKs?

The VZ 58 is chambered in 7.62x39mm. Its magazines are made of aluminum alloy, are lighter than AK steel magazines, and are not interchangeable with AK-pattern rifles.

What historical context led to the development of the VZ 58?

Developed in Czechoslovakia in the late 1950s, the VZ 58 was adopted as a standard issue rifle. Despite using the common 7.62x39mm caliber, Czechoslovakia chose to develop its own unique rifle design rather than adopt the Soviet AK.

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