AR Guy reviews an AK...and Likes it. - Zpap M70

Published on March 9, 2021
Duration: 17:17

This review of the Zastava Arms ZPAP M70 highlights its features, including a 1.5mm receiver and bulge trunnion, and discusses modifications like wood furniture and a Strike Industries fin grip for California compliance. The reviewer, an AR enthusiast, compares AK ergonomics unfavorably to AR platforms, particularly regarding reloads and the lack of a bolt hold open. While generally positive about the rifle's performance and suitability for hunting or defense, the reviewer notes some reliability issues with specific ammunition and magazines, suggesting potential causes like inconsistent ammo loading or ejection problems.

Quick Summary

The Zastava Arms ZPAP M70 features a 1.5mm receiver and a reinforced bulge trunnion. While offering decent accuracy (3-4 MOA) and a robust build, its ergonomics, particularly the reload process and lack of a bolt hold open, are considered inferior to AR platforms by an AR enthusiast reviewer. Some reliability issues were noted with specific ammunition.

Chapters

  1. 01:05Introduction: Zastava Arms ZPAP M70 Review
  2. 01:16Technical Specs: Bulge Trunnion & Receiver
  3. 02:00Modifications: Wood Furniture & Fin Grip
  4. 02:45Trigger Discussion: ALG AK Trigger Concerns
  5. 03:39Front End: UltiMAK Rail & Gas Tube
  6. 04:03Forend & Cleaning Rod
  7. 04:24Muzzle Device: Slant Brake & California Compliance
  8. 04:43Optics Mount: Side Mount vs. UltiMAK Rail
  9. 05:14Pricing & Market Value
  10. 05:34Fit and Finish: AK Modification Challenges
  11. 06:38Hugo Pattern vs. AKM Furniture
  12. 07:08Accuracy Testing: 3-4 MOA with Cheap Ammo
  13. 07:47Reliability Issues: Stovepipes with Barn Owl Ammo
  14. 10:05Ergonomics: Reloads & Bolt Hold Open
  15. 11:14Defensive Firearm Choice: AR vs. AK
  16. 13:11Why Own an AK? Hunting, Defense, Appeal
  17. 13:49Recommendation: Buy Imported AKs
  18. 14:56Acquiring an AK in California
  19. 15:17Tracking AK Availability
  20. 16:08Overall Conclusion: Good AK Option

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key technical specifications of the Zastava Arms ZPAP M70?

The Zastava Arms ZPAP M70 features a 1.5mm receiver and a bulge trunnion, which is a reinforced front trunnion. It is chambered in 7.62x39mm and typically comes with a standard AK slant brake.

What are the reported accuracy and reliability of the ZPAP M70?

Accuracy is reported at 3-4 MOA with cheap ammunition. The reviewer experienced three stovepipe failures in 1000 rounds, specifically with Barn Owl ammunition, suggesting potential reliability concerns with certain ammo/magazine combinations.

How does the ZPAP M70's ergonomics compare to an AR-15?

The reviewer, an AR enthusiast, finds AK ergonomics less favorable, citing a less efficient reload process due to the lack of a bolt hold open and the 'rock-in' magazine insertion method compared to AR platforms.

Is the ZPAP M70 compatible with standard AK furniture?

No, the ZPAP M70 is a 'hugo pattern' rifle and may not work with traditional AKM or AK-47 furniture without modifications. It's important to verify compatibility before purchasing parts.

What is the reviewer's recommendation for buying an AK in 2021?

The reviewer recommends buying foreign-made imported AKs, like the ZPAP M70, due to the possibility of future import bans. They also advise tracking Zastava Arms USA's social media for shipment announcements.

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